A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kanchanaburi vs. Hobart for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

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 Hobart. 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 educational, reflective, and somber town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Hobart

Hobart is a historical, charming, and fascinating city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Kanchanaburi and Hobart: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Death Railway Bridge ("the Bridge on the River Kwai")
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hobart than Kanchanaburi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kanchanaburi is well known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Hobart is well known for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails. Also, Hobart is famous for Battery Point.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hobart 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 Hobart?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kanchanaburi and Hobart.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kanchanaburi. 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.

Hobart offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.


Is the Food Better in Kanchanaburi or Hobart? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

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

Hobart has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

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 Hobart Better for Nightlife?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Hobart.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanchanaburi. 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.

Hobart has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Hobart is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hobart. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Hobart is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Hobart is well-known for its shopping. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hobart Better for Families?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Hobart 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, Hobart is very family-friendly. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

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 Hobart Better for Couples?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

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

Hobart makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

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 Hobart Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Kanchanaburi and Hobart 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 Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hobart Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Kanchanaburi and Hobart.

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 Hobart, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hobart a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi
Hobart

Hobart is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Hobart is a very walkable city. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kanchanaburi and Hobart. In our opinion, Hobart has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hobart than Kanchanaburi. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hobart than Kanchanaburi 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 Hobart.


  • How many days in Kanchanaburi or Hobart? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kanchanaburi 2-3 
    Hobart 2-3

One day in Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kanchanaburi. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Hobart, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fascinating city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hobart is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hobart?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanchanaburi. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Hobart. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Hobart?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the educational destination of Kanchanaburi. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Hobart is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Hobart or Kanchanaburi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kanchanaburi is $42, while the average daily cost in Hobart is $134. 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 Kanchanaburi and Hobart in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kanchanaburi $19
    Hobart $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kanchanaburi $38
    Hobart $152
Compare Hotels in Kanchanaburi and Hobart

Looking for a hotel in Kanchanaburi or Hobart? 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 Kanchanaburi


Hotels in Hobart


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: Kanchanaburi Hotel Prices and Hobart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kanchanaburi $12
    Hobart $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kanchanaburi

Also for Kanchanaburi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Kanchanaburi to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $171
  • Private Transfer from Kanchanaburi to Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport: $163
  • Arrival Bangkok Airport Private Transfer : Hotel in Kanchanaburi: $116
  • Private Airport Transfer : Bangkok to/from Kanchanaburi: $103
  • Private Transfer from Ratchaburi to Don Mueang (DMK) Airport: $98
  • Private Transfer from Ratchaburi to Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport: $90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hobart

Also for Hobart, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Hobart Cruise Port to Hobart city hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Arthur Cruise Port : $50
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Arthur Cruise Port: $50
  • Port Arthur Return Transfer, mimimum 4 passengers : $218
  • Hobart to Hobart Int Airport (HBA) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Hobart Airport: Express Bus Transfer to Hobart City: $13
  • Grand Cayman Shared Airport Transfer: $22

Is it cheaper to fly into Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Prices for flights to both Hobart and Kanchanaburi 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
    Kanchanaburi $12
    Hobart $28
Typical Food Prices in Kanchanaburi

For Kanchanaburi, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch
    $4.09

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kanchanaburi

For Kanchanaburi, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Thai Cooking Class: $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kanchanaburi $9.10
    Hobart $23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kanchanaburi

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kanchanaburi's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Entry Park TreeHouse
    $5.46

Tours and Activities in Kanchanaburi

For Kanchanaburi, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Amazing Boat Trip River Kwai and Erawan Falls Full Day Tour: $116
  • Bangkok Mystical Waterfall & River Kwai Tour: $241
  • Bangkok and Beyond - A 6 Day Exciting Group Tour: $1,000
  • Bangkok: 2-Day River Kwai & Erawan National Park Tour: $281
  • Bangkok: Erawan Waterfall, River Kwai & Death Railway Tour: $95
  • Bangkok: Kanchanaburi and Erawan Waterfall Private Tour: $149
  • Cycling to visit Local Experience and Learn Culture with Local expert: $28
  • Discovery Bike Tour: $16
  • E-Scooter Tour in Kanchanaburi: $30
  • Erawan Waterfall & Train Tour from Kanchanaburi – Full Day: $110
  • Erawan Waterfalls & Phra That Cave Tour : from Bangkok: $111
  • Full Day Kanchanaburi River Kwai Experience: $84

Tours and Activities in Hobart

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hobart.

  • Grand Hobart with Richmond Village Tour: $102
  • 3 day Tasmanian highlights tour – Hobart, Port Arthur and Bruny Island: $208
  • 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $33
  • Art and History Trail Walking Tour in Tasmania: $25
  • Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Afternoon Tour from Hobart: $77
  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hobart: $76
  • Bruny Island Food, Sightseeing, Guided Lighthouse Tour & Lunch : $172
  • Bruny Island Traveller - Gourmet Tasting and Sightseeing Day Trip from Hobart: $175
  • Cruise Ship Wine Shore Excursion: $163
  • Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond: $118
  • Derwent River Historic Harbour Cruise From Hobart: $18
  • Easy Bike Tour - Mt Wellington Summit Descent & Rainforest Ride: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kanchanaburi $8.03
    Hobart $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Hobart

Also in Hobart, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour with Tasmanian Cheese Platter: $135
  • Signature Wine Tour - Hobart and SE Tasmania: $144
  • 7- 8 Hour StelaVino Guided Wine Tours From Hobart, Tasmania: $182
  • From Drink Tasmania Whisky Distillery Tour: $195
  • Tasmanian Whisky Distillery Tour: $197
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings - Hobart/SE Tasmania: $229
  • Tasmanian Tipples: Hobart Distillery Discovery Tours: $229
  • 6 Hour Distillery Guided Tours in Tasmania with Lunch and Tasting: $231
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings in Hobart and SE Tasmania: $231


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Hobart, we can see that Hobart is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kanchanaburi is in Asia and Hobart is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi 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 Hobart would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hobart than you might in Kanchanaburi.

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


Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Hobart?

Kanchanaburi has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Hobart. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Hobart, 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 Hobart?

Hobart has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kanchanaburi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hobart in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Hobart. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hobart because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Hobart in the summer. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Hobart fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hobart this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives less sunshine than Hobart during summer. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Hobartin January. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Kanchanaburi 29°C (84°F) 
    Hobart 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hobart in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Hobart. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hobart this time of year.

In the autumn, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kanchanaburi in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Hobart averages at about 14°C (57°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the autumn, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Hobartin April. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 178 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in October than Hobartin April. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Kanchanaburi 28°C (82°F) 
    Hobart 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hobart in the Winter?

Both Hobart and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Hobartin July. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Hobart during winter. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Hobartin July. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Kanchanaburi 25°C (77°F) 
    Hobart 9°C (47°F)

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hobart in the Spring?

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

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Hobart in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Hobart fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

In Hobart, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Hobartin October. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 209 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in April than Hobartin October. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Kanchanaburi 32°C (89°F) 
    Hobart 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Hobart and Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi Hobart
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 30°C (87°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 77 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 30°C (87°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (52°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 29°C (85°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 218 mm (8.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 188 mm (7.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)