Hong Kong or Bangkok. Which is better? A detailed guide to help you decide.
Asia, a continent steeped in history and bursting with diverse cultures, offering countless cities that are worth exploring. Among them, Bangkok and Hong Kong stand out as two captivating metropolises, each boasting unique characteristics that make them unforgettable destinations. As a seasoned traveller who has had the privilege of experiencing both cities, I'm excited to share my honest opinion with you, about which of the two Asian megacities is the best destination.
The first-hand comparison is based on costs, culture, food, nightlife and tourist attractions, all of which add up to make both cities unique and amazing in their own way. Let’s find out whether Hong Kong or Bangkok makes it to the top of your bucket list.
Victoria Harbour skyline in Hong Kong.
Both Hong Kong and Thailand have a different kind of allure. Hong Kong is a modern and cosmopolitan city where the traditional and the contemporary intermingle. The city has a unique vibe that enthrals visitors with its towering skyscrapers, the bustling streets and neon-lit corners, and the divine smell of dim sum and noodle soups as they steam on the street stores downtown. Bangkok, on the other hand, has a more laid-back vibe with a mix of ancient temples, modern malls, and vibrant markets. The air in Bangkok is imbued with the scent of spicy street food stalls, and the streets are filled with quirky tuk-tuks and the deafening sound of backpackers and global visitors partying well into the night.
Is it cheaper to visit Hong Kong or Bangkok?
There is no comparison when it comes to the cheapest option between the two cities.
Hong Kong was ranked as the fourth most expensive city in the world, according to the World Economic Forum, whereas Thailand is still reasonably priced (although rising constantly).
Some comparisons are detailed below showing some cost differences between Hong Kong and Bangkok:
Five-star hotels.
(Prices off Booking.com for August 2023)
Bangkok.
Shangri-La Bangkok = £195.
Amari Watergate Bangkok = £155.
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok = £235.
Hong Kong.
The Peninsula Hong Kong = £470.
Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong = £350.
The Langham, Hong Kong = £313.
As you can see, Bangkok is significantly cheaper than Hong Kong for 5-star hotels. The average nightly price in Bangkok is nearly half of the price in Hong Kong.
Hostels.
Hostels in Bangkok are generally much cheaper than hostels in Hong Kong. The average price for a dorm bed in a hostel in Bangkok is around £5 - £15, while the average price for a dorm bed in a hostel in Hong Kong is around £15 - £30.
The average price for a private room in a hostel in Bangkok is around £30 - £55, while the average price for a private room in a hostel in Hong Kong is around £55 - £120.
Average meal.
A basic meal with drink at an inexpensive restaurant = ฿200 (around £4.50) - HK$60 (around £6).
Fast food combo meal = ฿150 (around £3.35) - HK$45 (around £4.50).
Bottle of Coca-Cola = ฿25 (around 50p) - HK$10 (around £1).
Bottle of water = ฿15 (around 33p) - HK$8 (around 80p).
This difference in prices is due to the different cost of living in the two cities. The cost of living in Bangkok is much lower than the cost of living in Hong Kong.
Is the food better in Hong Kong or Thailand?
Foodie lovers are in for a treat in both Thailand and Hong Kong, as they are both top destinations for Asian fusion cuisine. Both cities have a global reputation for top culinary prowess, whether it is off the street food vendors, or high-end restaurants.
Famous dishes in Bangkok include Pad Thai, Phanaeng (panang curry), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many of the foods have a hint of spice, and all taste fresh. If you head to Khao San Road in Bangkok, you will have the opportunity to be more adventurous and try the crocodile, scorpions, or tarantulas.
Would you try the famous Thai street food dishes?
Crocodile street food in Khao San Road in Bangkok.
Cantonese cuisine is loved around the globe, so there is no better place to try it than in Hong Kong!
Whether it’s street food, or a three-course meal in a high end restaurant, you are guaranteed a culinary experience to remember.
Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include:
Dim sum.
This is a Cantonese tradition of small, steamed dishes served in bamboo steamers. Dim sum is a great way to try a variety of different dishes.
Roast duck.
This is a Cantonese dish of roasted duck, typically served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and spring onions. Roast duck is a popular dim sum dish, and it's also available at many restaurants and street stalls.
Char siu.
This is a Cantonese dish of barbecued pork, typically made with pork belly that has been marinated in a sweet and savoury sauce. Char siu is a popular dish in Hong Kong, and it's often served with rice or noodles.
Keep your mind open as you explore Hong Kong’s awesome food scene as one or two of the dishes might just surprise you!
An open front restaurant in Hong Kong.
Is it easier to get around Hong Kong or Bangkok?
Both Bangkok and Hong Kong are extensive cities with very efficient transport options across rail, road, and water, offering very different experiences depending on your travel plans. Travel in both cities is reasonably priced, which makes it easier to add multiple activities to your itineraries across different parts of the cities. Let’s look at the different options for getting around Bangkok.
