A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Paris?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Paris? 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 famous, popular, and historical city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Paris as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Paris travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Ayutthaya, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya is known for its historical sights. Ayutthaya is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Paris is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Ayutthaya different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Ayutthaya is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Ayutthaya is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ayutthaya or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Ayutthaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Paris?

Paris is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Ayutthaya is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris More Beautiful?

Paris 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 Paris as well. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Paris 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.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

Paris is a must-visit destination for students. However, Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

Paris is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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.

Is Ayutthaya or Paris a more walkable city?

Paris is notable for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Paris?

Both Ayutthaya and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Ayutthaya. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Ayutthaya 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 Paris.

One day in Ayutthaya or Paris?

In Ayutthaya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this popular destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ayutthaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Paris?

Ayutthaya is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Ayutthaya or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Paris, 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 Ayutthaya or Paris?

Paris has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ayutthaya experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Paris. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. In the summer, Ayutthaya often gets less sunshine than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ayutthaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Ayutthaya during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 25°C (78°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the winter, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Paris. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

It's very hot in Ayutthaya this time of the year. Ayutthaya is much warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Paris during spring. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Paris. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Typical Weather for Paris and Ayutthaya