Which place is cheaper, Jakarta or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Jump to 
Should you visit Bangkok or Jakarta?
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 Jakarta 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 high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Bangkok is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Bangkok travel costs.
Jakarta
Jakarta is a genuine, sprawling, and friendly city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Jakarta travel costs.
Bangkok and Jakarta: Pros and Cons
Bangkok
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Jakarta
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Big city activities
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less popular with couples
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Jakarta?
Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bangkok than Jakarta. While Jakarta is larger than Bangkok, Bangkok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is more touristy than Jakarta and is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also home to The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Jakarta is popular for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls.
How is Bangkok different from Jakarta?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jakarta 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 Jakarta?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
Travelers visit Bangkok from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.
Jakarta offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Jakarta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.
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.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Jakarta. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for nightlife. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Bangkok is a must-see 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.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Jakarta. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Jakarta?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for shopping. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Bangkok. 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.
Jakarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta More Beautiful?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is a great capital city for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
Bangkok is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.
Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta Better for Families?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is a great capital city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Bangkok is a very family-friendly destination. 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.
Jakarta is a family-friendly place to visit. Most visitors skip out on this huge city, and it's definitely not the first place that comes to mind when you think about family-friendly destinations, but there's actually a very fascinating culture that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There's the Kota area, which has colonial architecture. There's also a puppet museum and several history museums. But for most kids, the highlight is a visit to the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol area, which has amusement parks and even SeaWorld.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
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.
Jakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most travelers looking for a romantic destination will head to the many famous honeymoon spots in Indonesia. But for those who make their way to Jakarta, there is sure to be a lot of adventure and culture. The city has many great museums as well as nature parks and amusement parks.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.
Many backpackers frequent 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.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Jakarta. Visitors often have strong feelings about this city, whether they love it or hate it. For those backpackers who spend some time here, they're sure to be treated to a look at true Indonesian culture, which is hard to find in the more touristy areas.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok is a great capital city for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.
Public transit in Bangkok is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 generally limited in Jakarta. Public transportation has improved a lot recently. There's a commuter line as well as buses. The system can be a bit overwhelming and slow though, so tourists often avoid it.
Is Bangkok or Jakarta a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Jakarta
Bangkok and Jakarta both are decent 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.
Jakarta is generally not a very walkable capital city. Central Jakarta is more walkable than most of the city but, in general, the city has a lot of traffic and isn't the best for exploring on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Jakarta Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Jakarta or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Jakarta?
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Jakarta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Jakarta. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-3 days is enough time in Jakarta.
Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Jakarta. 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 Jakarta. 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 Jakarta 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 Jakarta? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Jakarta 1-3
One day in Bangkok or Jakarta?
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 Jakarta, you'll find nightlife and 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 Jakarta?
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 Jakarta, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Jakarta has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Jakarta?
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.
Jakarta 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 Jakarta?
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 Jakarta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jakarta. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia.
-
Bangkok Prices
Thailand PricesJakarta Prices
Indonesia Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $96Jakarta $75
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $96, while the average daily cost in Jakarta is $75. 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 Jakarta in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $46Jakarta $33
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $92Jakarta $66
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Jakarta
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Jakarta? 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.
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 Jakarta Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $5.95Jakarta $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:
-
Tuk Tuk to bus station$2.30
-
Skytrain Ticket$4.61
-
Chao Phraya River Express Ticket$0.92
-
Ferry Ride$0.75
-
Taxi From Airport$7.20
-
Short Taxi Ride$2.59
-
Boat Taxi$1.44
-
Trains to airport$4.61
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- Bangkok & Safari World, Hotel and Private Transfer: $371
- Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Transfer to Pattaya hotels: $276
- Private Transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with 2h of Sightseeing: $250
- Bangkok Hotel Transfer: to/from Koh Chang Hotel Transfer: $229
- Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Trat: $207
- Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Trat: $201
- From Hotel Transfer to Koh Chang: $200
- Bangkok transfer: From/ To Laem Sok Pier: $200
- Private Full Day Guided City Tour & Hotel Transfer: $196
- From One-Way Transfer to Hua Hin: $196
- Private Transfer from D.Mueang Airport (DMK) to Laem Chabang Port: $195
- Private Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Koh Chang hotel: $193
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jakarta
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jakarta are as follows:
-
Taxi to Station$1.07
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jakarta
Also for Jakarta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Airport Jakarta Soekarno - Hatta ( Private Transfer ): $18
- Airport Jakarta, Private Transfer: $26
- Airport Private Transfer Jakarta, Best Price: $19
- Airport Transfer: $30
- Airport Transfer Jakarta ( Private Car ): $30
- Airport Transfer and Hotel Transfer: $30
- BEST PRICE Private Airport Transfer per CAR with Tax & Insurance (Oneway): $30
- CGK - Private Airport Transfer Service: $20
- Easy & Simple Transfer Airport Jakarta: $17
- HLP Airport: One-Way Transfer to Jakarta City Center: $30
- Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Bandung/Lembang Arrival Transfer: $90
- Jakarta Airport CGK to Bandung or Lembang Round Trip Transfer: $180
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Jakarta?
