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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Tauranga? 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Ayutthaya and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

Both Tauranga and Ayutthaya have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Ayutthaya is better known for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Tauranga is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Tauranga and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Tauranga is well known for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Ayutthaya different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

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

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Ayutthaya is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Ayutthaya or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Ayutthaya and Tauranga.

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 Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Ayutthaya or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

Tauranga is notable for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Tauranga is considered a top beach destination. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Tauranga Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Tauranga does not have a historic old town.

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.

Tauranga does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

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

Tauranga is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Ayutthaya or Tauranga Better for Families?

Tauranga is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tauranga is a very family-friendly destination. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

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 Tauranga Better for Couples?

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

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

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 Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tauranga 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.

Tauranga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

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 Tauranga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Tauranga has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

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 Tauranga a more walkable city?

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

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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 Tauranga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

The city of Ayutthaya offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Tauranga. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Tauranga?

Ayutthaya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ayutthaya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Tauranga. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing town of Tauranga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Tauranga is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Tauranga?

Tauranga has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Tauranga, 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.