A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Chiang Rai vs. Ayutthaya for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a friendly, charming, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical, cultural, and famous city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Rai. Although Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya are popular destinations, Chiang Rai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Chiang Rai and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Chiang Rai is famous for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. It is also well known for Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple).

How is Chiang Rai different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Chiang Rai is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chiang Rai that are not to be missed. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

Many visitors head to Ayutthaya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Chiang Rai is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Chiang Rai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Ayutthaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

Both Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya have nice vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Chiang Rai. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

Ayutthaya has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

Is Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Chiang Rai to see the historical old town. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

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.

Is Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for Hiking?

Chiang Rai is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Rai is a good destination for hiking. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya.

Chiang Rai is well-known for its shopping. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

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.

Is Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Chiang Rai 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.

Chiang Rai is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

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 Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

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

Chiang Rai is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

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 Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Chiang Rai. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

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

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya.

Public transit is mostly limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Public transit is generally 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 Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

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

Chiang Rai is very walkable. The old city is easy to explore 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 Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Rai than Ayutthaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ayutthaya.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai 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 Chiang Rai.

One day in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Chiang Rai. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the popular city of Ayutthaya, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ayutthaya, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Chiang Rai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ayutthaya, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Chiang Rai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ayutthaya, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Chiang Rai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Ayutthaya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya, we can see that Ayutthaya is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Rai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Rai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Rai 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 Ayutthaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ayutthaya than you might in Chiang Rai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Rai Expensive? and Is Ayutthaya Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Chiang Rai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya, 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.