A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kaunas vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Kaunas 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 Kaunas 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.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a active, young, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Kaunas and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Kaunas and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Koh Tao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Tao is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is known for its historical sights and big city activities. Koh Tao is more touristy than Kaunas and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also home to Mango Bay Viewpoint. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Koh Tao is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kaunas or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Koh Tao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Kaunas. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is notable for its resorts. However, Kaunas 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.

Kaunas is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Kaunas 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.

Kaunas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is renowned for the beach. However, Kaunas 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.

Kaunas is not a beach destination.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kaunas. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Kaunas is not a hiking destination.

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.

Kaunas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. 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.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Both Kaunas and Koh Tao are good family-friendly destinations.

Kaunas is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly city. 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 Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is notable for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Is Kaunas or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Kaunas is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Kaunas. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Kaunas 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 Kaunas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

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 Kaunas or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. 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.

Kaunas is somewhat walkable. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Both Kaunas 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 Kaunas. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kaunas, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

In Kaunas, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

In Kaunas, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kaunas has to offer.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Kaunas is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Kaunas or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kaunas. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Kaunas. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Koh Tao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Koh Tao, we can see that Kaunas is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kaunas is in Europe 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 Kaunas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kaunas 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 Kaunas Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Kaunas has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas 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 Kaunas or Koh Tao?

Kaunas 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 Kaunas or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In July, Kaunas is generally cooler than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In the summer, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Kaunas usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kaunas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Kaunas is much colder than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Kaunas gets 99 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 October, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 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 Kaunas or Koh Tao in the Winter?

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

The weather in Kaunas can be very cold. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 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 Kaunas or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Koh Tao. The activities around the city are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Kaunas is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 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 Kaunas