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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Picton?

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 Picton. 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Picton

Picton is a picturesque, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Picton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Picton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Picton is more popular for its beaches and small town charm. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Picton 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. Picton is well known for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Chiang Mai different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Picton. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for Beaches?

Picton is a great town for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Picton for it's beautiful beaches. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Picton does not have a historic old town.

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.

Picton does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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 visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Picton?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Picton are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

Picton is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Picton both excellent 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.

Picton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for backpackers. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Picton is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

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

Chiang Mai and Picton 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.

Picton has a few public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Picton a more walkable city?

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

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's 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 Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Mai or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Picton 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 Picton.

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

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 food around the quaint town of Picton, 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 Picton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Picton?

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 food and shopping around the destination of Picton, 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 town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Picton?

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.

Picton, a popular town, 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 Picton?

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.

Picton 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Picton?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Picton, 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 Picton?

Picton 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 Picton in the Summer?

Both Picton 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, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Pictonin January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Pictonin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Picton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Picton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Pictonin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Picton in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Picton averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

It's quite rainy in Picton. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Pictonin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 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 Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton 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, most visitors come to Picton for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

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

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Pictonin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Picton and Chiang Mai