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

Should you visit Bangkok or Chicago?

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 Chicago 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 vibrant, high energy, and cultural 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for live music, food, and beaches.

Bangkok and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Chicago?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chicago than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Chicago, Chicago has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chicago is better known for its theatre productions, music, beaches, and christmas markets, while Bangkok is more popular for its impressive beauty. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Bangkok different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Bangkok and Chicago have amazing 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 Chicago are world-renowned. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Chicago both to be amazing destinations.

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.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Bangkok or Chicago has a better nightlife scene.

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.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Chicago?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Chicago and Bangkok.

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.

Known for shopping, Chicago draws large crowds to its stores. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago 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 Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago 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.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Bangkok is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a very popular capital city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Bangkok or Chicago Better for Students?

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

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Chicago 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 Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago a more walkable city?

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

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Chicago?

In either Bangkok or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Chicago 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 Chicago.

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

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

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

One day in Bangkok or Chicago?

Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This capital city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Chicago, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Chicago?

Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer.

In Chicago, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Chicago?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Chicago?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Chicago. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

Chicago 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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Chicago. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Chicago. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Bangkok during the autumn 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 autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bangkok is much warmer than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Chicago. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Chicago. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Chicago. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Bangkok usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Bangkok