A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Ayutthaya vs. Koh Chang for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang? 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Ayutthaya and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ayutthaya. Although Ayutthaya and Koh Chang are both popular with visitors, Ayutthaya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ayutthaya is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Chang is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. It is also home to Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Ayutthaya different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Ayutthaya can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

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

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Ayutthaya and Koh Chang.

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 Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is notable for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Ayutthaya to see the historical old town. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Koh Chang has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ayutthaya. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Ayutthaya or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Koh Chang 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.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly place to visit. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

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 Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang 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.

Koh Chang makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

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 Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Koh Chang are very good 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 Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

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

Koh Chang has a few public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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 Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

In either Ayutthaya or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Chang than Ayutthaya because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

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 nightlife and food around the island of Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical 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 food and nightlife around the serene destination of Koh Chang. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the famous 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 tranquil island of Koh Chang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island 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 island has to offer.

A week in Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

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.

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nightlife Tours in Thailand, and The Best Yoga Tours and Retreats in Thailand.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang in the Summer?

Both Koh Chang 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round.

Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the summer. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Ayutthaya is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ayutthaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Koh Chang. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun.

In January, Ayutthaya is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Koh Chang in the Spring?

Both Koh Chang and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. In April, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. Ayutthaya is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the spring. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Ayutthaya