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

Should you visit Bangkok or Houston?

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 Houston 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Bangkok and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Houston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok than Houston. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bangkok is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Houston attracts visitors for its music. Bangkok is more touristy than Houston 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. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Bangkok different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Bangkok, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party 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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a city with good options for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Houston?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Houston are very good 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, Houston is very family-friendly. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Couples?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bangkok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good capital city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bangkok or Houston Better for Students?

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

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Bangkok is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Bangkok or Houston a more walkable city?

Bangkok and Houston both are reasonable 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable capital city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Houston?

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

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston?

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 Houston, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Houston?

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 Houston, you'll find museums 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 Houston has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Houston?

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 Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Houston?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Houston. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Houston, 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 Houston?

Houston 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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston 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, many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bangkok is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bangkok in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Houston. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Houston. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 28°C (83°F), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Houston. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 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 Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Houston. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bangkok is much warmer than Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Houston. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Houston. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bangkok is a little warmer than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bangkok in April average around 31°C (87°F), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Bangkok usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Houston and Bangkok