A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Fiordland National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical, cultural, and famous city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world famous, stunning, and iconic national park. You'll find world class beauty in Fiordland National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ayutthaya. Although Ayutthaya and Fiordland National Park are both popular with visitors, Ayutthaya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ayutthaya is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. It is also home to Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Fiordland National Park is popular for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Ayutthaya different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fiordland National Park and Ayutthaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Ayutthaya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. These large and impressive ruins are among the most visited in Thailand. This is in large part because of their easy access from Bangkok. Highlights of the historical park include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the Royal Chapel, Wat Ratchaburana, and Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophi.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ayutthaya. The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ayutthaya is very good for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ayutthaya. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Fiordland National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Fiordland National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Fiordland National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ayutthaya. There are some great shopping areas around the town that specialize in local handicrafts such as pottery, wicker weaving, and stone masonry. Some of the most interesting places include the Ayutthaya Floating Market and the Ayutthaya Night Market.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park More Beautiful?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Fiordland National Park as well. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Fiordland National Park is a very family-friendly destination. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly city. Families will appreciate how easy it is to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok. The historical ruins are fun for both kids and adults, but the sites are very spread out and you'll need to hire a tuk tuk to see everything. The roads can be crowded and distances far, so biking isn't recommended with kids.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Fiordland National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fiordland National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Many backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

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

Ayutthaya is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ayutthaya. There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Fiordland National Park is a moderate national park for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable city. The historic sites are spread out over a vast area and you must have some form of transportation to reach everything. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan are the furthest apart. Everywhere else can be accessed on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Ayutthaya and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fiordland National Park than Ayutthaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the popular city of Ayutthaya. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find around the national park of Fiordland 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 Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Ayutthaya 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 breathtaking destination of Fiordland 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

Ayutthaya 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.

You'll find around the iconic national park of Fiordland National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park 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 national park has to offer.

A week in Ayutthaya or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ayutthaya. 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.

Fiordland 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 Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ayutthaya Expensive? and Is Fiordland National Park Expensive?.