A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Melbourne for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Ao Nang or Melbourne?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Melbourne? 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.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a popular, beachfront, and lively town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ao Nang and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Melbourne. Although Ao Nang and Melbourne are both popular with visitors, Melbourne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Melbourne is more popular for its museums & sights, food, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Ao Nang is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Melbourne is popular for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. It is also home to the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Ao Nang different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Melbourne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Melbourne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Ao Nang and Melbourne.

Ao Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Melbourne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Ao Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Melbourne is considered a top beach destination. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Many people head to Ao Nang to enjoy the beach. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Families?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Melbourne. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ao Nang and Melbourne make for a good place to visit.

Ao Nang is a good town for couples to visit. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Melbourne is a nice destination for couples. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Students?

Melbourne is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Melbourne is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

You'll find some public transit in Ao Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Is Ao Nang or Melbourne a more walkable city?

Ao Nang and Melbourne are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Melbourne is very walkable. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Melbourne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

In either Ao Nang or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than Ao Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Melbourne than Ao Nang 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 Melbourne.

One day in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Ao Nang. 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.

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the popular destination of Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the popular town of Ao Nang. 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.

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Ao Nang 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Melbourne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Melbourne. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ao Nang and Melbourne, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Ao Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ao Nang is in Asia and Melbourne is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Ao Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ao Nang 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne than you might in Ao Nang.

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

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 470 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Melbourne, 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 Ao Nang or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Melbourne in the Summer?

Both Melbourne and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year.

In July, Ao Nang is generally a little warmer than Melbournein January. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Melbourne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually receives less sunshine than Melbourne during summer. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In July, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Melbournein January. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Melbourne in the Autumn?

Both Melbourne and Ao Nang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Melbourne for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Melbourne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Melbourne fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in April.

In the autumn, Ao Nang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Melbournein April. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in October than Melbournein April. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang. August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Melbourne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Melbourne. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Melbourne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Ao Nang is much warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ao Nang in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Melbourne averages at about 9°C (49°F)in July.

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during winter. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ao Nang usually receives less rain than Melbournein July. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Melbourne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Melbourne. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Melbourne for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Melbournein October. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 29°C (84°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the spring, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Melbournein October. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun.

Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in April than Melbournein October. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Ao Nang