Should You Visit Sukhothai?

Is Sukhothai worth visiting?

Yes, Sukhothai offers many reasons for a visit. It's a city everyone should explore, and our experience here was wonderful. We didn't want to leave.

Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the fantastic museums and attractions and spectacular food.

Sukhothai is a city in central Thailand that offers access to the impressive Sukhothai Historical Park. The area's impressive history and authentic atmosphere make it a world class destination that is often overlooked by many visitors to the country.

Sukhothai, Thailand

7 Reasons to Visit Sukhothai

1. Museums and Attractions

Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

Sukhothai Historical Park is known for its ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage status. (฿300 ($10))

2. Food

Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

3. Historical Sights

The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

4. Shopping

There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

5. Nightlife

This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

6. The Costs

Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Sukhothai might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Sukhothai here or see if Sukhothai is expensive here.

7. Authenticity

Sukhothai has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Sukhothai worth visiting in the Summer?

This is the low season for travel in Sukhothai. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather here is somewhat warm for most of the season, with average temperatures around 29°C (84°F). However, this time of year it's also rainy, so it might not be ideal for many activities.

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the historic old town, and the nightlife.

Summer Weather in Sukhothai

Is Sukhothai worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather here is somewhat warm for most of the season, with average temperatures around 28°C (83°F). However, this time of year it's also rainy, so it might not be ideal for many activities.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Sukhothai, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Sukhothai is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to admire the historic sights and wander through the museums.

Autumn Weather in Sukhothai

Is Sukhothai worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the high season for travel in Sukhothai, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is fairly touristy, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

The weather this time of year is terrific, and averages around 25°C (77°F) through the season. This is one of the main reasons that travelers come, because they are looking for beautiful weather and a fun escape.

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and browse around the old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife.

Winter Weather in Sukhothai

Is Sukhothai worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Sukhothai. Even though Sukhothai is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

The weather this time of year is terrific, and averages around 32°C (89°F) through the season. This is one of the main reasons that travelers come, because they are looking for beautiful weather and a fun escape.

Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience the many shops, the famous sights and museums, and the historic old town. Also, you can take advantage of the local nightlife.

Spring Weather in Sukhothai

Things to Consider Before Visiting Sukhothai

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

Related

What is Sukhothai most famous for?

Sukhothai is most famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. People visit this impressive city for its great museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. It is also known for its great nightlife. It is often described as historical, cultural, under-rated, and world class.

What is the most famous sight in Sukhothai?

The most popular sight in Sukhothai is Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Sukhothai on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park and other attractions here.

How touristy is Sukhothai? Is it a popular city to visit?

Sukhothai is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

How long should I spend in Sukhothai?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Sukhothai is two to three days. Since Sukhothai has activities such as dining, historical sights, shopping, and museums and attractions, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Sukhothai? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Sukhothai?.

More Things to Do in Sukhothai

• Is Sukhothai Historical Park Worth Visiting?

For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand and The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand.

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• Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?
• Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?