A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yogyakarta vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Koh Tao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a youthful, cultural, and historical city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Yogyakarta and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Yogyakarta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping. Yogyakarta is well known for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Yogyakarta different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Yogyakarta is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Yogyakarta are world-renowned. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Yogyakarta and Koh Tao.

Yogyakarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. 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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Yogyakarta and Koh Tao.

Yogyakarta has a large number of nightlife venues. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Koh Tao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is renowned for the beach. However, Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Yogyakarta to see the historical old town. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Yogyakarta is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yogyakarta or Koh Tao.

Yogyakarta is a family-friendly city. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Yogyakarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Is Yogyakarta or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Yogyakarta is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Yogyakarta. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Yogyakarta and Koh Tao.

Public transit is mostly limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. 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.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Yogyakarta Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Both Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Yogyakarta, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Koh Tao than Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

In Yogyakarta, 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the laid back island of Koh Tao, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

In Yogyakarta, 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 Yogyakarta has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Tao, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Yogyakarta 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.

Koh Tao, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yogyakarta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Yogyakarta. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yogyakarta and Koh Tao, we can see that Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or Koh Tao?

Yogyakarta has a larger population, and is about 460 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta 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.