A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Canberra vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Canberra or Koh Tao?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Canberra or Koh Tao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Canberra travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Canberra and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Canberra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is more popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Koh Tao is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao and Canberra. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Canberra or Koh Tao?

Canberra is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Canberra can be an interesting and educational experience. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Canberra or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Canberra and Koh Tao.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Tao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is terrific for the beach. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Koh Tao?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Canberra and Koh Tao.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Canberra. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Canberra is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Canberra is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Canberra is a great city to visit as a student. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Canberra is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Canberra offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Canberra or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

For even more information, also check out Is Canberra Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Koh Tao?

Both Canberra and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Canberra. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Canberra than Koh Tao. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Canberra, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Canberra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Tao that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Canberra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Koh Tao.

One day in Canberra or Koh Tao?

In Canberra, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Canberra or Koh Tao?

In Canberra, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Canberra has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Canberra or Koh Tao?

Canberra is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Canberra or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Canberra and Koh Tao, we can see that Canberra is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Canberra is in Pacific and Koh Tao is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Canberra would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Canberra than you might in Koh Tao.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Canberra Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Koh Tao?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Canberra and Koh Tao, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Canberra or Koh Tao?

Canberra has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Canberra is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Canberra usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Canberra or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Canberra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the autumn, Canberra is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Canberra in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Canberra usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Canberra or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Canberra is generally much colder than Koh Taoin January. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 11°C (52°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Canberra usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Should I visit Canberra or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Canberra during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Canberra because of the activities around the city. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Canberra is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

Canberra usually gets more rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Canberra