A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Hong Kong for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Hong Kong. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a dense, cosmopolitan, and glamorous city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Bucharest. Hong Kong is bigger than Bucharest, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its historical sights. Hong Kong is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hong Kong and Bucharest. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.


Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Hong Kong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Hong Kong, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is well known for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Hong Kong for it's beautiful beaches. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.


Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bucharest. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hong Kong make it a world-class shopping destination. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.


Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Families?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hong Kong is very family-friendly. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Hong Kong is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Bucharest and Hong Kong are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Bucharest or Hong Kong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its public transit. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Hong Kong has a great public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Bucharest offers a very effecient public transportation network. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Bucharest or Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hong Kong on foot is easy. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Both Bucharest and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Bucharest. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hong Kong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong than Bucharest 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 Hong Kong.


  • How many days in Bucharest or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bucharest. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Bucharest. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered city of Bucharest. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Bucharest is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania.


Which place is cheaper, Hong Kong or Bucharest?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $140, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $160. 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 Bucharest and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $64
    Hong Kong $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $128
    Hong Kong $150
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Hong Kong? 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.

Hotels in Bucharest


Hotels in Hong Kong


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Hong Kong $8.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Transfert Privat București: $61
  • Transfers to Danube Port: Bucharest - Navrom Tulcea: $133
  • Transfer from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest: $30
  • Transfer From Bucharest Airport To Sofia Bulgaria: $296
  • Transfer Bucharest to/from Giurgiu Cruise Port: $143
  • Transfer Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) to/from Brasov: $249
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $293
  • Transfer Airport Otopeni - Bucharest: $44
  • Transfer Aeroport Otopeni: $66
  • Transfer & Access for 4.5-Hour at Therme Bucuresti: $60
  • Targoviste to Bucharest - Private Transfer - Car and Driver: $189
  • Salt Mine Entrance Ticket and Transfer from Bucharest: $60

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.82
  • Local Bus
    $2.82
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong and Bucharest 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bucharest $59
    Hong Kong $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bucharest.

  • Dinner and tour inside the Museum of Communism: $51
  • Dinner inside the Museum of Communism & private tour: $54
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $61
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $67
  • Bucharest Historical Food Tour in Old Center: $72
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $86
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $88
  • Discover Private Highlights and Traditional Food Tour: $110
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $143
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $206

Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Hong Kong $95

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

Here are a few actual costs in Bucharest for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest: $254
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $105
  • Dracula's Castle & Peles Palace Tour from Bucharest Including Brasov Old Town: $189
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $94
  • Walking Tour - Delightful Bucharest (Old Town & Victory Avenue): $14
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $176
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $211
  • 10 h Ceausescu Communism Private Tour in Bucharest plus Dracula's Grave : $244
  • 10 hours Private Apiary Tour in Romania - From Bucharest: $278
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $263
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,820
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $570

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.68
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.33
    Hong Kong $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $38
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $48
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $52
  • Bucharest Guided Pub Crawl: $53
  • Guided Pub Crawl in Bucharest: $57
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $58
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $60
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $61
  • Wine Tasting in Bucharest long version: $65


When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and Hong Kong, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Bucharest is in Europe and Hong Kong is in Asia, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bucharest Expensive? and Is Hong Kong Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bucharest. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Hong Kong, 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.