A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Bangkok vs. Hat Yai for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Bangkok or Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a lively, festive, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Hat Yai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bangkok than Hat Yai. Bangkok is bigger than Hat Yai, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bangkok is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Also, Bangkok is famous for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Bangkok different from Hat Yai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Bangkok on the map. 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.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

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

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Hat Yai both to be world-class 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 Hat Yai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Is Bangkok or Hat Yai Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Hat Yai?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Bangkok is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Is Bangkok or Hat Yai Better for Families?

Bangkok is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Bangkok is known to be 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Bangkok or Hat Yai Better for Couples?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it 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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Bangkok or Hat Yai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Bangkok is a capital city with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Bangkok has a few public transit options. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Bangkok or Hat Yai a more walkable city?

Bangkok and Hat Yai both are respectable 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.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable capital city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Hat Yai or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Hat Yai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Hat Yai. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Hat Yai. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hat Yai.

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Bangkok or Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hat Yai has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Hat Yai?

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.

Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai?

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 Hat Yai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hat Yai. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Hat Yai, we can see that Bangkok is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Bangkok would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bangkok than you might in Hat Yai.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Hat Yai?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hat Yai. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Hat Yai, 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 Hat Yai?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Hat Yai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Hat Yai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Hat Yai during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bangkok is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Hat Yai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Hat Yai. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year.

Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season. May to December in Hat Yai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok usually gets less rain in October than Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 182 hours of full sun.

Bangkok is around the same temperature as Hat Yai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Hat Yai fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Hat Yai in the Winter?

Both Hat Yai and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The dry season in Hat Yai is January to April. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Hat Yai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Hat Yai during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Hat Yai receives 221 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Bangkok is around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hat Yai averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Hat Yai in the Spring?

Both Hat Yai 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round.

May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok. January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai. Bangkok usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hat Yai receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the spring, Bangkok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hat Yai. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hat Yai receives 265 hours of full sun.

In April, Bangkok is generally around the same temperature as Hat Yai. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Hat Yai fluctuates around 30°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Hat Yai and Bangkok