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

Should you visit Katoomba or Koh Tao?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Katoomba and Koh Tao. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a peaceful, serene, and natural town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Katoomba and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Katoomba and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Katoomba attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and small town charm. Katoomba is famous for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Katoomba different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Katoomba is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Katoomba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

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 Katoomba or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Koh Tao offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Tao to choose from. 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.

Katoomba is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao. 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.

Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Is Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Katoomba draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Both Katoomba and Koh Tao are nice shopping destinations.

Katoomba is a great destination for shopping. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Koh Tao. 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Katoomba is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Katoomba is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

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 Katoomba or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Katoomba and Koh Tao both great destinations for a couple.

Katoomba is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

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.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

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

Katoomba 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 Katoomba offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

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 Katoomba or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tao is very walkable. 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.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Katoomba?

How long in Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Both Katoomba 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 Katoomba. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Katoomba, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Katoomba. 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 Katoomba 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Katoomba is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Katoomba might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Katoomba 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Katoomba is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Katoomba. Since Katoomba is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 in Australia, The Best 10-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 Katoomba and Koh Tao, we can see that Katoomba is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Katoomba 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 Katoomba would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Katoomba 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 Katoomba Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Katoomba has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Katoomba 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao?

Katoomba 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 Katoomba or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Katoomba as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Katoomba in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the summer, Katoomba is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Katoomba in January average around 24°C (74°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Katoomba this time of the year. In the summer, Katoomba often gets more sunshine than Koh Taoin July. Katoomba gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Katoomba receives a lot of rain in the summer. Katoomba usually gets less rain in January than Koh Taoin July. Katoomba gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Katoomba or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Katoomba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Katoomba for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Katoomba is generally cooler than Koh Taoin October. Daily temperatures in Katoomba average around 18°C (65°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Katoomba usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Katoomba gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In April, Katoomba usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin October. Katoomba gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Katoomba or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Katoomba during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Katoomba is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Katoomba averages around 11°C (51°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Katoomba. In the winter, Katoomba often gets less sunshine than Koh Taoin January. Katoomba gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Katoomba usually gets less rain in July than Koh Taoin January. Katoomba gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Katoomba or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Katoomba and Koh Tao. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Katoomba is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Katoomba in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. In Katoomba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Katoomba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during spring. Katoomba gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Katoomba usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin April. Katoomba gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Katoomba