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

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Rome?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Rome? 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 cultural, famous, and popular city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Rome as well. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Rome travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Rome?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Ayutthaya. Rome is bigger than Ayutthaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya is more popular for its historical sights. Ayutthaya is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Rome is well known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum.

The Colosseum

How is Ayutthaya different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome 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 Rome that are not to be missed. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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

Rome 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, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome 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.

Rome is a world class party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

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

Rome is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Rome?

Rome 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.

Rome is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome More Beautiful?

Rome 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 Rome as well. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ayutthaya or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rome is a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is notable for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for couples. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome 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.

Rome is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

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

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

Rome has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Rome on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Rome?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit Rome 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 Rome?

Ayutthaya is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Rome 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 Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Rome 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 Rome?

The popular city of Ayutthaya offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Rome is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Rome?

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

Rome 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 Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Rome. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Ayutthaya usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Ayutthaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Rome. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Rome. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rome because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ayutthaya is much warmer than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ayutthaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Ayutthaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Ayutthaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in October than Rome. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. May to October in Ayutthaya is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the winter, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ayutthaya in January average around 25°C (78°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually receives more sunshine than Rome during winter. Ayutthaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Rome. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Ayutthaya during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 31°C (88°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. In the spring, Ayutthaya often gets more sunshine than Rome. Ayutthaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Ayutthaya usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Ayutthaya. May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Typical Weather for Rome and Ayutthaya