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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Porto?

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 Porto. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Porto is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Porto travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Porto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Porto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Porto 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. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Chiang Mai different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Porto both to be first-rate 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, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Chiang Mai and Porto.

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.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Chiang Mai and Porto.

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 Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is very popular for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking. 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.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Porto?

Chiang Mai is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai and Porto both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Chiang Mai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Porto are high quality 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.

Porto is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Porto both high quality 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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Porto are first-rate places to visit.

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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Is Chiang Mai or Porto Better for Students?

Porto is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Porto is a great port 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 Porto is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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 Porto a more walkable city?

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

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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 Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Porto?

In either Chiang Mai or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Porto. 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.

One day in Chiang Mai or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural port city of Porto, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Porto, 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 port city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Porto?

Chiang Mai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Porto, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Porto 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Porto?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Porto, 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 Porto?

Porto 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 Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto 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 visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Porto in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Porto. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto 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. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Porto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Porto averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Porto. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

Porto 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 around the same amount of rain in October as Porto. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Porto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Porto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Porto during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Porto. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Porto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Porto. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Porto in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Porto. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Porto. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Porto and Chiang Mai