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

Should you visit Melbourne or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Koh Tao? 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Melbourne and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Melbourne than Koh Tao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Melbourne is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Tao is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. Also, Melbourne is famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Melbourne different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Melbourne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Melbourne or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Melbourne and Koh Tao offer very good 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.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Melbourne and Koh Tao.

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 Tao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao 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 Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

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 Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao 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 Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Koh Tao?

Melbourne is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Melbourne is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

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

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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 Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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 Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Tao Better for Students?

Melbourne is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a great destination for students. 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 Tao is not popular with students.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao 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. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Melbourne can get you to some places easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Melbourne or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Melbourne and Koh Tao are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Koh Tao?

Both Melbourne and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Melbourne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao 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 Tao.

One day in Melbourne or Koh Tao?

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the mellow destination of Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical island of Koh Tao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Melbourne or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Melbourne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Melbourne. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, one week is sufficent for most. 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, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Koh Tao?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 2700 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne and Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

Melbourne is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F)in July.

In Melbourne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Melbourne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the autumn, Melbourne is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F)in October.

In the autumn, Melbourne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Taoin October. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Koh Taoin October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Melbourne or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Melbourne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Melbourne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Melbourne is generally much colder than Koh Taoin January. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Koh Taoin January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Should I visit Melbourne or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Melbourne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Melbourne is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

In Koh Tao, 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 Taoin April. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in October than Koh Taoin April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Melbourne