A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Koh Chang for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Da Nang or Koh Chang?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Chang? 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.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a accessible, authentic, and coastal city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and museums.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Da Nang and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Chang. Although Da Nang and Koh Chang are popular destinations, Koh Chang has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Chang is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang attracts visitors for its museums, food, and nightlife. Koh Chang is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. It is also well known for White Sand Beach. Da Nang is famous for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Da Nang is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Da Nang is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Koh Chang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Da Nang has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Da Nang and Koh Chang offer a relatively similar set of very good luxury resort options.

Da Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Chang. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for its diving and snorkeling. However, Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is terrific for the beache. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Chang. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Many people head to Da Nang to enjoy the beach. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Both Da Nang and Koh Chang are reasonable shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Da Nang has some nice offerings. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Koh Chang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Da Nang or Koh Chang.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Chang. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Koh Chang makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Chang is a great island to visit for backpackers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Da Nang and Koh Chang offer nice public transit options.

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Da Nang or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

In either Da Nang or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Chang than Da Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang than Da Nang 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 Chang.

One day in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Da Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Da Nang has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Koh Chang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Koh Chang, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal city of Da Nang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Chang has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Da Nang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, and The Best Eco Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Da Nang and Koh Chang, we can see that Koh Chang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Da Nang or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Chang in the Summer?

Both Koh Chang and Da Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round.

January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Da Nang usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Da Nang. In the summer, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun.

In July, Da Nang is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 29°C (85°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Koh Chang during autumn. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Da Nang is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Chang in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Koh Chang. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Da Nang usually gets more rain in January than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. In the winter, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Da Nang is cooler than Koh Chang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Da Nang in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Koh Chang in the Spring?

Both Koh Chang and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. In April, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Koh Chang during spring. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Da Nang is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 26°C (80°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Da Nang