A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Alice Springs for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Alice Springs 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.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a alluring, spirited, and colorful capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a laid back, outdoorsy, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bangkok and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bangkok than Alice Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bangkok is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Alice Springs is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Also, Bangkok is famous for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Alice Springs is well known for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Bangkok different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Bangkok has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

Alice Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.


Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

People head to Bangkok just to party. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Alice Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to Bangkok specifically to go shopping. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Alice Springs is a great destination for shopping. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Both Bangkok and Alice Springs are great to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Alice Springs is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.


Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bangkok, as it is a very popular capital city for budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Bangkok is a great capital city for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

Bangkok offers a very effecient public transportation network. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Bangkok or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Alice Springs is somewhat walkable. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.


For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Bangkok or Alice Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bangkok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alice Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Alice Springs 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 Bangkok.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Alice Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Alice Springs 2-4

One day in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Alice Springs is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alice Springs has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Alice Springs 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 Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Since Alice Springs is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 from Melbourne, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Alice Springs or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $86, while the average daily cost in Alice Springs is $100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangkok and Alice Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $47
    Alice Springs $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $94
    Alice Springs $106
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Alice Springs

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Alice Springs? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangkok


Hotels in Alice Springs


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bangkok Hotel Prices and Alice Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $6.53
    Alice Springs $21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.47
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.94
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.99
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.80
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.72
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.78
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.54
  • Trains to airport
    $4.94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Transfer to Pattaya: $295
  • Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Transfer to Pattaya hotels: $295
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Krabi with 2h of Sightseeing: $290
  • Bangkok Hotel Transfer: to/from Koh Chang Hotel Transfer: $237
  • Private Transfer to/from Ao Thammachat, Koh Chang Pier & BKK: $236
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Aranyaprathet: $225
  • Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Trat: $216
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Koh Chang: $209
  • From Hotel Transfer to Koh Chang: $207
  • Bangkok transfer: From/ To Laem Sok Pier: $207
  • Private Full Day Guided City Tour & Hotel Transfer: $202
  • From Pattaya Private Day Trip with Transfer: $200

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

Also for Alice Springs, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) Coach Transfer: $136
  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Prices for flights to both Alice Springs and Bangkok change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangkok $21
    Alice Springs $25
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $28
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $6.18
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.39
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.93
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $6.18
  • Pad Thai
    $2.16
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $17
  • Lunch for 2
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.

  • White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $21
  • Meridian Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck With Dinner or Lunch & Thai Massage: $23
  • Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $23
  • Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $26
  • River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
  • Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $26
  • Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $27
  • White Orchid Dinner Cruise Luxury Experience in Bangkok: $28
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $28
  • Scenic Bangkok Unicorn Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River: $29
  • Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

For Alice Springs, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $239
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $18
    Alice Springs $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $4.94
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $11
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.54
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $6.18
  • Club Cover Charge
    $12
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $74
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.63
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $3.09
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A Day in Ayutthaya: Private 5 UNESCO Temples Tour From Bangkok: $121
  • Bangkok 4 Hour Cultural & Temples Tour Private with Guide: $97
  • Bangkok Sea Life + Madame Tussauds Entrance Tickets : $50
  • Bangkok Thrilling Tuk Tuk Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $95
  • Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $146
  • Private Customized Bangkok Tour With Driver : $56
  • Siam Park City Admission Ticket With All Rides In Bangkok: $19
  • Sunset Sail, Glittering Temspls at Afternoon Ayutthaya Tours : $53
  • Tuk-Tuk Tour Bangkok By Night With Chinatown Street: $71
  • 'Sunset Cruise' Canal Boat Tour - Fully guided 3hrs: $83
  • "Bangkok Walking Hopping Tour" show city’s historic sights are located.: $75
  • (Join Tour) BANGKOK 'S 2 HOURS CANAL TOUR: $86

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alice Springs.

  • Skip the Line: Alice Springs School of the Air Guided Tour Ticket: $10
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $28
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $29
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $63
  • West MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group: $104
  • From Alice Spring: West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour: $105
  • Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour: $112
  • Historical Alice Tour: $115
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $115
  • Historical Alice Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Airport to Alice Springs City Half Day Tour: $126
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $6.76
    Alice Springs $18
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.24

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure: $23
  • Pub Crawl: $27

Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.79


When comparing the travel costs between Bangkok and Alice Springs, we can see that Alice Springs 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. Even though Bangkok is in Asia and Alice Springs is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Alice Springs?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Alice Springs. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Alice Springs, 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.