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

Should you visit Bangkok or Te Anau?

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 Te Anau 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 colorful, vibrant, and high energy capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Te Anau

Te Anau is a pristine, breathtaking, and stunning town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food and hiking.

Bangkok and Te Anau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Te Anau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Te Anau are popular destinations, Bangkok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Te Anau attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is famous for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Te Anau is famous for being the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

How is Bangkok different from Te Anau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bangkok is renowned for its museums and history. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Bangkok are world-renowned. 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.

Te Anau offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town is about the surrounding outdoor activities but you will find the Te Anau Vintage Machinery Museum and the Te Anau Trout Observatory in town.

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

Bangkok is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Te Anau is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Dining out in Te Anau is an experience not to be missed. The town makes a great spot to refuel after all of your hiking and outdoor adventures. There are plenty of cafes and food trucks around town where you can enjoy local dishes and a friendly atmosphere.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Te Anau is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. This is a small town that's focused on outdoor activities, but it does receive a number of tourists, so you'll find a few bars around town where you can hang out.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau Better for Hiking?

Te Anau is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Te Anau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The town serves as basecamp for Fiordland National Park so there are many amazing hikes and walks in the area. Many of the hikes begin at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and range in length and the required skill level.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Te Anau?

Bangkok is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Bangkok draws large crowds to its 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.

Te Anau has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops where you can pick up any outdoor supplies and food items that you may need.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau Better for Families?

Te Anau is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Te Anau is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The town's proximity to the Milford Sound make it a nice base for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Kayaking or exploring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are favorite activities in the area. There's also the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and many hikes nearby.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Te Anau are world-class 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.

Te Anau is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The stunning scenery in the area, combined with small town charm, make this is a top couple's destination and a wonderful honeymoon spot. Couples who appreciate nature and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this amazing area.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Te Anau is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bangkok is extremely popular 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.

Te Anau is a very popular capital city for backpackers and budget travelers. For such a small town, there are a decent number of hostels and budget accommodation options in the area. The town makes a good base for exploring the region's stunning scenery.

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

Bangkok is a capital city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Bangkok has some public transit options. 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 limited or non-existant in Te Anau. Public transit in the area is limited and most visitors have their own car or join one of the many tours in the area.

Is Bangkok or Te Anau a more walkable city?

Bangkok and Te Anau both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Bangkok is generally not very walkable. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

Te Anau is generally not a very walkable capital city. Exploring the area requires a vehicle and, while there are many hikes in the area, it's not easy to walk to many places. There are tours available for those that don't have a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Te Anau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Te Anau or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Te Anau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangkok and Te Anau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Te Anau. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-3 days is enough time in Te Anau.

Families should spend more time in Te Anau than Bangkok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Te Anau, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Te Anau. 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 Te Anau 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 Te Anau?

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.

Te Anau is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town 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 Te Anau?

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.

Te Anau might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Te Anau has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Te Anau?

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.

Te Anau 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 Te Anau?

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 Te Anau. Since Te Anau is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Te Anau?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 2460 times larger than the population of Te Anau. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Te Anau, 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.