A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Shiretoko National Park for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

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 Shiretoko National Park 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.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Sukhothai and Shiretoko National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sukhothai than Shiretoko National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sukhothai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Shiretoko National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sukhothai is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is popular 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. Shiretoko National Park is well known for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Sukhothai different from Shiretoko National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Sukhothai is an experience not to be missed. 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 Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

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

Many visitors go to Sukhothai to see the historical old town. 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.

Shiretoko National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park Better for Hiking?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is an amazing remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Shiretoko National Park specifically for its hiking. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park.

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 Shiretoko National Park. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

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

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

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 Shiretoko National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

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

Shiretoko National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

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 Shiretoko National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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 Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.


Is Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Shiretoko National Park

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

Shiretoko National Park is somewhat walkable. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

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 Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shiretoko National Park or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Shiretoko National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 3-4 days is enough time in Shiretoko National Park.

Families should spend more time in Sukhothai than Shiretoko National Park. 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.


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

One day in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural city of Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the remote,natural,scenic,pristine of Shiretoko National Park. 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find around the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. 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 remote,natural,scenic,pristine offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine of Shiretoko National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Shiretoko National Park 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park is $74. 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 Shiretoko National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $23
    Shiretoko National Park $33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $46
    Shiretoko National Park $66
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Shiretoko National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park? 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 Shiretoko National Park


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 Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $17
    Shiretoko National Park $26

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shiretoko National Park 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
    Shiretoko National Park $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $33
    Shiretoko National Park $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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $12
    Shiretoko National Park $10


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Shiretoko National Park, we can see that Shiretoko National Park is more expensive. And not only is Sukhothai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Shiretoko National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park?

Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Shiretoko National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Shiretoko National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the summer, Sukhothai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shiretoko National Park receives 178 hours of full sun.

Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in July than Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sukhothai 29°C (84°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park in the Autumn?

Both Shiretoko National Park 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, many visitors come to Shiretoko National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Sukhothai is much warmer than Shiretoko National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Shiretoko National Park fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Shiretoko National Park during autumn. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Shiretoko National Park receives 158 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In October, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 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
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park in the Winter?

Both Shiretoko National Park 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.

Shiretoko National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Sukhothai is much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Shiretoko National Park averages at about -6°C (20°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the winter, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shiretoko National Park receives 108 hours of full sun.

Sukhothai usually gets less rain in January than Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Shiretoko National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Shiretoko National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Shiretoko National Park because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Shiretoko National Park can be very cold. Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Shiretoko National Park fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In Sukhothai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Shiretoko National Park during spring. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Shiretoko National Park receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shiretoko National Park. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 50 mm (2 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
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Shiretoko National Park and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Shiretoko National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in)


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