Which place is cheaper, Yogyakarta or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
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 Yogyakarta 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 Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Bangkok travel costs.
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a colorful, youthful, and cultural city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Yogyakarta travel costs.
Bangkok and Yogyakarta: Pros and Cons
Bangkok
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Yogyakarta
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Home to Borobudur Temple
- Less popular with couples
- Public transit not as usable
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok than Yogyakarta. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bangkok is very popular for its food, nightlife, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta attracts visitors for its historical sights. 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. Yogyakarta is famous for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows.
How is Bangkok different from Yogyakarta?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Both Bangkok and Yogyakarta have terrific 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 Yogyakarta are world-renowned. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.
Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Yogyakarta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
For foodies, Bangkok is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Yogyakarta is an experience not to be missed. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.
Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for its Old Town?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.
Yogyakarta is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.
Bangkok does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Shopping is a popular activity in both Yogyakarta and Bangkok.
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.
Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta More Beautiful?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.
Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Families?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
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.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.
Bangkok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.
Yogyakarta is a good capital city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yogyakarta 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.
Yogyakarta is a very popular capital city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Students?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a city with good options for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.
Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.
Bangkok is not popular with students.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Bangkok is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options for its public transit.
Bangkok has some very good 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 generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.
Is Bangkok or Yogyakarta a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Yogyakarta is somewhat walkable. Many of the main sights are accessible 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 Yogyakarta Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Yogyakarta or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
It's fun to spend time in either Bangkok or Yogyakarta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bangkok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-4 days is enough time in Yogyakarta.
Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta 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.
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How many days in Bangkok or Yogyakarta? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Yogyakarta 2-4
One day in Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
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 Yogyakarta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Yogyakarta?
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 Yogyakarta, 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 Yogyakarta has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
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.
Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta?
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 Yogyakarta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Yogyakarta. 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 Adventure Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia.
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Bangkok Prices
Thailand PricesYogyakarta Prices
Indonesia Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $102Yogyakarta $59
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $102, while the average daily cost in Yogyakarta is $59. 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 Yogyakarta in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $49Yogyakarta $33
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $98Yogyakarta $66
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Yogyakarta
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Yogyakarta? 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.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $6.36Yogyakarta $1.19
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$2.43
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Skytrain Ticket$4.86
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Chao Phraya River Express Ticket$0.97
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Ferry Ride$0.79
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Taxi From Airport$7.60
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Short Taxi Ride$2.74
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Boat Taxi$1.52
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Trains to airport$4.86
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- oneway transfer service Bangkok-Hua hin: $77
- Tuk-tuk tour Bangkok by Night with Chinatown meal and hotel transfers: $61
- Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Rayong Province: $95
- Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to HuaHin: $82
- Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Bangkok city: $30
- Transfer from DMK Donmuaeng International Airport to BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport: $33
- Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Huahin: $82
- Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to DMK Donmuang Airport: $33
- Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Ayuttaya: $49
- Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport to Rayong Province: $82
- Transfer Suvarnabhumi Airport(BKK) to Bangkok City Center: $19
- Transfer From Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok Hotel or Vice Versa: $41
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yogyakarta
Also for Yogyakarta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- From Roundtrip Transfer to Borobudur Temple: $15
- From/To Yogyakarta Airport Private Transfer: $36
- Indonesia: Yogyakarta Airport Transfer: $13
- Jepara & One Way Private Transfer: $110
- Jomblang Cave Day Trip with Hotel Transfer: $30
- Jomblang Cave Tour from Yogyakarta with Hotel Transfer: $60
- Private Transfer Airport Jogyakarta ( Adisucipto ): $25
- Private Transfer Airport Yogyakarta (JOG) to All City Destination: $7.00
- Private Transfer from Banguntapan to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $72
- Private Transfer from Borobudur to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $78
- Private Transfer from Brontokusuman to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $34
- Private Transfer from Cokrodiningratan to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $36
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
Prices for flights to both Yogyakarta 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 $35Yogyakarta $18
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)$27
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Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$6.08
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2 Rotis (Bread)$1.37
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Mango & Sticky Rice$0.91
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Lunch at KFC (for Two)$6.08
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Pad Thai$2.13
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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.
- Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck Ticket with Buffet Lunch or Dinner: $24
- Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck With Buffet Dinner or Lunch: $24
- Meridian Sunset Cruise Dinner Buffet from Bangkok: $25
- Chao Phraya Princess Sunset and Dinner Cruise: $26
- Bangkok Sawasdee Sunset Dinner Cruise from ICONSIAM+Beer FreeFlow: $26
- Baiyoke Sky Dinner Experience with Observation Deck Access: $28
- Chao Phraya River Meridian Dinner Buffet Cruise Tour: $28
- Chao Phraya Princess Bangkok Sunset Dinner Cruise: $28
- Thai Cooking Class in Bangkok's Old Town with Market Tour: $29
- Alangka Bangkok Sunset Dinner Cruise: $29
- Pink Chili - Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Bangkok: $30
- Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok: $30
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yogyakarta
For Yogyakarta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Ramayana Show with Transfer, Entry Fee & Dinner: $13
- Night Walking & Street Food Tour: $21
- Guided City Walk and Food Tour: $23
- Morning Walk and Food Tour: $23
- Ramayana Ballet Performance with Optional Dinner: $28
- Yogyakarta Historical and Food Tour: $29
- Yogyakarta Evening Walking and Food Tour: $30
- Yogyakarta Cooking Class and Market Tour: $32
- Nighttime Walk and Food Tour: $32
- Small-Group Walking and Food Tour by Night in Yogyakarta: $33
- Cooking Class with Market Visit and Hotel Pickup: $33
- Prawirotaman Night Food Tour: $35
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $17Yogyakarta $14
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$4.86
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Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$11
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Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.52
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Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$6.08
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Club Cover Charge$11
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Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$73
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Fish Pedicure$4.56
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Wat Pho entrance ticket$3.04
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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 Walking Hopping Tour" show city’s historic sights are located.: $75
- 2 Days Ayutthaya Authentic Tour with the Local: $273
- 2 Days Private Experience from Bangkok Big City Farm: $250
- 2 Hour Electric Tuk Tuk Cultural Tour of Bangkok: $29
- 2 Hour Longtail Boat Bangkok Canal Tour: $79
- 2 Hours TukTuk Adventure Bangkok Highlights: $29
- 2-Day River Kwai Adventure with 1-Night Stay at Resotel: $240
- 2-hour SUNSET Canal Tour + FOODS Tasting with Tour Guide: $50
- 3 Days Bangkok Experience with Accommodation & Top Sightseeing: $181
- 3 Hour Bus Tour in Ayutthaya Heritage and Temples: $34
- 3 Hours Heritage Ayutthaya Bus Tour to Famous Temples: $27
- 3 Hours Private Bangkok Highlights Tour by Public Transport: $87
Tours and Activities in Yogyakarta
For Yogyakarta, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Chicken Church at Karangrejo Village Admission Ticket: $1.73
- Obelix Hills Entry Ticket: $2.18
- Indonesia: Ratu Boko Temple Entrance ticket: $3.95
- HeHa Sky View Admission Ticket: $3.96
- YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR,SULTAN PALACE,WATER CASTLE AND CRAFTS.: $6.23
- Airport Handling Service - Admission Ticket: $12
- Prambanan Temple Afternoon Tour: $12
- Indonesia: Borobudur Temple Entrance Ticket: $13
- Prambanan Temple: Half-Day Guided Tour From Yogyakarta: $14
- Borobudur(Guarantee Climb up) Shared Guide Tour: $15
- Jomblang Cave & Pindul Cave Adventur Tour: $15
- Yogayakarta : Jomblang Cave and Pindul Cave Tour: $15
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $5.55Yogyakarta $4.43
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$1.22
Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:
- The Original Speakeasy & Iconic Venues Pub Crawl: $21
- Bangkok Bar Crawl by Tuk Tuk: $68
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Yogyakarta, we can see that Bangkok is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta 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 Bangkok would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bangkok than you might in Yogyakarta.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangkok Expensive? and Is Yogyakarta Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Yogyakarta?
Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Yogyakarta. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Yogyakarta, 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.