A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Sukhothai vs. Koh Samui for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

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 Samui can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Sukhothai and Koh Samui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Sukhothai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Samui is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Koh Samui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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 Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Koh Samui can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Samui. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

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 Samui Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Samui is a perfect choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Samui is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for its Old Town?

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

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui 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 Samui. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Sukhothai is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sukhothai. 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 Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for Families?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly destination. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Koh Samui makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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 Samui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Koh Samui is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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 Samui Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Sukhothai and Koh Samui.

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 Samui, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Samui a more walkable city?

Sukhothai and Koh Samui are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Sukhothai is generally not a very walkable city. 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.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Samui or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Both Sukhothai and Koh Samui have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than in Sukhothai. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Koh Samui.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui 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 Samui.

One day in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Koh Samui. 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 Samui?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lush destination of Koh Samui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Sukhothai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical resort island of Koh Samui. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Koh Samui is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Samui, one week is sufficent for most. 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 comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Koh Samui, we can see that Sukhothai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Samui Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Koh Samui?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Koh Samui, 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 Samui?

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 Samui in the Summer?

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

Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Koh Samui. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Koh Samui. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Samui in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Koh Samui. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui 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 February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Samui. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Koh Samui in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Samui in the Winter?

Both Koh Samui 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 Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February. In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Koh Samui. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Koh Samui. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Koh Samui averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Samui in the Spring?

Both Koh Samui 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 Samui year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Samui. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Koh Samui. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Samui and Sukhothai