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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Dunedin? 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 cultural, famous, and popular city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a cultural, vibrant, and small city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Dunedin travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

Both Dunedin and Ayutthaya have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Ayutthaya is better known for its food and historical sights, while Dunedin is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Dunedin and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Dunedin is well known for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Ayutthaya different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Ayutthaya and Dunedin 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 Dunedin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

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

Ayutthaya is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Ayutthaya is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

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

Dunedin has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

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 Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Dunedin is a popular place for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Dunedin is a good option for a beach vacation. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Dunedin 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.

Dunedin does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

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

Dunedin is a good destination for hiking. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

Both Ayutthaya and Dunedin are high quality 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.

Dunedin is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for Families?

Dunedin 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.

Dunedin is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

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 Dunedin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ayutthaya and Dunedin 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.

Dunedin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Dunedin are high quality 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 Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Ayutthaya or Dunedin Better for Students?

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

Dunedin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Dunedin has a few public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

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 Dunedin a more walkable city?

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

Dunedin is very walkable. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

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 Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

In Ayutthaya, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A weekend in Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

In Ayutthaya, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ayutthaya has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Dunedin. 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 Dunedin?

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Dunedin. 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 Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ayutthaya. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ayutthaya. 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.

Dunedin 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Dunedin?

Dunedin has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Dunedin, 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.