A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Canberra for Nightlife, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Samui or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Canberra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a tropical, rainforest-covered, and lush resort island. Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Canberra travel costs.

Koh Samui and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Canberra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Canberra are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Koh Samui is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Koh Samui different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Canberra?

Canberra is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Canberra can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Canberra makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a must-see party destination. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is terrific for the beach. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Samui. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Samui. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Canberra?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Canberra both offer plenty of good spots.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Canberra is a great destination for shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Canberra.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Canberra is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Samui makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Canberra is a good resort island for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra Better for Students?

Canberra is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Koh Samui and Canberra both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Canberra has a few public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Koh Samui or Canberra a more walkable city?

Canberra is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Samui and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Canberra. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Canberra 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 Koh Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Canberra?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Canberra. 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 Samui or Canberra?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Canberra. 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 Samui or Canberra?

Koh Samui is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Samui, 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 under-rated city of Canberra. 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 Samui or Canberra?

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Samui has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Canberra 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Canberra?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Canberra, 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 Samui or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Canberra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Canberra. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In July, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Canberrain January. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Canberrain January. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Canberra. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Koh Samui is a little warmer than Canberra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Canberra. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Canberrain April. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Canberra in the Winter?

Both Canberra and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Canberra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Canberra averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

In January, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Canberrain July. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Koh Samui during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Canberrain October. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Canberrain October. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Koh Samui