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

Should you visit Bangkok or Portland?

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 Portland 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Portland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok than Portland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bangkok is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, and small town charm. 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. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Bangkok different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Bangkok is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Bangkok is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland 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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Portland?

Bangkok is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Families?

Bangkok is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Couples?

Bangkok is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Bangkok or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a city with good options for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bangkok and Portland.

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 Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Bangkok or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Portland. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bangkok.

One day in Bangkok or Portland?

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

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

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

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. 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 Portland has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Portland?

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

Portland 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 Portland?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Portland?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Portland, 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.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok or Portland?

Portland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bangkok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Portland. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. In the summer, Bangkok often gets less sunshine than Portland. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bangkok is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Portland. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Should I visit Bangkok or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Bangkok during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Portland. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Portland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Bangkok is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Portland during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Portland and Bangkok