A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Krabi vs. Hong Kong for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Krabi or Hong Kong?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Krabi and Hong Kong can help you decide which place is right for you.

Krabi

Krabi is a vibrant, colorful, and stunning town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a glamorous, diverse , and compact city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Krabi and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less attractive beach
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hong Kong. Although Krabi and Hong Kong are popular destinations, Hong Kong has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hong Kong is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Krabi attracts visitors for its resorts and small town charm. Hong Kong is more touristy than Krabi and is known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also well known for Victoria Peak. Krabi is famous for its easy access to inland adventures and nearby island hopping as well as its lively night market.

How is Krabi different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Krabi or Hong Kong.

Many visitors head to Krabi specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. In the area you'll find mountain top temples such as Wat Tham Suea and natural spots such as Khao Khanap Nam Cave. In town there's the stunning Wat Kaew Korawaram temple as well.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


Is the Food Better in Krabi or Hong Kong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hong Kong has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Krabi. It's not particularly known for its culinary scene, but Krabi Town does have great street food and a lively night market. For some of the best restaurants, head to Chao Fah Road.

Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Krabi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a decent live music scene, but in general the town is quiet at night. There's also a good night market.

Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Resorts?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Krabi is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Krabi offers a few options. There's no real beach in town, so the better resorts are found at nearby beach towns.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.


Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for the beache.

Hong Kong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

You can check out the beach in Krabi. The town itself has no beach, so you'll need to take a day trip to nearby Railay Beach or Ao Nang.

Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Krabi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hong Kong. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Krabi is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town's night market is fun to explore. There's also the popular Krabi Town Walking Street (where you'll find the night market) as well as some larger stores and small malls near town.


Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Families?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is one of the most popular family destinations. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Krabi is a very kid-friendly town. The town makes a great base for island hopping and exploring the province of Krabi. Nearby you'll find Krabi Fun Park, which includes a ropes course. There are also caves nearby to explore and plenty of stunning natural beauty.

Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Hong Kong has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Couples visit Krabi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There's easy access to many beautiful areas with caves, viewpoints, and beaches. Krabi Walking Street also has great restaurants and a lively night market.

Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Krabi and Hong Kong are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Krabi is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a more local vibe, as many backpackers head on to Ao Nang or Railay Beach. You'll find affordable accommodation here though, as well as easy access to some great excursions.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Krabi or Hong Kong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Hong Kong is top-notch. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Krabi. There's no real public transit so you'll need to get around by rental car, motorbike, or songthaew truck (pickup trucks with seats in back).

Is Krabi or Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Krabi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Krabi is a somewhat walkable place. There's a walking street and a few parts of town that are relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Krabi Worth Visiting? and Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Krabi?

How long in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Both Krabi and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Krabi. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Krabi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hong Kong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong than Krabi 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 Hong Kong.


  • How many days in Krabi or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Krabi 2-3 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Krabi or Hong Kong?

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

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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.


A weekend in Krabi or Hong Kong?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Krabi. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. 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.

Five days in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Krabi. 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.

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Krabi or Hong Kong?

Krabi 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.

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand.


Which place is cheaper, Hong Kong or Krabi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Krabi is $55, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Krabi and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Krabi $36
    Hong Kong $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Krabi $72
    Hong Kong $150
Compare Hotels in Krabi and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Krabi or Hong Kong? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Krabi


Hotels in Hong Kong


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Krabi Hotel Prices and Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Krabi $3.80
    Hong Kong $8.70
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Krabi

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Krabi are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $8.18
  • Short Tuk-Tuk Ride
    $2.73
  • 2 Bottles of Gasoline
    $2.18
  • Longboat Taxi from Town
    $5.46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Krabi

Also for Krabi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Van Phuket Airport Transfer to Patong Beach Area (SHA Plus): $37
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT Transfer to PHUKET TOWN (SHA Plus): $39
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to TRI TRANG BEACH: $33
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to SURIN BEACH: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to ROYAL YACHT HAVEN: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to ROYAL PHUKET MARINA: $28
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to RAWAI BEACH: $41
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to PHUKET TOWN: $30
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to NAIYANG BEACH: $26
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to NAIHARN BEACH: $39
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to LAYAN BEACH: $23
  • VAN PHUKET AIRPORT TRANSFER to KURABURI: $94

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Krabi or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong and Krabi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Krabi $13
    Hong Kong $33
Typical Food Prices in Krabi

For Krabi, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.82
  • Drinks on the Beach
    $6.55
  • Sit Down Dinner (for Two)
    $17
  • Nice Dinner (for Two)
    $30
  • Mango Shake
    $1.36
  • Pad Thai
    $2.73
  • Fruit from the Market
    $1.64
  • Pancakes
    $2.73
  • Coffee & Cake
    $2.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Krabi

For Krabi, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Thai Cooking Class with Smart Cook: $36
  • Snorkeling and Sunset Dinner Trip From Krabi: $37
  • 7 Islands Sunset Tour with BBQ Dinner and Snorkeling: $37
  • 7 Islands Sunset Tour with BBQ Dinner & Plankton: $37
  • Evening Thai Cooking Class at Ya's Cookery: $39
  • 4 Islands Sunset Longtail Boat Tour with BBQ Dinner: $41
  • Seven Islands Snorkel Cruise with Dinner: $41
  • Authentic Thai cooking class with market tour: $41
  • Krabi Thai Cooking Class: $42
  • Krabi 4 Islands Sunset Premium Service Trip by Speedboat + BBQ Dinner: $42
  • Thai Charm Cooking School Krabi: $44
  • Cooking Class at Thai Charm Cooking School with Meal: $45

Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Krabi $10
    Hong Kong $95
Typical Entertainment Prices in Krabi

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Krabi's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thai-English Book
    $9.00
  • Thai Massages (for Two)
    $22
  • Bikini & Sarong
    $16
  • Yoga Class (1 Hour)
    $12
  • Backgammon Set (travel size)
    $6.82
  • Kayak Trip (for Two)
    $52

Tours and Activities in Krabi

For Krabi, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Full Day Guided Tour in Bor Thor Caves and Mangroves : $145
  • Phi Phi Islands Tour with Bioluminescent Planktons from krabi: $77
  • 2-Hour Clear Kayak Illuminated Night Tour in Krabi: $60
  • 4 Island Sunset Snorkeling Cruise + bioluminescent Night Snorkel: $102
  • 4 Islands & Sunset Tour by Long Tail Boat with Plankton : $71
  • 4 Islands Full-day Tour from Krabi with Tub, Chicken, Poda Island & Phra Nang: $54
  • 4 Islands One Day Tour From Krabi: $28
  • 4 Islands Snorkeling Tour by Longtail Boat from Krabi with Walk on Tombolo: $28
  • 4 Islands Tour Long Tail Boat (UPDATED JULY 2020 for New Normal): $33
  • 5 km Rafting, ATV & Zipline Tour From Krabi: $53
  • 7km White Water Rafting Adventure Tour From Krabi: $50
  • ATV Adventure Krabi: $37

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115
  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Krabi $4.34
    Hong Kong $21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Krabi

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Krabi are as follows:


  • Beer
    $2.45
  • Cocktails (for Two)
    $8.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Krabi

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Krabi:

  • Railay Pub Crawl: $14


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

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


Which is Bigger, Krabi or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Krabi. When comparing the sizes of Krabi and Hong Kong, 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.