Prices for flights to both Jakarta 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 dayBangkok $33Jakarta $28
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)$26
-
Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$5.76
-
2 Rotis (Bread)$1.30
-
Mango & Sticky Rice$0.86
-
Lunch at KFC (for Two)$5.76
-
Pad Thai$2.02
-
Airport Lunch for 2$16
-
Lunch for 2$21
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.
- White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $20
- Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $23
- CHAR Rooftop Bar Dinner and Drinks: $23
- River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $25
- Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $25
- Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $25
- Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck With Buffet Dinner or Lunch: $26
- Smile Riverside Dinner Cruise: $26
- Unicorn Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise: $26
- Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $26
- Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok: $26
- Vela Dinner Buffet Cruise with Bangkok Night Views and Shows: $27
Typical Food Prices in Jakarta
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Jakarta:
-
Dinner$2.69
-
Dinner$0.73
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jakarta
For Jakarta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Mangga Besar Food Tour: $49
- Cikini Heritage Food Tour: $49
- Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $51
- Jakarta Night Life Tour with highlight and food tour: $54
- Jakarta Night Tour with Dinner at Café or Food street: $55
- Kota Tua Food Tour: $64
- 10-Tasting Private Food Tour with a Local Host: $95
- Halfday Batavia by Night with dinner at Cafe Batavia & souvenir: $120
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $16Jakarta $13
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$4.61
-
Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$10
-
Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.44
-
Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$5.76
-
Club Cover Charge$11
-
Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$69
-
Fish Pedicure$4.32
-
Wat Pho entrance ticket$2.88
-
Siriraj Museum (2)$12
Tours and Activities in Bangkok
Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- A Day in Ayutthaya: Private 5 UNESCO Temples Tour From Bangkok: $116
- Ayutthaya Historic Park Group Tour from Bangkok: $70
- Bangkok 4 Hour Cultural & Temples Tour Private with Guide: $101
- Bangkok Night Tuk Tuk Tour: $120
- Bangkok Sea Life + Madame Tussauds Entrance Tickets : $51
- Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $159
- Private Customized Bangkok Tour With Driver : $53
- Private Half-Day Bangkok City Tour explore The Grand Palace: $145
- Sunset Sail, Glittering Tempels at Afternoon Ayutthaya Tours : $65
- (Join Tour) BANGKOK 'S 2 HOURS CANAL TOUR: $83
- 1 Hr Private Bangkok Canal Boat Tour: Traditional Flat Boat: $72
- 1-hour Bangkok Old City NIGHT Tour on Private TUK TUK: $20
Tours and Activities in Jakarta
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Jakarta.
- Private Guided City Tour with a Local: $18
- Jakarta : Private Tour Old Batavia Heritage Half Day Tour: $26
- Jakarta Walking Tour: Explore Jakarta as the Locals do: $32
- Private Customizable Motorbike Tour: $32
- Private custom tour with a local guide: $32
- Jakarta Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide : $32
- Jakarta Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $35
- Like a Local Customized Guided Tour: $35
- A day casual walking tour in The City of Jakarta: $36
- Experience Jakarta Street Food Scene with MRT Transportation: $39
- Half-Day Highlights Tour: $41
- Private Tour Old Batavia and Chinatown Nightlife: $41
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $5.18Jakarta $4.16
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:
-
Beer$1.15
Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:
- Mad Monkey Bangkok Pub Crawl: $17
- Pub Crawl: $26
- Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure: $29
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Jakarta, we can see that Bangkok is more expensive. And not only is Jakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jakarta 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 Jakarta.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangkok Expensive? and Is Jakarta Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Jakarta?
Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Bangkok. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Jakarta, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.