The short answer
Mostly the hotel and how you move. A private car with a guide costs more than shared transport, and a heritage boutique hotel costs far more than a clean guesthouse, yet the sightseeing itself is much the same.
Key facts
- Biggest factor
- Hotel category
- Comfort factor
- Private car and guide
- Usually extra
- Heritage-site entry fees
- Always ask for
- A written list of inclusions
How it works
- Pick the hotel categoryThis sets most of the budget. A heritage boutique costs far more than a clean guesthouse for the same sights.
- Pick the transport stylePrivate car with a guide versus taxis and walking.
- List the extrasHeritage-site entry tickets, a guide and meals are usually separate.
What actually changes the cost
Hotels are the biggest factor: a heritage boutique or a hotel with a garden costs far more than a clean guesthouse, though the sights you visit are the same. Next comes transport, where a private car and driver add comfort and flexibility compared with taxis and buses.
A guide adds a layer of history and meaning at the temples and old squares, and many visitors find it worth having for at least the first day. Entry fees to heritage sites are usually extra, so check whether your quote includes them.
Getting a fair comparison
Ask each company for a written itinerary that lists the hotel name, the room type, meals, transfers, guide and entry fees. Compare those lists side by side, not just the totals, and ask what happens if you change a day or a hotel.
A cheaper quote may leave out airport transfers, fees or the guide. Do not pay a deposit until you have the inclusions in writing, and keep every receipt and confirmation.
Insider tip
Compare quotes on inclusions, not on the total. A cheaper offer often leaves out transfers, entry fees or the guide.
Avoid this
Do not pay a deposit until you have seen the inclusions in writing. See what to check before paying.
Related questions
Are entry fees included?
Usually not. Ask for the list of fees and the current amounts.
Can I save by going in winter?
Yes. Hotel rates drop outside October to November and March to April.
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