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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Byron Bay? 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a mellow, vegan-friendly, and carefree town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ayutthaya and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Byron Bay. Although Ayutthaya and Byron Bay are popular destinations, Byron Bay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Byron Bay is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya attracts visitors for its museums & sights, food, and historical sights. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Byron Bay and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Byron Bay is famous for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. It is also well known for Cape Byron Lighthouse.

How is Ayutthaya different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ayutthaya. 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.

Byron Bay is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

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

Byron Bay has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

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 Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Byron Bay is notable for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Byron Bay is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for its Old Town?

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

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Byron Bay does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

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

Byron Bay is a good destination for hiking. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

Both Ayutthaya and Byron Bay are excellent 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.

Byron Bay is well-known for its shopping. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ayutthaya or Byron Bay.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly city. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Byron Bay is notable for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Byron Bay is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

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 Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Byron Bay are excellent 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 Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Byron Bay offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Ayutthaya or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Byron Bay is a popular place for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Byron Bay is somewhat walkable. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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 Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

Both Ayutthaya and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Ayutthaya. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay.

One day in Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ayutthaya has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Byron Bay. 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 Byron Bay?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the mellow destination of Byron Bay. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Ayutthaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife and food around the mellow town of Byron Bay. 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. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay, 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Sydney, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Byron Bay?

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

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay 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, most visitors come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ayutthaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Byron Bay. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In July, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin January. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

Both Byron Bay 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 autumn months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Byron Bayin April. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F).

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bayin April. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 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 Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Byron Bay. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

Ayutthaya is much warmer than Byron Bay in the winter. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 25°C (78°F) in January, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in July.

In January, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin July. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Byron Bay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Byron Bay. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ayutthaya in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in April than Byron Bayin October. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 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 Byron Bay and Ayutthaya