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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Koh Tao?

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 Tao. 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 friendly, cultural, and welcoming 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Koh Tao and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Chiang Mai different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are world-renowned. 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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and 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.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Chiang Mai and Koh Tao.

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.

Koh Tao offers plenty to do in the evening. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Tao to choose from. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

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

Chiang Mai is great for its old town. However, Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Koh Tao?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chiang Mai draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Mai is very family-friendly. 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 Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Koh Tao both great 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Koh Tao are world-class 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 Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Chiang Mai is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Chiang Mai or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao 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 Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Tao Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chiang Mai or Koh Tao?

Both Chiang Mai and Koh Tao 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 Tao. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao 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 Tao?

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 shopping and nightlife around the laid back island of Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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 Koh Tao, 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 island.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Koh Tao?

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.

Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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.

Koh Tao 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 Tao, we can see that Chiang Mai is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Chiang Mai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chiang Mai than you might in Koh Tao.

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Koh Tao?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 720 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Koh Tao, 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 Koh Tao?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

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

Both Koh Tao 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao. Koh Tao 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 October than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

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

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

November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

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

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

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Chiang Mai