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

Should you visit Pattaya or Matsue?

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 Matsue 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 vibrant, high energy, and colorful resort city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Matsue

Matsue is a quiet, peaceful, and pretty town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Pattaya and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Matsue?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pattaya than Matsue. While Matsue is larger than Pattaya, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Matsue is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Matsue and is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Also, Pattaya is famous for the Sanctuary of Truth. Matsue is well known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere.

How is Pattaya different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Matsue 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 Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

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 Matsue? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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 Matsue is an experience not to be missed. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

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.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a great destination for its resorts. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a great destination for the beache. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a town with good options for its old town. However, Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Matsue. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Matsue?

Pattaya is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Pattaya is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Matsue has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Families?

Pattaya is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Pattaya is a very kid-friendly resort city. 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.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Matsue are notable 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.

Matsue is a good resort city for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Pattaya or Matsue Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Matsue are notable 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 Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

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

Matsue is a great town 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 Matsue can get you around easily. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

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 Matsue a more walkable city?

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

Matsue is a very walkable town. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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 Matsue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Matsue?

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

Families should spend more time in Pattaya than Matsue. 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 Matsue. 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 Matsue?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Pattaya. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Matsue, you'll find museums 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.

A weekend in Pattaya or Matsue?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Matsue, 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 Matsue has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Matsue?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Matsue 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 Matsue?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful destination of Pattaya. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Matsue. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Matsue. 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Pattaya and Matsue, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Matsue?

Matsue has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Matsue, 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 Matsue?

Matsue 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 Matsue in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Matsue. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Matsue in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Matsue fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Matsue. In the summer, Pattaya often gets less sunshine than Matsue. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Matsue. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Matsue in the Autumn?

Both Matsue and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Matsue for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Matsue. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Matsue averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Pattaya. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Matsue. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October.

Should I visit Pattaya or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue and Pattaya during the winter 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 visitors come to Matsue in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Matsue can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Matsue. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Matsue in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Matsue. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, most visitors come to Matsue for the natural beauty during these months.

Pattaya is much warmer than Matsue in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Matsue fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Matsue. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Pattaya