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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Kanchanaburi and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wollongong than Kanchanaburi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Wollongong and is known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Wollongong is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Wollongong offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

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

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

Wollongong has a huge number of terrific restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

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 Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Wollongong for it's beautiful beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Wollongong is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Wollongong offers some nice hiking trails. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Kanchanaburi and Wollongong.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kanchanaburi. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Many visitors go to Wollongong to go shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Kanchanaburi or Wollongong Better for Families?

Wollongong 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, Wollongong is very family-friendly. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

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 Wollongong Better for Couples?

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

Wollongong makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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 Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Wollongong are both good 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 Wollongong. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Kanchanaburi or Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Wollongong is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Wollongong can get you around easily. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Kanchanaburi or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

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

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

One day in Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the somber town of Kanchanaburi, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Wollongong, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this student-friendly coastal 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 Wollongong?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kanchanaburi, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Wollongong is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Wollongong?

Kanchanaburi, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the trendy destination of Wollongong. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Wollongong?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wollongong 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong 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 Wollongong 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 Wollongong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wollongong 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 Wollongong Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Wollongong. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, many travelers come to Wollongong for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kanchanaburi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Wollongong averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during summer. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wollongongin January. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Wollongong in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Wollongong. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Wollongongin April. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 28°C (82°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

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 Wollongongin April. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in October than Wollongongin April. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 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.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Wollongong in the Winter?

Both Wollongong 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, most visitors come to Wollongong for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Wollongong in the winter. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Wollongongin July. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Wollongong in the Spring?

Both Wollongong 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. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

The heat can be very extreme in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kanchanaburi in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Wollongong averages at about 17°C (63°F)in October.

In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Wollongongin October. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Wollongongin October. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Kanchanaburi