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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kanchanaburi and Da Nang. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a reflective, somber, and informative town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Kanchanaburi and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

You'll generally find more things to do in Da Nang than Kanchanaburi. Da Nang is bigger than Kanchanaburi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Da Nang is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Kanchanaburi is more popular for its museums and shopping. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts. Also, Da Nang is famous for the Marble Mountains.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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 Kanchanaburi or Da Nang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Da Nang has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Da Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Da Nang to choose from. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a good destination for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Da Nang offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Kanchanaburi offers some nice shopping areas. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

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 Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Families?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Da Nang is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Couples?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Da Nang are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Da Nang. 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 Kanchanaburi or Da Nang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Kanchanaburi and Da Nang.

Kanchanaburi has some public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

You'll find some public transit in Da Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Kanchanaburi or Da Nang a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable place. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

Da Nang is not a very walkable town. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Kanchanaburi Worth Visiting? and Is Da Nang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Da Nang or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

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

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

One day in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

In Kanchanaburi, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Da Nang, many people enjoy the food and museums that this coastal city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

In Kanchanaburi, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kanchanaburi has to offer.

Da Nang is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanchanaburi. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanchanaburi. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Da Nang is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Kanchanaburi and Da Nang, we can see that Da Nang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Da Nang, 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 Kanchanaburi or Da Nang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Da Nang in the Summer?

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

July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. August to December in Da Nang is the rainy season. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in July than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Da Nang 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 Da Nang. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 242 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Da Nang in the summer. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Da Nang fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Da Nang in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October. The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. It's quite rainy in Kanchanaburi. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Da Nang during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 158 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Da Nang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kanchanaburi in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Da Nang averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Da Nang in the Winter?

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

January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 136 hours of full sun.

In January, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Da Nang in the Spring?

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

November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Da Nang. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Da Nang this time of the year. In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Da Nang during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Da Nang in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Da Nang fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Da Nang and Kanchanaburi