Which place is cheaper, Madrid or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bangkok or Madrid?
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 Madrid 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.
Madrid
Madrid is a cultural, diverse, and compact 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 Madrid: Pros and Cons
Bangkok
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
Madrid
Pros- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Good public transit
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Less museums and historical sights
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Madrid?
Travelers will generally find more things to do in Madrid than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Madrid, Madrid has more sights and attractions for tourists. Madrid is more popular for its music, while Bangkok is known for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Madrid is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also home to The Prado Museum.
How is Bangkok different from Madrid?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Madrid 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 Madrid?
Bangkok
Madrid
Bangkok is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Madrid 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.
Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Madrid
Foodies will find both Bangkok and Madrid 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 Madrid, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Madrid
Bangkok is renowned for nightlife. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Bangkok is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.
Madrid offers plenty to do in the evening. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Music?
Bangkok
Madrid
Madrid is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.
Madrid is a world class music destination. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
Bangkok is not a live music destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Madrid?
Bangkok
Madrid
Shopping is a popular activity in both Madrid 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, Madrid draws large crowds to its stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Families?
Bangkok
Madrid
Both Bangkok and Madrid are great 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, Madrid is very family-friendly. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Madrid
Bangkok is renowned for romance. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
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.
Madrid is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Madrid
Bangkok is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Madrid 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.
Madrid is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Students?
Bangkok
Madrid
Madrid is a world-class destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.
Madrid is a very popular city for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.
Bangkok is not popular with students.
Is Bangkok or Madrid Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Madrid
Madrid is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
With a huge network, the transit system in Madrid can get you around easily. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.
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 Madrid a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Madrid
Madrid is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
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 Madrid Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Madrid or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Madrid?
In either Bangkok or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Madrid because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.
Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Madrid. 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 Madrid 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.
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How many days in Bangkok or Madrid? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Madrid 2-5
One day in Bangkok or Madrid?
Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
In Madrid, 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 Madrid?
Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
In Madrid, 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 Madrid has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Madrid?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Madrid 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 Madrid has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Bangkok or Madrid?
Bangkok is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Madrid. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Madrid. 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $76Madrid $148
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $76, while the average daily cost in Madrid is $148. 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 Madrid in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $41Madrid $84
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $82Madrid $168
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Madrid
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Madrid? 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 Madrid Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $5.77Madrid $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:
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Tuk Tuk to bus station$2.18
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Skytrain Ticket$4.36
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Chao Phraya River Express Ticket$0.87
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Ferry Ride$0.71
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Taxi From Airport$6.82
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Short Taxi Ride$2.45
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Boat Taxi$1.36
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Trains to airport$4.36
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- Don Mueang Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Koh Chang: $299
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Transfer to Pattaya: $287
- Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Transfer to Pattaya hotels: $287
- Private Transfer from Bangkok to Krabi with 2h of Sightseeing: $281
- Private Transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with 2h of Sightseeing: $260
- Don Mueang Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Koh Chang: $242
- From Damnoen and Maeklong Markets Private Transfer: $220
- Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Trat: $215
- Bangkok Hotel Transfer: to/from Koh Chang Hotel Transfer: $214
- Private Transfer from Ayutthaya to Hua Hin: $212
- Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Trat: $209
- From Pattaya Private Day Trip with Transfer: $200
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:
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Taxi Ride$28
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid
Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Madrid Airport MAD Round-Trip Transfer in Private Van: $173
- Private One-Way Transfer to OR from Madrid Airport with private pick up: $77
- Arrival Private Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid City by Van: $71
- Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from MAD Airport to Madrid: $53
- Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Van: $87
- Arrival Transfer from Madrid MAD Airport to Madrid by Luxury Car: $81
- Arrival Transfer: Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Business Car: $80
- Departure Transfer from Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Private Van: $87
- Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Business Car: $80
- From Madrid Airport: 1-Way Private Hotel Transfer: $80
- From Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer: $261
- Hotel Madrid City Private Transfer To Madrid Barajas Airport: $26
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Madrid?
