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

Should you visit Bangkok or Valletta?

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 Valletta 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Valletta?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bangkok than Valletta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bangkok is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Valletta is more popular for its beaches and historical sights. Bangkok is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Bangkok different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Bangkok and Valletta have world-class landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Valletta both to be world-class 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 Valletta, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Bangkok is a must-see 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a town with a few options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Valletta is revered around the world. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Valletta?

Bangkok is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Valletta 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.

Valletta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Is Bangkok or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Bangkok or Valletta 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 Valletta.

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 Valletta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Bangkok or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Valletta?

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

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Valletta. 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 Valletta than Bangkok. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Valletta that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Valletta 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 Valletta?

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 Valletta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Valletta?

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 Valletta, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valletta has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Valletta?

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.

Valletta is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Valletta?

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 Valletta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Valletta?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 750 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Bangkok or Valletta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Valletta. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok usually gets more rain in July than Valletta. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. In the summer, Bangkok often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

In July, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October. It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Valletta. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Valletta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Valletta in the Winter?

Both Valletta 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Valletta. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Valletta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Valletta averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Should I visit Bangkok or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Valletta. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok. In April, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Valletta. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Typical Weather for Valletta and Bangkok