A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Milford Sound for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

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 Milford Sound can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a cultural, under-rated, and world class city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a world renowned, remote, and iconic fiord. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include skiing and hiking.

Sukhothai and Milford Sound: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sukhothai than Milford Sound, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sukhothai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Milford Sound is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Also, Sukhothai is famous for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. Milford Sound is well known for its iconic hiking trails, stunning boat tours, and dramatic mountains.

How is Sukhothai different from Milford Sound?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound Better for Skiing?

Milford Sound is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sukhothai is not a skiing destination.

Milford Sound offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. Many locals head to the snow-capped peaks to enjoy skiing, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, a ski tour is your best option.

Sukhothai is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Sukhothai is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sukhothai is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Sukhothai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

While Milford Sound is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. You'll find a restaurant or two in the small town of Milford Sound. Your best option is the Milford Sound Lodge. In the park you'll want to come prepared with your own food. Many organized tours include a picnic lunch.

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Milford Sound is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Milford Sound is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Milford Sound 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.

Milford Sound does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound Better for Hiking?

Milford Sound is an amazing fiord to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Milford Sound specifically for its hiking. The Milford Track has long been considered one of the world's best hikes. It's also, arguably, the most famous hike in New Zealand. The 53 kilometer trek takes you from Lake Te Anau through stunning scenery, alpine settings, and across spectacular suspension bridges.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Sukhothai is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound Better for Families?

Milford Sound 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.

Milford Sound is a very family-friendly destination. The outdoor wonders will impress the kids as much as the adults. There are shorter walks that are family-friendly and the boat rides are also fun for the whole family. You can take a scenic flight or visit the stunning Mirror Lakes. This really is a playground for both kids and adults.

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 Milford Sound Better for Couples?

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

Milford Sound makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This is one of the most stunning natural areas in the world, and the romance comes from the spectacular beauty, world class hikes, and breathtaking surroundings that will leave you awed and inspired.

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 Milford Sound Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai and Milford Sound are both notable 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 Milford Sound. The area's remoteness and high price tag make it a bit challenging for backpackers and budget travelers. If you have plenty of time and enough money, it is truly a not to be missed destination.

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

Sukhothai is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Milford Sound. There are buses in the area, but private vehicles or organized tours are your best option for getting around.

Is Sukhothai or Milford Sound a more walkable city?

Sukhothai is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its 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.

Milford Sound is not a walkable city. This is one of the most remote places in New Zealand so you really must have a car or organized transportation to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Milford Sound or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Sukhothai and Milford Sound both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Milford Sound than Sukhothai 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 2-6 days is enough time in Milford Sound.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sukhothai than Milford Sound. 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 Milford Sound 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 Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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 skiing around the fiord of Milford Sound. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Milford Sound?

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 skiing around the world renowned destination of Milford Sound. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this fiord has to offer. This fiord offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated 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 skiing around the remote fiord of Milford Sound. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this fiord makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this fiord has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

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.

Milford Sound is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Milford Sound?

Sukhothai has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Milford Sound. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Milford Sound, 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.