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

Should you visit Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Nagasaki and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Nagasaki and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Koh Tao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Tao is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Nagasaki is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Nagasaki is popular for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also home to Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Nagasaki different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki can be an interesting and educational experience. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Nagasaki and Koh Tao both to be very good destinations.

Nagasaki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

Nagasaki has a large number of nightlife venues. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

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.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Nagasaki and Koh Tao.

Nagasaki has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Koh Tao is a great destination for 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nagasaki or Koh Tao.

Nagasaki is a family-friendly city. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tao. 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

Is Nagasaki or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Tao, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki can get you to some places easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Nagasaki is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Both Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagasaki, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

In Nagasaki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

In Nagasaki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagasaki has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Nagasaki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagasaki and Koh Tao, we can see that Nagasaki is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Nagasaki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

In July, Nagasaki is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Nagasaki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during summer. Nagasaki gets 197 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. Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is cooler than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In the autumn, Nagasaki often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagasaki usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Nagasaki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nagasaki 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 the winter, Nagasaki is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagasaki in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Nagasaki usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Nagasaki gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nagasaki usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 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 Nagasaki or Koh Tao in the Spring?

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

In April, Nagasaki is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 16°C (60°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nagasaki often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 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 Nagasaki