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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Naples?

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 Naples. 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 cultural, welcoming, and natural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Naples?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Naples are roughly the same size, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Chiang Mai different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chiang Mai on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Naples both to be world-class destinations.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Naples is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Naples offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Chiang Mai and Naples.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Naples is not a hiking destination.

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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Naples?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Chiang Mai is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for Families?

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

Chiang Mai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Naples 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.

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Naples is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Chiang Mai or Naples Better for Students?

Naples is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Naples is a great city 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 Naples is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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 Naples a more walkable city?

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

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Naples?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Naples. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Naples. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Naples.

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

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Naples, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Naples?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Naples, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Naples, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Naples?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Naples?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Naples, 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 Naples?

Naples 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 Naples in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Naples. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Naples. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Naples. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Naples in the Autumn?

Both Naples 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Naples because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Naples in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Naples during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Naples in the Winter?

Both Naples 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. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Naples in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Naples. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Naples for the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Naples. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Naples during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Naples. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Naples and Chiang Mai