Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
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 Pittsburgh 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 museums, nightlife, and food.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Bangkok and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons
Bangkok
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
Pittsburgh
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Less popular for food
- Less popular for shopping
- Less popular with couples
- Less popular with backpackers
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
You'll generally find more things to do in Bangkok than Pittsburgh. Bangkok is bigger than Pittsburgh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bangkok is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Also, Bangkok is famous for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".
How is Bangkok different from Pittsburgh?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Bangkok has many famous sights for visitors. 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.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bangkok is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.
Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.
Bangkok is a world class 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.
Pittsburgh has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.
Many people travel to Bangkok specifically to go shopping. 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.
Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh Better for Families?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bangkok. 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.
Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.
Bangkok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.
Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination 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.
Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bangkok and Pittsburgh.
You'll find some public transit in Bangkok, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.
While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.
Is Bangkok or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around 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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Pittsburgh. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.
Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Pittsburgh 2-3
One day in Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
When visiting Bangkok, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
In Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh?
When visiting Bangkok, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.
In Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
Bangkok, a popular capital city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this capital city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh?
Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this capital city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pittsburgh. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pittsburgh. 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 Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $76Pittsburgh $181
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $76, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $41Pittsburgh $106
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $82Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Pittsburgh
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Pittsburgh? 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 Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $5.74Pittsburgh $22
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$2.17
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Skytrain Ticket$4.35
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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$6.79
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Short Taxi Ride$2.45
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Boat Taxi$1.36
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Trains to airport$4.35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- Don Mueang Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Koh Chang: $300
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Transfer to Pattaya: $290
- Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Transfer to Pattaya hotels: $290
- Private Transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with 2h of Sightseeing: $261
- Don Mueang Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Koh Chang: $243
- From Damnoen and Maeklong Markets Private Transfer: $232
- Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Trat: $216
- Bangkok Hotel Transfer: to/from Koh Chang Hotel Transfer: $216
- Private Transfer from Ayutthaya to Hua Hin: $213
- From Pattaya Private Day Trip with Transfer: $200
- Private Transfer from Don Muang Airport to Koh Chang Hotel: $199
- Bangkok transfer: From/ To Laem Sok Pier: $188
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh
Also for Pittsburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
- Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
- Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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 $18Pittsburgh $54
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)$24
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Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$5.43
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2 Rotis (Bread)$1.22
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Mango & Sticky Rice$0.82
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Lunch at KFC (for Two)$5.43
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Pad Thai$1.90
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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.
- Bangkok Food Tour and Sightseeing with Tuktuk: $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
- Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $23
- Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $25
- 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
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh
For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
- Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $16Pittsburgh $38
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$4.35
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Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$9.51
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Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.36
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Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$5.43
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Club Cover Charge$10
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Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$65
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Fish Pedicure$4.08
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Wat Pho entrance ticket$2.72
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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 Group Tour from Bangkok: $65
- Ayutthaya Historic Park Tour Group Tour from Bangkok: $55
- Ayutthaya Historic Park Tour Group Tour from Bangkok: $55
- Bangkok 5 Hour Cultural & Temples Tour Private: $82
- Full-Day Erawan Waterfall and River Kwai Private Guided Tour: $150
- Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour (Private & All-Inclusive): $146
- Private Customized Bangkok Tour With Driver : $50
- Sunset Sail, Glittering Temspls at Afternoon Ayutthaya Tours : $59
- Tuk-Tuk Tour Bangkok By Night With Chinatown Street: $64
- 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience : $17
- 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $113
- 2-Day River Kwai Experience from Bangkok: $224
Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.
- Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
- Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
- Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
- Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
- Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
- Public Art Walking Tour: $30
- Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
- Pittsburgh 101 Walking History Tour: $32
- Black & Ghost Tour: $33
- Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $33
- Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $5.95Pittsburgh $33
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 Pittsburgh
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:
- Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
- Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
- New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
- Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
- Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Pittsburgh?
Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Pittsburgh, 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.