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

Should you visit Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Melbourne 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a progressive, livable, and friendly city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning, beautiful, and rustic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Melbourne and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi than Melbourne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Phi Phi is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Melbourne is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Also, Koh Phi Phi is famous for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

How is Melbourne 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 Melbourne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Melbourne is great 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.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Melbourne and Koh Phi Phi.

Melbourne has a large number of nightlife venues. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for the beache. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Melbourne 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, Melbourne is very family-friendly. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

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

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Phi Phi is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Melbourne is great 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.

Melbourne has some very good public transit options. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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

Is Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Melbourne is great 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.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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 Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Melbourne and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Melbourne 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 Koh Phi Phi.

One day in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne is a livable city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne is a progressive big city where you can fill many days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Phi Phi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne is a friendly city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful island of Koh Phi Phi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Melbourne. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, 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 Melbourne and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Koh Phi Phi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Melbourne is in Pacific 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne 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 Melbourne Expensive? and Is Koh Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 3730 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

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

Melbourne is cooler than Koh Phi Phi in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Melbourne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Melbourne gets 271 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 January, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phiin July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

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

In the autumn, Melbourne is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 27°C (81°F)in October.

In the autumn, Melbourne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Phi Phiin October. Melbourne gets 170 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. Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phiin October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Melbourne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Melbourne 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 July, Melbourne is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phiin January. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Melbourne usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phiin January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 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 Melbourne or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

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

Melbourne is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F)in April.

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Melbourne. In the spring, Melbourne often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phiin April. Melbourne gets 216 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. Melbourne usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phiin April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 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 Melbourne