A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Brisbane for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Brisbane? 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 famous, popular, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a cultural, active, and relaxed coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ayutthaya and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brisbane than Ayutthaya. Brisbane is bigger than Ayutthaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brisbane is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Ayutthaya is more popular for its food and historical sights. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Brisbane and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Brisbane is well known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. Also, Brisbane is famous for the Cultural Centre.

How is Ayutthaya different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Ayutthaya and Brisbane have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Ayutthaya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Brisbane specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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

Ayutthaya is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ayutthaya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

Brisbane is notable for nightlife. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Brisbane has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ayutthaya. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is notable for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Brisbane is considered a top beach destination. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is great for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Both Ayutthaya and Brisbane are great shopping destinations.

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.

Brisbane is well-known for its shopping. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Families?

Brisbane 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.

Brisbane is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

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 Brisbane Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ayutthaya and Brisbane make for a notable place to visit.

Ayutthaya is a nice destination for couples. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Brisbane makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Brisbane are great 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 Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Ayutthaya or Brisbane Better for Students?

Brisbane is notable for students. However, Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

Brisbane is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

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 Brisbane a more walkable city?

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

Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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 Brisbane Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ayutthaya and Brisbane. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brisbane than in Ayutthaya. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 2-3 days is enough time in Brisbane.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brisbane 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 Brisbane.

One day in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

The city of Ayutthaya offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Brisbane. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Brisbane?

Ayutthaya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ayutthaya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active destination of Brisbane. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active coastal city of Brisbane. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Brisbane is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Brisbane, 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 Ayutthaya or Brisbane?

Brisbane 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 Brisbane in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Brisbane. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein January. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein January. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in July than Brisbanein January. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Brisbane in the Autumn?

Both Brisbane and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Brisbane in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Brisbane in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbane during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Brisbanein April. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Brisbane in the Winter?

Both Brisbane and Ayutthaya during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Brisbane for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ayutthaya in January average around 25°C (78°F), and Brisbane averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Brisbanein July. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Brisbanein July. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Brisbane in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Brisbanein October. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 31°C (88°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbane during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Brisbanein October. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Ayutthaya