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

Should you visit Bangkok or Kaikoura?

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 Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a biologically diverse, unique, and nature-oriented town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bangkok and Kaikoura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Kaikoura?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Kaikoura are popular destinations, Bangkok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kaikoura attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Bangkok is famous for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Kaikoura is famous for its local Sperm Whale population, abundance of marine life, and local crayfish (lobster) recipes.

How is Bangkok different from Kaikoura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Kaikoura is not a good town 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 Kaikoura specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There aren't many museums in the area, but it's worth learning more about the region's history with a visit to Kaikoura Museum.

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

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Bangkok is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Kaikoura has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood lovers will be in heaven in this town! There are many local, freshly caught favorites such as cod, mussels, and crayfish (which is actually lobster). You'll find plenty of casual eateries, including an authentic American diner.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kaikoura. This is a small town so the nightlife scene is limited, but there are a few restaurants with bars around town.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Beaches?

Kaikoura is a great destination for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Kaikoura attract visitors from all over. There are many black pebble beaches in the area, which are great for wildlife spotting, but not so good for swimming. Gooch's Beach is one of the most popular, and it's sandier than many of the other beaches. South Bay is another popular area to visit.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Hiking?

Kaikoura is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Kaikoura. There are many coastal walks in the area that will take you through a variety of landscapes. This is also a great way to see the many diverse types of wildlife throughout the peninsula.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Kaikoura?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Kaikoura has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops where you can pick up some interesting products that are unique to the area.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Families?

Kaikoura is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kaikoura is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Kids who love animals will appreciate all of the wildlife in the area. This is one of the best places in the country to see dolphins, whales, and seals. There are world class whale watching trips as well as opportunities to swim with the dolphins and get close to the seals. There is also kayaking, a coastal train, and even sheep shearing. Minigolf is also a fun activity in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Couples?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Bangkok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Kaikoura makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town is all about wildlife, so if whale watching trips, dolphin spotting, and experiencing amazing local wildlife is your thing, then this is your spot! There are also beautiful coastal sights with a dramatic mountain backdrop.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kaikoura. There are a decent number of hostels in the area and plenty of fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Bangkok is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kaikoura is not a good town 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 quite limited in Kaikoura. The town is very small and there is no real public transit in the area.

Is Bangkok or Kaikoura a more walkable city?

Kaikoura is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Kaikoura is somewhat walkable. There are many coastal walks in the area, which is a great way to soak up the beauty and see the wildlife. The town itself is small and most of the accommodation is along Beach Road, so it's relatively easy to reach places on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Kaikoura or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Kaikoura?

It's fun to spend time in either Bangkok or Kaikoura. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bangkok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kaikoura.

Families should spend more time in Kaikoura than Bangkok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kaikoura, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Kaikoura. 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 Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kaikoura, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town 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 Kaikoura?

Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kaikoura, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kaikoura has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Kaikoura?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kaikoura is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Kaikoura?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. This capital city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kaikoura. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Kaikoura. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Kaikoura?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 7450 times larger than the population of Kaikoura. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Kaikoura, 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.