A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Chiang Mai vs. Ao Nang for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

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 Ao Nang. 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 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a lively, accessible, and popular town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chiang Mai and Ao Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Ao Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ao Nang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Ao Nang 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. Ao Nang is well known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty.

How is Chiang Mai different from Ao Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ao Nang 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 Ao Nang?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Chiang Mai and Ao Nang.

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.

Ao Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Ao Nang to choose from. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is a great town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a good destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Ao Nang offers a nice beach destination. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Ao Nang does not have a historic old town.

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.

Ao Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Chiang Mai makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

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

Chiang Mai and Ao Nang both offer notable 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.

Ao Nang has a few public transit options. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Is Chiang Mai or Ao Nang a more walkable city?

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

Ao Nang is very walkable. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

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 Ao Nang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ao Nang or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

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

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Ao Nang. 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 Ao Nang. 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 Ao Nang 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 Ao Nang?

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 shopping and nightlife around the accessible town of Ao Nang, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

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 Ao Nang, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

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.

Ao Nang, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Ao Nang?

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.

Ao Nang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Ao Nang?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Ao Nang, 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 Ao Nang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Ao Nang in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Ao Nang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Ao Nang receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Ao Nang during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Ao Nang receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Ao Nang. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Ao Nang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Ao Nang in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Ao Nang. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year.

Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. Also, December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in October than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Ao Nang receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ao Nang receives 181 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Ao Nang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Ao Nang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Ao Nang in the Winter?

Both Ao Nang and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Ao Nang receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ao Nang during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Ao Nang receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is cooler than Ao Nang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Ao Nang averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Ao Nang in the Spring?

Both Ao Nang and Chiang Mai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round.

June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ao Nang receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Ao Nang. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ao Nang receives 249 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Ao Nang. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Ao Nang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Ao Nang and Chiang Mai