Thailand vs Philippines: A Close Look At Cost, Quality & Beauty

If you are considering your next travel destination and you are keen to visit one of the friendly, tropical, and beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, you might find yourself choosing between Thailand and the Philippines. But which is the right destination for your next travel adventure?

I've spent a lot of time in both countries, and it is honestly hard to choose.

Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with stunning beaches, incredibly green jungles, fascinating architecture, and friendly people. There is lots to see and do, and it is still very affordable. I absolutely adore everything about Thailand and always have an amazing time when I visit, but it can also sometimes feel a little too touristy.

The Philippines doesn't have an answer to Bangkok, Manila just doesn't compare. But when it comes to stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, a friendly and welcoming culture with alright food, and lots to see and do, the Philippines is amazing. There is also the added attraction that there just aren't as many other tourists around, so it can feel more like new territory. Of course, this is depending where you go!

So, which one you should visit depends on what you are looking for. In this article, I'll compare the most important aspects of the Thailand and Philippines travel experience to help you better understand what to expect from each, and therefore which you are more likely to enjoy on your next journey (since surely, you'll want to get to both one day).

1. Thailand vs Philippines: The cities

Thailand and the Philippines are both relatively small countries with relatively big populations.

Thailand is home to around 72 million people, while the Philippines has a population of around 114 million. This means that in both countries you can expect to find big, dynamic, and crowded cities.

Best cities in Thailand

In Thailand, the capital Bangkok is famous as a decedent destination for young backpackers looking to party, but the city is so much more than that with all of Thailand's different aspects represented in the city of 15 million inhabitants.

Expect towering skyscrapers with posh shopping malls and modern rooftop bars and nightclubs, but also bustling markets, independent street food vendors, and hole-in-the-wall local bars. The city is massive, and although public transport is good, it can take hours to cross it due to its traffic.

Bangkok contrasts with its second largest city Chiang Mai, which is considered the capital of Northern Thailand. It only has around 130,000 inhabitants and feels more traditional. During your time in Chiang Mai, you will experience street markets, golden temples, and restaurants in a highly walkable Old Town.

But there are also modern facilities to support a thriving community of expats and digital nomads. You don't have to venture far from Chiang Mai city center to find incredibly beautiful national parks and cafes among the rice paddies.

One of Thailand's other major cities is Phuket, which is a beach paradise dedicated to the tourism industry that acts as a gateway to many of the country's best islands including Phi Phi and James Bond Island. Here it can almost feel like you are living on the strip with beach bars and nightclubs open until dawn, but you will also quieter areas of Phuket that offer luxury resorts, yoga studios, snorkeling adventures, and much more.

Read my guide to where to stay in Thailand, which includes literally everything there is to know.

Best cities in the Philippines

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is crowded and bustling and has over 24 million people in its metro area. Like Bangkok, it is a mix of old and new with Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers side by side.

You can find great shopping and excellent restaurants if you take the time to look, but most tourists don't spend long in Manila. It is treated as a stopping-off point to discover the rest of the country. I've also written an extensive guide on where to stay in Manila with all the safest areas to consider.

The next popular big city is probably Cebu, which can feel like a mini Manila, with only around 100,000 inhabitants, but with a more tropical beach vibe. Spread over 168 islands, you can go to a high-end shopping mall in the morning and on a sunset scuba diving trip in the afternoon. It is the ideal place for island hopping.

One of the most visited cities is possibly Davao City, which is a beach destination but also has the nation's highest peak. It has stunning natural scenery, a more traditional culture, and is much more laid back and less overwhelming than Manila. It is a popular hotspot with digital nomads.

Overall, when it comes to city breaks, I think Thailand beats the Philippines when it comes to interesting cities.

2. Thailand vs Philippines: Beaches and landscapes

Thailand and the Philippines are both tropical countries that are warm most of the year and with sweltering summers. Rather than hot and cold seasons, they have wet and dry.

While rain won't ruin your holiday, the wet season also comes with an increased risk of monsoons and typhoons. Thailand's wet season is between July and October, and in the Philippines, it is from June to November.

Both the Philippines and Thailand are popular beach destinations with world-class white sandy beaches with crystal blue waters and excellent diving. In Thailand, in addition to Phuket, you can go to island destinations like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, and Koh Samui. Most of the beaches have excellent tourist infrastructure, but this can also mean crowded beaches and excessive litter.

