A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Beijing for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Koh Chang or Beijing?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Beijing, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a tranquil, scenic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of Koh Chang is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Beijing travel costs.

Koh Chang and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Beijing?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beijing than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beijing is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Beijing?

Beijing is very popular for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Beijing from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Beijing? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Beijing has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Beijing?

Beijing is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Koh Chang is one of the main draws. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Families?

Koh Chang is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Chang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Koh Chang is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Beijing are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Beijing is a great island to visit for backpackers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

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

Beijing is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Koh Chang or Beijing a more walkable city?

Koh Chang and Beijing are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable island. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

Beijing is generally not very walkable. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Beijing?

Both Koh Chang and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than in Koh Chang. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Koh Chang 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 Beijing.

One day in Koh Chang or Beijing?

In Koh Chang, 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 island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Beijing?

In Koh Chang, you'll find food and nightlife. 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.

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Beijing?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Chang Expensive? and Is Beijing Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Beijing?

Beijing has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Chang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Beijing in the Summer?

Both Beijing and Koh Chang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Beijing. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun.

Beijing gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Beijing in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Beijing. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Koh Chang is much warmer than Beijing in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Beijing in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Beijing. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Beijing averages at about -4°C (26°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang this time of the year. In the winter, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun.

Koh Chang usually gets more rain in January than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Beijing in the Spring?

Both Beijing and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In April, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Beijing. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Koh Chang