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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Nagano?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nagano? 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 famous, popular, and historical city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Nagano

Nagano is a alpine, scenic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Nagano is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Nagano travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagano than Ayutthaya. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya attracts visitors for its historical sights and shopping. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Nagano and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Nagano is famous for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple.

How is Ayutthaya different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nagano and Ayutthaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is notable for snow skiing. However, Ayutthaya is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Ayutthaya is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

Both Ayutthaya and Nagano have excellent 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 Nagano specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Nagano offer a number of excellent 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.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

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

Nagano has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

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 Nagano Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a popular place for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a great city for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

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.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Nagano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

Ayutthaya is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano More Beautiful?

Nagano is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nagano is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Families?

Nagano 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.

Nagano is a very family-friendly place to visit. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

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 Nagano Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ayutthaya and Nagano 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.

Nagano makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Ayutthaya or Nagano Better for Students?

Nagano is a popular place for students. However, Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

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 Nagano a more walkable city?

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

Nagano is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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 Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

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.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the city of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the historic destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nagano?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the alpine city of Nagano. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ayutthaya or Nagano?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical 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.

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ayutthaya and Nagano, we can see that Nagano is more expensive. And not only is Ayutthaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Nagano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nagano 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 Nagano Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Nagano?

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

Nagano 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 Nagano in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Nagano. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Nagano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ayutthaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Nagano averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 136 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in July than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nagano in the Autumn?

Both Nagano and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nagano in the Winter?

Both Nagano and Ayutthaya during the winter 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 skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. Ayutthaya is much warmer than Nagano in the winter. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 25°C (78°F) in January, and Nagano fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nagano in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Nagano. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Nagano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ayutthaya in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Nagano averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Nagano. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Typical Weather for Nagano and Ayutthaya