A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Pattaya or Hiroshima?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Hiroshima can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a high energy, colorful, and active resort city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pattaya travel costs.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Pattaya and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pattaya than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Pattaya, Pattaya has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Pattaya is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Pattaya different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Hiroshima are world-renowned. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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 Pattaya or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Hiroshima.

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.

Dining out in Hiroshima is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Pattaya is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its luxury resorts. However, Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

In Pattaya, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Pattaya attract visitors from all over. 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.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pattaya and Hiroshima both offer plenty of great spots.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hiroshima. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Pattaya is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Hiroshima are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pattaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Hiroshima is a good resort city for couples to visit. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Pattaya or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Hiroshima are nice places to visit.

Pattaya is a good resort city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

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

Hiroshima is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its public transit.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Pattaya has a few public transit options. 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 Pattaya or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great city for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

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 Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

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

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

One day in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the resort city of Pattaya. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Hiroshima, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the colorful destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort city has to offer. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the high energy resort city of Pattaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hiroshima 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.

A week in Pattaya or Hiroshima?

Pattaya is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Hiroshima, 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 Pattaya or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Pattaya or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In July, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Pattaya usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima and Pattaya during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

Pattaya is much warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Pattaya is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pattaya in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Hiroshima. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 30°C (86°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the spring, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Pattaya