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

Should you visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi? 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 picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Lisbon travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Phi Phi is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is renowned for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its live music scene. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. 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 Phi Phi is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Phi Phi is a great choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

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 Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in 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 Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

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

Lisbon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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 famous beauty of Koh Phi Phi is one of the main draws. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Lisbon is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lisbon is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

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.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi are both first-rate 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 Phi Phi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Lisbon is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Lisbon is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Koh Phi Phi. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi?

Lisbon is a stunning city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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 Phi Phi?

Lisbon is a picturesque big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koh Phi Phi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Lisbon is a colorful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. This 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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 Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Koh Phi Phi. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Lisbon is generally cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Koh Phi Phi. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Lisbon is cooler than Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the winter, Lisbon is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March.

Should I visit Lisbon or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In April, Lisbon is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Lisbon