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

Should you visit Nara or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Nara 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.

Nara

Nara is a natural, historic, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Nara and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nara or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Nara, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Nara is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Tao is more touristy than Nara and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Nara is well known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Nara different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nara 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 Nara can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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

Koh Tao is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Tao. 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.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Nara or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Nara and Koh Tao.

Nara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Koh Tao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Nara or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is notable for its resorts. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nara or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Nara or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nara. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Nara or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Nara and Koh Tao both have very good trails.

Nara is a popular spot for hiking. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Koh Tao?

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

Nara is well-known for its shopping. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

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 Nara or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Nara 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, Nara is very family-friendly. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

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 Nara or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Nara and Koh Tao make for a very good place to visit.

Nara is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

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.

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

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. 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.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

Nara 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 Nara can get you to some places easily. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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 Nara or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Nara and Koh Tao both are very good when exploring on foot.

Nara is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

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 Nara Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Nara?

How long in Nara or Koh Tao?

Both Nara 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 Nara. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nara, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Nara 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 Nara or Koh Tao?

In Nara, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nara or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nara or Koh Tao?

Nara is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the laid back destination of Koh Tao. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nara or Koh Tao?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the popular island of Koh Tao. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in 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 Nara and Koh Tao, we can see that Nara 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 Nara would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nara 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 Nara Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nara or Koh Tao?

Nara has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Nara 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 Nara or Koh Tao?

Nara 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 Nara or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nara as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Nara for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Nara is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In the summer, Nara often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Nara gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Nara receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nara usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Tao. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Nara is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nara in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Nara usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Nara gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Nara. In October, Nara usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Nara or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Nara during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Nara can be very cold during winter. In January, Nara is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 4°C (40°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Nara often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Nara gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Nara usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Nara or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Koh Tao. The spring months attract visitors to Nara because of the natural beauty. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Nara usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Nara gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nara usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Nara