A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Hiroshima for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Hiroshima can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a remote, spectacular, and idyllic island chain. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Similan Islands and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hiroshima. Although Similan Islands and Hiroshima are popular destinations, Hiroshima has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hiroshima is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Similan Islands attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hiroshima is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. It is also well known for Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Similan Islands is famous for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hiroshima are world-renowned. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hiroshima has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a island chain with good options for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hiroshima is well-known for its shopping. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Hiroshima are nice to visit with kids.

Similan Islands is a family-friendly island chain. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hiroshima. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Hiroshima is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Hiroshima can get you to some places easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

For even more information, also check out Is Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Similan Islands and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than in Hiroshima. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hiroshima than Similan Islands 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 Hiroshima.

One day in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island chain of Similan Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The memorable destination of Hiroshima offers nightlife and food. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Hiroshima offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic island chain of Similan Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island chain makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island chain has to offer.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Similan Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hiroshima. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In July, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Hiroshima. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Similan Islands is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Similan Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hiroshima. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Similan Islands