A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Sukhothai vs. Koh Phi Phi for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a rustic, remote, and tropical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi are popular destinations, Koh Phi Phi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also well known for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Sukhothai is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Sukhothai offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sukhothai is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sukhothai has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Koh Phi Phi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Phi Phi is a perfect choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi is not to be missed. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Phi Phi is a very popular vacation destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is great for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Sukhothai is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Sukhothai is well-known for its shopping. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Sukhothai is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Sukhothai offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Phi Phi has plenty to offer. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Phi Phi. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi.

Sukhothai has some public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Phi Phi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Koh Phi Phi is very good for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Koh Phi Phi is somewhat walkable. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi. In our opinion, Koh Phi Phi has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Phi Phi than Sukhothai. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Sukhothai 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 Phi Phi.

One day in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the world class destination of Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

The world class city of Sukhothai offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic island of Koh Phi Phi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sukhothai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Sukhothai has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Koh Phi Phi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sukhothai in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

In October, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March. In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi. Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Sukhothai