A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Adelaide for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Sukhothai or Adelaide?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Adelaide can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a cultural, under-rated, and world class city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a welcoming, friendly, and under-rated city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Adelaide travel costs.

Sukhothai and Adelaide: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Adelaide. Although Sukhothai and Adelaide are both popular with visitors, Adelaide has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Adelaide is more popular for its beaches and hiking, while Sukhothai is known for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Sukhothai is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Adelaide is popular for its wine scene, vibrant festivals, green spaces, and local sporting events. It is also home to the Adelaide Botanic Garden.

How is Sukhothai different from Adelaide?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sukhothai. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

Adelaide offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting buildings along North Terrace such as the Parliament House, the State Library of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum. At the Botanic Garden there's the Santos Museum of Economic Botany. Also make sure you check out the Art Gallery of South Australia.


Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Adelaide? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Adelaide. There's great wine, local restaurants, and charming cafes. You'll find local dishes as well as international flavors around town. The local produce is good and the restaurants offer fresh and delicious recipes.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Both Sukhothai and Adelaide have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sukhothai. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Adelaide has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is filled with rooftop bars, live music venues, and boutique wine bars. Whether you're looking for trendy and luxury or casual and laid back, there are many places to spend a night out.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Beaches?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Adelaide is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Part of what makes the city's beaches so great is how accessible they are. You don't have to go far to be at some of the area's best beaches. Glenelg is a family-friendly beach near town. It's also the most popular and most accessible. Brighton is relaxed with cafes and small restaurants nearby. And for seafood, head to Henley.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.


Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Adelaide does not have a historic old town.

Sukhothai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Adelaide does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Hiking?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Adelaide is very good for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Adelaide. Outside of town there are national parks and reserves with hiking trails. You don't have to go far to explore the coastline or bushland in the area.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Sukhothai and Adelaide.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sukhothai. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Adelaide is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Rundle Mall is the most well known shopping area in town. You'll find boutique shops as well as large department stores. Whether you're looking for international fashion brands or something more local, there are many places to explore.


Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Adelaide.

Sukhothai is a family-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Adelaide. There are kids museums, water parks, playgrounds, and beaches that are fun to explore with children. The city has a family-friendly vibe with kid-friendly restaurants and a welcoming personality.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Both Sukhothai and Adelaide are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Sukhothai is a nice destination for couples. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Adelaide makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A great date activity is a night at the opera. There are also boat rides, hot air balloon rides, and nice restaurants that make for a fun evening out.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Sukhothai and Adelaide are both good destinations for backpackers.

Sukhothai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

It's common for backpackers to visit Adelaide. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but those who venture here will enjoy a great wine scene, beautiful beaches, and lively festivals.


Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Students?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Adelaide is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Sukhothai is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Adelaide. It's a friendly and affordable city that has a nice student culture. It's very livable and accessible to other interesting places.

Sukhothai is not popular with students.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Adelaide can move around easily with public transportation. There are bus, trains, and trams throughout the city center.

You'll find some public transit in Sukhothai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Is Sukhothai or Adelaide a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Adelaide

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Adelaide is very walkable. The city is compact and laid out in a grid pattern, so it's easy to explore on foot.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Adelaide Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adelaide or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adelaide than Sukhothai 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 Adelaide.


  • How many days in Sukhothai or Adelaide? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sukhothai 2-3 
    Adelaide 2-4

One day in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

The city of Sukhothai offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Adelaide. 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.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Sukhothai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sukhothai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the welcoming destination of Adelaide. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the elegant city of Adelaide. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Adelaide is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Adelaide or Sukhothai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Sukhothai is $82, while the average daily cost in Adelaide is $133. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sukhothai and Adelaide in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $26
    Adelaide $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $52
    Adelaide $130
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Adelaide

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Adelaide? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sukhothai


Hotels in Adelaide


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sukhothai Hotel Prices and Adelaide Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $19
    Adelaide $18

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Adelaide

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Adelaide are as follows:


  • Shuttle from the Train Station
    $3.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Adelaide

Also for Adelaide, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport & Houseboat Transfers Adelaide Bus: $298
  • ADL Airport to City Centre | Port Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Prices for flights to both Adelaide and Sukhothai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sukhothai $36
    Adelaide $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Adelaide

For Adelaide, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • HandleBar Bike Tour with Pub Stops & Dinner Option: $30
  • Local Food Tour and Tastings with Guide: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $38
    Adelaide $14

Tours and Activities in Adelaide

For Adelaide, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Barossa Tour from 4 Tastings & Lunch Included": $109
  • 90 Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise: $59
  • Adelaide Central Market Tour with Lunch: $122
  • Adelaide Central Markets: Food Walking Tour: $46
  • Adelaide City Highlights Full-Day Tour: $152
  • Adelaide City Highlights Tour: $58
  • Adelaide City Highlights via Hahndorf Half-Day Tour: $107
  • Adelaide City Highlights- Hahndorf and Mt. Lofty Half-Day Tour: $87
  • Adelaide City and First Nations Cultural tour: $99
  • Adelaide City and Hahndorf Full Day Tour: $127
  • Adelaide Cruise Ship Tours: $208
  • Adelaide Cruise Ship Tours to Hahndorf & Hills Wildlife Wonders: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $14
    Adelaide $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Adelaide

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Adelaide:

  • Half-day McLaren Vale & Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour: $59
  • McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting and Sightseeing (Half-day Afternoon): $60
  • Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting: $89
  • Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour: $91
  • Adelaide Food Odyssey: Food Walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $105
  • Barossa Day Out: Wines, Brewery, Chocolate & Lunch: $105
  • Discover Barossa: 4 Wine Tastings, Gourmet Lunch, and Hidden Gems: $111
  • Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch: $118
  • From Barossa Valley Food and Wine Tour: $118
  • From Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour: $118
  • Barossa Premium Wine Tasting Tour & lunch Departs 7 days a week : $120
  • Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting & Maggie Beers Farm Join Us: $120


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Adelaide, we can see that Adelaide is more expensive. And not only is Sukhothai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sukhothai is in Asia and Adelaide is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sukhothai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sukhothai 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 Adelaide would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Adelaide than you might in Sukhothai.

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


Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Adelaide?

Adelaide has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Adelaide, 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 Sukhothai or Adelaide?

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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Adelaide in the Summer?

Both Adelaide and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Adelaide in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Adelaide in the summer. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Adelaide fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Adelaide. Sukhothai usually receives less sunshine than Adelaide during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Adelaide receives 330 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Adelaidein January. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Sukhothai 29°C (84°F) 
    Adelaide 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Adelaide in the Autumn?

Both Adelaide and Sukhothai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Adelaide for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Sukhothai is much warmer than Adelaide. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sukhothai in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Adelaide averages at about 18°C (64°F)in April.

In Adelaide, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Adelaidein April. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adelaide receives 215 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Adelaidein April. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Adelaide 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Adelaide in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Adelaide. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Adelaide because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Adelaidein July. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 25°C (77°F), and Adelaide fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Sukhothai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Adelaide during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Adelaide receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Adelaidein July. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Adelaide 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Adelaide in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Adelaide. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches are the main draw to Adelaide this time of year.

It's very hot in Sukhothai this time of the year. Sukhothai is much warmer than Adelaide in the spring. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Adelaide fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Adelaide. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Adelaidein October. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adelaide receives 256 hours of full sun.

Sukhothai usually gets more rain in April than Adelaidein October. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Adelaide 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Adelaide and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Adelaide
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 25 mm (1 in)