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

Should you visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya? 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.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a accessible, authentic, and coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a popular, historical, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Da Nang and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ayutthaya than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ayutthaya is very popular for its museums & sights, historical sights, and shopping, while Da Nang attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. It is also well known for Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Da Nang is famous for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Ayutthaya.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Ayutthaya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

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

Da Nang has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is notable for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Da Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a popular place for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Da Nang is a good option for a beach vacation. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its old town. However, Da Nang 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.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Ayutthaya is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Da Nang 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.

Da Nang is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

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

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

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

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

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

Neither Da Nang or Ayutthaya are walkable places.

Da Nang is not a walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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 Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ayutthaya than Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Da Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Da Nang has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A weekend in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

Five days in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal city of Da Nang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Da Nang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Da Nang and Ayutthaya, we can see that Ayutthaya is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Da Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Da Nang 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 Da Nang.

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang 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.

When is the best time to visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya in the Summer?

Both Ayutthaya and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. In July, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives more sunshine than Ayutthaya during summer. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Da Nang is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 29°C (85°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya in the Autumn?

Both Ayutthaya and Da Nang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round.

August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. October to April is the dry season in Ayutthaya. May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually gets more rain in October than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 206 hours of full sun.

Da Nang is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Ayutthaya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Ayutthaya during winter. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 276 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Da Nang is cooler than Ayutthaya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Da Nang in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Da Nang or Ayutthaya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Ayutthaya. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. May to October in Ayutthaya is the rainy season. Da Nang usually gets less rain in April than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Da Nang this time of the year. In the spring, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Ayutthaya. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 262 hours of full sun.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In April, Da Nang is generally cooler than Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 26°C (80°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Ayutthaya and Da Nang