A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Hong Kong for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Hong Kong, 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 serene, tranquil, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a diverse , compact, and dense city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hong Kong. Although Koh Chang and Hong Kong are popular destinations, Hong Kong has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hong Kong is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Hong Kong is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also well known for Victoria Peak. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

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 Hong Kong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong 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, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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 Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

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

Hong Kong has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Hong Kong Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. 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.

Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. 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.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Is Koh Chang or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hong Kong. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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 Hong Kong Better for Families?

Hong Kong is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Hong Kong are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Hong Kong is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Is Koh Chang or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Hong Kong is a good island to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

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

Hong Kong is very popular 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.

Hong Kong has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Hong Kong is very popular for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

Both Koh Chang and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

One day in Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Koh Chang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Hong Kong?

You'll find food and nightlife around the idyllic destination of Koh Chang. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Hong Kong?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic island of Koh Chang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

People visit Hong Kong 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. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Hong Kong?

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, 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, and The Best Eco Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Hong Kong, we can see that Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong Expensive?.