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

Should you visit Bangkok or Denver?

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 Denver 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 cultural, alluring, and spirited capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Bangkok and Denver: 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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Denver?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok than Denver. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bangkok is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Denver attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Bangkok is more touristy than Denver and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Denver is famous for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Bangkok different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Skiing?

Bangkok
Denver

Denver is a city with good options for winter skiing. However, Bangkok is not a skiing destination.

Denver is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Bangkok is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Denver?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

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

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bangkok is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Bangkok is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.


Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Hiking?

Bangkok
Denver

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

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Denver. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Denver?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Bangkok make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Families?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bangkok is a very kid-friendly capital city. 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.

Denver is a family-friendly capital city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.


Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Bangkok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Denver is a good capital city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is renowned for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bangkok. 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.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.

Is Bangkok or Denver Better for Students?

Bangkok
Denver

Denver is a city with good options for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Denver is popular with students. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Bangkok is not popular with students.


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

Bangkok
Denver

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

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 Denver offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Is Bangkok or Denver a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Denver

Bangkok is a moderate capital city for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Denver is not a very walkable capital city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Denver or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Denver?

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

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Denver. 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 Denver. 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 Denver 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 Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Bangkok or Denver?

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 Denver, you'll find shopping and skiing. 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 Denver?

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 Denver, you'll find skiing and nightlife. 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 Denver has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Denver?

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.

Denver is a great place to explore. 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 Denver?

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 Denver. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Denver. 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 United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Bangkok?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $76, while the average daily cost in Denver is $218. 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 Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $41
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $82
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Denver? 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 Denver


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 Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $5.74
    Denver $101
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

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


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.17
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.35
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.87
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.71
  • Taxi From Airport
    $6.79
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.45
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.36
  • Trains to airport
    $4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $4.09
  • Bus transfer from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $5.03
  • Airport BKK||DMK : Private car Transfer to downtowns Bangkok: $12
  • Private transfer from Hotel in Bangkok to BKK Airport : $14
  • Private Bangkok Airport Transfer (BKK/DMK): $14
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Bangkok HTL- APT(BKK): $14
  • Bangkok International Airport - Departure Transfer: $15
  • Private Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer To City Hotels Or Hotel To Airport: $15
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Bangkok APT-HTL (BKK): $17
  • Bangkok International Airport - Arrival Transfer: $17
  • Private Bangkok Airport Transfer: $17
  • Departure Private Transfer Bangkok City to Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK by Sedan: $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $136
  • Arrival Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by Luxury Car: $161
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge - Arrival Private Transfer: $194
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Glenwood Springs - Round-Trip Transfer: $121
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $175
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Private Transfer: $295
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $284
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $254
  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $50
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Business Car: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver 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 $18
    Denver $42
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)
    $24
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $5.43
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.22
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.82
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $5.43
  • Pad Thai
    $1.90
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $15
  • Lunch for 2
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

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

  • Bangkok Food Tour and Sightseeing with Tuktuk: $16
  • White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $19
  • Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $20
  • Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $21
  • River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $23
  • Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $23
  • Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $25
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
  • Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $27
  • Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $27
  • Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $27
  • Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruise On Chao Phraya: $27

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $16
    Denver $52
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
    $4.35
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $9.51
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.36
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $5.43
  • Club Cover Charge
    $10
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $65
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.08
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $2.72
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $11

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

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

  • Thailand's Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $1.99
  • Bangkok Noi Canal: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.13
  • Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Thailand's Modern Politics: $5.20
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.31
  • Skip the line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.52
  • Chinatown and Wat Traimit Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.00
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket of Ayothaya Floating Market: $8.28
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket of Ayothaya Floating Market: $8.28
  • Pororo Aqua Park Entry Ticket: $9.55
  • Skip the Line: Patpong Museum Guided Tour : $9.66
  • Grand Palace Self-Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $10

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • Discover A Walking Tour of Denver's Top Sights: $5.00
  • Denver's Spokes and Scoops: A Self-Guided Cycle Tour: $5.20
  • Denver’s Downtown: Past and Present In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Denver by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure on Your Phone: $10
  • Denver Ghost Hunt: Mile High Ghost Tour: $12
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry: $14
  • Denver Botanic Gardens General Admission Ticket: $16
  • General Admission to Denver Botanic Gardens Ticket: $16
  • Colorado Rockies Baseball Game Ticket at Coors Field: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $5.95
    Denver $5.31
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

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


  • Beer
    $1.09

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Pub Crawl and Club Night With Shots & VIP Entrance: $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74


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


Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Denver?

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