A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Kanchanaburi vs. Pattaya for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

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 Pattaya. 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.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kanchanaburi and Pattaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

You'll generally find more things to do in Pattaya than Kanchanaburi. Pattaya is bigger than Kanchanaburi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Pattaya is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Kanchanaburi is more popular for its museums & sights. Pattaya is more touristy than Kanchanaburi and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Also, Pattaya is famous for the Sanctuary of Truth. Kanchanaburi is well known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Pattaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kanchanaburi is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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

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

Pattaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an amazing resort city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Pattaya has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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 Pattaya Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Pattaya to choose from. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Pattaya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Pattaya Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a very popular place for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

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

Pattaya is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

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 Pattaya Better for Families?

Pattaya 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, Pattaya is very family-friendly. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

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 Pattaya Better for Couples?

Kanchanaburi and Pattaya both notable destinations for a couple.

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

Pattaya is a good town for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Kanchanaburi or Pattaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Pattaya 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 Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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

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

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 Pattaya, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Is Kanchanaburi or Pattaya a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known 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.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Pattaya or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

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

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

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

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

One day in Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

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 Pattaya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this active resort city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Pattaya?

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.

Pattaya 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. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

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 colorful destination of Pattaya. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Pattaya?

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.

Pattaya is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 10-Day Tours in Thailand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Pattaya, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Pattaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pattaya 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 Pattaya Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Pattaya?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Pattaya, 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 Pattaya?

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 Kanchanaburi or Pattaya in the Summer?

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

Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya during summer. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Pattaya receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Pattaya in the Autumn?

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

Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Pattaya. Kanchanaburi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in October than Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the autumn, Kanchanaburi often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pattaya receives 206 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Pattaya in the Winter?

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

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya during winter. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Pattaya receives 276 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kanchanaburi is generally around the same temperature as Pattaya. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Pattaya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Pattaya in the Spring?

Both Pattaya 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round.

November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in April than Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Pattaya receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pattaya. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pattaya receives 262 hours of full sun.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Pattaya in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Pattaya fluctuates around 30°C (86°F).

Typical Weather for Pattaya and Kanchanaburi