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

Should you visit Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

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 Phi Phi 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 authentic, ancient, and imperial city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Hue travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful, rustic, and remote island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Phi Phi as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Hue and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Hue and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Koh Phi Phi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hue is known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Hue and is popular for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also home to Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Hue is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital.

How is Hue 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 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 Phi Phi?

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

Hue offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 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 Hue or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hue is great 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.

Hue has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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 Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Koh Phi Phi offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for its resorts. However, Hue is not a resort destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Hue is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Hue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

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

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

Hue is not a beach destination.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Hue is great for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

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

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Hue is not a hiking destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Hue is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Hue is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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 Hue or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Hue is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Phi Phi as well. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Hue is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Hue is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Hue offers lots of family activities. 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.

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 Hue or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

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

Koh Phi Phi is a great island 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.

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 Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is terrific for backpackers. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular island to visit 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.

Hue is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

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

Both Hue and Koh Phi Phi offer good 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 Phi Phi has some public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Hue or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Hue is great 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.

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

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 Hue Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Hue?

How long in Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hue and Koh Phi Phi. In our opinion, Koh Phi Phi has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Phi Phi than Hue. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Hue 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 Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the imperial city of Hue. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Koh Phi Phi, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the imperial destination of Hue. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Koh Phi Phi for a weekend. With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the stunning island of Koh Phi Phi, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

The cultural city of Hue offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The destination of Koh Phi Phi offers nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Five days 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.

A week in Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hue. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi, 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 Sightseeing Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cultural Tours in Vietnam, 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 Hue and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Koh Phi Phi is more expensive. And not only is Hue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hue would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hue 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 Koh Phi Phi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Phi Phi than you might in Hue.

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 Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

Hue has a larger population, and is about 290 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Hue 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.

When is the best time to visit Hue or Koh Phi Phi?

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 Phi Phi in the Summer?

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

Also, March to August in Hue is the dry season. September to December in Hue is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Hue usually gets less rain in July than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hue this time of the year. In the summer, Hue often gets more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Hue or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

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

The rainy season in Hue is September to December. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Phi Phi is May to November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. It's quite rainy in Hue. In October, Hue usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Hue usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during autumn. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Hue or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Hue during the winter 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 Phi Phi year-round.

March to August is the dry season in Hue. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hue. Hue usually gets more rain in January than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Hue often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Hue is cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hue in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hue or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

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

Also, May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi. Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Hue usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Hue, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hue usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during spring. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Hue