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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto 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 spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Similan Islands and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Kyoto?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kyoto is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Kyoto is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto are world-renowned. 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kyoto 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.

Kyoto has a huge number of terrific 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.

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 Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. 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.

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 Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is renowned for the beache. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Similan Islands 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.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a island chain with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Kyoto?

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

Kyoto is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kyoto is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Both Similan Islands and Kyoto are world-class destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

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

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city 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.

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

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Kyoto?

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

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands. 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 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 Kyoto.

One day in Similan Islands or Kyoto?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this remote destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island chain 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.

The cultural destination of Kyoto offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. 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.

The city of Kyoto offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Kyoto?

Similan Islands is a fun place to experience. In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kyoto?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this remote destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Kyoto, we can see that Similan Islands 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 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 Kyoto.

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 Kyoto Expensive?.

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Similan Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 183 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 Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Kyoto. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kyoto. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Similan Islands