A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Chiang Mai vs. Bangkok for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

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Should you visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

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 Bangkok. 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 laid-back, friendly, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Bangkok: Pros and Cons

Chiang Mai
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Bangkok
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


How is Chiang Mai different from Bangkok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Spend time exploring the sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Bangkok.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.


Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Food?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Bangkok both to be unique destinations.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Bangkok is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is filled with colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find comparable options between Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

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.

The nightlife in Bangkok is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Shopping?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Bangkok both offer plenty of 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 Bangkok make it a world-class shopping destination. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Families?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Both Chiang Mai and Bangkok are 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.

Bangkok is a very kid-friendly city. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.


Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Chiang Mai and Bangkok both fun 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.

Bangkok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

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

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Bangkok are fairly comparable places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok Better for Public Transit?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Chiang Mai and Bangkok both offer 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.

Bangkok has a few public transit options. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Chiang Mai or Bangkok a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai
Bangkok

Chiang Mai and Bangkok are similar when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. 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.

Bangkok is generally not very walkable. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.


Should I spend more time in Bangkok or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

Both Chiang Mai and Bangkok have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Chiang Mai is 2-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Bangkok is 2-7 days.


  • How many days in Chiang Mai or Bangkok? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chiang Mai 2-7 
    Bangkok 2-7

One day in Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

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 spirited capital city of Bangkok, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

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 big city destination of Bangkok, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

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.

Bangkok, a popular capital city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this capital city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

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.

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

Which city is cheaper, Bangkok or Chiang Mai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chiang Mai is $39, while the average daily cost in Bangkok is $63. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Chiang Mai and Bangkok in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chiang Mai $22
    Bangkok $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chiang Mai $44
    Bangkok $68
Compare Hotels in Chiang Mai and Bangkok

Looking for a hotel in Chiang Mai or Bangkok? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Chiang Mai


Hotels in Bangkok


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Chiang Mai Hotel Prices and Bangkok Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chiang Mai $3.15
    Bangkok $4.26
Typical Local Transportation prices in Chiang Mai

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Chiang Mai are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk Ride
    $1.19
  • Moped Rental
    $5.34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chiang Mai

Also for Chiang Mai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chiang Mai : Night Safari tour with round trip transfer from hotel Ticket: $51
  • Chiang Mai Airport Arrival – Private Transfer from Airport to Four Seasons Hotel: $28
  • Chiang Mai Airport Arrival – Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $15
  • Chiang Mai Airport Departure – Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport: $15
  • Chiang Mai Airport Departure – Shared Transfer: $6.81
  • Chiang Mai Airport Private Transfer - Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai: $218
  • Chiang Mai Airport Taxi Private Transfer - Pai, Mae Hong Son: $145
  • Chiang Mai Airport transfer: $14
  • Chiang Mai City Temple & Museum tour half day round trip transfer from hotel: $43
  • Chiang Mai International Airport Arrival Shared Transfer: $14
  • Chiang Mai International Airport Departure Shared Transfer: $14
  • Chiang Mai International Airport: Private Hotel Transfer: $15

Typical Local Transportation prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.37
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.74
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.95
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.77
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.41
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.67
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.48
  • Trains to airport
    $4.74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Rai with 2h of Sightseeing: $220
  • Moto GP Private Transfer Bangkok To Chang International Circuit: $218
  • Private Transfer Laem Chabang/Bangkok: $212
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Krabi with 2h of Sightseeing: $205
  • Private Transfer from Don Muang Airport to Koh Chang Hotel: $199
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok Airport to Koh Chang hotel: $193
  • Elephant Haven Kanchanaburi with Private Transfer from Bangkok: $192
  • Elephant World Sanctuary with private transfer trip from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: $191
  • Private Transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with 2h of Sightseeing: $190
  • Bangkok Airport Private Transfer to Hotels in Trat: $190
  • Bangkok International Airport Private Transfer to Hotels in Koh Chang: $190
  • Thai Boxing Match including Tickets and Transfer in Bangkok: $189

Is it cheaper to fly into Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

Prices for flights to both Bangkok and Chiang Mai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Chiang Mai $8.87
    Bangkok $15
Typical Food prices in Chiang Mai

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Chiang Mai:


  • Sit Down Dinner (for One)
    $5.78
  • Roti Snack (Bread)
    $0.71
  • Casual Breakfast
    $1.19
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $5.93
  • Mangoes
    $0.89
  • Coffee
    $1.48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chiang Mai

For Chiang Mai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Evening Thai cooking class by Aromdii Cooking School: $27
  • Half Day Cooking Class Including Market Tour from Chiang Mai: $28
  • Private Dining: Thai family dinner in Chiang Mai: $28
  • Thai Khantoke Dinner & Cultural Dance Show with Transfers: $29
  • Traditional Khantoke Dinner & Cultural Dance Show Tour: $29
  • Khum Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show at Chiang Mai Admission Ticket: $29
  • Khum Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show in Chiang Mai Admission Ticket: $29
  • Authentic Lanna Dinner and Shows (Khan Toke) in Chiang Mai: $30
  • Khum Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show at Chiang Mai Admission Ticket: $34
  • Traditional Khantoke Dinner and Show from Chiang Mai: $34
  • Khantoke Dinner with Show: $35
  • Full-Day Cooking Class Including Market Tour from Chiang Mai: $35

Typical Food prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $27
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $5.93
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.33
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.89
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $5.93
  • Pad Thai
    $2.08
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $16
  • Lunch for 2
    $22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.

