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

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki 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. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Nagasaki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagasaki. Although Koh Lanta and Nagasaki are both popular with visitors, Nagasaki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagasaki is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Nagasaki is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. It is also home to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. 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 Nagasaki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

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 Nagasaki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

Is Koh Lanta or Nagasaki Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki know how to have a good time. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

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 Nagasaki Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Nagasaki Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

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.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Nagasaki Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

Nagasaki is a city with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Nagasaki offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

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 Nagasaki More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Nagasaki Better for Families?

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Lanta. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

Is Koh Lanta or Nagasaki Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

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

Koh Lanta and Nagasaki are good 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 Nagasaki. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki can get you to some places easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

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 Nagasaki a more walkable city?

Nagasaki is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Nagasaki is a somewhat walkable place. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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 Nagasaki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagasaki or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

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

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

One day in Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki?

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 museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Nagasaki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

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.

Nagasaki is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Nagasaki?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Nagasaki, 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 Nagasaki?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki in the Summer?

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

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 197 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in July than Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Nagasaki in the Autumn?

Both Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nagasaki during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Nagasaki in the Winter?

Both Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Nagasaki in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Nagasaki fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 112 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta usually gets less rain in January than Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Nagasaki in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Nagasaki. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lanta in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 175 mm (6.9 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 Nagasaki and Koh Lanta