A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Koh Phi Phi for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan, glamorous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning, beautiful, and rustic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hong Kong than Koh Phi Phi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hong Kong is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak.

How is Hong Kong different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Hong Kong offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Hong Kong is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi.

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Koh Phi Phi offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Phi Phi specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Koh Phi Phi are among the best in the world. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Hong Kong is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hong Kong is a very family-friendly destination. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi are both fantastic to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Koh Phi Phi is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Phi Phi is extremely popular for backpackers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Hong Kong has a great public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Hong Kong is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Hong Kong is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Hong Kong 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 Phi Phi.

One day in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is a glamorous city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is a compact big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the remote destination of Koh Phi Phi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical island of Koh Phi Phi. 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.

A week in Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Koh Phi Phi 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. And not only is Koh Phi Phi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Phi Phi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Phi Phi 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 Hong Kong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hong Kong than you might in Koh Phi Phi.

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

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Koh Phi Phi?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 7010 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Koh Phi Phi, 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.