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

Should you visit Pattaya or Sado?

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 Sado 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 colorful, active, and vibrant resort city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Pattaya travel costs.

Sado

Sado is a cultural, off-the-beaten-path, and traditional island. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Sado travel costs.

Pattaya and Sado: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Sado?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pattaya. Although Pattaya and Sado are popular destinations, Pattaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Sado attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and hiking. Pattaya is more touristy than Sado and is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Sado is famous for its beautiful scenery, traditional culture, and population of endangered crested ibis.

How is Pattaya different from Sado?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sado is a great island 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 Sado. The former gold mines are open to the public and fascinating to explore. For a traditional town, head to Shukunegi, which has narrow alleys and historic homes. Also worth a visit is the Sado History Museum.

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 Sado? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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 Sado is an experience not to be missed. You'll find great seafood including crab, tuna, and prawns. There are also fresh vegetables, rice, and other typical Japanese ingredients in the area.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Sado is a mediocre island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Pattaya is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Sado doesn't offer many options. This is a quiet island and doesn't have much in the form of nightlife.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is notable for its resorts. However, Sado is not a resort destination.

Pattaya is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Sado is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sado is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Pattaya has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Sado is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is notable for its beaches. However, Sado is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Sado is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Hiking?

Sado is a great island for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sado for the hiking trails. There is wonderful hiking on the island. Head to the Osado Mountain Range for wildflowers and spectacular views and scenery.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Sado?

Pattaya is notable for shopping. However, Sado is a mediocre island for its shopping opportunities.

Pattaya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sado has some nice offerings. You'll find shops where you can pick up any necessities that you may have forgotten. There are also souvenir shops where you can find local items to remember your trip.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Families?

Pattaya is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Sado is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pattaya is 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.

Sado is a family-friendly resort city. The former gold mines are fascinating and open to the public. There are also parks and interesting wildlife such as the Japanese ibis that you can see.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Sado are nice 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.

Sado is a good resort city for couples to visit. The area's history and nature make it a unique place for a couple's trip. There are museums, and outdoor spaces that you visit as well as the interesting mines.

Is Pattaya or Sado Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Sado are nice 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 Sado. There are a couple of hostels as well as guesthouses that backpackers can stay at while they're in town.

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

Pattaya is a popular place for its public transit. However, Sado is a mediocre island for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Sado. There are no trains on the island and the bus routes are infrequent and slow. You really must have a car to explore the area.

Is Pattaya or Sado a more walkable city?

Pattaya is a moderate resort city for its walkability. However, Sado is a mediocre island for its high level of walkability.

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.

Sado is not a very walkable resort city. The island isn't particularly walkable, so you'll want to have a vehicle to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Sado or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Sado?

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

Families should spend more time in Pattaya than Sado. 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 Sado. 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 Sado 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 Sado?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Sado, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This island 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 Sado?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In Sado, you'll find museums and food. 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 Sado has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Sado?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the colorful destination of Pattaya. This resort city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sado 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 Sado?

The active resort city of Pattaya offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sado. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Sado. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Pattaya and Sado, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Pattaya or Sado?

Sado 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 Sado in the Summer?

Both Sado and Pattaya during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sado in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Sado. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Sado fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In the summer, Pattaya often gets less sunshine than Sado. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sado receives 198 hours of full sun.

Sado gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Sado. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Sado receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Sado in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Sado. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sado for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Pattaya is much warmer than Sado in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Sado fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Sado during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Sado receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sado receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Sado. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Sado receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Sado in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Sado. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Sado because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Sado can be very cold. In the winter, Pattaya is much warmer than Sado. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pattaya in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Sado averages at about 3°C (37°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Sado. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sado receives 65 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sado. Pattaya usually gets less rain in January than Sado. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Sado receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Sado in the Spring?

Both Sado and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year.

In April, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Sado. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 30°C (86°F), and Sado fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Sado during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Sado receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sado. In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Sado. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sado receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October.

Typical Weather for Sado and Pattaya