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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Paris?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Paris? 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. Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic 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 Paris because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Paris travel costs.

Koh Samui and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Paris?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paris than Koh Samui, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paris is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Samui is well known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Koh Samui different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Koh Samui is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Koh Samui is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is terrific for its beaches. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is great for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Paris?

Paris 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 Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris More Beautiful?

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

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 Paris as well. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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 Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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 Paris is top-notch. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use 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 Paris a more walkable city?

Paris is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Paris?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Paris?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back 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.

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

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.

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

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.

People visit Paris 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Paris?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful 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.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Paris, 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 Paris?

Paris 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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the summer, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Samui in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Paris. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Koh Samui during the autumn 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, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (75°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Paris. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Paris in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Paris. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Koh Samui is much warmer than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 22°C (72°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Paris. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Paris in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Paris. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Koh Samui is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Samui in April average around 24°C (76°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Koh Samui usually gets more rain in April than Paris. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Koh Samui