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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Nara?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nara? 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 popular, historical, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Nara

Nara is a traditional, tranquil, and natural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ayutthaya and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Nara?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nara than Ayutthaya. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nara is very popular for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Nara and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Nara is famous for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. It is also well known for Nara Park.

How is Ayutthaya different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Ayutthaya and Nara 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 Nara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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

Ayutthaya is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Ayutthaya or Nara Better for Nightlife?

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

Nara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

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 Nara Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is notable for its old town. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Nara has an old town worth visiting. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Is Ayutthaya or Nara Better for Hiking?

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

Nara is a popular spot for hiking. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Nara?

Both Ayutthaya and Nara 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.

Nara is well-known for its shopping. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Is Ayutthaya or Nara Better for Families?

Nara 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.

Nara is a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

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 Nara Better for Couples?

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

Nara is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

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 Nara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is notable for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ayutthaya is a great city to visit for backpackers. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

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

Public transit in Nara is fairly effecient and thorough. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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 Nara a more walkable city?

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

Nara is very walkable. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring 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 Nara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nara or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Nara?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ayutthaya or Nara to fill your time. In our opinion, Nara has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nara than Ayutthaya. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ayutthaya than Nara 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 Nara?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nara. 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 Nara has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ayutthaya or Nara?

Ayutthaya is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the natural destination of Nara. 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 Nara?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the famous destination of Ayutthaya. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

The popular city of Ayutthaya offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Nara 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan, and The Best Luxury Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Nara?

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

Nara 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 Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

In the summer, Ayutthaya is around the same temperature as Nara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ayutthaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Nara averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Ayutthaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nara during summer. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In July, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nara in the Autumn?

Both Nara and Ayutthaya during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the autumn, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in October than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Ayutthaya. May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Nara. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Also, many visitors come to Nara in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nara can get quite cold in the winter. Ayutthaya is much warmer than Nara in the winter. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 25°C (78°F) in January, and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Nara during winter. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Nara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Nara. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Nara for the natural beauty during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Nara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ayutthaya in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Nara averages at about 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the spring, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nara. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in April than Nara. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. May to October in Ayutthaya is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Nara and Ayutthaya