A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Bangkok for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cesis or Bangkok?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Bangkok 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.

Cesis

Cesis is a quaint, small, and authentic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Cesis is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a cultural, alluring, and spirited 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bangkok travel costs.

Cesis and Bangkok: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
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


Is there more to do in Cesis or Bangkok?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok. Although Cesis and Bangkok are popular destinations, Bangkok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Bangkok is more touristy than Cesis and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Cesis is famous for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Bangkok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Bangkok? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Bangkok

Cesis is a town with a few options for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Cesis is a good place to visit the old town. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.


Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Bangkok

Cesis is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Bangkok make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Bangkok More Beautiful?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.


Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for Families?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bangkok is a very kid-friendly capital city. 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for Couples?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Bangkok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bangkok. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.


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

Cesis
Bangkok

Bangkok is well known for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bangkok can get you to some places easily. 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 quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Bangkok a more walkable city?

Cesis
Bangkok

Cesis is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Cesis is somewhat walkable. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangkok or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Bangkok?

Both Cesis and Bangkok have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Bangkok.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Cesis 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 Cesis or Bangkok? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Bangkok 2-7

One day in Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cesis has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis is a great place to explore. 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.

Bangkok is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or Bangkok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. Since Cesis is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand.


Which place is cheaper, Bangkok or Cesis?

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 Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Bangkok is €90. 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 Cesis and Bangkok in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Bangkok 43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Bangkok 86
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Bangkok

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Bangkok? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Bangkok


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.
    Cesis 30
    Bangkok 5.59

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

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


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    2.14
  • Skytrain Ticket
    4.28
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    0.86
  • Ferry Ride
    0.70
  • Taxi From Airport
    6.68
  • Short Taxi Ride
    2.41
  • Boat Taxi
    1.34
  • Trains to airport
    4.28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Affordable Bangkok Airport Transfer: $22
  • Airport Private Transfers from Suvarnabhumi BKK to Bangkok City: $33
  • Airport Transfer Camry/Fortuner or Similar : $45
  • Airport Transfer Luxury Sedan Mercedes E Class BMW 5 Series: $98
  • Airport Transfer to​ or from Hotel in Bangkok (Private Transport): $58
  • Airport Transfer: Bangkok Airport BKK to Bangkok by Luxury Van: $107
  • Airport transfer to Bangkok downtown: $26
  • Arrival Bangkok Airport Private Transfer : Trat/ Koh Chang: $135
  • Arrival Transfer Bangkok Airport BKK to Bangkok City by Sedan: $71
  • Arrival Transfer from BKK Airport to Bangkok Hotel: $15
  • Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok with Hotel Transfers: $85
  • Ayutthaya Floating Market Admission Ticket with Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Bangkok?

Prices for flights to both Bangkok and Cesis 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
    Cesis 71
    Bangkok 31
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

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)
    24
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    5.35
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    1.20
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    0.80
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    5.35
  • Pad Thai
    1.87
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    15
  • Lunch for 2
    20

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.
    Cesis 16
    Bangkok 15

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
    4.28
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    9.36
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    1.34
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    5.35
  • Club Cover Charge
    10
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    64
  • Fish Pedicure
    4.01
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    2.67
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    11

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

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

  • Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Thailand's Modern Politics: $5.00
  • Bangkok Noi Canal: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Bangkok's Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Bangkok City Session Walking Tour: $8.18
  • Grand Palace Self-Guided Walking Tour (entry not incl.): $9.00
  • Space and Time Cube Tickets in Bangkok: $9.66
  • Ancient City Bangkok and Erawan Museum Tickets: $10
  • Erawan Museum Ticket (NON THAI): $10
  • Half Day Coral Island Tour from Pattaya With Lunch: $11
  • Erawan Museum at Bangkok Admission Ticket: $13
  • Explore Brilliant Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $14
  • Bangkok Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Bangkok 4.81

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

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


  • Beer
    1.07

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 Cesis and Bangkok, we can see that Cesis is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cesis is in Europe and Bangkok is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Cesis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cesis 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 Cesis Expensive? and Is Bangkok Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Bangkok?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Bangkok, 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 Cesis or Bangkok?

Cesis 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 Cesis or Bangkok in the Summer?

Both Bangkok and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Cesis is generally much colder than Bangkok. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 17°C (63°F), and Bangkok fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. In July, Cesis usually receives less rain than Bangkok. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Bangkok 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Bangkok in the Autumn?

Both Bangkok and Cesis during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round.

Cesis is much colder than Bangkok in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Bangkok fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in October than Bangkok. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Bangkok 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Bangkok in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Bangkok. Many travelers come to Cesis for the cuisine. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cesis. In the winter, Cesis is much colder than Bangkok. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cesis in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Bangkok averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In January, Cesis usually receives more rain than Bangkok. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Bangkok 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Bangkok in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Bangkok. Many visitors come to Cesis in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year.

In April, Cesis is generally much colder than Bangkok. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 5°C (42°F), and Bangkok fluctuates around 31°C (87°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in April than Bangkok. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Bangkok 31°C (87°F)

Typical Weather for Bangkok and Cesis

Cesis Bangkok
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 27°C (80°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 28°C (82°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 29°C (85°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 31°C (87°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 30°C (86°F) 220 mm (8.7 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 29°C (85°F) 149 mm (5.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 29°C (84°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 29°C (84°F) 197 mm (7.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 28°C (83°F) 344 mm (13.5 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 28°C (83°F) 242 mm (9.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 27°C (81°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)