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

Should you visit Bangkok or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 vibrant, high energy, and cultural 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, theater, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, music, beaches, and hiking, while Bangkok is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Bangkok different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Bangkok on the map. 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for theatre. However, Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Bangkok is not a theatre destination.

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

Bangkok is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Bangkok is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Seattle has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Seattle?

Bangkok is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Bangkok is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Families?

Bangkok is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bangkok is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly capital city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Couples?

Bangkok is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a very popular capital city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Seattle is a good capital city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Bangkok or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

Is Bangkok or Seattle 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 Seattle.

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 Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Bangkok or Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Seattle?

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

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Seattle. 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle?

Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This capital city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Seattle, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Seattle?

Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Bangkok has to offer.

In Seattle, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Seattle has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Seattle?

Bangkok 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 Bangkok has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Seattle?

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

Seattle 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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Seattle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Seattle. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Seattle. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Bangkok is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Seattle. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February.

Should I visit Bangkok or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Bangkok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Seattle. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Bangkok