A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Similan Islands vs. Ayutthaya for Couples, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Ayutthaya 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a remote, spectacular, and idyllic island chain. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical, cultural, and famous city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Similan Islands and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ayutthaya. Although Similan Islands and Ayutthaya are popular destinations, Ayutthaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ayutthaya is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Similan Islands attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. It is also well known for Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Similan Islands is famous for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ayutthaya has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

Ayutthaya is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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 Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Similan Islands a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Similan Islands is a good destination for hiking. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ayutthaya is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Ayutthaya are nice to visit with kids.

Similan Islands is a family-friendly island chain. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

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 Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Similan Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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 Similan Islands or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Similan Islands and Ayutthaya.

Public transit is mostly limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

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 Similan Islands or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

Similan Islands is a popular place for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Similan Islands is somewhat walkable. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable island chain. 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 Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Similan Islands than Ayutthaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ayutthaya.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ayutthaya than Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island chain of Similan Islands. 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.

The famous destination of Ayutthaya offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Ayutthaya offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic island chain of Similan Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island chain makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island chain has to offer.

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Ayutthaya?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Similan Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chiang Mai, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Bangkok.

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

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Ayutthaya in the Summer?

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

June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 176 hours of full sun.

In July, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Ayutthaya in the Autumn?

Both Ayutthaya and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands is October to May. 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 Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Ayutthaya during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Ayutthaya in the Winter?

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

Similan Islands usually gets more rain in January than Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 276 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Ayutthaya in the Spring?

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

October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ayutthaya during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In April, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Ayutthaya and Similan Islands