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

Should you visit Pattaya or Osaka?

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 Osaka 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 active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Pattaya travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a cultural, high energy, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Osaka travel costs.

Pattaya and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Osaka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Pattaya, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Pattaya is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Pattaya is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle.

How is Pattaya different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka 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 Osaka are world-renowned. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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 Osaka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Osaka have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

Dining out in Pattaya is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both Pattaya and Osaka.

Pattaya is a must-see 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.

Osaka is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Pattaya is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Pattaya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Pattaya. 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.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great city for its old town. However, Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Osaka?

Osaka is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Osaka draws large crowds to its stores. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Pattaya. 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.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Osaka are high quality 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.

Osaka is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Couples?

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

Osaka is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

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 Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. 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.

Is Pattaya or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Pattaya is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

Pattaya is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is terrific 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 thorough and effecient public transit system of Osaka can take you anywhere. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

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 Osaka a more walkable city?

Osaka is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Osaka is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore 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 Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Osaka?

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

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

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

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

One day in Pattaya or Osaka?

In Pattaya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this high energy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Osaka has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Osaka?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Pattaya. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Osaka is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Osaka?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Osaka, 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 Osaka?

Osaka 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 Osaka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pattaya is around the same temperature as Osaka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pattaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Osaka averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Pattaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Osaka during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Osaka. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Osaka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Osaka. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In October, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Pattaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Osaka. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 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.

Should I visit Pattaya or Osaka in the Winter?

Both Osaka and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pattaya is much warmer than Osaka in the winter. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Osaka fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Osaka. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Osaka in the Spring?

Both Osaka and Pattaya during the spring 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 Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Pattaya is much warmer than Osaka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pattaya in April average around 30°C (86°F), and Osaka averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the spring, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Osaka. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 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.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Pattaya