Prices for flights to both Madrid 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
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Food Meals for one dayBangkok $18Madrid $37
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:
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Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)$25
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Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$5.46
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2 Rotis (Bread)$1.23
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Mango & Sticky Rice$0.82
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Lunch at KFC (for Two)$5.46
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Pad Thai$1.91
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Airport Lunch for 2$15
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Lunch for 2$20
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.
- River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $16
- White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $19
- Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $20
- Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $21
- River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $23
- 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
- Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $27
- Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $27
- Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $27
- Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruise On Chao Phraya: $27
- Nopparat Thai Dinner with Classical Dance: $28
- Bangkok Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruised Tour On Chao Phraya: $28
Typical Food Prices in Madrid
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:
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Coffee$2.17
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Ice Cream$3.25
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Kebabs (for 2)$17
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Croissant$1.62
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Lunch at Airport (for 2)$17
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid
For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Tipsy Tapas Food Tour with Drinks and Food: $27
- Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Madrid: $32
- Tapas Dinner Party Food Tour with Guide: $33
- Tapas Crawl Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $35
- Torres Bermejas Flamenco Show in Madrid with Dinner, Tapas or Drink: $38
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $42
- Paella and Sangria Workshop with Dinner and Drinks: $42
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $42
- San Miguel Market and Street Food Tour: $52
- The Authentic Morning Madrid's Food Tour: $59
- Zarzuela Opera and Dinner at La Castafiore Restaurant in Madrid: $60
- Opera and Zarzuela Show and Dinner: $61
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $16Madrid $37
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok
Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Movie Ticket$4.36
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Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$9.55
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Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.36
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Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$5.46
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Club Cover Charge$10
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Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$65
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Fish Pedicure$4.09
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Wat Pho entrance ticket$2.73
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Siriraj Museum (2)$11
Tours and Activities in Bangkok
Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Ayutthaya Historic Park Tour Group Tour from Bangkok: $55
- Bangkok 5 Hour Cultural & Temples Tour Private: $82
- Bangkok Hindu Landmark City, Grand Palace & Temples Tours with Lunch: $286
- Bangkok Sea Life + Madame Tussauds Entrance Tickets : $46
- Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $146
- Sunset Sail, Glittering Temspls at Afternoon Ayutthaya Tours : $60
- Tuk-Tuk Tour Bangkok By Night With Chinatown Street: $64
- 'Sunset Cruise' Canal Boat Tour - Fully guided 3hrs: $75
- 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $114
- 2 Hours Bangkok Canal Tour By Longtail Boat : $59
- 2-Day River Kwai Experience from Bangkok: $226
- 2-Day River Kwai and Kanchanaburi Tour from Bangkok: $201
Tours and Activities in Madrid
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.
- Madrid Essential: Free Walking City Tour: $1.07
- First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
- Madrid Mountains Free Walking Tour: $3.26
- Madrid Old Town & Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $4.26
- Escape Game and Tour: $4.26
- Secrets of Madrids Walking Tour: $4.26
- Marvels of Madrid Walking Tour: $4.26
- Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour: $4.26
- 2 Hour Madrid Walking Tour : $4.35
- Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour : $4.35
- Ticket Entrance to the Madrid Nougat Museum: $5.33
- Mapfre Foundation Entry Ticket: $5.33
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $5.97Madrid $21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:
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Beer$1.09
Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:
- Pub Crawl and Club Night With Shots & VIP Entrance: $22
- 6-Hour Pub Crawl in Bangkok: $25
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:
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Beer$5.42
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Drinks and Tapas (for 2)$14
Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:
- Pub Crawl with Tapas and VIP Club Entry: $9.59
- Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $11
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
- Pub crawl & Party Tour Madrid: $14
- Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $16
- Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $19
- Wine Tasting near Plaza Mayor: $22
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $22
- Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $26
- Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Madrid, we can see that Madrid 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 Madrid is in Europe, 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 Madrid would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Madrid 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 Madrid Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Madrid?
Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Madrid. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Madrid, 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.