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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

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 Mount Bromo. 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 welcoming, natural, and temple-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Chiang Mai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a scenic, spectacular, and breathtaking volcano. Many visitors also come to Mount Bromo because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Mount Bromo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Mount Bromo are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Bromo is known for its impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Mount Bromo and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Mount Bromo is popular for its sunrise views and scenic setting.

How is Chiang Mai different from Mount Bromo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great city for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its historic old town. However, Mount Bromo 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.

Mount Bromo does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano 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.

Mount Bromo is a popular spot for hiking. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mount Bromo because of it's amazing beauty. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Mount Bromo both superb 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.

Mount Bromo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for backpackers.

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.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

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

Chiang Mai is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Mount Bromo is not known 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 Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Is Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Mount Bromo are good 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.

Mount Bromo is a somewhat walkable place. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

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

Should I spend more time in Mount Bromo or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Mount Bromo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mount Bromo.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Mount Bromo. 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 Mount Bromo. 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 Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo?

Chiang Mai is a friendly city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the scenic volcano of Mount Bromo, 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Bromo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

Chiang Mai is a welcoming big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Mount Bromo, 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 volcano.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Mount Bromo?

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Mount Bromo, a popular volcano, 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 Mount Bromo?

Chiang Mai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Mount Bromo 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 Budget Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Mount Bromo, we can see that Chiang Mai is more expensive. And not only is Mount Bromo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mount Bromo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo.

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 Mount Bromo Expensive?.