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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Auckland?

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 Auckland. 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 friendly, cultural, and welcoming 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 Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Auckland travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Auckland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Auckland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auckland attracts visitors for its beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Auckland and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

How is Chiang Mai different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are world-renowned. 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 Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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

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

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.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Auckland offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a great city for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Auckland for it's beautiful beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Auckland?

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

Known for shopping, Chiang Mai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Auckland are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Auckland is a very kid-friendly city. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Auckland both high quality destinations for a couple.

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.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

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

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Chiang Mai is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Chiang Mai and Auckland 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.

Auckland has a few public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Chiang Mai or Auckland a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Auckland?

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

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Auckland. 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 Auckland. 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 Auckland 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 Auckland?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the thrill-seeking city of Auckland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Auckland?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Auckland, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Auckland?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Auckland?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Auckland 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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Auckland, we can see that Auckland 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 Auckland is in Pacific, 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland 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 Auckland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Auckland?

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

Auckland 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 Auckland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auckland in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Auckland averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auckland this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Auckland during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Aucklandin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Auckland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Auckland. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Aucklandin April. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

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 Aucklandin April. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Aucklandin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Auckland in the Winter?

Both Auckland 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Auckland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Auckland in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland 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. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Auckland averages at about 14°C (58°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin October. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Aucklandin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Chiang Mai