A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Tarutao vs. Ayutthaya for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

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 Koh Tarutao and Ayutthaya. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a secluded, remote, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical, cultural, and famous city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Tarutao and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ayutthaya than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ayutthaya is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular 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. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Ayutthaya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

Ayutthaya is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tarutao. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

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.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Koh Tarutao is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Ayutthaya are notable family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ayutthaya. 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 Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao is notable for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Koh Tarutao is a very popular place to visit for couples. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Koh Tarutao and Ayutthaya.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Public transit is generally 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 Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao is a moderate island for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable island. 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 Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ayutthaya than Koh Tarutao 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 Ayutthaya.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

You'll find around the island of Koh Tarutao. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

You'll find around the remote destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the famous destination of Ayutthaya. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Koh Tarutao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The famous city of Ayutthaya offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

Koh Tarutao is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ayutthaya. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, and The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Ayutthaya, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Ayutthaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ayutthaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ayutthaya 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao than you might in Ayutthaya.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya?

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 Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year.

It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya in the Autumn?

Both Ayutthaya and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya in the Winter?

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

Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in January than Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Ayutthaya in the Spring?

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

November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Ayutthaya and Koh Tarutao