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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Lisbon? 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. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Lisbon travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Ayutthaya. Lisbon is bigger than Ayutthaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Ayutthaya different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Many visitors head to Ayutthaya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Ayutthaya has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a world class party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

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

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The rich history of Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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.

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon More Beautiful?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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

Is Ayutthaya or Lisbon Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Lisbon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Lisbon?

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ayutthaya. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, 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 Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Lisbon, 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 Lisbon?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon 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. Furthermore, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In July, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Lisbon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Lisbon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon 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 Lisbon during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 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 Lisbon in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ayutthaya in January average around 25°C (78°F), and Lisbon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon 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 Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 31°C (88°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Lisbon during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 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 Lisbon and Ayutthaya