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

Should you visit Bangkok or Boston?

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 Boston 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 spirited, colorful, and vibrant capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Bangkok and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Bangkok is known for its food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Bangkok different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Bangkok and Boston have fantastic landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bangkok that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for theatre. However, Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

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

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Bangkok, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Boston?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Bangkok does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Couples?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bangkok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Bangkok or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Bangkok or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best 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 Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Boston?

In either Bangkok or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Boston 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 Boston?

Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, you'll find food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Boston?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Boston, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Bangkok or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Boston?

Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Boston is in North America, 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Boston?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Boston, 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 Boston?

Boston 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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Boston. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Boston. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Boston. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bangkok is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Boston can be very cold during winter. In January, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Boston during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Boston. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February.

Should I visit Bangkok or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Bangkok during the spring 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 spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Bangkok is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Boston. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Boston and Bangkok