A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Cordoba for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Cordoba?

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 Cordoba. 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.

Where Should I go: Chiang Mai or Cordoba?

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is both the cultural center of northern Thailand and a launching point for trips into the rural areas, small towns, and lush jungles of the country's northern regions. Known for great food, historic temples, arts and crafts, and a lively night market, Chiang Mai is a very popular destination for travelers. In some areas, tourists and ex-pats dominate, but it's quite easy to get away from the tourist scene and into the real culture of Thailand, as Chiang Mai (and the surrounding countryside) is quite large.

Cordoba

Cordoba is the capital of the Cordoba province and the second largest city in all of Argentina. The city is in a beautiful setting surrounded by valleys and hills. Within the city you will find many colonial buildings and beautiful architecture. Cordoba also has many universities and scientific institutes, giving it the nickname "La Docta." Because of the large number of students, Cordoba's population is young and active, which keeps the atmosphere light and fun.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best 3-Week Tours in Argentina, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Buenos Aires.


Which place is cheaper, Cordoba or Chiang Mai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chiang Mai is $59, while the average daily cost in Cordoba is $62. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Chiang Mai and Cordoba in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chiang Mai $29
    Cordoba $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chiang Mai $58
    Cordoba $98
Compare Hotels in Chiang Mai and Cordoba

Looking for a hotel in Chiang Mai or Cordoba? 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 Cordoba


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 Cordoba Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chiang Mai $4.04
    Cordoba $2.88
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chiang Mai

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


  • Tuk Tuk Ride
    $1.22
  • Moped Rental
    $5.47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chiang Mai

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

  • Chiang Mai Highlights: Top 2 Tours & Airport Transfers Included: $282
  • Private Transfer from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai (one way only): $175
  • Private Transfer from Chiang Mai to Pai Or Pai to Chiang Mai: $175
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang: $123
  • Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao Cave and Hill Tribe Tour with Transfer: $100
  • Chiang Mai Mae Kam Pong Wild Gibbon Jungle Trek with Transfer: $96
  • Chiang Mai Airport CNX to Chiang Dao Private Arrival Transfer: $70
  • Chiang Mai Mae Wang Day Trek and Raft with Lunch Transfer: $60
  • Chiang Mai Airport Transfer by Private Van – Arrival or Departure: $53
  • Chiang Mai Airport Private Van Transfer – Arrival or Departure: $39
  • Chiang Mai Siam Dragon Cabaret Show with Hotel Transfer: $31
  • Chiang Mai Airport Private Transfer – Arrival or Departure: $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

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

  • Cordoba Airport Private Transfer: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Chiang Mai or Cordoba?

Prices for flights to both Cordoba 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 $20
    Cordoba $6.67
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)
    $5.93
  • Roti Snack (Bread)
    $0.73
  • Casual Breakfast
    $1.22
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.08
  • Mangoes
    $0.91
  • Coffee
    $1.52

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:

  • Chiang Mai Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show Experience: $27
  • Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai: $28
  • Morning Thai cooking class: $28
  • Evening Thai cooking class: $28
  • Private Virtual Thai Cooking Class: $28
  • Cooking class in organic garden and local market tour ThaiCottage: $29
  • Khantoke Dinner at Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center: $29
  • Half Day Evening Cooking Class with Market Tour in Chiang Mai: $30
  • Half Day Morning Cooking Class with Market Tour in Chiang Mai: $30
  • Baan Farm Thai Cooking School Chiangmai: $30
  • Tomyumthai Cooking Class in Chiang Mai: $30
  • Half-Day Thai Cuisine Cooking Experience in Chiang Mai: $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chiang Mai $14
    Cordoba $17
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
    $40
  • Doi Suthep Entrance Ticket
    $1.82
  • Kratong Lessons
    $3.04
  • Pedicure
    $4.56
  • Chiang Mai Museum (for Two)
    $5.47

Tours and Activities in Chiang Mai

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

  • 1 Day Private Tour Doi Inthanon And Phachor Canyon: $163
  • 1 Day Private Tour Unseen in Lamphun Province: $119
  • 1 Day Private Tour White Temple and Renewed Doichang Coffee: $188
  • 1 Day Sukhothai Historical Park from Chiang Mai Private Tour: $203
  • 1 Day Trek and Bamboo Rafting Tour in Chiang Mai: $84
  • 1 Day Trek and Sticky Waterfall Tour in Chiang Mai: $84
  • 1 day Private Tour to Unseen Temple in Lampang: $144
  • 10KM Inflatable Kayaking Adventure: $94
  • 10KM Inflatable Kayaking and 3HR Trekking Adventure: $110
  • 2 DAYS MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE Chiang Mai Chiang Dao Route: $238
  • 2 Days 1 Night Rem Village and Mountain Tour with Scooter: $259
  • 2 Days Hiking Tour in Chiang Mai: $125

Tours and Activities in Cordoba

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

  • Alta Gracia: Unveiling Cordoba's Cultural Heritage Tour: $61
  • Córdoba: Villa Carlos Paz Tour: $72
  • Cordoba City Tour: $72
  • Cordoba City Tour with Optional Jesuitic Square: $74
  • Cordoba Cumbrecita Tour with Spanish Speaking Guide: $104
  • Cumbrecita Tour: $104
  • Exploring Villa Carlos Paz: Guided Sightseeing Tour: $61
  • Full Day Jesuit Legacy Tour from Cordoba: $99
  • Full Day Tour to Punilla Valley from Cordoba: $99
  • La Cumbrecita & Villa General Belgrano - Full day tour: $135
  • La Cumbrecita and Villa General Belgrano Full Day Tour: $94
  • PRIVATE TOUR : Villa Tulumba the most beautiful town: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chiang Mai $7.53
    Cordoba $7.01
Typical Alcohol Prices in Chiang Mai

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


  • Wine
    $3.04

Sample the Local Flavors in Cordoba

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cordoba:

  • Wine Tour to Colonia Caroya, Cordoba - Half Day: $117
  • Wine Tour Privado a Colonia Caroya, Córdoba - Argentina: $175
  • Wine Tour Privado a Calamuchita, Córdoba - Argentina: $175
  • Full-Day Private Colonia Caroya Wine Tour from Córdoba: $269


When comparing the travel costs between Chiang Mai and Cordoba, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Chiang Mai is in Asia and Cordoba is in South America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Cordoba Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Cordoba?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Cordoba, 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 Cordoba?

Cordoba 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 Cordoba in the Summer?

Both Cordoba and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Cordoba in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Cordoba fluctuates around 10°C (50°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Cordoba during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 277 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Cordobain January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chiang Mai 30°C (86°F) 
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Cordoba in the Autumn?

Both Cordoba and Chiang Mai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Cordoba. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Cordoba averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Cordobain April. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 196 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Cordobain April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chiang Mai 29°C (83°F) 
    Cordoba 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Cordoba in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Cordoba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally cooler than Cordobain July. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Cordoba during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 189 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Cordobain July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chiang Mai 23°C (74°F) 
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Cordoba in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Cordoba. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Cordoba in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Cordoba fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Cordobain October. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 243 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Cordobain October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chiang Mai 31°C (88°F) 
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F)

Typical Weather for Cordoba and Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Cordoba
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 23°C (74°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 26°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 29°C (83°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 31°C (88°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 158 mm (6.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 30°C (86°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Aug 29°C (85°F) 236 mm (9.3 in) 28°C (82°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 29°C (85°F) 228 mm (9 in) 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 29°C (83°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 24°C (75°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)