A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Bandung for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Pattaya or Bandung?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Bandung 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.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pattaya travel costs.

Bandung

Bandung is a scenic, laidback, and cultural city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Bandung travel costs.

Pattaya and Bandung: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Bandung?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pattaya than Bandung. While Bandung is larger than Pattaya, Pattaya has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pattaya is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bandung attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and shopping. Pattaya is more touristy than Bandung and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also well known for the Sanctuary of Truth. Bandung is famous for its fashion and shopping outlets, its local street food, and its cooler temperatures.

How is Pattaya different from Bandung?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Bandung?

Bandung is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bandung. The city is filled with museums and landmarks like the Sri Baduga Museum, which displays prehistoric artifacts. There's also the Asian African Conference Museum, a geology museum, and the Indonesia Postal Museum. The Mandala Wangsit Siliwangi Museum shows items relating to Indonesian wars and weapons while the Virajati Seskoad Museum has information on the Indonesian Army school.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Bandung? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bandung is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Bandung have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is a wonderful foodie destination with tons of street food and local options. The population is predominantly Sundanese, and the cuisine reflects that. The dishes involve a lot of raw vegetables and fresh ingredients. Make sure you try the batagor (fried tofu), soto Bandung (meat soup), and siomay (fish or chicken dumplings).

Dining out in Pattaya is an experience not to be missed. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Bandung is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Pattaya is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

Bandung has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a large student population and a number of bars around town. The nightlife has a laidback vibe and many people enjoy hanging out with friends a local pub.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Bandung is not a resort destination.

Pattaya is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Bandung is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bandung is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Pattaya has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Bandung is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Bandung is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is considered a top beach destination. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Bandung is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Hiking?

Bandung is a great city for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bandung for the hiking trails. There are tons of great hiking trails just outside of town. Some are undiscovered while others are more popular. The trails will take you through forests, by volcanoes, and to dramatic craters.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Bandung?

Bandung is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Bandung draws large crowds to its stores. This is the ultimate shopping destination in Indonesia. Visitors come from throughout the country and abroad to buy designer goods and name brands, often at a discount price. You'll find both knock-offs and authentic merchandise, so be aware when you're purchasing something, which you might be buying.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Families?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bandung is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Pattaya is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bandung. Kids will enjoy taking in a cultural show with traditional dance and music. Near the city you can also get outside and enjoy the stunning scenery at White Crater or Gunung Tangkuban Perahu. There's also the Bandung Geological Museum and Trans Studio amusement park.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Couples?

Bandung is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Bandung is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. While most honeymooners make their way to a beautiful Indonesian beach, if you're looking for a break from the heat then this city makes a good stopover. The city is near many beautiful outdoor settings such as the White Crater. There are also many nice luxury resorts and hotels.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bandung is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bandung. Backpackers love Indonesia and this city is no exception. There are plenty of hostels around town and many great activities to enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Students?

Bandung is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Pattaya is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Bandung. Many of the expats in town are students, so you'll have a number of people to hang out with. This is also an affordable town for study abroad.

Pattaya is not popular with students.

Is Pattaya or Bandung Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya and Bandung both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pattaya offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Bandung has a few public transit options. There are both public buses and a public van service (Angkutan Kota) that operates on set routes.

Is Pattaya or Bandung a more walkable city?

Bandung is a great city for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Bandung is a very walkable city. There are a number of walkable neighborhoods around town.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Bandung Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bandung or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Bandung?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pattaya and Bandung. In our opinion, Bandung has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bandung than Pattaya. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bandung than Pattaya 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 Bandung.

One day in Pattaya or Bandung?

In Pattaya, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This resort city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bandung, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Pattaya or Bandung?

In Pattaya, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pattaya has to offer.

In Bandung, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bandung has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Bandung?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Bandung 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 Pattaya or Bandung?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Pattaya. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bandung. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bandung. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pattaya and Bandung, we can see that Pattaya is more expensive. And not only is Bandung much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bandung would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bandung 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 Pattaya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pattaya than you might in Bandung.

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Bandung?

Bandung has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Bandung, 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.