A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Beijing for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phuket or Beijing?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Beijing, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a activity-filled, energetic, and party-hard resort island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Phuket and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Beijing?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Phuket, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Phuket is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Beijing is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City.

How is Phuket different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Beijing?

Beijing is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Beijing? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Phuket is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Resorts?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

Phuket is a world class resort vacation destination. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Beaches?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Phuket is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Beijing?

Beijing is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Beijing is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Families?

Phuket and Beijing are both good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Couples?

Phuket is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Phuket frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a great destination for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is a great destination for students. However, Phuket is not popular with students.

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Phuket is not popular with students.

Is Phuket or Beijing Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Beijing can get you around easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Is Phuket or Beijing a more walkable city?

Phuket is a resort island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable resort island. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Beijing?

Both Phuket and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Phuket 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 Beijing.

One day in Phuket or Beijing?

In Phuket, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Beijing?

In Phuket, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Beijing is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Beijing?

Phuket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phuket has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. In Phuket, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phuket and Beijing, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket than you might in Beijing.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Phuket Expensive? and Is Beijing Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Beijing?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Beijing, 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 Phuket or Beijing?

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

Should I visit Phuket or Beijing in the Summer?

Both Beijing and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Phuket is around the same temperature as Beijing. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Beijing averages at about 27°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Beijing. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Beijing in the Autumn?

Both Beijing and Phuket during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Phuket is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Phuket often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Beijing in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Beijing. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. Phuket is much warmer than Beijing in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Beijing fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Beijing during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives more rain than Beijing. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Beijing in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Beijing. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Beijing averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the spring, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.

Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets more rain in April than Beijing. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Phuket