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

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Should you visit Bangkok or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong 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 colorful, vibrant, and high energy 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bangkok and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Bangkok
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Hong Kong
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers


How is Bangkok different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Both Bangkok and Hong Kong have interesting 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Food?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Hong Kong both to be unique destinations.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is filled with 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 Hong Kong, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

It's hard to distinguish whether Bangkok or Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong has something for everybody. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening ranging from night markets to concerts and parties. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are often compact and crowded.

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Shopping?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hong Kong 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, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Families?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Both Bangkok and Hong Kong are fun 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hong Kong is very family-friendly. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.


Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Both Bangkok and Hong Kong are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Hong Kong is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Most people consider Bangkok to be better for backpackers than Hong Kong.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Bangkok or Hong Kong Better for Public Transit?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Hong Kong provides more public transit options than Bangkok.

With a huge network, the transit system in Hong Kong can get you around easily. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is generally more walkable than Bangkok.

Getting around Hong Kong on foot is easy. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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.


Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Hong Kong?

Both Bangkok and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Bangkok is 2-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Hong Kong is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Bangkok or Hong Kong?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hong Kong, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Hong Kong?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Hong Kong, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Hong Kong?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer.

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Hong Kong?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, you'll find museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Which city is cheaper, Hong Kong or Bangkok?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $65, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $128. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangkok and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $35
    Hong Kong $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $70
    Hong Kong $120
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Hong Kong? 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 Hong Kong


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 Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $4.39
    Hong Kong $6.97
Typical Local Transportation prices in Bangkok

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


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.44
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.88
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.98
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.79
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.63
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.75
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.53
  • Trains to airport
    $4.88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • oneway transfer service Bangkok-Hua hin: $85
  • Transfer from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok Hotel: $45
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Rayong Province: $99
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Pattaya: $68
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Koh Chang: $150
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to HuaHin: $85
  • Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Bangkok city: $31
  • Transfer from DMK Donmuaeng International Airport to BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport: $34
  • Transfer from Bangkok Hotel to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $45
  • Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel by Deluxe Vehicle: $135
  • Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to khao Yai National Park: $85
  • Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Pattaya City: $55

Typical Local Transportation prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hong Kong

Also for Hong Kong, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • 3-Day Private Hong Kong Tour with Hotel and Round-trip Airport Transfer: $919
  • 3-Night Regal HongKong Hotel Package with Airport Transfer, Tours and E-Tickets: $598
  • 3-Night Regal Kowloon Hotel Package with Airport Transfer and Tours: $695
  • 3-Night West Hotel Hong Kong Package with Airport Transfer and Tours: $485
  • 5 Seater Mercedes Benz Van Airport Transfer: $110
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hong Kong Airport HKG to Hong Kong City in Business Van: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Hong Kong Cruise Port to City by Business Van: $74
  • Combo: Disneyland Ticket Plus Free Hotel to Disneyland Transfer: $117
  • Combo: Disneyland Ticket with Round Trip Transfer: $129
  • Daily Group Tour: Disneyland Admission With Hotel 2-Way Transfer from Hong Kong Island: $134
  • Departure Private Transfer Hong Kong City to Cruise Port by Business Car: $74
  • Departure Private Transfer: Hong Kong City to Cruise Port by Minivan: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong 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 $16
    Hong Kong $26
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)
    $27
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $6.10
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.37
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.92
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $6.10
  • Pad Thai
    $2.14
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $17
  • Lunch for 2
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

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

  • Silom Village Authentic Thai Dinner and Performance Ticket: $17
  • Luxurious Afternoon Tea or Dinner at the Erawan Tea Rooms: $26
  • Skip the Line: Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner: $26
  • Bangkok Thai Classical Dance with Thai Set Dinner Ticket: $27
  • 2-Hour Dinner & Shows on White Orchid River Cruise: $30
  • Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show With Optional Dinner & Transfers: $31
  • Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show Tour With Optional Dinner.: $31
  • Skip the Line:Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show Ticket w/(optional) Dinner &Transfers: $32
  • Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River in Bangkok (Optional Transfers): $34
  • Bangkok Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River: $34
  • Bangkok White Orchid Dinner Cruise: $34
  • Bangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River: $34

Typical Food prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • E-Ticket: Symphony of Lights Dinner Cruise and Free Transfer: $64
  • 2-Hour Dinner & Shows on Victoria Harbour Night Cruise: $81
  • Hong Kong Market Tour and Cantonese Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $154
  • Private Food Tour: The Best Bites of Mongkok: $204
  • Private Food Tour: The Best Bites of Hong Kong Island: $204
  • Private Romantic Dinner for 2 on Luxury Yacht: $1,549

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $12
    Hong Kong $76
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
    $4.88
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $11
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.53
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $6.10
  • Club Cover Charge
    $11
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $73
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.58
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $3.05
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

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

  • "Phra Nakorn Khiri and Kui Buri adventure in 1 day" (Private trip): $322
  • "Two Day one Night for River Kwai Adventure" (Private): $442
  • 04 DAYS CENTRAL HIGHLIGHTS - Joint Tour: $692
  • 1-day Bangkok Old Town Tuk Tuk Tour - Sawasdee Tuk Tuk: $102
  • 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $140
  • 11-Day Thailand Tour to Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Phuket: $2,921
  • 12-Day Tour Through Cambodia from Bangkok to Saigon: $1,165
  • 2 Days Private Tour To Ayutthaya' World Heritage Site: $428
  • 2-Day River Kwai Experience from Bangkok: $262
  • 2-Day River Kwai Floathouse Experience from Bangkok: $346
  • 2-Day River Kwai Jungle Rafts Experience from Bangkok: $231
  • 2-Day River Kwai and Kanchanaburi Tour from Bangkok: $228

Typical Entertainment prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Food Adventure in Hong Kong with a Local Foodie: $2.64
  • Peak Tram Sky Pass: Tram Ticket, Hong Kong Sky Tour and Sky Terrace 428 Entry: $13
  • E-Ticket: Peak Tram Round Trip and Sky Terrace: $17
  • sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck Admission Ticket: $19
  • Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ticket on Lantau Island: $21
  • Skip the line: E-Tickets in Macau: $23
  • Victoria Peak Hong Kong (Tai Ping Shan) Ticket: $24
  • Hong Kong Sky100 Admission Ticket: $24
  • Victoria Harbour Cruise by Aqua Luna: $28
  • Central Street Art Walking Tour: $28
  • sky100 Admission Ticket for Two Person with One Free CafĂ© 100 Dining Voucher: $31
  • Skip The Line: Ngong Ping Cable Car Round Trip Voucher: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $7.28
    Hong Kong $17
Typical Alcohol prices in Bangkok

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


  • Beer
    $1.22

About these numbers

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

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Bangkok vs. Hong Kong Travel Comparison

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