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

Should you visit Krabi or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto can help you decide which place is right for you.

Krabi

Krabi is a colorful, stunning, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Krabi travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Kyoto travel costs.

Krabi and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Krabi or Kyoto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto. Although Krabi and Kyoto are popular destinations, Kyoto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kyoto is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Krabi attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Kyoto is more touristy than Krabi and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. 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 Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kyoto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Krabi can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Kyoto is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kyoto. 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.

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 Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Krabi and Kyoto.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Krabi. There's a decent live music scene, but in general the town is quiet at night. There's also a good night market.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Krabi or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Krabi is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Krabi or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Krabi is a town with a few options for the beach. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Krabi or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Krabi 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.

Krabi does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Krabi or Kyoto?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Krabi and Kyoto.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Krabi. 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.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Krabi or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Krabi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Krabi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Krabi or Kyoto Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Krabi or Kyoto.

Krabi is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Krabi or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto 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, Kyoto has plenty to offer. 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.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Krabi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Kyoto is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

It's common for backpackers to visit Krabi. 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.

Is Krabi or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Krabi is not popular with students.

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

Krabi is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Krabi is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly 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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Krabi?

How long in Krabi or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Krabi and Kyoto. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kyoto than Krabi. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Krabi. 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 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 Kyoto.

One day in Krabi or Kyoto?

In Krabi, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this stunning destination offers. This town 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.

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Krabi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Krabi or Kyoto?

Krabi is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Krabi. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Krabi or Kyoto?

You'll find food and shopping around the local destination of Krabi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in 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 Krabi and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto 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 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 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 Kyoto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Krabi or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Krabi. When comparing the sizes of Krabi 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 Krabi or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Krabi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Krabi or Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Krabi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Krabi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Krabi is around the same temperature as Kyoto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Krabi in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Kyoto averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Krabi. In the summer, Krabi often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Krabi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually gets more rain in July than Kyoto. Krabi gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October is the rainy season in Krabi.

Should I visit Krabi or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Krabi and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Krabi year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Krabi is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Krabi average around 27°C (81°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Krabi usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during autumn. Krabi gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Krabi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Krabi usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Krabi gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Krabi is the dry season. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Krabi.

Should I visit Krabi or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Krabi as well as Kyoto. Krabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. Krabi is much warmer than Kyoto in the winter. The daily temperature in Krabi averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Krabi this time of the year. In the winter, Krabi often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Krabi gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun.

Krabi usually gets less rain in January than Kyoto. Krabi gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Krabi is the dry season.

Should I visit Krabi or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Krabi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Krabi throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

In the spring, Krabi is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Krabi in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Kyoto averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Krabi. Krabi usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during spring. Krabi gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Krabi. In April, Krabi usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Krabi gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Krabi