Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bangkok or Mexico City?
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 Mexico City 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 alluring, spirited, and colorful capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.
Mexico City
Mexico City is a colorful, cultural, and diverse 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.
Bangkok and Mexico City: 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
Mexico City
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Big city activities
- Less popular with couples
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Mexico City?
You'll generally find more things to do in Mexico City than Bangkok. Mexico City is bigger than Bangkok, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mexico City is better known for its historical sights, while Bangkok is more popular for its impressive beauty. Bangkok is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo.
How is Bangkok different from Mexico City?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mexico City 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 Mexico City?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Both Bangkok and Mexico City have terrific 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.
The museums and tourist attractions in Mexico City are world-renowned. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Mexico City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Foodies will find both Bangkok and Mexico City both to be terrific 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 Mexico City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Mexico City
It's hard to distinguish whether Bangkok or Mexico City 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 Mexico City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.
Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.
Bangkok does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Mexico City?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Shopping is a popular activity in both Mexico City 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, Mexico City draws large crowds to its stores. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Families?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Both Bangkok and Mexico City are excellent 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, Mexico City is very family-friendly. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Bangkok is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.
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.
Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Bangkok is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
A large number of backpackers visit Bangkok, as it is a very popular capital city for 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.
Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Students?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Mexico City is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.
Students come from all over to stay in Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.
Bangkok is not popular with students.
Is Bangkok or Mexico City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Mexico City is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Mexico City is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.
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 Mexico City a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Mexico City
Bangkok and Mexico City both are respectable 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.
Mexico City is generally not a very walkable capital city. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.
For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Mexico City?
In either Bangkok or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Mexico City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.
Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Bangkok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mexico City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Mexico City. 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Mexico City 3-5
One day in Bangkok or Mexico City?
Bangkok is a alluring capital city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
In Mexico City, 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 Mexico City?
Bangkok is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This capital city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.
In Mexico City, 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 Mexico City?
Bangkok is a spirited capital city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.
Mexico City 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 Mexico City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Bangkok or Mexico City?
Bangkok is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mexico City. 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $76Mexico City $214
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $76, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is $214. 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 Mexico City in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $41Mexico City $41
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $82Mexico City $82
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Mexico City
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Mexico City? 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 Mexico City Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $5.77Mexico City $13
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:
- VIP Bangkok Tours and Transfers: $58
- Tuk-tuk tour Bangkok by Night with Chinatown meal and hotel transfers: $55
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Pattaya APT-HTL (BKK): $59
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Hua Hin APT-HTL (BKK): $71
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Bangkok HTL-APT (DMK): $24
- Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Rayong Province: $86
- Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Koh Chang: $130
- Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Trat: $146
- Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya: $53
- Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Hua Hin: $68
- Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel by Deluxe Vehicle: $135
- Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Aranyaprathet: $153
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:
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Metro$1.20
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Uber Ride$4.21
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City
Also for Mexico City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Aguascalientes to Aguascalientes Airport (AGU) Departure Transfer: $24
- Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
- Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
- Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $86
- Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
- Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
- Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $91
- Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $91
- International Airport Felipe Angeles(NLU) - Private Transfer To/from Mexico City: $104
- Mexico Airport (MEX) Cuernavaca Thermal Resorts Arrival Transfer: $38
- Mexico Airport (MEX) to Chignahuapan Resorts-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
- Mexico Airport (MEX) to Cuernavaca Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $76
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Mexico City?
Prices for flights to both Mexico City 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 $18Mexico City $27
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
- Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $27
- Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka 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
- Chao Phraya River Serenade: VIVA Alangka Dinner Cruise, Bangkok: $28
- Bangkok Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruised Tour On Chao Phraya: $28
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City
For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Lunch for Two$13
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Coffee and Snacks$4.69
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Dinner for 2$27
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City
For Mexico City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Veracruz and Boca del Rio Food Tour with Mangroves Boat Trip: $50
- Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
- Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $50
- Uruapan Food Tour: $60
- Muchos moles: Multi-variety mole cooking class and feast: $70
- Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $72
- Street Food Tour with Friends: $75
- La Roma Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78
- Food Tour with Ride an Electric Bike in Mexico: $80
- Flamenco Tablao Live Show & dinner: $83
- Flamenco Live Show and Dinner in Mexico City: $83
- Mexico City Origins: Archeology, History, Art & Food Tour: $85
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $16Mexico City $15
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:
- A Day in Ayutthaya: Private 5 UNESCO Temples Tour From Bangkok: $108
- Ayutthaya Historic Park Group Tour from Bangkok: $65
- Bangkok 5 Hour Cultural & Temples Tour Private: $82
- Bangkok Hindu Landmark City, Grand Palace & Temples Tours with Lunch: $284
- Bangkok Sea Life + Madame Tussauds Entrance Tickets : $46
- Bangkok Thrilling Tuk Tuk Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $95
- Siam Park City Admission Ticket With All Rides In Bangkok: $17
- Sunset Sail, Glittering Temspls at Afternoon Ayutthaya Tours : $59
- 'Sunset Cruise' Canal Boat Tour - Fully guided 3hrs: $74
- "Bangkok Walking Hopping Tour" show city’s historic sights are located.: $67
- 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience : $17
- 2 Hours Bangkok Canal Tour By Longtail Boat : $58
Tours and Activities in Mexico City
For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $4.68
- Franz Mayer Museum Admission Ticket: $5.85
- Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $5.85
- Self-Guided Audio Tour-Moctezuma and the Zocalo:The Aztec Empire : $6.99
- Private Tour to the Capuchin Convent Chapel made by Luis Barragan : $8.00
- Memory and Tolerance Museum Entry Ticket: $8.19
- Mexico City (Coyoacan) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.78
- Mexico City (Historic Centre) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.78
- Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- Night Tour in a Double Decker Bus: $12
- Templo Mayor of Mexico City Skip-the-Line Ticket: $12
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $5.97Mexico City $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
Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Mexico City:
- Mexico City Pub Crawl: $27
- CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $29
- Best Bar Crawl at Downtown: $49
- Nightly Historic Center From Above© Rooftop Bar Crawl +Taco Snack: $129
- 2 Hours Private Mexican Wine Tasting in Polanco: $155
- Third Largest Monolith in the World:Bernal with wine tasting: $235
- Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $255
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mexico City 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 Mexico City Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Mexico City?
Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bangkok. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Mexico City, 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.