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

Should you visit Bangkok or Brisbane?

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 Brisbane 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.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a relaxed, diverse, and cultural coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bangkok and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Brisbane?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bangkok than Brisbane. Bangkok is bigger than Brisbane, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bangkok is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Brisbane is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Bangkok is more touristy than Brisbane and is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Also, Bangkok is famous for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Brisbane is well known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Bangkok different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brisbane can be an interesting and educational experience. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Bangkok has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Brisbane has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Brisbane attract visitors from all over. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

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

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Brisbane. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Brisbane?

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Brisbane 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, Brisbane is very family-friendly. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Couples?

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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 Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bangkok and Brisbane.

You'll find some public transit in Bangkok, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

While Brisbane offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Bangkok or Brisbane a more walkable city?

Brisbane is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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 Brisbane Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Brisbane?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Brisbane. 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 Brisbane 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 Brisbane?

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 Brisbane, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 Brisbane?

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 Brisbane, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Brisbane has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Brisbane?

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.

Brisbane 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 Brisbane?

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 Brisbane. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Brisbane. 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Brisbane?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Brisbane. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Brisbane, 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 Brisbane?

Brisbane 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 Brisbane in the Summer?

Both Brisbane and Bangkok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein January. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bangkok often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein January. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets less rain in July than Brisbanein January. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brisbane in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Brisbane in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbane during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Brisbanein April. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brisbane in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Brisbane. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Brisbane averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Brisbanein July. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Brisbanein July. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brisbane in the Spring?

Both Brisbane and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein October. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brisbane during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Brisbanein October. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Bangkok