A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Sydney for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Chang or Sydney?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Sydney, 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.

Sydney

Sydney is a glamorous , diverse, and energetic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Sydney travel costs.

Koh Chang and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Sydney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sydney than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sydney is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Sydney is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Also, Sydney is famous for the Sydney Opera House. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Travelers visit Sydney from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

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 Sydney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sydney is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sydney. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

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 Sydney Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is very popular for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Sydney is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

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 Sydney Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is well known for its resorts. However, Sydney 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.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

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

Sydney is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

Sydney has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

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.

Is Koh Chang or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Chang and Sydney have amazing beaches worth visiting.

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.

Sydney is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Is Koh Chang or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Sydney 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 Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

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 Sydney?

Sydney 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 Sydney. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

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 Sydney More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Sydney 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.

Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waterfront setting and grand buildings make this a truly beautiful city. It also has a lot of natural beauty with impressive beaches and nice green spaces.

Is Koh Chang or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney 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.

Sydney is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

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 Sydney Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Sydney 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.

Sydney is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

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

Sydney is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Sydney. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage of backpackers to hang out with.

Koh Chang is a great island to visit for backpackers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Is Koh Chang or Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Sydney is a great destination for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

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

Sydney 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.

Sydney has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light 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 Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Sydney is very walkable. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less walkable.

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 Sydney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Sydney?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Chang or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Sydney 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 Sydney?

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Sydney 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 Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Sydney 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 Sydney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene destination of Koh Chang. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sydney 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 Sydney, 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

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

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

Sydney 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 Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney 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. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

In July, Koh Chang is generally a little warmer than Sydneyin January. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Sydneyin January. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 236 hours of full sun.

Sydney 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 Sydneyin January. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Sydney in the Autumn?

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

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Sydney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F)in April.

Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sydney during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Sydneyin April. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 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 Sydney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Sydney. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Sydney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Sydney averages at about 12°C (53°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. 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 Sydneyin July. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun.

Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Sydneyin July. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 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 Sydney in the Spring?

Both Sydney 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, most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Sydneyin October. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sydney. 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 Sydney during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In April, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Sydneyin October. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Koh Chang