A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Can Tho for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sukhothai or Can Tho?

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 Can Tho can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a vibrant, friendly, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Can Tho: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho. Although Sukhothai and Can Tho are popular destinations, Can Tho has more sights and attractions for tourists. Can Tho is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its historical sights. Can Tho is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also well known for Cai Rang Floating Market. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Can Tho?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Sukhothai or Can Tho.

Many visitors head to Sukhothai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Can Tho can be an interesting and educational experience. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.


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

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Can Tho can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Can Tho. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Is Sukhothai or Can Tho Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Both Sukhothai and Can Tho have nice 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.

Can Tho has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

Is Sukhothai or Can Tho Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Sukhothai is great for its old town. However, Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Sukhothai. 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.

Can Tho does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Can Tho is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Can Tho. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

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

Is Sukhothai or Can Tho Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Can Tho is a very family-friendly destination. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Can Tho Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Can Tho makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.


Is Sukhothai or Can Tho Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Can Tho is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Sukhothai is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Sukhothai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Sukhothai or Can Tho a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Can Tho

Can Tho is very good for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Can Tho is somewhat walkable. The city center is relatively walkable.

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 Can Tho Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Can Tho or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Can Tho 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 Can Tho.


  • How many days in Sukhothai or Can Tho? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sukhothai 2-3 
    Can Tho 1-2

One day in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

In Sukhothai, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Can Tho. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Can Tho has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

In Sukhothai, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sukhothai has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Can Tho. 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 Can Tho?

Sukhothai 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the unique city of Can Tho. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Sukhothai or Can Tho?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sukhothai. 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.

Can Tho is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Bicycle Tours in Vietnam, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Vietnam.


Which place is cheaper, Can Tho or Sukhothai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Sukhothai is $59, while the average daily cost in Can Tho is $57. 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 Can Tho in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $23
    Can Tho $27
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $46
    Can Tho $54
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Can Tho

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Can Tho? 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 Can Tho


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 Can Tho Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $17
    Can Tho $13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sukhothai

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

  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $322
  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $268
  • One -Way Private Transfer to Chiang Mai: $187
  • Sukhothai Hotel Transfer: to/from Chiang Mai Hotel Transfer: $159
  • Sukhothai : private car transfer to/from Chiang Mai: $138
  • Sukhothai airport: Transfer to Sukhothai Historical Park: $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Can Tho

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

  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport to/from Can Tho City Center: $43
  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport - Can Tho City Center: $40
  • Private Transfer from Vinh Long to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $105
  • Private Transfer from Thanh Thoi to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $106
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $112
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Can Tho (VCA) Airport: $25
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Ho Chi Minh: $112
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Can Tho City: $25
  • PRIVATE CAR: Can Tho AIRPORT <=> CanTho Hotels (one way transfer): $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Can Tho?

Prices for flights to both Can Tho 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 $19
    Can Tho $17

Typical Food Prices in Can Tho

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Can Tho:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for Two)
    $5.19
  • Coconut
    $0.28
  • Mango
    $1.08
  • Hot Pot Dinner (for Two)
    $6.95
  • Two Vietnamese Iced Coffees
    $0.64
  • Casual Lunch (for One)
    $2.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Can Tho

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

  • Boat tour on Mekong river see the sunset, small canal, Vegan dinner, street food: $29
  • Explore Can Tho City tour combine Local Food tour - in afternoon: $35
  • Can Tho food tour designed by local chef: $38
  • Street food tour back of the bike in Can Tho: $39
  • Eco Cooking Class and Market Tour: $47
  • Walking street food tour designed by local chef: $47
  • Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking: $60
  • Can Tho Cooking Class - Motorbike trip in the countryside: $69
  • 2 Days Tour in Can Tho with Boat Trip and Cooking Class : $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $33
    Can Tho $17

Tours and Activities in Sukhothai

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

  • Cycling Sukhothai Full Day Countryside Tour: $32
  • 2.5-Hours Guided Countryside Sunset Bike Tour: $18
  • Full-Day Historical Park Cycling Tour with Lunch: $42
  • Half-Day Countryside Bike Tour: $26
  • Historical Park & Countryside Cycling Tour: $42

Typical Entertainment Prices in Can Tho

For Can Tho, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Sunset Boat Ride
    $2.00
  • Half Day Floating Market Tour
    $8.39

Tours and Activities in Can Tho

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Can Tho.

  • 'Cai Rang' Floating Market 2-Day Tour With Biking & Boating: $140
  • 3-DAY CA MAU CAPE TOUR IN MEKONG DELTA FROM SAI GON: $166
  • A unique tour of the floating market includes a cacao plantation.: $48
  • An Giang Full Day tour visit Tra Su bird sanctuary From Can Tho: $155
  • Bicycle Tour Through Peaceful Villages: $40
  • Boat tour visit 3 pagodas, Ancient house, see sunset on mekong river: $59
  • CASA Authentic Bicycle Tour: $89
  • CASA Authentic Mekong Motorbike Tour: $89
  • Cai Rang Floating Market One Day Private Tour from Ho Chi Minh City: $145
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour -Amazing Can Tho : $45
  • Can Tho Sunset Tour : $35
  • Cycling in the village in Can Tho - countryside bike tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $12
    Can Tho $6.59

Typical Alcohol Prices in Can Tho

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Can Tho from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $3.20


When comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Can Tho, we can see that Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai Expensive? and Is Can Tho Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Can Tho?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Can Tho, 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 Can Tho?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Can Tho in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Can Tho. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Can Tho during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Can Tho receives 168 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sukhothai 29°C (84°F) 
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Can Tho in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Can Tho. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. Also, December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. May to November in Can Tho is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Can Tho. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in October than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Can Tho receives 158 hours of full sun.

In October, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Can Tho. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Can Tho fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Can Tho in the Winter?

Both Can Tho and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Can Tho. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Can Tho during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Can Tho receives 240 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Can Tho in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Can Tho fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Can Tho 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Can Tho in the Spring?

Both Can Tho and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. December to April is the dry season in Can Tho. May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho. Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Can Tho, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Can Tho. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Can Tho receives 235 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Can Tho. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Can Tho averages at about 29°C (84°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Can Tho 29°C (84°F)

Typical Weather for Can Tho and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Can Tho
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 27°C (80°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 29°C (84°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 29°C (84°F) 268 mm (10.6 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 332 mm (13.1 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 28°C (82°F) 313 mm (12.3 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 365 mm (14.4 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 28°C (82°F) 360 mm (14.2 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 343 mm (13.5 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)


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