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

Should you visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Lisbon travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a backpacker-friendly, tropical, and party-oriented party island. With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Koh Pha Ngan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

The world-class nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for live music. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. 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 Pha Ngan is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few good snorkeling spots. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

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 Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. 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 Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. 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.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Lisbon is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan are both world-class destinations 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Lisbon is well known for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Koh Pha Ngan 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 Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

A weekend in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan 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.

Five days in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lisbon is in Europe and Koh Pha Ngan is in Asia, 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 Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan?

Lisbon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Koh Pha Ngan. 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. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Lisbon is generally cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Lisbon is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Lisbon is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Lisbon