A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Fraser Island for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

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 Fraser Island can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a historical, cultural, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a stunning, serene, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Sukhothai and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sukhothai. Although Sukhothai and Fraser Island are popular destinations, Sukhothai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sukhothai is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Fraser Island attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. It is also well known for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. Fraser Island is famous for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

How is Sukhothai different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.

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

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Fraser Island doesn't offer many options. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fraser Island is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Fraser Island is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fraser Island is a very popular vacation destination. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its old town. However, Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

Fraser Island is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Fraser Island 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.

Fraser Island is a very family-friendly destination. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

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 Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Fraser Island is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Fraser Island has plenty to offer. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

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 Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Fraser Island is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

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 Fraser Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sukhothai is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for times when you don't have a car.

Sukhothai has a few public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Is Sukhothai or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Sukhothai and Fraser Island are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Sukhothai is generally not a very walkable city. 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.

Fraser Island is generally not very walkable. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

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

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

In either Sukhothai or Fraser Island, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fraser Island than Sukhothai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fraser Island.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island.

One day in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find around the island of Fraser Island. 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 Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Fraser Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world class destination of Sukhothai. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

You'll find around the stunning island of Fraser Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Sukhothai. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Fraser Island 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.

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

When is the best time to visit Sukhothai or Fraser Island?

Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Fraser Island. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Fraser Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sukhothai in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 26°C (78°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Fraser Island. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in July than Fraser Islandin January. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

Both Fraser Island and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Fraser Island because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Fraser Islandin April. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In October, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin April. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Sukhothai is October to April. The rainy season in Sukhothai is May to October.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Fraser Island in the Winter?

Both Fraser Island and Sukhothai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Fraser Island this time of year.

Sukhothai is much warmer than Fraser Island in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

Sukhothai usually gets less rain in January than Fraser Islandin July. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Fraser Island in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Fraser Island. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fraser Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Fraser Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 21°C (71°F)in October.

In April, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Fraser Islandin October. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Sukhothai