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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Kyoto?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kyoto? 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 laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Kyoto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto. Although Koh Samui and Kyoto are both popular with visitors, Kyoto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji.

How is Koh Samui different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Kyoto can be difficult as they are each excellent 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, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is renowned for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Kyoto?

Kyoto is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Families?

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

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.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Kyoto are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Kyoto is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its public transit.

The public transit in Kyoto can get you to most places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Kyoto?

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

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Kyoto?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kyoto?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Kyoto?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this lush destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Kyoto. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in July than Kyoto. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Koh Samui is a little warmer than Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February. The rainy season in Koh Samui is October to December.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kyoto in the Winter?

Both Kyoto and Koh Samui during the winter 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, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kyoto in the winter. In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Koh Samui usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kyoto. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Kyoto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Koh Samui