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

Should you visit Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Fiordland National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pattaya travel costs.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking, world famous, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Fiordland National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Pattaya and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pattaya. Although Pattaya and Fiordland National Park are popular destinations, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Fiordland National Park is famous for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Pattaya 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 Pattaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Pattaya is very good for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Pattaya is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Pattaya 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 Pattaya. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Pattaya just to party. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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 Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pattaya. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park More Beautiful?

Fiordland National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Fiordland National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. 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.

Pattaya is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Is Pattaya or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Fiordland National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

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

Fiordland National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Fiordland National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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

Pattaya is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Pattaya has some public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

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 Pattaya or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Pattaya and Fiordland National Park are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Pattaya is generally not a very walkable resort city. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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.

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

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

How long in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

Pattaya 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 Pattaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Pattaya than Fiordland National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pattaya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pattaya than Fiordland National Park 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 Pattaya.

One day in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active resort city of Pattaya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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.

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

Pattaya is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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.

Fiordland National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fiordland National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Fiordland National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, 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 Pattaya and Fiordland National Park, we can see that Fiordland National Park is more expensive. And not only is Pattaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Pattaya 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 Pattaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pattaya 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 Pattaya.

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