A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Samui vs. Kanchanaburi for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi? 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 beautiful, tropical, and rainforest-covered resort island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a educational, reflective, and somber town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kanchanaburi is known for its museums. Koh Samui is more touristy than Kanchanaburi and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Kanchanaburi is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks.

How is Koh Samui different from Kanchanaburi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Koh Samui has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Koh Samui for its luxury resorts. 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

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

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

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is a great destination for shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Samui is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is a good resort island for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

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

Koh Samui is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

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

Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi has a few public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi a more walkable city?

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

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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 Kanchanaburi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanchanaburi or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

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

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical resort island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the informative destination of Kanchanaburi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this beautiful destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the reflective town of Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi?

Koh Samui is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kanchanaburi 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 Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Kanchanaburi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi, 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 Kanchanaburi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Kanchanaburi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Kanchanaburi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year.

Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Samui is cooler than Kanchanaburi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi in the Winter?

Both Kanchanaburi 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. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February. In January, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Koh Samui is cooler than Kanchanaburi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Kanchanaburi averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kanchanaburi in the Spring?

Both Kanchanaburi 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round.

November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Kanchanaburi. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In April, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Kanchanaburi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 32°C (89°F).

Typical Weather for Kanchanaburi and Koh Samui