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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a high energy, trendy, and coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Newcastle. Chiang Mai is bigger than Newcastle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle is more popular for its beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Newcastle 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. Newcastle is well known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks.

How is Chiang Mai different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Newcastle offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Newcastle is a great city for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newcastle for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Newcastle 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.

Newcastle does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Newcastle. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Newcastle. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

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

Chiang Mai and Newcastle both offer notable public transit to get you around.

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.

Newcastle has a few public transit options. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Chiang Mai or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Newcastle are notable 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.

Newcastle is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Mai or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

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

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the trendy city of Newcastle, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Newcastle, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Newcastle, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Newcastle?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Newcastle 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 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Newcastle?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Newcastle. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Newcastle, 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 Newcastle?

Newcastle 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 Newcastle in the Summer?

Both Newcastle and Chiang Mai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein January. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun.

Newcastle 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 more rain in July than Newcastlein January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Newcastle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Newcastle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Newcastle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Newcastle receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Newcastlein April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Newcastle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Newcastle. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Newcastle averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Newcastlein July. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Newcastlein July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Newcastle in the Spring?

Both Newcastle and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Newcastlein October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Newcastle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Newcastlein October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Chiang Mai