A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hue vs. Ayutthaya for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hue or Ayutthaya?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hue and Ayutthaya can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hue

Hue is a ancient, imperial, and cultural city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a popular, historical, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hue and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Ayutthaya?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ayutthaya than Hue. While Hue is larger than Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Hue and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Also, Ayutthaya is famous for Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Hue is well known for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital.

How is Hue different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hue or Ayutthaya.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hue. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ayutthaya. 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 Hue or Ayutthaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Hue is an experience not to be missed. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ayutthaya. 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 Hue or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hue. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.

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 Hue or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya have excellent historic old towns worth visiting.

Hue is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Ayutthaya?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya are excellent shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hue. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Hue or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya are notable to visit with kids.

Hue is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the Imperial City, visiting Ho Quyen Arena and Long Chau Temple, or wandering through the city's local markets. The Demilitarized Zone is also an interesting side trip.

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 Hue or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hue is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy boat rides or sunset cruises along Perfume River. There are also interesting temples and fascinating day trips that you can take from the city.

Ayutthaya is a nice destination for couples. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Hue or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Hue and Ayutthaya are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Hue is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It is a popular stop over in central Vietnam. There are plenty of hostels and budget guesthouses to accommodate the backpacker crowds. There are also cheap restaurants and interesting activities relating to the city's long history.

Ayutthaya is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

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

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

Hue has a few public transit options. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around 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 Hue or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

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

Hue is very walkable. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.

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 Hue Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Hue?

How long in Hue or Ayutthaya?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hue or Ayutthaya to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hue than Ayutthaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ayutthaya.

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

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

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

One day in Hue or Ayutthaya?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hue. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hue has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With nightlife and food around the historical destination of Ayutthaya, there's plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Hue or Ayutthaya?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hue. 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.

Many people visit Ayutthaya for a weekend. With food and shopping around the historical city of Ayutthaya, there's plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Hue or Ayutthaya?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Hue. 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.

The destination of Ayutthaya offers shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. 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.

A week in Hue or Ayutthaya?

Hue 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam, 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 Hue and Ayutthaya, we can see that Ayutthaya is more expensive. And not only is Hue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hue would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hue 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 Hue.

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

Which is Bigger, Hue or Ayutthaya?

Hue has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Hue 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 Hue 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 Hue or Ayutthaya in the Summer?

Both Ayutthaya and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue 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 Hue is March to August. The rainy season in Hue is September to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. In July, Hue usually receives less rain than Ayutthaya. Hue 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 Hue. Hue usually receives more sunshine than Ayutthaya during summer. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Hue is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hue in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Hue or Ayutthaya in the Autumn?

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

September to December is the rainy season in Hue. 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 Hue. Hue usually gets more rain in October than Ayutthaya. Hue 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, Hue often gets less sunshine than Ayutthaya. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 206 hours of full sun.

In October, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 25°C (78°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hue or Ayutthaya in the Winter?

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

March to August in Hue is the dry season. Hue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hue usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Hue 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. Hue usually receives less sunshine than Ayutthaya during winter. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 276 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hue is cooler than Ayutthaya in the winter. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Hue or Ayutthaya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hue as well as Ayutthaya. Hue 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. Hue usually gets less rain in April than Ayutthaya. Hue 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 Hue this time of the year. In the spring, Hue often gets less sunshine than Ayutthaya. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 262 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Hue is cooler than Ayutthaya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hue in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Ayutthaya and Hue