Spread over more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is also incredibly rich when it comes to beaches. Some of the most popular are Boracay, Palawan (El Nido and Coron), and staying in Siargao. While these beaches also attract a lot of visitors, they can feel less touristy than Thai beaches.

Thailand also has a stunningly beautiful green interior, especially the lush mountains around Chiang Mai. These are ideal for jungle trekking, discovering waterfalls, and visiting nature parks, though be wary of elephant sanctuaries as they are often not good for the animals. You can also find local villages still living according to tribal traditions and stunning temples overlooking the land.

The Philippines also has a beautiful green interior characterized by rice terraces in the Cordilleras (Banaue Rice Terraces), and volcanic landscapes around Mount Mayon. Again, for anyone who enjoys trekking and being close to nature, you won't run out of beautiful places to explore.

Among the Flipino highlights are the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, which are over 1,000 symmetrical mound-shaped hills that are stunning in all seasons, but turn brown during dry seasons, creating a unique landscape, and the underground river at Palawan which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For me, this is a draw. While Thailand's natural attractions are probably better known, the Philippines has some wonders to discover and I personally have never seen such beautiful white beaches like you find them all over the Philippines.

3. Thailand vs Philippines: Things to do and see

Whether you are visiting Thailand or the Philippines, if you start researching things to do and see, you will quickly end up with a list too long to complete in a single trip. Leaving beach adventures and mountain trekking aside, since we've already talked about those a bit, what else is there to see and do in each country?

Best things to do in Thailand

In Thailand, because of the importance of both the royal family and Buddhism, there are many cultural sites to explore. Just in the capital, you can spend a day exploring the Grand Palace and temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun.

Wherever you go in Thailand you will find similar incredible structures, whether they be a small local temple or the unbelievably grand White Temple at Chiang Rai. There are 300 temples just in Chiang Mai's Old Town.

Thailand also has some incredibly ancient ruins that offer a glimpse at the grandeur of some of Thailand's lost civilizations. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai are among the most popular and you'll feel like Indiana Jones exploring these open-air museums.

When you are done and need to relax, there's nothing better than a Thai massage.

Best things to do in the Philippines

In the Philippines, most historic landmarks reflect Spanish colonialism. They are stunning and atmospheric, but perhaps feel more familiar. The Intramuros walled city in Manila is special, as is the old town of Vigan.

The rice terraces at Banuae are also a must-visit site! Even though it's a bit of a trek from Manila to get to, I absolutely loved spending some time wandering through the rice paddies, so lush! In addition to their beauty, they showcase the ingenuity of ancient Filipino engineering. They are sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World.

Shopping

In Thailand, shopping is also a popular pastime. In Bangkok, you can find some of the world's most modern and sophisticated shopping malls with all the most popular international brands.

This is contrasted with market shopping where you can find cheap clothes, local crafts, and incredible street food. You could also learn to make Thai treasures, perhaps with a Thai silk weaving course and make a unique piece for yourself.

Shopping in the Philippines is also very good. There are some excellent modern malls, especially in Manila, and fascinating markets all over the country.

You can also find streets dedicated to boutique shopping where you can look for unique treasures.

Festivals and events

Both countries also have some amazing festivals, which you can participate in if you time your trip right.

In Thailand, the most famous is Songkran, the Thai New Year festival in April known for its nationwide water fights. There is also Loy Krathong/Yi Peng in November, celebrated by floating krathongs on water and releasing lanterns into the sky.

In the Philippines, you could participate in the Sinulog Festival in Cebu in January, which feels a bit like Carnival with street parades, colorful costumes, and rhythmic drum beats.

The Ati-Atihan Festival is held in Kalibo and is known for indigenous dances, tribal music, and vibrant costumes. The Kadayawan Festival is celebrated in Davao City, it's a thanksgiving festival with colorful parades.

When it comes to things to do, Thailand might have the edge. But if you want to do things that a million travelers before you haven't already done and posted to their social media, you will find these experiences in the Philippines.

4. Thailand vs Philippines: Language and culture

It should come as no surprise that in Thailand the people speak Thai, and in the Philippines, they speak Filipino. In Thailand, you will find lots of people who speak sufficient English to communicate well with you, especially in areas frequented by tourists.

In the Philippines, English is even more widely spoken as a result of American influences. You will also find that American culture is very popular, especially American sports, such as basketball and baseball, but always with a distinctive Filipino edge.

