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

Should you visit Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

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 Nha Trang 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. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a high energy, coastal, and resort-filled city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nha Trang travel costs.

Sukhothai and Nha Trang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nha Trang. Although Sukhothai and Nha Trang are popular destinations, Nha Trang has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nha Trang is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. Nha Trang is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts. It is also well known for Long Son Pagoda. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Nha Trang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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 for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

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

Sukhothai is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sukhothai has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang Better for Nightlife?

Nha Trang is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nha Trang has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

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 Nha Trang Better for Resorts?

Nha Trang is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Nha Trang has a handful of resorts to choose from. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang Better for Beaches?

Nha Trang is very good for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Nha Trang to enjoy the beach. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a great city for its old town. However, Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

Sukhothai is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Sukhothai is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Nha Trang to go shopping. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang Better for Families?

Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang is a very family-friendly destination. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

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 Nha Trang Better for Couples?

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

Nha Trang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

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 Nha Trang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Nha Trang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

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 Nha Trang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Sukhothai and Nha Trang.

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

You'll find some public transit in Nha Trang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Is Sukhothai or Nha Trang a more walkable city?

Nha Trang is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Nha Trang is very walkable. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

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 Nha Trang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nha Trang or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sukhothai and Nha Trang. In our opinion, Nha Trang has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nha Trang than Sukhothai. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang.

One day in Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

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 Nha Trang. 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 Nha Trang?

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 high energy destination of Nha Trang. 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 Nha Trang?

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

A week in Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

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.

Nha Trang 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 Coach Bus Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Nha Trang, we can see that Sukhothai is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang.

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Nha Trang?

Nha Trang has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Nha Trang, 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 Nha Trang?

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 Nha Trang in the Summer?

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

January to August in Nha Trang is the dry season. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Nha Trang. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nha Trang in the Autumn?

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

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. September to December in Nha Trang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Nha Trang. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in October than Nha Trang. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Nha Trang. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Nha Trang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nha Trang in the Winter?

Both Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Nha Trang is January to August. In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Nha Trang. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Nha Trang in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Nha Trang fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nha Trang in the Spring?

Both Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in April than Nha Trang. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Nha Trang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Nha Trang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Typical Weather for Nha Trang and Sukhothai