A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Chiang Mai vs. Koh Lipe for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

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 Koh Lipe. 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 laid-back, friendly, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chiang Mai and Koh Lipe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Koh Lipe are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lipe is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Chiang Mai different from Koh Lipe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chiang Mai that are not to be missed. 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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Chiang Mai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Chiang Mai know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lipe to choose from. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Lipe offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Koh Lipe does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Koh Lipe does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking. 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 go to Koh Lipe for the hiking trails. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Chiang Mai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Koh Lipe are high quality 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.

Koh Lipe is a very kid-friendly city. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe Better for Couples?

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

Koh Lipe is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

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 Koh Lipe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

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

Chiang Mai is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options 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 Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is a great island for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Lipe or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

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

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

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

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the tranquil island of Koh Lipe, 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 Koh Lipe?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Koh Lipe, 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 Koh Lipe?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Lipe, a popular island, 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 island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Koh Lipe is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. 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 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Koh Lipe, we can see that Koh Lipe is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Koh Lipe would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe?

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 Koh Lipe in the Summer?

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

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in July than Koh Lipe. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe in the Autumn?

Both Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Koh Lipe. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Koh Lipe averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe in the Winter?

Both Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Koh Lipe. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally cooler than Koh Lipe. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koh Lipe in the Spring?

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

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Koh Lipe. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Lipe receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Koh Lipe in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Koh Lipe fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lipe and Chiang Mai