A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Hue for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Hue?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Hue. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a secluded, remote, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Hue

Hue is a imperial, cultural, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Tarutao and Hue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hue. Although Koh Tarutao and Hue are popular destinations, Hue has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hue is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hue is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. It is also well known for Imperial City. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Hue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Hue is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hue. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Hue? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hue is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Hue has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Nightlife?

Hue is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hue. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Hue is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Hue is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is terrific for the beach. However, Hue is not a beach destination.

Koh Tarutao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Hue is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for its Old Town?

Hue is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Hue. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Hue is not a hiking destination.

Koh Tarutao is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Hue is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hue. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Hue are nice family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hue. Kids will enjoy exploring the Imperial City, visiting Ho Quyen Arena and Long Chau Temple, or wandering through the city's local markets. The Demilitarized Zone is also an interesting side trip.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao is a well-known place for couples. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Koh Tarutao is a very popular place to visit for couples. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Hue is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy boat rides or sunset cruises along Perfume River. There are also interesting temples and fascinating day trips that you can take from the city.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hue. It is a popular stop over in central Vietnam. There are plenty of hostels and budget guesthouses to accommodate the backpacker crowds. There are also cheap restaurants and interesting activities relating to the city's long history.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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

Hue is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Hue has some public transit options. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hue a more walkable city?

Hue is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Hue is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Hue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hue or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Hue. In our opinion, Hue has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hue than Koh Tarutao. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hue.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hue than Koh Tarutao 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 Hue.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

With around the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao, there's plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the imperial city of Hue. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Many people visit Koh Tarutao for a weekend. With around the beautiful island of Koh Tarutao, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Hue. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

The destination of Koh Tarutao offers . It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Five days 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.

The cultural city of Hue offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Koh Tarutao, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hue. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Hue?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hue in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Hue. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue throughout the year.

Also, March to August in Hue is the dry season. September to December in Hue is the rainy season. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Hue. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Hue receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Hue in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Hue fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hue in the Autumn?

Both Hue and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Hue because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October. The rainy season in Hue is September to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hue. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Hue. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Hue receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Hue. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Hue averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hue in the Winter?

Both Hue and Koh Tarutao during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hue year-round.

March to August is the dry season in Hue. Hue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in January than Hue. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hue receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally a little warmer than Hue. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Hue fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hue in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Hue. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Hue attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Hue. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Hue receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Hue in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Hue fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Hue and Koh Tarutao