A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Pattaya or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto 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 vibrant, high energy, and colorful resort city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Pattaya travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kyoto travel costs.

Pattaya and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Kyoto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kyoto than Pattaya. Kyoto is bigger than Pattaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kyoto is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pattaya is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Pattaya is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji.

How is Pattaya different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Kyoto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Kyoto.

Pattaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Kyoto is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Pattaya is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a great destination for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

In Pattaya, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a great destination for the beach. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Pattaya attract visitors from all over. 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is terrific for its old town. However, Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Kyoto?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pattaya and Kyoto both offer plenty of great spots.

Pattaya is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Kyoto are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. 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.

Kyoto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Pattaya is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Pattaya is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its public transit.

The public transit in Kyoto can get you around easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Pattaya has a few 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.

Is Pattaya or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pattaya and Kyoto. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kyoto than Pattaya. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Pattaya 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 Kyoto.

One day in Pattaya or Kyoto?

In Pattaya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this colorful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Kyoto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

In Kyoto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kyoto has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Kyoto?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Pattaya. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Kyoto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Kyoto, 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 Pattaya or Kyoto?

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

Should I visit Pattaya or Kyoto in the Summer?

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

Pattaya is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the summer, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Kyoto. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Kyoto in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Kyoto averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Pattaya. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October.

Should I visit Pattaya or Kyoto in the Winter?

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

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun.

Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Kyoto. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Kyoto in the Spring?

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

Pattaya is much warmer than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Pattaya