A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hue vs. Koh Chang for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hue or Koh Chang?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hue and Koh Chang can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hue

Hue is a imperial, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Hue and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Koh Chang?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hue than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hue is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hue is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. Also, Hue is famous for Imperial City. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Hue different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hue is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hue can be an interesting and educational experience. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

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 Hue or Koh Chang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hue 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 Hue. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.

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 Hue or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Both Hue and Koh Chang are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hue. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. 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 Hue or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Hue is not a resort destination.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Hue is not a resort destination.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hue 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.

Hue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is terrific for the beach. However, Hue is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Hue is not a beach destination.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for its Old Town?

Hue is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Hue to see the historical old town. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

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

Hiking is a fun activity while in 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.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Koh Chang?

Hue is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hue. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. 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 Hue or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Koh Chang is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Chang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Hue is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the Imperial City, visiting Ho Quyen Arena and Long Chau Temple, or wandering through the city's local markets. The Demilitarized Zone is also an interesting side trip.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is terrific for couples. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Koh Chang is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Hue is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy boat rides or sunset cruises along Perfume River. There are also interesting temples and fascinating day trips that you can take from the city.

Is Hue or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Hue and Koh Chang are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Hue is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It is a popular stop over in central Vietnam. There are plenty of hostels and budget guesthouses to accommodate the backpacker crowds. There are also cheap restaurants and interesting activities relating to the city's long history.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

Both Hue and Koh Chang offer notable public transit options.

Hue has a few public transit options. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around 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 Hue or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Hue is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Hue is very walkable. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Hue?

How long in Hue or Koh Chang?

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

Families should spend more time in Koh Chang than Hue. 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 Hue. 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 Hue than Koh Chang 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 Hue.

One day in Hue or Koh Chang?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hue. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hue has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Hue or Koh Chang?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Hue. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Many people visit Koh Chang for a weekend. With food and nightlife around the tranquil island of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hue or Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ancient city of Hue. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Hue or Koh Chang?

Hue is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Koh Chang, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Hue and Koh Chang, we can see that Hue 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 Hue Expensive? and Is Koh Chang Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Hue 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 Hue or Koh Chang in the Summer?

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

March to August is the dry season in Hue. September to December is the rainy season in Hue. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hue usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Hue 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 Hue. In the summer, Hue often gets more sunshine than Koh Chang. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun.

In the summer, Hue is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hue in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hue or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

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

Also, September to December is the rainy season in Hue. 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. Hue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hue usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

In October, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Hue or Koh Chang in the Winter?

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

Also, March to August in Hue is the dry season. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Hue receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hue usually gets more rain in January than Koh Chang. Hue 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, Hue often gets less sunshine than Koh Chang. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun.

Hue is cooler than Koh Chang in the winter. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Hue or Koh Chang in the Spring?

Both Koh Chang and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue 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, Hue usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Hue 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 Hue. Hue usually receives less sunshine than Koh Chang during spring. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In the spring, Hue is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hue in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Hue