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

Should you visit Phuket or Kyoto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Kyoto, 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. Phuket is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Phuket travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kyoto travel costs.

Phuket and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Kyoto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kyoto than Phuket. Kyoto is bigger than Phuket, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kyoto is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Phuket is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is more touristy than Kyoto and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji.

How is Phuket different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto are among the most recognizable in the world. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Kyoto can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Phuket. 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."

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Phuket is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Phuket is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Phuket is renowned for the beach. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Kyoto?

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

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

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 Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Phuket is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Kyoto is a great city to visit as a student. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Phuket is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto can get you around easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Kyoto on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Phuket and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than in Kyoto. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

One day in Phuket or Kyoto?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this activity-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Kyoto?

Phuket is a fun place to experience. In Phuket, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Kyoto?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Kyoto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto 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 Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the summer. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto 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 Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Phuket is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phuket in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Kyoto averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Kyoto. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 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 Kyoto in the Winter?

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

Kyoto can be very cold during winter. In January, Phuket is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Kyoto in the Spring?

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

Phuket is much warmer than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Phuket