A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Sukhothai vs. Hat Yai for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a historical, cultural, and under-rated city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a cultural, lively, and festive 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 Hat Yai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hat Yai than Sukhothai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hat Yai is better known for its food and big city activities, while Sukhothai is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Sukhothai is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples. Also, Hat Yai is famous for Wat Hat Yai Nai.

How is Sukhothai different from Hat Yai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

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

Hat Yai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hat Yai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai Better for Nightlife?

Both Sukhothai and Hat Yai have notable 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.

Hat Yai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

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

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.

Hat Yai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai Better for Families?

Sukhothai is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Sukhothai is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai Better for Couples?

Sukhothai is a city with good options for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

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

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sukhothai is a good city to visit for backpackers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Sukhothai is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city 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 mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Sukhothai or Hat Yai a more walkable city?

Sukhothai and Hat Yai are respectable 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.

Hat Yai is generally not very walkable. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Hat Yai or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sukhothai and Hat Yai. In our opinion, Sukhothai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sukhothai than Hat Yai. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hat Yai.

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

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

One day in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hat Yai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

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 colorful destination of Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai?

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 cultural city of Hat Yai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

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.

Hat Yai 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 2-Week Tours in Thailand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Hat Yai, we can see that Sukhothai is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Sukhothai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sukhothai than you might in Hat Yai.

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Hat Yai?

Hat Yai has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Hat Yai, 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 Hat Yai?

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 Sukhothai or Hat Yai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Hat Yai. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year.

It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in July than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. In the summer, Sukhothai often gets less sunshine than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 206 hours of full sun.

In July, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hat Yai in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Sukhothai is October to April. The rainy season in Sukhothai is May to October. The rainy season in Hat Yai is May to December. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In October, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Hat Yai during autumn. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 182 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Hat Yai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Hat Yai fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hat Yai in the Winter?

Both Hat Yai 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round.

January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai. Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in January than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the winter, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 221 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Hat Yai averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hat Yai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Hat Yai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. Also, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai. In April, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Hat Yai. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In Sukhothai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hat Yai during spring. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 30°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Hat Yai and Sukhothai