Thai culture is greatly influenced by Buddhism. This is evident in the landscape through the many temples and pagodas, but also in the culture through the positive and generous outlook on life that most Thai people display.

As well as Buddhism, Thai people have great respect for their monarchy. You will see pictures of the monarch everywhere you go. It is not just socially inelegant to criticize the royal family, it is also a crime in Thailand.

The Filipino culture is more eclectic, with a mix of native Southeast Asian influences, as well as Spanish and American influences through colonization. One area where the Western influence is obvious is religion, with the country being predominantly Roman Catholic.

But the flavor of Catholicism in the Philippines is more fun and joyful than in many other parts of the world, as manifested through events such as the Sinulog and Ati-Atihan festivals. It feels somewhat more South American than European.

Overall, it is hard to choose between Thailand and the Philippines when it comes to interesting, welcoming, and vibrant cultures. While they are quite different, this one is a draw.

5. Thailand vs Philippines: Infrastructure and getting around

Both Thailand and the Philippines have major international airports with flights arriving from around the world. Thailand certainly has the busier of the two, and you will have no issues finding affordable flight options to either.

Both Thailand and the Philippines are countries where visitors want to move about to see a good portion of the country. Both also have a good selection of domestic flights between the most popular destinations.

In Thailand, if you are on a budget there are many road and rail options to travel between cities, and long-distance buses are affordable and safe.

The Philippines relies more on ferries because it is spread over so many islands. While this means that getting around can be more time-consuming, it certainly is beautiful. But weather can certainly be an issue. Many times, if taking flights between places, you will have to backtrack via the hub that Manila is.

In general, the infrastructure in Thailand is more developed for tourists and much more accessible, especially around tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya.

The major cities all have good public transportation options, even though public transport in Manila is less organized.

The train, MRT and bus services are good in Bangkok, but it is a big city so it can take a while to get around. Hailing a Tuk Tuk or motorbike is usually the best way to cover a shorter distance.

Overall, getting to and getting around Thailand is a little bit easier than in the Philippines. If this is your first time traveling Southeast Asia, I would pick Thailand as it has a better infrastructure and you will have less of a culture shock.

6. Thailand vs Philippines: Local cuisine

Thai food is pretty famous and I absolutely love Thai food, so much so I could eat it almost every day!

Pad Thai, red and green curries, mango sticky rice, the list of famous dishes goes on and on. It is all delicious and available on the cheap from street food vendors and in restaurants.

During the day, expect to sip Thai iced tea, lemongrass juice or coconut water. At night, it is Singha or Chang Beer with Mekhong whiskey, SangSom rum, or Sato rice wine.

Filipino cuisine is already a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Think of flavors such as vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and onion. Popular dishes include Abodo, which is chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic and spices, and Sinigang, a meat soup made with tamarind and vegetables, Lechon, which is basically a whole roast pig, and Pancit, Chinese-style noodle dishes.

During the day expect to sip Halo Halo Filipino-style iced tea, Buko juice, aka coconut water, and calamansi juice made from a delicious citrus plant. In the evening it is San Miguel beer, Tanduay rum cocktails, and strong Lambanong coconut liquor.

Both countries have a big street food and hole-in-the-wall restaurant culture and it is often cheaper to eat out than prepare food for yourself. Filipino food tends to feel a bit heartier and often greasier, while Thai is lighter and spicier.

But vegetarians have an easier time in Thailand, while Filipino dishes all tend to be meat-heavy.

7. Thailand vs Philippines: The nightlife

Thailand is known for having a very good nightlife and party scene. This is one of the main reasons that Bangkok attracts young travelers, and you can find whatever scene you are into. Head to Khao San Road in Bangkok for rowdy (but increasingly modern) backpackers and Sukhumvit for upscale clubs and lounges.

Phuket and Koh Phangan are known for their beach party scenes, and the monthly Full Moon Party is a popular rave. If you are looking for something more low-key, wherever you are head to the evening street markets for drinks, snacks, and a friendly atmosphere.

Manila in the Philippines also has a dynamic nightlife, Makati, Bonifacio Global City, and Malate offer a range of bars, clubs, and karaoke spots. It's not a myth, karaoke is very popular in the Philippines.

The island of Boracay matches the likes of Phuket for a beach party scene for travelers looking for a good time.

