A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Can Tho for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Can Tho?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Can Tho 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a relaxed, friendly, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a cultural, unique, and fascinating city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Can Tho travel costs.

Khao Lak and Can Tho: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho. Although Khao Lak and Can Tho are popular destinations, Can Tho has more sights and attractions for tourists. Can Tho is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Can Tho is famous for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also well known for Cai Rang Floating Market.

How is Khao Lak different from Can Tho?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Can Tho and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

Can Tho is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Can Tho. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Can Tho? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Can Tho is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Can Tho makes for a great culinary experience. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Can Tho has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Can Tho has a few options to choose from. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is great for its luxury resorts. However, Can Tho is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Khao Lak. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Can Tho is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Can Tho is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Khao Lak is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Can Tho is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

Can Tho is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Can Tho is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Can Tho are superb to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Can Tho is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Khao Lak has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Can Tho is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Can Tho are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Many backpackers visit Can Tho. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Khao Lak or Can Tho a more walkable city?

Can Tho is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Can Tho is somewhat walkable. The city center is relatively walkable.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Can Tho Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Can Tho or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Khao Lak or Can Tho to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Khao Lak than Can Tho because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 1-2 days is enough time in Can Tho.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Can Tho. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Can Tho than Khao Lak 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 Can Tho.

One day in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Can Tho offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Can Tho is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Can Tho, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Can Tho is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Can Tho?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Can Tho is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Can Tho Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Can Tho?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Can Tho, 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 Khao Lak or Can Tho?

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 Khao Lak or Can Tho in the Summer?

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

Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets less rain in July than Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Can Tho receives 168 hours of full sun.

In the summer, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Can Tho. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Can Tho averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Can Tho in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Can Tho. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho. Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of rain as Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Can Tho during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Can Tho receives 158 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Can Tho. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Can Tho fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Can Tho in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Can Tho. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year.

Khao Lak usually gets more rain in January than Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Can Tho receives 240 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Can Tho in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Can Tho fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Can Tho in the Spring?

Both Can Tho and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. The dry season in Can Tho is December to April. The rainy season in Can Tho is May to November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Can Tho. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Can Tho. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Can Tho during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Can Tho receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In the spring, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Can Tho. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Can Tho averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Can Tho and Khao Lak