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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Boston?

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 Boston. 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Chiang Mai and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Chiang Mai. While Chiang Mai is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Chiang Mai is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Chiang Mai different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great city for theatre. However, Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Chiang Mai and Boston.

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.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for live music. However, Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

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

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Boston?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Chiang Mai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Chiang Mai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Chiang Mai or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Chiang Mai or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored 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 Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Boston?

In either Chiang Mai or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Boston 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 Boston?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With theater and nightlife around the loyal city of Boston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Boston?

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

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Boston, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Boston?

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

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

A week in Chiang Mai or Boston?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Boston?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Boston, 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 Boston?

Boston 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 Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Chiang Mai during the summer 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 beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Boston. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Boston during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Boston. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Boston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Boston can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Boston during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Boston. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Boston and Chiang Mai