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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Lisbon? 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Lisbon travel costs.

Koh Samui and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Koh Samui and Lisbon are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Koh Samui different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Samui makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both Koh Samui and Lisbon.

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.

Lisbon is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

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

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of first-rate scenery and beauty in both Koh Samui and Lisbon.

Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Families?

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

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.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Lisbon make for a high quality place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as 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.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Koh Samui or Lisbon Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon a more walkable city?

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

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Both Koh Samui and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lisbon than Koh Samui. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Samui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. 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 Lisbon?

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Samui. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. 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 in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon is in Europe, 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Lisbon, 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 Lisbon?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon in the Summer?

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

Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Lisbon. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Samui in October average around 24°C (75°F), and Lisbon averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Lisbon. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 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 Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon 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 Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 22°C (72°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Lisbon in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in April, and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Koh Samui