But just like the Thailand, while you can find superclubs, all-night parties, and heavier nightlife scenes, there are also plenty of places to get a drink, chat with friends, and people-watch.

8. Thailand vs Philippines: Value for money

Both Thailand and the Philippines are affordable travel destinations. The food is good and eating out is cheap, getting around is relatively affordable, and it only costs a few dollars to enter most tourist spots.

There is a range of accommodation options from US$10 a day for backpackers to luxury resorts that will set you back a few hundred dollars for a 5-star place.

If you are looking for a private villa or resort, it will be cheaper in Thailand or the Philippines than most other places in the world.

Generally speaking, Thailand tends to be considered a little more expensive than the Philippines. This is partially down to their more developed and competitive tourism industry. But Thailand has so many options, that you can usually find something within your budget. I also think the value for money here is exceptional and better than what you get in the Philippines for the same money.

For expats, the difference in cost of living is more noticeable, with the Philippines estimated to be about 25% cheaper than Thailand. Nevertheless, if you are looking for an affordable destination, both countries will likely fit the bill.

9. Thailand vs Philippines: Safety

Both Thailand and the Philippines are safe for travelers and I have never had an issue in either. Definitely do use your common sense though. Even as a woman traveling alone, I think both countries are fine, however, I personally feel more ‘at home' and more comfortable in Thailand.

The locals are very welcoming and helpful, and it feels safe for most people to travel in both countries. Of course, pickpockets and tourist scams happen, but unprovoked violent crime is rare.

There are always areas that are a little bit more dangerous than others. In Thailand, it is often recommended to avoid the deep south near the border with Malaysia, as there is often unrest there.

In the Philippines, parts of Mindanao have a continuous conflict, and travelers are generally recommended to stay away. Note that this can change and it's always good to check any issues and travel advice within the country on the government site right before your departure.

In both countries, the biggest health concern comes from eating unfamiliar or contaminated food. It is important to make sure that meats are cooked thoroughly and only drink bottled water.

Mosquitoes and mosquito-borne viruses are also an issue, so pack repellent. And always always get travel insurance! I use HeyMondo Insurance, you can check them out here.

Frequently Asked Questions – Thailand vs Philippines

⭐ What are the main tourist attractions in Thailand and the Philippines?

Thailand is known for attractions like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, while the Philippines boasts popular destinations such as Boracay, Palawan/El Nido, and the mega-city of Manila.

☀️ Is it hotter in Thailand or the Philippines?

Both Thailand and the Philippines are tropical countries in Southeast Asia, so you can expect it to be hot year-round. Thailand experiences an increase in temperature, with summer highs reaching approximately 37.8 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit). In the Philippines, you can anticipate peak temperatures hovering around 32.2 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). However, Thailand is more spread out north-south and has areas of higher altitudes, so you can also find cooler areas in Thailand than in the Philippines, where this is less regional variation.

❓ Is Thailand close to the Philippines?

While Thailand and the Philippines are close together on a global scale, they are more than 2,000 kilometers apart. A non-stop flight from Bangkok to Manila takes about three and a half hours.

🏝️ Does Thailand or the Philippines have better beaches?

Both countries are renowned for beautiful beaches, but opinions vary. Some prefer the pristine beaches of the Philippines, while others favor the vibrant beach scenes in Thailand.

✔️ Is English widely spoken in Thailand and the Philippines?

Yes, English is widely spoken in both Thailand and the Philippines, especially in tourist areas, making it relatively easy for English-speaking travelers to navigate. And did you know that English is one of the official languages of the Philippines, along with Filipino (Tagalog)? This means that English is used extensively in government, education, and businesses.

Thailand vs Philippines – Final words

So, Thailand vs the Philippines, which one should be your next travel destination? Well that all depends.

Thailand is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations for good reason. It is affordable and beautiful with an interesting culture and lots to see and do.

If you want to spend some time sightseeing, shopping, and partying, followed by a visit to traditional communities and green spaces, and then finish with some beachside relaxation, visit Thailand. Find my ultimate three-week Thailand itinerary here.

But you can do it all in the Philippines as well! However, since the Philippines is spread across so many islands and also has a less well-established tourist industry, it is a little bit harder, but also a little less ‘overdone'.

So, what's the verdict? Whether you visit Thailand or the Philippines, I am sure you'll have an amazing time.