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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Hanoi?

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 Hanoi. 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Hanoi?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Hanoi. While Hanoi is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hanoi attracts visitors for its historical sights and big city activities. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Hanoi 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. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy.

How is Chiang Mai different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Hanoi.

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 Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Chiang Mai and Hanoi.

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.

Hanoi offers plenty to do in the evening. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi 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 Hanoi is revered around the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

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 Hanoi Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Hanoi?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Hanoi both offer plenty of fantastic spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. 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.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

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

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Hanoi are fantastic 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 Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Chiang Mai is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Chiang Mai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Chiang Mai or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

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

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Hanoi?

In either Chiang Mai or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

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

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Hanoi, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Hanoi, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Hanoi?

Chiang Mai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Hanoi, 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 Hanoi?

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Hanoi 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 Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Chiang Mai and Hanoi, we can see that Hanoi 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 Hanoi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Hanoi?

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

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 Hanoi in the Summer?

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

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Hanoi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Hanoi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Hanoi in the Autumn?

Both Hanoi and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Hanoi in the Winter?

Both Hanoi and Chiang Mai during the winter 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 Hanoi year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Hanoi. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Hanoi in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Hanoi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Hanoi in the Spring?

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

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Hanoi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Hanoi averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Chiang Mai