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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast. 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 temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a vibrant, colorful, and high energy coastline. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chiang Mai and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Gold Coast. Chiang Mai is bigger than Gold Coast, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Gold Coast is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Chiang Mai is well known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Gold Coast is well known for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests.

How is Chiang Mai different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Gold Coast specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its local cuisine and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Gold Coast makes for a great culinary experience. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Gold Coast just to party. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Gold Coast for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gold Coast is a great coastline for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Gold Coast. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Gold Coast offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Gold Coast is a popular spot for hiking. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast 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, Gold Coast is very family-friendly. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Gold Coast is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Gold Coast are amazing 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 Gold Coast. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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

Gold Coast is a great coastline 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.

Public transit in Gold Coast is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

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 Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Gold Coast are notable 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.

Gold Coast is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

Both Chiang Mai and Gold Coast have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Gold Coast has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Gold Coast than Chiang Mai. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Gold Coast.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gold Coast than Chiang Mai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled coastline of Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 city.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Gold Coast, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

Chiang Mai, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gold Coast, a popular coastline, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastline. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

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

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Gold Coast?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Gold Coast. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast 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. Also, many travelers come to Gold Coast for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Gold Coastin January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coastin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

Both Gold Coast 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. Also, many visitors come to Gold Coast in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Gold Coast in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coastin April. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast 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 more rain in October than Gold Coastin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Gold Coast. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Gold Coast during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Gold Coastin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Gold Coast in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Gold Coast. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Gold Coastin October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coastin October. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Gold Coastin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Chiang Mai