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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Sapporo? 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a park-filled, snowy, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Ayutthaya and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sapporo than Ayutthaya. Sapporo is bigger than Ayutthaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ayutthaya is more popular for its historical sights. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Sapporo and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Sapporo is well known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park.

How is Ayutthaya different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ayutthaya or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

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

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Ayutthaya is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Sapporo 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 Sapporo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Sapporo 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.

Sapporo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Is Ayutthaya or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

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

Sapporo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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 Sapporo Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

Both Ayutthaya and Sapporo are excellent 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.

Sapporo is well-known for its shopping. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Is Ayutthaya or Sapporo Better for Families?

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

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 Sapporo Better for Couples?

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

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

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 Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ayutthaya and Sapporo are excellent 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 Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Ayutthaya or Sapporo Better for Students?

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

Sapporo is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Sapporo is fairly effecient and thorough. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

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

Sapporo is very walkable. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

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.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. 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 Sapporo?

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.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. 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 Sapporo?

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 food and shopping when visiting the park-filled city of Sapporo. 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 Sapporo?

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.

Sapporo 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 Cultural Tours in Japan, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Sapporo, 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 Sapporo?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo in the Summer?

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

In July, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in July than Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Ayutthaya is much warmer than Sapporo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 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 Sapporo in the Winter?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo this time of year.

It's quite cold in Sapporo in the winter. In the winter, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ayutthaya in January average around 25°C (78°F), and Sapporo averages at about -5°C (24°F).

It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun.

Sapporo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Sapporo in the Spring?

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

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 31°C (88°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 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 Sapporo and Ayutthaya