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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

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 Chiang Mai and Antwerp. 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.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a natural, temple-filled, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a vibrant, authentic, and genuine port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Antwerp. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Chiang Mai different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Chiang Mai and Antwerp.

The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everybody. 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.

Antwerp offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Chiang Mai and Antwerp.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking. 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.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Antwerp both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. 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.

The abundance of shops in Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Antwerp is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp 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 Chiang Mai. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Antwerp. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Chiang Mai and Antwerp both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Antwerp has a few public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Chiang Mai or Antwerp a more walkable city?

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

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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 Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Antwerp. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

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

One day in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the youthful port city of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Antwerp is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Antwerp, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chiang Mai is in Asia and Antwerp is in Europe, 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 Antwerp would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antwerp 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 Chiang Mai Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Antwerp, 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 Chiang Mai or Antwerp?

Antwerp 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 Chiang Mai or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Antwerp. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Chiang Mai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Antwerp. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Chiang Mai