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

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

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 Melbourne 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 quiet, beautiful, and off-the-beaten-path island. Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a cultural, progressive, and livable city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Melbourne travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Melbourne than Koh Lanta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Melbourne is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Melbourne is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. Also, Melbourne is famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens. Koh Lanta is well known for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Melbourne 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 Melbourne. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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 Melbourne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Melbourne both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Lanta. 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.

Melbourne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne know how to have a good time. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

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 Melbourne Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Koh Lanta is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is very popular for the beach. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Lanta. 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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Lanta. 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.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

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

Melbourne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

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 Melbourne More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Melbourne are excellent 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 Melbourne. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Lanta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Melbourne is a good island for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

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

Koh Lanta and Melbourne are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lanta is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Melbourne. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Koh Lanta or Melbourne Better for Students?

Melbourne is a world-class destination for students. However, Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a very popular city for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

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

Melbourne is a great destination for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Melbourne can get you to some places easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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 Melbourne a more walkable city?

Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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 Melbourne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

In either Koh Lanta or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Koh Lanta than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne. 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne.

One day in Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Lanta. 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 Melbourne 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 Lanta or Melbourne?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Koh Lanta. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Melbourne because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful island of Koh Lanta. 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 Melbourne 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 Lanta or Melbourne?

Koh Lanta 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.

Melbourne 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 Scuba Diving Tours in Australia, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 610 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Melbourne, 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 Melbourne?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Melbourne. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Melbourne in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Melbourne in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Melbourne fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets less sunshine than Melbournein January. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Melbournein January. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Melbourne in the Autumn?

Both Melbourne and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Melbourne for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lanta in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Melbourne averages at about 15°C (60°F)in April.

Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Melbourne during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Melbournein April. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Melbourne in the Winter?

Both Melbourne and Koh Lanta during the winter 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, the winter months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Lanta is generally much warmer than Melbournein July. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (80°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Melbournein July. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in January than Melbournein July. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Melbourne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Melbourne. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Melbourne in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Melbourne fluctuates around 14°C (57°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Melbourne this time of the year. In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Melbournein October. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Koh Lanta