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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Canberra? 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 historical, cultural, and famous city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a under-rated, cultural, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ayutthaya and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Canberra than Ayutthaya. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Canberra is very popular for its hiking and big city activities, while Ayutthaya attracts visitors for its historical sights and shopping. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Canberra is famous for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. It is also well known for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Ayutthaya different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Ayutthaya and Canberra have high quality 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 Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Canberra offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

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.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Ayutthaya and Canberra.

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 Canberra. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for Hiking?

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

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Ayutthaya is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for Families?

Canberra 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.

Canberra is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

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 Canberra Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ayutthaya and Canberra make for a nice 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.

Canberra makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

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

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Ayutthaya or Canberra Better for Students?

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

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Canberra has a few public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

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 Canberra a more walkable city?

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

Canberra is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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 Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Canberra. 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 Canberra?

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 museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Canberra. 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.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Canberra. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ayutthaya or Canberra?

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.

Canberra is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Canberra?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

Canberra 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 Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Ayutthaya during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In the summer, Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ayutthaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Canberra averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in July than Canberrain January. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Canberra. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Canberrain April. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Canberrain April. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Canberra. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ayutthaya is much warmer than Canberra in the winter. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 25°C (78°F) in January, and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Canberrain July. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Canberra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ayutthaya in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Canberra averages at about 15°C (60°F)in October.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Canberrain October. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Ayutthaya