  • Silom Village Authentic Thai Dinner and Performance Ticket: $17
  • Luxurious Afternoon Tea or Dinner at the Erawan Tea Rooms: $26
  • Skip the Line: Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner: $26
  • Bangkok Thai Classical Dance with Thai Set Dinner Ticket: $27
  • 2-Hour Dinner & Shows on White Orchid River Cruise: $30
  • Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show With Optional Dinner & Transfers: $31
  • Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show Tour With Optional Dinner.: $31
  • Skip the Line:Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Show Ticket w/(optional) Dinner &Transfers: $32
  • Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River in Bangkok (Optional Transfers): $34
  • Bangkok Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River: $34
  • Bangkok White Orchid Dinner Cruise: $34
  • Bangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River: $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chiang Mai $11
    Bangkok $12
Typical Entertainment prices in Chiang Mai

For Chiang Mai, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Thai Cooking Class
    $39
  • Doi Suthep Entrance Ticket
    $1.78
  • Kratong Lessons
    $2.96
  • Pedicure
    $4.45
  • Chiang Mai Museum (for Two)
    $5.34

Tours and Activities in Chiang Mai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chiang Mai.

  • Skip the Line: Siam Dragon Cabaret Show -Ticket Only: $16
  • Skip the Line: Chiang Mai Art in Paradise Admission Ticket: $17
  • Grand Canyon Water Park Ticket: $20
  • DON'T miss this halfday tour! Doi suthep temple + Hmong village - must visit!!: $20
  • Amazing Night tour ! Wat umong & Doi suthep at Night - Top Must visit place: $20
  • Miracle Cabaret Chiang Mai Ticket: $21
  • Thapae Boxing Stadium Ticket in Chiang Mai: $22
  • Chiang Mai's Thapae Muay Thai Boxing Stadium Ticket: $23
  • Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium Ticket: $27
  • 4-Hour Wat Umong and Doi Suthep Evening Tour: $29
  • Doi Suthep, Wat Umong & Wat Pha Lat Sunrise Small-Group Tour: $29
  • Traditional Handicraft Craftsmanship Tour from Chiang Mai: $29

Typical Entertainment prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $4.74
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $10
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.48
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $5.93
  • Club Cover Charge
    $11
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $71
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.45
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $2.96
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • "Phra Nakorn Khiri and Kui Buri adventure in 1 day" (Private trip): $322
  • "Two Day one Night for River Kwai Adventure" (Private): $442
  • 04 DAYS CENTRAL HIGHLIGHTS - Joint Tour: $692
  • 1-day Bangkok Old Town Tuk Tuk Tour - Sawasdee Tuk Tuk: $102
  • 10 Hours Private Tour Ayuttaya: $140
  • 11-Day Thailand Tour to Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Phuket: $2,921
  • 12-Day Tour Through Cambodia from Bangkok to Saigon: $1,165
  • 2 Days Private Tour To Ayutthaya' World Heritage Site: $428
  • 2-Day River Kwai Experience from Bangkok: $262
  • 2-Day River Kwai Floathouse Experience from Bangkok: $346
  • 2-Day River Kwai Jungle Rafts Experience from Bangkok: $231
  • 2-Day River Kwai and Kanchanaburi Tour from Bangkok: $228

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chiang Mai $5.87
    Bangkok $7.07
Typical Alcohol prices in Chiang Mai

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Chiang Mai are as follows:


  • Wine
    $2.96

Typical Alcohol prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.19

About these numbers

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


When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok?

Both destinations experience a warmer tropical climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Bangkok. The warm tropical climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. The warm tropical climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year.

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Bangkok. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bangkok receives 176 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Bangkok in the summer. The temperature in Chiang Mai is usually 30°C (86°F) in July, and Bangkok stays around 29°C (84°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chiang Mai 30°C (86°F) 
    Bangkok 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok in the Autumn?

Both Bangkok and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm tropical climate that lasts throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm tropical climate that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Bangkok during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bangkok receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Bangkok. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October are around 29°C (83°F), and Bangkok is about 28°C (83°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chiang Mai 29°C (83°F) 
    Bangkok 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok in the Winter?

Both Bangkok and Chiang Mai during the winter are popular places to visit. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and tropical climate. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and tropical climate.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bangkok receives 276 hours of full sun.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally cooler than Bangkok. Temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Bangkok stays around 27°C (80°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chiang Mai 23°C (74°F) 
    Bangkok 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bangkok in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Bangkok. The warm tropical climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. The warm tropical climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year.

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Bangkok. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bangkok during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Bangkok receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Bangkok in the spring. The temperature in Chiang Mai is usually 31°C (88°F) in April, and Bangkok stays around 31°C (87°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chiang Mai 31°C (88°F) 
    Bangkok 31°C (87°F)

Typical Weather for Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Bangkok
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 23°C (74°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (80°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Feb 26°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Mar 29°C (83°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 29°C (85°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 31°C (88°F) 50 mm (2 in) 31°C (87°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 158 mm (6.2 in) 30°C (86°F) 220 mm (8.7 in)
Jun 30°C (86°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 29°C (85°F) 149 mm (5.9 in)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 29°C (84°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Aug 29°C (85°F) 236 mm (9.3 in) 29°C (84°F) 197 mm (7.8 in)
Sep 29°C (85°F) 228 mm (9 in) 28°C (83°F) 344 mm (13.5 in)
Oct 29°C (83°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 28°C (83°F) 242 mm (9.5 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 24°C (75°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)


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