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

Should you visit Bangkok or Auckland?

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 Auckland 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 colorful, vibrant, and high energy capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Bangkok travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Auckland travel costs.

Bangkok and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Auckland?

Both Auckland and Bangkok have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Bangkok is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auckland attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Bangkok is famous for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

How is Bangkok different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Bangkok are world-renowned. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bangkok has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Bangkok is a world class party destination. 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.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a great destination for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Auckland?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Bangkok draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Bangkok or Auckland More Beautiful?

Bangkok is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Auckland are superb 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, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Couples?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Bangkok 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.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bangkok is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Auckland is a very popular capital city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Bangkok or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Bangkok is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Bangkok can get you around easily. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Bangkok or Auckland a more walkable city?

Bangkok and Auckland both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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

Auckland is generally not a very walkable capital city. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Auckland. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Auckland. 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 Auckland. 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 Auckland 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.

One day in Bangkok or Auckland?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Auckland, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city 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 Auckland?

Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Auckland, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auckland has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Auckland?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Auckland?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. This capital city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Auckland, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bangkok is in Asia and Auckland is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Bangkok.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Auckland?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Auckland, 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 Bangkok or Auckland?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bangkok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Auckland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Auckland. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bangkok is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bangkok in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Auckland averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In the summer, Bangkok often gets less sunshine than Aucklandin January. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok usually gets more rain in July than Aucklandin January. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Aucklandin April. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 28°C (83°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Aucklandin April. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Should I visit Bangkok or Auckland in the Winter?

Both Auckland and Bangkok during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

Bangkok is much warmer than Auckland in the winter. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin July. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun.

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Aucklandin July. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Also, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bangkok is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bangkok in April average around 31°C (87°F), and Auckland averages at about 14°C (58°F)in October.

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Aucklandin October. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Bangkok