The long tail boats in Bangkok are a cool way to get around.
Bangkok.
Skytrain and Metro.
The skytrain and Metro operates across Bangkok from around 6 am until midnight every day and offers airport rail links from Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can grab a one-day pass for an approximate cost of 140 baht (£3) offering a cheap mode of traversing Bangkok.
Grab App and Taxis.
Taxis run on the meter in Bangkok which makes it a riskier option to move around the city, due to regular traffic problems. This means you fare can end up being considerably more than the other options, furthermore, a slower option.
Using the ‘Grab’ app is efficient and avoids the problem of an out-of-control meter in traffic like taxis, as you book and pay on the app. You are still at the mercy of the Bangkok traffic though.
Boats.
If you want to travel around Bangkok with a view, then catching a boat is a good option. If you are visiting tourist attractions along the Chao Phray Riverbank, then the riverboats can take you there in style. They operate regularly and are another reasonable transport option.
Tuk-Tuks.
Although there is an element of quirkiness and fun for tourists taking a tuk tuk ride for the first time in Bangkok, you are more likely to encounter problems than other methods of transport in the city. The price never seems to be the final price, and the drivers are known to take you on detours to local massage parlours or shops to try and make some commission. This is an experience I witnessed first-hand and can be confusing and annoying if you are on tight schedule in Bangkok.
Immaculate MTR station Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is one of the most efficient cities in the world with its impressive transport network, which spans across its rail and tram systems, along with regular ferry services. The immaculate city offers tourists a convenient payment system through its 'Octopus card’, which can be topped up with cash or card payment and covers every mode of transport. The efficient Octopus card can also pay for coffees and fast food.
Hong Kong.
MTR (Mass Transit railway) system.
The MTR is an extensive subway system that covers Hong Kong and its surrounding territories. The efficient system stretches across 160 stations via multiple rail lines. The MTR covers all the famous spots in the city, so is a good option for tourists with action packed itineraries, furthermore, it also runs to and from the airport. It is around HK$55 (about £5.50) per day for a tourist day pass meaning it is a cost-effective way to traverse Hong Kong.
Most trains run from approx. 6am until midnight every day.
Octopus cards are used to pay for travel in Hong Kong.
Trams in Hong Kong.
A famous sight of Hong Kong dating back over a century are the double-decker trams, which are a very efficient way of getting around Hong Kong. The tram fares are a fixed cost for each journey, no matter how far the journey is, and can be paid by Octopus card, or cash.
A draw for tourists is the most popular ‘Victoria Peak Tram’, which takes passengers up to the Victoria Peak, one of the best things to do in Hong Kong. You can expect to pay more for this tram ride and wait in a long line in peak tourism periods.
Ferries.
Catching a ferry is a popular mode of transport in Hong Kong, due to its maritime location. The Star ferry is renowned in the city, as it has been operating for well over a century. Its most famous route is between
Central Pier and Wan Chai on Hong Kong Island to Kowloon. Witnessing the Victoria Harbour skyline while travelling on a ferry is a must in Hong Kong.
You can also catch a ferry from Hong Kong to Macau. which makes for a great day trip.
Which city has the better tourist attractions?
When it comes to iconic tourist attractions, Hong Kong wins every time. The city is enriched with world famous tourist spots, which draw in millions of visitors each year.
Some of the best things to do in Hong Kong are:
Victoria Peak and harbour viewpoints.
Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbour offer world renowned skyline views from various viewpoints that highlight the sheer size of the Hong Kong skyscrapers. Every night, the facades of the skyscrapers are illuminated during the symphony of lights show, which has now become an iconic symbol of the city.
Taking the famous Victoria tram up to Victoria Peak offers unbeatable views from a birds eye perspective, along with some world class shopping and entertainment.
Tian Tan Buddha statue.
The Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island is another world famous attraction, and is the largest bronze seater statue in the world. The Buddha draws in global tourists all year round due to its aura and reputation as a true wonder of Hong Kong. Interestingly, the statue faces north, which is unique for a Buddha statue.
The captivating 25-minute ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car upto the Big Buddha adds a sense of adventure to your day trip. As you ascend above the lush, green mountains of Lantau Island, look out for panoramic views of the city and the South China Sea. The vibes in the surrounding shops, restaurants and temples offer a relaxing break, and are an example of the Hong Kong culture.
The Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong.
The Bruce Lee Statue.
You can’t do a comparison with Hong Kong in it and not include Bruce Lee. There is pure nostalgia swirling through the air as you wander down the famous Avenue of Stars and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, in search of the bronze statue of the global icon who put Hong Kong cinema on the global map.
The 2.5-meter-tall bronze statue stands against the backdrop of the harbour, perfectly capturing the martial artists’ dynamic energy. Bruce Lee encapsulated everything that is fascinating about Hong Kong culture.
The iconic Bruce Lee Statue in Hong Kong.
