A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Brisbane for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Brisbane 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path, and tranquil island. Many visitors also come to Koh Lanta because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a relaxed, diverse, and cultural coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Brisbane travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brisbane. Although Koh Lanta and Brisbane are both popular with visitors, Brisbane has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brisbane is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Brisbane is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. It is also home to the Cultural Centre. Koh Lanta is popular for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Brisbane is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Brisbane. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lanta or Brisbane? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Lanta is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Lanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

Brisbane is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Brisbane know how to have a good time. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Lanta has a few options to choose from. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is great for its luxury resorts. However, Brisbane is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lanta. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Brisbane is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Brisbane has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lanta is a very popular vacation destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Brisbane. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is great for hiking. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Koh Lanta for the hiking trails. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Brisbane has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Brisbane is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Brisbane is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Brisbane is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Lanta because of it's amazing beauty. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Brisbane is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Brisbane are superb to visit with kids.

Koh Lanta is a very kid-friendly island. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lanta has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brisbane is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brisbane is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane Better for Students?

Brisbane is a great destination for students. However, Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

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

Brisbane is a coastal city with good options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Brisbane, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Brisbane a more walkable city?

Brisbane is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Brisbane is a very walkable coastal city. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lanta Worth Visiting? and Is Brisbane Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Lanta and Brisbane. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lanta than in Brisbane. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 2-3 days is enough time in Brisbane.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brisbane than Koh Lanta 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 Brisbane.

One day in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

The beautiful island of Koh Lanta offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Brisbane. 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 Lanta or Brisbane?

Koh Lanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active destination of Brisbane. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the diverse coastal city of Brisbane. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Brisbane is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Brisbane, 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 Koh Lanta or Brisbane?

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

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Brisbane in the Summer?

Both Brisbane and Koh Lanta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Brisbane. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lanta in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Brisbane averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein January. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Brisbanein January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Brisbane in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein April. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Brisbane during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Brisbanein April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Brisbane in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Brisbane. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Brisbane in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Brisbane fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Brisbanein July. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in January than Brisbanein July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Brisbane in the Spring?

Both Brisbane and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lanta in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Brisbane averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbane during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Brisbanein October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April. The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Koh Lanta