A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Chiang Mai for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Athens or Chiang Mai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Chiang Mai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Chiang Mai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Chiang Mai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Athens. Chiang Mai is bigger than Athens, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is better known for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Athens is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Athens and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy.

How is Athens different from Chiang Mai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Chiang Mai?

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Chiang Mai and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chiang Mai that are not to be missed. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Chiang Mai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Chiang Mai can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for its Old Town?

Athens is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

The historic old town of Athens is revered around the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Families?

Both Athens and Chiang Mai are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Athens and Chiang Mai are terrific places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Chiang Mai is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Students?

Athens is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Athens is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Athens or Chiang Mai a more walkable city?

Athens is a great city for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chiang Mai or Athens?

How long in Athens or Chiang Mai?

Both Athens and Chiang Mai have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Athens has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Athens than Chiang Mai. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-7 days is enough time in Chiang Mai.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Chiang Mai 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Chiang Mai?

When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Chiang Mai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Chiang Mai?

When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Chiang Mai?

Athens, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Chiang Mai?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly big city of Chiang Mai. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Chiang Mai, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Mai 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Chiang Mai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Chiang Mai Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Chiang Mai, 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 Athens or Chiang Mai?

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

Should I visit Athens or Chiang Mai in the Summer?

Both Chiang Mai and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Athens because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Athens is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 30°C (86°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Chiang Mai during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 146 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Athens or Chiang Mai in the Autumn?

Both Chiang Mai and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round.

In October, Athens is generally cooler than Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 226 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Athens or Chiang Mai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Chiang Mai. Many travelers come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Athens is much colder than Chiang Mai in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Chiang Mai during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 283 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Athens or Chiang Mai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Chiang Mai. Many visitors come to Athens in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Athens is much colder than Chiang Mai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 31°C (88°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 275 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Chiang Mai. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Chiang Mai and Athens