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

Should you visit Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

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 Tao 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 Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back 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 Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Sukhothai and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Tao is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Koh Tao can be difficult as they are each excellent 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 Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

Koh Tao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao is not to be missed. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tao is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Sukhothai to see the historical old town. 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 Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao 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 Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

Sukhothai is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Koh Tao.

Sukhothai is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tao. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

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

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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 Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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 Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Sukhothai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Sukhothai or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

In Sukhothai, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

In Sukhothai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sukhothai has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Koh Tao?

Sukhothai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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 Tao in the Summer?

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Sukhothai usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sukhothai in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

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

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 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 Tao. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

In October, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Tao in the Winter?

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

The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June. In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao 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 Tao year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Tao. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Tao, 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 Tao. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Sukhothai