A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Osaka for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Osaka?

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 Osaka 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 friendly, idyllic, and serene area. Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Osaka travel costs.

Khao Lak and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Osaka?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Osaka than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Osaka is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle.

How is Khao Lak different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Osaka 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 Osaka?

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Osaka that are not to be missed. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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 Osaka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Osaka have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Osaka has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Khao Lak to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Khao Lak are among the best in the world. 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.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Osaka?

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

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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 Osaka More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Khao Lak is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Osaka are high quality 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, Osaka is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Khao Lak has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Osaka are high quality 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 Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is a great destination for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Osaka is top-notch. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Osaka a more walkable city?

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

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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 Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Khao Lak or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Khao Lak due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka 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 Osaka.

One day in Khao Lak or Osaka?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this serene destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Khao Lak or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Osaka 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Osaka, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Osaka?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Osaka?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Osaka is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Osaka, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Osaka.

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 Osaka Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 1520 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Osaka, 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 Osaka?

Osaka has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Khao Lak experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Osaka in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Osaka. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Osaka. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Osaka in the Autumn?

Both Osaka and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Osaka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Osaka in the Winter?

Both Osaka and Khao Lak during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Osaka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Osaka averages at about 6°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Osaka in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many visitors come to Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Osaka. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Khao Lak