A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Dalian for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Bangkok or Dalian?

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 Dalian 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.

Where Should I go: Bangkok or Dalian?

Bangkok

Bangkok: a name synonymous with all things exotic. The vibrant and exciting capital of Thailand is not just a hub for Southeast Asia, but also a destination into itself. Known for an active nightlife and party scene, as well as great food, historic temples, and busy markets, Bangkok offers a diversity to entertain even the most experienced travelers.

Dalian

Dalian, China is a very large peninsula city located in the southernmost part of the Liaoning Province in northeast China. The area has a wealth of history, with roots in Russian and Japanese rule, resulting in unique architecture and many universities that attract foreign students and teachers. Dalian is also known for their beautiful green spaces and relaxing beaches which juxtapose a lot of the more industrial cities found throughout other areas of northern China.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in China.


Which place is cheaper, Dalian or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $105, while the average daily cost in Dalian is $124. 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 Dalian in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $50
    Dalian $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $100
    Dalian $110
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Dalian

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Dalian? 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 Bangkok


Hotels in Dalian


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
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $6.57
    Dalian $41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.51
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $5.02
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $1.00
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.82
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.85
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.83
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.57
  • Trains to airport
    $5.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Lampang with 2h of Sightseeing: $250
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Trat: $238
  • Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Aranyaprathet: $220
  • Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Rayong: $206
  • Ayutthaya Tour with Premium Transfer & MICHELIN Lunch: $195
  • Limousine one way transfer: BKKAirport to/from ChaAm or Hua Hin: $191
  • Limousine one way transfer: BKKAirport to/from U-Tapao Airport: $191
  • Private Transfer Bangkok to Koh Chang Pier: $189
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Kanchanaburi: $189
  • Private Transfer from Don Mueang (DMK) Airport to Chanthaburi: $189
  • Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Kanchanaburi: $180
  • Private Transfer from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) Airport to Chanthaburi: $180

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dalian

Also for Dalian, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport Chauffeur Service , to Dalian Transfer: $27
  • Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport Chauffeur Service , to Dalian Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Dalian?

Prices for flights to both Dalian 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangkok $36
    Dalian $48
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $28
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $6.28
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.41
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.94
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $6.28
  • Pad Thai
    $2.20
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $17
  • 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 Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner : $22
  • Meridian Dinner and Sunset Cruise in Bangkok: $23
  • Royal Princess Dinner Cruise in Bangkok: $25
  • Chao Phraya Princess Sunset and Dinner Cruise: $27
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $29
  • Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $29
  • Baiyoke Sky Dinner Experience with Observation Deck Access: $29
  • Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck With Buffet Dinner or Lunch: $29
  • Bangkok Amazing Chaophraya River Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $32
  • Nopparat’s Traditional Thai Dinner & Dance: $32
  • Chao Phraya River Serenade: VIVA Alangka Dinner Cruise, Bangkok: $32
  • Riverside Bangkok Dinner Cruise with Buffet and City Views: $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $18
    Dalian $4.86
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $5.02
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $11
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.57
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $6.28
  • Club Cover Charge
    $12
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $75
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.71
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $3.14
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $13

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

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

  • A Day in Ayutthaya: Private 5 UNESCO Temples Tour From Bangkok: $126
  • Ayutthaya Historic Park Tour Group Tour from Bangkok: $55
  • Bangkok Hindu Landmark Tour with Grand Palace, Temples & Lunch: $169
  • Full-Day Erawan Waterfall and River Kwai Private Guided Tour: $150
  • Private Customized Bangkok Tour With Driver : $58
  • Private Half-Day Bangkok City Tour explore The Grand Palace: $144
  • UNESCO Temple Group Tour to Ayutthaya From Bangkok: $60
  • 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience : $20
  • 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $132
  • 2 Day Guided Tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya : $96
  • 2 Hour Electric Tuk Tuk Cultural Tour of Bangkok: $31
  • 2 Hour Longtail Boat Bangkok Canal Tour: $79

Tours and Activities in Dalian

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dalian.

  • Seaside and Skyline A Scenic Walking Tour of Dalian: $150
  • Waves & Wharfs: Dalian's Chill Soul 1-Day Tour: $215
  • Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way: $250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $5.65
    Dalian $6.41
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Bangkok Pub Crawl: $17
  • The Original Bangkok Pub Crawl: $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Dalian, we can see that Dalian is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Dalian would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dalian 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 Dalian Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Dalian?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Dalian. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Dalian, 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 Dalian?

Dalian has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bangkok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Dalian in the Summer?

Both Dalian and Bangkok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Dalian. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Dalian fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Dalian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets less rain in July than Dalian. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Dalian receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangkok 29°C (84°F) 
    Dalian 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Dalian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Dalian. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round.

Bangkok is much warmer than Dalian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Dalian fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Dalian. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Dalian receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangkok 28°C (83°F) 
    Dalian 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Dalian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Dalian. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

The weather in Dalian can be very cold. In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Dalian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Dalian averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Bangkok usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dalian. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dalian receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangkok 27°C (80°F) 
    Dalian -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Dalian in the Spring?

Both Dalian and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year.

In April, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Dalian. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Dalian fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In April, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Dalian. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dalian receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangkok 31°C (87°F) 
    Dalian 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Dalian and Bangkok

Bangkok Dalian
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) -4°C (25°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Mar 29°C (85°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Apr 31°C (87°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 30°C (86°F) 220 mm (8.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 29°C (85°F) 149 mm (5.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 197 mm (7.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 344 mm (13.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 242 mm (9.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) -0°C (32°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)