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

Should you visit Pattaya or Nagano?

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 Nagano 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 high energy, colorful, and active resort city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Pattaya travel costs.

Nagano

Nagano is a traditional, alpine, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Nagano is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Nagano travel costs.

Pattaya and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Nagano?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nagano than Pattaya. Nagano is bigger than Pattaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nagano is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pattaya is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Pattaya is more touristy than Nagano and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Also, Nagano is famous for Zenko-ji Temple.

How is Pattaya different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a great city for skiing. However, Pattaya is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Nagano. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Pattaya is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Nagano?

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

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 Nagano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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 Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Pattaya is a must-see party destination. 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.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its luxury resorts. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

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.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a resort city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nagano 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.

Nagano is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is a great resort city for the beach. However, Nagano 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.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its old town. However, Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nagano. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Pattaya does not have a historic old town.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great city for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nagano for the hiking trails. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Nagano?

Pattaya is a great resort city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Pattaya or Nagano More Beautiful?

Nagano is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Nagano is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Nagano 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.

Nagano is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Nagano are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pattaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Nagano is a good resort city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Nagano are notable places to visit.

Pattaya is a good resort city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Pattaya or Nagano Better for Students?

Nagano is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Pattaya is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nagano. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Pattaya is not popular with students.

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

Pattaya and Nagano both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pattaya offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Pattaya or Nagano a more walkable city?

Nagano is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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 Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Nagano?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pattaya and Nagano. In our opinion, Nagano has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nagano than Pattaya. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Nagano.

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

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

One day in Pattaya or Nagano?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Pattaya. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Nagano, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Pattaya or Nagano?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nagano, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Nagano?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nagano?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Pattaya. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Nagano. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Nagano?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Nagano, 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 Nagano?

Nagano 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 Nagano in the Summer?

Both Nagano and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nagano this time of year.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Nagano in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Nagano fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Nagano. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nagano in the Autumn?

Both Nagano and Pattaya during the autumn 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 travelers come to Nagano for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Nagano. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagano averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Nagano. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 167 hours of full sun.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Nagano. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nagano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Nagano. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, many visitors come to Nagano in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nagano can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nagano this time of the year. In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Nagano. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Nagano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Nagano. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Pattaya is much warmer than Nagano in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Nagano fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the spring, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Nagano. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 191 hours of full sun.

Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Nagano. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Nagano and Pattaya