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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Darwin?

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 Darwin. 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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Darwin

Darwin is a local, tropical, and multicultural town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Darwin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Darwin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Darwin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Darwin attracts visitors for its beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Darwin 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. Darwin is famous for its outdoor markets and tropical weather.

How is Chiang Mai different from Darwin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Mai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Chiang Mai has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for Beaches?

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

Darwin offers a nice beach destination. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is notable for its old town. However, Darwin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Chiang Mai to see the historical old town. 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.

Darwin does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Chiang Mai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Darwin. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Darwin?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Darwin has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Darwin are great 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.

Darwin is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Darwin is a good city for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for backpackers. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Darwin is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

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

Chiang Mai and Darwin 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.

Darwin has a few public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

Is Chiang Mai or Darwin a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Darwin are nice 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.

Darwin is a somewhat walkable place. There are biking and walking paths around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Darwin or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Darwin?

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

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

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 museums and nightlife around the multicultural town of Darwin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Darwin?

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 food around the destination of Darwin, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Darwin?

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.

Darwin, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Darwin?

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.

Darwin 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Darwin?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Darwin. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Darwin, 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 Darwin?

Darwin 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 Darwin in the Summer?

Both Darwin 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, most visitors come to Darwin for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Darwin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (83°F)in January.

In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Darwinin January. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 173 hours of full sun.

Darwin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in July than Darwinin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Darwin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Darwin. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Darwin because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Darwinin April. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Darwin this time of the year. In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 267 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 Darwinin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Darwin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Darwin. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Darwin this time of year.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Darwin in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Darwin fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Darwinin July. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 312 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in January than Darwinin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 1 mm (0 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 Darwin in the Spring?

Both Darwin 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, many travelers come to Darwin for the beaches.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Darwin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (85°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Darwin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Darwin during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 291 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Darwinin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Darwin and Chiang Mai