A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Da Nang for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Da 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 Da 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 natural, temple-filled, and laid-back 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a accessible, authentic, and coastal city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Da Nang travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Da Nang. 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, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Da Nang is famous for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Chiang Mai different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Mai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Da Nang has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

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

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Da Nang to choose from. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

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

Da Nang offers a nice beach destination. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

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

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its old town. However, Da 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.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Da 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.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Da Nang?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chiang Mai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang 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.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Da Nang are superb 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.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Da Nang both superb 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.

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

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

Chiang Mai and Da Nang 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.

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Chiang Mai or Da Nang a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city 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.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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

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

How long in Chiang Mai or Da Nang?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Mai or Da Nang to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Da Nang because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Da Nang.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Da 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 Da 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 Da 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 Da 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 museums and nightlife around the accessible city of Da Nang, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Da Nang, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Da 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 Da 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 city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Da 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.

Da Nang, a popular city, 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 Da 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.

Da 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City.

When comparing the travel costs between Chiang Mai and Da Nang, we can see that Chiang Mai 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Da Nang Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Da Nang?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Da Nang. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Da 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 Da Nang?

Both destinations experience a warmer 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 Da Nang in the Summer?

Both Da Nang 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round.

June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Da Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 242 hours of full sun.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Da Nang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Da Nang averages at about 29°C (85°F).

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

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

November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Da Nang during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 158 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

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

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

Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Da Nang. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 112 mm (4.4 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 winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 136 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Da Nang in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Da Nang fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

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

Both Da Nang 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. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Da Nang. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Da Nang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Da Nang during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Da Nang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Da Nang averages at about 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Da Nang and Chiang Mai