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

Should you visit Sukhothai or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle 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.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a coastal, vibrant, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Newcastle: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Newcastle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newcastle than Sukhothai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newcastle is better known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Sukhothai is more popular for its historical sights. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Newcastle is well known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. Also, Newcastle is famous for the Bathers Way.

How is Sukhothai different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Sukhothai or Newcastle.

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 Newcastle can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.


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

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Newcastle can be difficult as they are each great 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 Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Newcastle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

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

Newcastle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.


Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Newcastle does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Newcastle. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Newcastle?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Sukhothai and Newcastle.

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.

Newcastle is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.


Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Newcastle.

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 Newcastle. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Both Sukhothai and Newcastle are notable 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.

Newcastle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Sukhothai and Newcastle 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 Newcastle. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.


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

Sukhothai
Newcastle

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Sukhothai and Newcastle.

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

You'll find some public transit in Newcastle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Sukhothai or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Newcastle

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

Newcastle is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that can be explored 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 Newcastle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Sukhothai or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Newcastle 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 Newcastle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle 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 Newcastle.


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

One day in Sukhothai or Newcastle?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the trendy destination of Newcastle. 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 Newcastle?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Sukhothai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal city of Newcastle. 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 Newcastle?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Newcastle 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Newcastle 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 Newcastle is $91. 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 Newcastle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $23
    Newcastle $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $46
    Newcastle $88
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Newcastle

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Newcastle? 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 Newcastle


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 Newcastle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $17
    Newcastle $8.34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sukhothai

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Newcastle:

  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle city hotels: $28
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL): $29
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney City Hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle City Hotels to Newcastle Port: $28
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle Port: $29
  • Private Transfer - Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney Airport (SYD): $88
  • Tandem Beach Skydive with Optional Transfers: $248
  • Bimbadgen Lunch Tour with Helicopter Transfers: $751
  • Newcastle to Newcastle Airport (NTL) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle - Arrival Private Transfer: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Newcastle?

Prices for flights to both Newcastle 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
    Newcastle $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $33
    Newcastle $15

Tours and Activities in Sukhothai

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

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

Tours and Activities in Newcastle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Newcastle are as follows:

  • 3- Hour Wine and Harvest the Hunter Horse Tour in Pokolbin: $92
  • 3-Hour Hunter Valley Scenic Helicopter Tour Including 3-Course Lunch from Cessnock: $254
  • Architecture, Street Art & Hidden Secrets Walking Tour of Newcastle: $33
  • Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard - Sweet Indulgence Experience: $37
  • Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard: Fromage and Fortified Wine Experience: $50
  • Award Winning Full Day Wine and Food Experience: $150
  • Eat And Drink Newcastle History Walking Tour: $60
  • Family Pass: Fighter World Museum Admission Ticket: $30
  • From Hunter Valley Beer & Wine Group Tour: $163
  • Full Day Tour in Country Towns, Rivers and Aussie Farm: $159
  • Helicopter Tour of Hunter Valley in New South Wales with Lunch: $281
  • Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $12
    Newcastle $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle:

  • Cael’s Gate Wine Tasting in Broke: $5.32
  • Boutique Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $6.60
  • Ivanhoe Wines: Trip Advisor Seated Wine Tasting Masterclass: $9.91
  • Tulloch Wines - Wine Tasting paired with Local Handmade Chocolates: $20
  • 30-Minute Distillery Guided Tour in Carrington : $23
  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $26
  • Tintilla Estate: Wine Tasting with a Meat and Cheese Platter: $26
  • Tulloch Wines Hunter Heroes Wine Tasting with Local Cheese & Charcuterie Board: $33
  • Tulloch Wines- Mystery Wine Tasting Experience with Local Cheese and Charcuterie: $33
  • Premium Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $50
  • Snapshot Half Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour: $72
  • Hunter Valley Wine Tour from the Hunter with Wine Craft Beer Cheese Chocolate: $102


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


Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Newcastle, 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 Newcastle?

Newcastle 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 Newcastle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Newcastle. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein January. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. In the summer, Sukhothai often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein January. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in July than Newcastlein January. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Newcastle in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle 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 hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle this time of year.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Newcastle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle during autumn. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In October, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Newcastlein April. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Newcastle 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Newcastle in the Winter?

Both Newcastle 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, many travelers come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Sukhothai is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Newcastle averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the winter, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Newcastlein July. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun.

Sukhothai usually gets less rain in January than Newcastlein July. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Newcastle 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Newcastle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newcastle in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Newcastlein October. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. In Sukhothai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle during spring. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Newcastlein October. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Newcastle 18°C (64°F)

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Newcastle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (71°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)


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