A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Mount Bromo for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

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 Mount Bromo 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.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a scenic, spectacular, and breathtaking volcano. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Bangkok and Mount Bromo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Mount Bromo are both popular with visitors, Bangkok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bangkok is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Bromo is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bangkok 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. Mount Bromo is popular for its sunrise views and scenic setting.

How is Bangkok different from Mount Bromo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its local cuisine and 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Bangkok is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo Better for Hiking?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo Better for Families?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is a great capital city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano 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.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its romantic activities.

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.

Mount Bromo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.


Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano 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.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

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

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Bangkok is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Is Bangkok or Mount Bromo a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a volcano with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Mount Bromo is somewhat walkable. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

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 Mount Bromo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Bromo or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bangkok or Mount Bromo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bangkok than Mount Bromo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mount Bromo.

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Mount Bromo. 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 Mount Bromo. 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 Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Mount Bromo 1-2

One day in Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

Bangkok is a vibrant 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 Mount Bromo, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This volcano 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 Mount Bromo?

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 Mount Bromo, you'll find . 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 Mount Bromo has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

Bangkok is a high energy 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.

Mount Bromo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Mount Bromo?

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 Mount Bromo. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Bromo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budget Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Bromo or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $83, while the average daily cost in Mount Bromo is $23. 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 Mount Bromo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $45
    Mount Bromo $11
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $90
    Mount Bromo $22
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Mount Bromo

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Mount Bromo? 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.

Hotels in Bangkok


Hotels in Mount Bromo


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $6.27
    Mount Bromo $7.62
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.37
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.74
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.95
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.77
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.41
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.67
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.48
  • Trains to airport
    $4.74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Don Mueang Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Koh Chang: $330
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Transfer to Pattaya: $298
  • Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Transfer to Pattaya hotels: $298
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Surat Thani with 2h of Sightseeing: $251
  • Bangkok Hotel Transfer: to/from Koh Chang Hotel Transfer: $237
  • Private Transfer to/from Ao Thammachat, Koh Chang Pier & BKK: $236
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Lampang with 2h of Sightseeing: $235
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Aranyaprathet: $226
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Trat: $224
  • Private Transfer from Ayutthaya to Hua Hin: $220
  • Bangkok transfer: From/ To Laem Sok Pier: $207
  • From Hotel Transfer to Koh Chang: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Mount Bromo?

Prices for flights to both Mount Bromo 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 day
    Bangkok $20
    Mount Bromo $5.54
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)
    $27
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $5.93
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.33
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.89
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $5.93
  • Pad Thai
    $2.07
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $16
  • Lunch for 2
    $22

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: $21
  • Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $23
  • River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
  • Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $26
  • Traditional Thai Cooking Class with Local Market: $26
  • Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $27
  • White Orchid Dinner Cruise Luxury Experience in Bangkok: $27
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $27
  • Must-try: Hidden Bangkok Bike and Food Tour: $28
  • Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $30
  • Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $30
  • Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $17
    Mount Bromo $8.55
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
    $4.74
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $10
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.48
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $5.93
  • Club Cover Charge
    $11
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $71
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.45
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $2.96
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Ayutthaya Historic Park Group Tour from Bangkok: $65
  • Ayutthaya Historic Park Tour Group Tour from Bangkok: $55
  • Bangkok Thrilling Tuk Tuk Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $95
  • Full-Day Erawan Waterfall and River Kwai Private Guided Tour: $150
  • Mystical Waterfall and River Kwai Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $198
  • (Join Tour) BANGKOK 'S 2 HOURS CANAL TOUR: $86
  • 1 Hour Heritage Cruise In Ayutthaya with Classical Dance: $15
  • 1 Hour Heritage Cruise in Ayutthaya with Traditional Dance: $15
  • 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $125
  • 2 Hour Private Bangkok Chinatown Sightseeing and Foodie Tour: $62
  • 2-Day River Kwai Jungle Rafts Experience from Bangkok: $220
  • 2-Day River Kwai and Kanchanaburi Tour from Bangkok: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $6.49
    Mount Bromo $4.81
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • The Bangkok Pub Crawl: $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Mount Bromo, we can see that Bangkok is more expensive. And not only is Mount Bromo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mount Bromo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangkok Expensive? and Is Mount Bromo Expensive?.