A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Zhengzhou for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou? 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.

Where Should I go: Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou?

Ayutthaya

Once the largest city in the world, Ayutthaya, is the example of an ancient capital within a modern city. Located in the central plains of Thailand, this spot is ideally located between China, India and the Malay Archipelago creating the perfect place for trade in Asia. Eighteenth century maps from Holland and France show golden palaces, large ceremony spots and trading vessels from all over the world. Suddenly, in 1767, Ayutthaya experienced a tragic fall from grace with a Burmese invasion burning much of the city to the ground.

Zhengzhou

Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.

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 from Shanghai, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing.


Which place is cheaper, Zhengzhou or Ayutthaya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ayutthaya is $71, while the average daily cost in Zhengzhou is $100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ayutthaya and Zhengzhou in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ayutthaya $24
    Zhengzhou $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ayutthaya $48
    Zhengzhou $74
Compare Hotels in Ayutthaya and Zhengzhou

Looking for a hotel in Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ayutthaya


Hotels in Zhengzhou


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ayutthaya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ayutthaya $31
    Zhengzhou $65
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • River Ferry Crossing
    $0.62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ayutthaya

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ayutthaya:

  • Transfer from Bangkok: $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:

  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
  • [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
  • Zhengzhou Special Car Service, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
  • Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
  • Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
  • Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
  • Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
  • Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou?

Prices for flights to both Zhengzhou and Ayutthaya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ayutthaya $23
    Zhengzhou $29
Typical Food Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    $4.32
  • Ice Cream
    $0.93
  • Breakfast for 2
    $4.32
  • Breakfast for 2
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ayutthaya

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ayutthaya.

  • Bangkok: VELA Dinner Cruise Ticket: $21
  • Eat like a local Food tour, with small group: $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.

  • Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ayutthaya $30
    Zhengzhou $8.41
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • Temple Entrances (2)
    $6.18
  • Wat Entrance
    $1.54

Tours and Activities in Ayutthaya

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ayutthaya are as follows:

  • App self-guided: Tour Bangkok, Thailand: $4.39
  • Ayutthaya City and Historical Park Bike Tour: $39
  • The Incredible Ayutthaya Ancient Temple Tour : From Bangkok: $57
  • Colors of UNESCO Heritage 6 hour Bicycle Tour: $60
  • Ayutthaya Full-Day Tour with Bang Pa In (Summer Palace): $60
  • From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Group Tour with Lunch: $65
  • UNESCO Heritage Temples and Cafe Day Tour: $69
  • Bangkok: Ayutthaya Night Tour (Join Tour): $77
  • Private 1 hour Boat tour Pa Sak River: $90
  • Ayutthaya Private Guided Day Tour, 4 Ancient Temples: $126
  • Ayutthaya Private Guided Day Tour, 3 Historic Attractions: $134
  • BKK: Ayutthaya Old Capital with 4 Famous Temple Private Tour: $149

Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Kaifeng City Highlights Independant Tour from Zhengzhou: $80
  • Private Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $126
  • Private Independent Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $158
  • Private Independent Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $169
  • Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
  • Day tour to Dengfeng Shaolin temple Yuan dynasty observatory: $200
  • From Zhengzhou or Luoyang: Shaolin Temple Private Day Tour: $206
  • Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Spots Private Tour : $209
  • Private tour to Shaolin temple with Kongfu training class 2H: $210
  • Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
  • Private tour to Shaolin temple and Zen buddihsm Music show: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ayutthaya $20
    Zhengzhou $6.48


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


Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou?

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

Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Zhengzhou. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round.

Ayutthaya is around the same temperature as Zhengzhou in the summer. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zhengzhou this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives less sunshine than Zhengzhou during summer. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Zhengzhou receives 215 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zhengzhou receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ayutthaya 29°C (84°F) 
    Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Zhengzhou. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ayutthaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Zhengzhou averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zhengzhou receives 188 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in October than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ayutthaya 28°C (82°F) 
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou in the Winter?

Both Zhengzhou and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year.

Zhengzhou can be very cold during winter. In January, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Zhengzhou. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 25°C (78°F), and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Zhengzhou during winter. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Zhengzhou receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ayutthaya 25°C (78°F) 
    Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Zhengzhou in the Spring?

Both Zhengzhou and Ayutthaya during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. Ayutthaya is much warmer than Zhengzhou in the spring. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Zhengzhou, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zhengzhou receives 201 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in April than Zhengzhou. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ayutthaya 31°C (88°F) 
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Zhengzhou and Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya Zhengzhou
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (78°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 30°C (85°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 31°C (88°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 30°C (86°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 102 mm (4 in) 27°C (80°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 28°C (83°F) 137 mm (5.4 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 292 mm (11.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 180 mm (7.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)


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