Bangkok also has its fair share of famous landmarks, however, in my opinion they don’t hold the same aura as Hong Kong.
Some of the best places to visit in Bangkok are:
The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha).
The Buddhist temples in Bangkok are sacred and active places of worship, so it makes for a great cheap/free activity to go and visit one. The Grand Palace is the former home of the Thai royal family and is also home to the Temple of Emerald Buddha. Wandering around the impressive compound gives you a glimpse into Thai history and culture.
Some tips you need to know when visiting temples in Thailand:
Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Remove your shoes before entering the temples.
Be respectful of the religious significance of the sites.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are open from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm daily. The entrance fee is 500 baht for adults and 200 baht for children.
There many awesome day trips available within Bangkok, so make sure your itinerary is action packed!
The Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha).
Is the nightlife better in Hong Kong or Bangkok?
Bangkok takes the win when it comes to nightlife. Although Hong Kong has some lively spots and swanky clubs and bars, it lacks the party character of Bangkok. Whether it is the local ladies or the international backpackers, there is a high party energy on every corner in the Thai capital.
No trip to Bangkok is complete without visiting the world famous Khao San Road, day or night. The backpacker district is filled with international tourists all looking for a good time, and is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok. The prices per drink are alot more reasonable in Bangkok as the clubs and bars target budget travellers.
Bangkok is known for its red-light districts which are spread across the city. This can be off putting for some visitors looking for nightlife in the city. Nana Plaza, Patpong and Soi Cowboy are the most famous spots for this sort of entertainment.
Enjoying a night in Khao San Road in Bangkok.
You will find live music and entertainment in most bars in Bangkok (everywhere in Thailand). Khao San road is filled with different themed bars and Karaoke bars, so you are spoilt for choice when making your way down the street. You can hear the loud music from all the different clubs filling the street, which creates a party atmosphere.
There is a reason why backpackers head here first!
Live entertainment in Khao San Road in Bangkok.
Hong Kong has a different vibe to Bangkok for nightlife, which feels a bit classier, and the price of drinks etc. reflects this.
Some of the most popular areas for nightlife in Hong Kong include:
Lan Kwai Fong - This is the most famous nightlife district in Hong Kong. It's packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants, and it's always buzzing with activity.
SoHo - This area is known for its trendy bars and restaurants. It's a bit more upscale than Lan Kwai Fong, but it's still a great place to go for a night out.
Temple Street Night Market - This market is open until late at night, and it's a great place to find souvenirs, snacks, and street food.
Enjoying an expensive night out in the Lan Kwai Fong area of Hong Kong.
What is it like exploring the culture Hong Kong and Bangkok?
Hong Kong has a strong western influence, following its history as a British colony, therefore, English is widely spoken. There is also a cosmopolitan feel to the city due to the influx of global tourists. However, Hong Kong still maintains its deep rooted Cantonese culture, which is still very much displayed through the cuisine and temple culture.
There is something about Hong Kong culture which is mystical and nostalgic.
A temple on Lantau Island in Hong Kong.
Bangkok, on the other hand, is a traditional Thai city. The culture is deeply-rooted in Buddhism, and the city is home to many temples and monasteries. Thai is the main language spoken, but English is also widely understood.
You will find Buddha’s throughout the city, which demonstrates the importance of religion.
A temple in Bangkok.
Frequently asked questions about Hong Kong and Bangkok.
Why is Bangkok called the city of angels?
Bangkok is called the City of Angels because of its official Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, which literally means "great city of angels". The full name is even longer, and it is the longest place name in the world.
The full name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. It is 168 characters long, and it is listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest place name in the world.
Which currency is used in Bangkok?
The currency used in Bangkok is the Thai Baht (THB).
What is the Hong Kong currency?
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD).
What is the time difference between Bangkok and Hong Kong?
Bangkok is 1 hour behind of Hong Kong.
How many days are needed for Bangkok?
A 3-day trip to Bangkok is recommended, with the itinerary including:
Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Experience the floating markets.
Party in Khao San Road.
How many days are needed for Hong Kong?
A 3-4 day trip is enough time to experience the main highlights of Hong Kong. These include:
Victoria Peak.
The Big Buddha.
The Star Ferry.
The Ocean Park.
Hong Kong or Bangkok? The final verdict.
As with many other spots in Asia, Thailand and Hong Kong are both must visit destinations. It is very hard to call between the two countries, but your money goes a lot further in the Thai capital, meaning its more available to budget travellers. This creates a unique atmosphere in the city, especially in the Khao San Road area, with the array of different types of international visitors.
Day or night, both cities have many activities to keep you occupied, but visiting the Big Buddha in Hong Kong is a travel experience to beats anything that Bangkok has to offer.
Thailand is my favourite country, therefore, the final verdict is Bangkok.
Whichever city you choose, you're in for an unforgettable adventure. Just remember to pack an open mind, a sense of curiosity, and a hearty appetite!
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