A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Kobe for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Kobe?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Kobe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kobe

Kobe is a subdued, under-rated, and multicultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe and Kobe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kobe than Koh Lipe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kobe is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lipe is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Lipe is well known for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. Kobe is well known for its world renowned Kobe beef and its hot spring resorts. Also, Kobe is famous for Kobe Harborland.

How is Koh Lipe different from Kobe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Kobe is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Kobe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower and visit the high energy area of Kobe Harborland. The Disaster Reduction Museum and the nearby Human Renovation Museum are both fascinating to visit as well. Also check out the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art and Rokko Island.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Kobe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kobe is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kobe makes for a great culinary experience. Most people immediately think of Kobe beef when they think of this city, but there are also many other specialties around town. You'll find good sushi as well as akashiyaki, which are octopus dumplings. The city long served as a major port for Japan, so there is a strong Chinese influence over the cuisine. In particular, you should try the chuka ryori (a Chinese dumpling).

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Nightlife?

Kobe is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Kobe has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is a bit subdued, but that doesn't mean you won't find local bars, karaoke, and live music venues where you can hang out. Many visitors enjoy having a chill night out with a drink in a laid back setting.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is great for its luxury resorts. However, Kobe is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lipe to choose from. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Kobe is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Kobe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Kobe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Kobe is not a beach destination.

Koh Lipe offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Kobe is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is great for hiking. However, Kobe is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Lipe for the hiking trails. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Kobe is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Kobe is a great destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Kobe is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's fun and convenient to shop here, as the best shopping districts are easy to access from the train stations. Sannomiya is a hub of transportation and shopping in the city, but also check out Kobe Harborland for its diverse stores and high energy.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Families?

Koh Lipe is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Lipe. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Kobe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly attractions around Kobe Harborland including a ferris wheel, Anpanman Museum, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. Kids will also enjoy running around Meriken Park or Mount Rokko. Kids who like animals will enjoy a visit to Kobe Animal Kingdom.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Couples?

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

Koh Lipe is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Kobe is a nice destination for couples. There's a romantic view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower. There are also many parks and a waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the Maya View Line Kikuseidai, which is particularly nice in the evening.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe and Kobe are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lipe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kobe. Although many tourists and backpackers don't put Kobe on their itinerary, there are still a handful of hostels around the city.

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

Kobe is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Kobe, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While there is a subway system, it's not particularly useful to tourists. There is a bus service that operates a line that targets tourists.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Kobe a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable destination. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Kobe is somewhat walkable. It's relatively easy to walk around many parts of the city, although some areas are quite hilly. You can walk from Shin-Kobe Bullet Train Station to the water in about half an hour.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Kobe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kobe or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Lipe or Kobe to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Lipe than Kobe because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kobe.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kobe than Koh Lipe 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 Kobe.

One day in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Koh Lipe. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Kobe offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Koh Lipe is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the tranquil destination of Koh Lipe. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Kobe is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Koh Lipe or Kobe?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local island of Koh Lipe. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kobe is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Kobe?

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kobe in the Summer?

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

In July, Koh Lipe is generally around the same temperature as Kobe. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (81°F), and Kobe fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Kobe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in July than Kobe. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kobe in the Autumn?

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

Koh Lipe is a little warmer than Kobe in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Kobe fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Kobe receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Kobe. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kobe in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Kobe. Koh Lipe 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 Kobe this time of year.

In the winter, Koh Lipe is much warmer than Kobe. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lipe in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Kobe averages at about 5°C (42°F).

Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in January than Kobe. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kobe in the Spring?

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

In April, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Kobe. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 29°C (85°F), and Kobe fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kobe. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives less rain than Kobe. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October.

Typical Weather for Kobe and Koh Lipe