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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Orlando?

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 Orlando. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Orlando, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions and resorts. Chiang Mai 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. Orlando is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

How is Chiang Mai different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for theatre. However, Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Chiang Mai for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

Chiang Mai is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Orlando. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando 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, Orlando 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Chiang Mai or Orlando a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

Both Chiang Mai and Orlando 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 Orlando. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

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 theater and nightlife around the family-friendly city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

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 Orlando, 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 city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

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.

Orlando, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Orlando?

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.

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Orlando?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

Orlando 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 Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando 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. Also, many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Orlando in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Orlando. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Orlando. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Orlando averages at about 75°F (24°C).

Orlando 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 October than Orlando. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Orlando in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Orlando. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Orlando. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Orlando in the Spring?

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

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Orlando in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Orlando. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Chiang Mai