A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Fiordland National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

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 Fiordland National Park 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 high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Bangkok is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Bangkok travel costs.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a iconic, breathtaking, and world famous national park. The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Bangkok and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Milford Track
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Fiordland National Park are both popular with visitors, Bangkok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bangkok is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Fiordland National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also home to The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Fiordland National Park is popular for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Bangkok different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fiordland National Park 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 Fiordland National Park?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Bangkok from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Bangkok has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Bangkok just to party. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Bangkok. 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.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park More Beautiful?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

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.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

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.


Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Both Bangkok and Fiordland National Park are amazing 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.

Fiordland National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok and Fiordland National Park are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Fiordland National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors to Bangkok can move around easily with public transportation. 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 limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.


Is Bangkok or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Fiordland National Park

Bangkok and Fiordland National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

Bangkok is generally not very walkable. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

Fiordland National Park is generally not a very walkable capital city. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

Bangkok and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bangkok than Fiordland National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Fiordland National Park. 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 Fiordland National Park 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.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Fiordland National Park 3-6

One day in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park 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 Fiordland National Park?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Fiordland National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fiordland National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Fiordland National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Fiordland National Park 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 Fiordland National Park is $113. 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 Fiordland National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $50
    Fiordland National Park $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $100
    Fiordland National Park $96
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Fiordland National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Fiordland National Park? 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 Fiordland National Park


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
    Fiordland National Park $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:

  • Tuk-tuk tour Bangkok by Night with Chinatown meal and hotel transfers: $64
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Pattaya APT-HTL (DMK): $20
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Rayong Province: $100
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Pattaya: $69
  • Transfer from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to HuaHin: $86
  • Transfer from DMK Donmuaeng International Airport to BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport: $34
  • Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to khao Yai National Park: $86
  • Transfer from BKK Suvarnabhumi International Airport to DMK Donmuang Airport: $34
  • Transfer from BKK Airport to Bangkok City: $30
  • Suvarnabhumi Airport BKK to Kanchanaburi Private Arrival Transfer: $101
  • Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Private Transfer to Bangkok Centre: $23
  • Sedan Arrival Transfer Bangkok Airport BKK to Bangkok or Pattaya: $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Fiordland National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fiordland National Park 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
    Fiordland National Park $39
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
    Fiordland National Park $20
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 Fiordland National Park

For Fiordland National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour with Local Guide: $139
  • Milford Sound: Premium Small Group Cruise with Canape Lunch: $404

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $5.65
    Fiordland National Park $8.03
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 comparing the travel costs between Bangkok and Fiordland National Park, we can see that Fiordland National Park 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 Bangkok is in Asia and Fiordland National Park is in Pacific, 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 Bangkok Expensive? and Is Fiordland National Park Expensive?.