Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bangkok or Queenstown?
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 Queenstown 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 spirited, colorful, and vibrant 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.
Queenstown
Queenstown is a adventure-filled, outdoorsy, and nature-oriented city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.
Bangkok and Queenstown: 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
- Less walkable
Queenstown
Pros- Popular for skiing
- Active nightlife
- Good for hiking
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Very walkable
- Impressive beauty
- Less museums and historical sights
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Queenstown?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Queenstown are both popular with visitors, Bangkok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bangkok is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Queenstown is known for its skiing and hiking. 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. Queenstown is popular for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery.
How is Bangkok different from Queenstown?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Bangkok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Skiing?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Queenstown is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Bangkok is not a skiing destination.
Visitors will find world class skiing in Queenstown. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.
Bangkok is not a skiing destination.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Queenstown?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Bangkok is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.
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.
While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Foodies will find both Bangkok and Queenstown both to be fantastic 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 Queenstown, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Bangkok is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.
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.
Queenstown has a large number of nightlife venues. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Hiking?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Queenstown is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.
Around Queenstown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.
Bangkok is not a hiking destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Queenstown?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Bangkok is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.
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.
Queenstown is well-known for its shopping. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Families?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Both Bangkok and Queenstown are very good 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, Queenstown is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Both Bangkok and Queenstown are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.
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.
Queenstown is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Bangkok and Queenstown are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and 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.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Queenstown is extremely popular for backpackers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Students?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Queenstown is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.
Students come from all over to stay in Queenstown. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.
Bangkok is not popular with students.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Bangkok is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Bangkok is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.
Queenstown has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.
Is Bangkok or Queenstown a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Queenstown
Queenstown is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Queenstown is very walkable. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached 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 Queenstown Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Queenstown?
Both Bangkok and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Queenstown than Bangkok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Queenstown, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Queenstown. 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.
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How many days in Bangkok or Queenstown? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Queenstown 2-7
One day in Bangkok or Queenstown?
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 Queenstown, you'll find skiing 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 Queenstown?
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 Queenstown, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Queenstown has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Queenstown?
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.
Queenstown is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Bangkok or Queenstown?
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 Queenstown. In Queenstown, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $86Queenstown $111
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $86, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is $111. 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 Queenstown in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $47Queenstown $59
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $94Queenstown $118
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Queenstown
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Queenstown? 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 Queenstown Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $6.53Queenstown $11
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$2.47
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Skytrain Ticket$4.94
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Chao Phraya River Express Ticket$0.99
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Ferry Ride$0.80
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Taxi From Airport$7.72
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Short Taxi Ride$2.78
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Boat Taxi$1.54
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Trains to airport$4.94
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- Bus transfer from/to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport: $7.66
- Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $8.75
- Ayothaya Floating Market Admission Ticket with Transfer(Optional): $9.19
- Bangkok Private Airport (BKK And DMK) Transfer: $14
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Arrival Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Departure Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
- BANGKOK TRANSFER: Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel + FREE WIFI: $15
- Bangkok DonMueang Airport Private Transfer To City Or To Airport: $17
- Arrival Transfer from BKK Airport to Bangkok Hotel: $17
- Transfer Bangkok City Center to Suvarnabhumi Airport(BKK): $18
- Private Bangkok Airport Transfer: $18
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Shared Arrival Transfer : $18
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:
- From Mount Cook Transfer w/ Guided Landmark Tour: $107
- Private Queenstown Airport to Hotel Transfers : $87
- Private Transfer from Queenstown Central to Wanaka: $183
- Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Airport: $183
- Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Central: $183
- Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka : $183
- QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels: $70
- QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels: $60
- Queenstown Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Queenstown: $35
- Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $791
- Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $977
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Queenstown?
Prices for flights to both Queenstown 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 $21Queenstown $38
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)$28
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Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$6.18
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2 Rotis (Bread)$1.39
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Mango & Sticky Rice$0.93
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Lunch at KFC (for Two)$6.18
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Pad Thai$2.16
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Airport Lunch for 2$17
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Lunch for 2$23
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 Sky Observation Deck With Dinner or Lunch & Thai Massage: $23
- Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $24
- River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
- Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $26
- Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $26
- 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $27
- Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $27
- Royal Princess Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $30
- Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $30
- Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $30
- Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $30
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.
- Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $18
- Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $118
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $18Queenstown $23
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$4.94
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Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$11
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Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.54
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Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$6.18
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Club Cover Charge$12
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Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$74
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Fish Pedicure$4.63
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Wat Pho entrance ticket$3.09
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Siriraj Museum (2)$12
Tours and Activities in Bangkok
Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Bangkok Chinatown Eats: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.13
- Skip the Line: Ayutthaya Floating Market Admission Ticket: $5.89
- Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.90
- Chinatown by Night Walking Tour in Bangkok: $6.42
- A Self-Guided Tour of Bangkok's Most Picturesque Sights: $6.99
- Bangkok's Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
- Chinatown Mystery Quest Experience in Bangkok: $7.24
- Chinatown & Golden Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl): $10
- Three Head Giant Elephant & Erawan Museum in Bangkok Admission Ticket: $11
- Nakhon Pathom Ancient Capital Classic Day Tour: $12
- Discover a Taste of Chinatown – 2 Hr Walking Tour: $12
- Erawan Museum in Bangkok Admission Ticket: $13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:
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Skyline Gondola (for 2)$32
Tours and Activities in Queenstown
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:
- Time Tripper Underwater Experience: $12
- Skip the Line: Odyssey Sensory Maze Entry Queenstown Ticket: $20
- Private Race Car Simulation Experience: $21
- Escape Adventure AR Experience in Queenstown: $24
- Augmented Reality Escape Adventure: $24
- Fear Factory Haunted House Admission Ticket: $24
- Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options: $27
- Go Karts - Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park: $30
- Kiwi Park Admission Ticket: $37
- Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise: $42
- Kids Club Experience Including Childcare: $49
- Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour: $56
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $6.76Queenstown $9.50
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$1.24
Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:
- Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure: $23
- Pub Crawl: $27
Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:
- Ice Bar Crawl: $24
- Jump on the Wine Hopper - Queenstown's Flexible Wine Tour!: $54
- Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $55
- Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch: $113
- Afternoon Wine Tasting Tour with 3 Wineries: $119
- Original Wine Tour: $121
- Classic Wine Tour: $122
- Queenstown Valley of the Vines Afternoon Wine Tour | Adults Only: $136
- Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $136
- Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Vineyards, Caves and Cheeseboard: $136
- Wine Tasting Tour: $140
- Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog | Adults Only: $142
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Queenstown, we can see that Queenstown 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 Queenstown is in Pacific, 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 Queenstown would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Queenstown 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 Queenstown Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Queenstown?
Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 490 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Queenstown, 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.