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

Should you visit Pattaya or Nara?

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 Nara 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 colorful, active, and vibrant resort city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nara

Nara is a historic, cultural, and traditional city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pattaya and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Nara?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pattaya than Nara. While Nara is larger than Pattaya, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nara is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Nara 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. Nara is well known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Pattaya different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nara is a great city 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 Nara. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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 Nara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pattaya is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pattaya. 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.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Pattaya is a world class party destination. 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.

Nara has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is notable for its resorts. However, Nara is not a resort destination.

Pattaya is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Nara is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Pattaya has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is notable for the beache. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a city 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 Nara. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Hiking?

Nara is a great city for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nara for the hiking trails. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Nara?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pattaya and Nara both offer plenty of excellent 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 Nara. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Nara are excellent to visit with kids.

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.

Nara is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Pattaya or Nara Better for Couples?

Nara is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Nara is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Pattaya is a good resort city 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 Pattaya or Nara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Nara 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 Nara. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

Nara 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 Nara can get you around easily. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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 Nara a more walkable city?

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

Nara is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring 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 Nara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nara or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Nara?

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

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

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

One day in Pattaya or Nara?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Nara, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Pattaya or Nara?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Nara, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nara has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Nara?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant destination of Pattaya. This resort city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nara is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nara?

The high energy resort city of Pattaya offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Nara. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nara. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Nara?

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

Nara 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 Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Pattaya during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nara in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Pattaya is around the same temperature as Nara in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Nara fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In the summer, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nara. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Nara. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nara in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Nara. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Nara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Nara averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Nara during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nara receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Nara. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nara in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Nara. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Nara because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nara can be very cold. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Nara. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Nara. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun.

Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Nara. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nara in the Spring?

Both Nara and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

Pattaya is much warmer than Nara in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Nara fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Nara during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Nara. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October.

Typical Weather for Nara and Pattaya