A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Airlie Beach for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach? 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.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a popular, historical, and cultural city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a idyllic, paradise, and laid back town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Airlie Beach. Although Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach are both popular with visitors, Airlie Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Airlie Beach is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya is known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Airlie Beach and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Airlie Beach is popular for its tours and transportation that visit the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. It is also home to the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

How is Ayutthaya different from Airlie Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Airlie Beach is not a good town for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ayutthaya. These large and impressive ruins are among the most visited in Thailand. This is in large part because of their easy access from Bangkok. Highlights of the historical park include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the Royal Chapel, Wat Ratchaburana, and Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophi.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Airlie Beach. Oceanfront beauty is what this town is all about, so you won't find much is the form of museums and manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Airlie Beach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ayutthaya makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

Airlie Beach has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a good selection of restaurants in town that offer everything from freshly caught local seafood to fine dining or casual. Try to pick a place with a view.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ayutthaya. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Airlie Beach. The town has a number of nightlife venues that include DJ hosted parties, beachfront cocktail lounges, and mellow local bars.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Resorts?

Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Airlie Beach is a great choice. There's everything from posh resorts and luxury hotels to family-friendly campgrounds. There are also hostels that cater to the budget crowd.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Airlie Beach a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. You can't snorkel right off the shore because the water is murky and mucky, but there are excursions that will take you to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many day cruises that will take you out on the reef to several sights where you may see beautiful coral, sea turtles, or even reef sharks.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Beaches?

Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Airlie Beach. Near town there are world class beaches that range from secluded and idyllic to those lined with luxury resorts. For an escape, head to Hideaway Bay or Dingo Beach. If you don't want to leave town, there's also Airlie Beach, which is right off the Main Street. You likely won't want to swim here, but you can enjoy a picnic. Whatever beach you chose, do confirm that there's a stinger net.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Airlie Beach does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Airlie Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Hiking?

Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Airlie Beach specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find many incredible hiking trails in the area. Conway National Park is a great place to hike through the rainforest and Conway State Forest is another nice spot.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Airlie Beach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are some great shopping areas around the town that specialize in local handicrafts such as pottery, wicker weaving, and stone masonry. Some of the most interesting places include the Ayutthaya Floating Market and the Ayutthaya Night Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Airlie Beach. Head to the town's main street for your typical souvenir shops and holiday stores.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Families?

Airlie Beach is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Airlie Beach is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy playing in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, visiting the markets, or hanging out at the local beaches or playgrounds. If you're hoping to swim in the ocean, be very aware of the season and the conditions.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly city. Families will appreciate how easy it is to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok. The historical ruins are fun for both kids and adults, but the sites are very spread out and you'll need to hire a tuk tuk to see everything. The roads can be crowded and distances far, so biking isn't recommended with kids.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Couples?

Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Airlie Beach makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples often use this as a gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. The dining scene is good and there are countless outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. There are also many different resorts in the area.

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach are superb destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

Many backpackers visit Airlie Beach. If you're hoping to visit the Whitsunday Islands, then is a good place to base yourself as a backpacker. It has a decent selection of hostels and there are a number of restaurants and other dining options.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Airlie Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Airlie Beach has a few public transit options. There's a public bus that runs from Proserpine to Shute Harbour. The main bus station is near the city center and the main beach.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ayutthaya. There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

Is Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach a more walkable city?

Airlie Beach is notable for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Airlie Beach is very walkable. The town itself is walkable, but the surrounding area is hilly and requires a car.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable city. The historic sites are spread out over a vast area and you must have some form of transportation to reach everything. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan are the furthest apart. Everywhere else can be accessed on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting? and Is Airlie Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Airlie Beach or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Both Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Airlie Beach than in Ayutthaya. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 4-7 days is enough time in Airlie Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Ayutthaya 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 Airlie Beach.

One day in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

In Ayutthaya, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this popular city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Airlie Beach. 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 Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Ayutthaya is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Airlie Beach. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

A week in Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Ayutthaya is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Airlie Beach 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 Airlie Beach, 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ayutthaya experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach in the Summer?

Both Airlie Beach and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Airlie Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Airlie Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Airlie Beach. Ayutthaya usually receives less sunshine than Airlie Beach during summer. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In July, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Airlie Beachin January. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 331 mm (13 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach in the Autumn?

Both Airlie Beach and Ayutthaya during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Airlie Beach this time of year.

In the autumn, Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Airlie Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ayutthaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Airlie Beach averages at about 23°C (73°F)in April.

In Airlie Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the autumn, Ayutthaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Airlie Beachin April. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 207 hours of full sun.

Airlie Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in October than Airlie Beachin April. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Ayutthaya. May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Airlie Beach. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Airlie Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Airlie Beachin July. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 25°C (78°F), and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Airlie Beach this time of the year. In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Airlie Beach during winter. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Airlie Beachin July. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Airlie Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Airlie Beach. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Airlie Beach in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Airlie Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the spring, Ayutthaya often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin October. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 298 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in April than Airlie Beachin October. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. May to October in Ayutthaya is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Airlie Beach and Ayutthaya