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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua. 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 temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Rotorua. Chiang Mai is bigger than Rotorua, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Rotorua and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Rotorua is well known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Chiang Mai different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Chiang Mai or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Chiang Mai has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Chiang Mai or Rotorua Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Chiang Mai or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua is very family-friendly. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Rotorua is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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.

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

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Rotorua are fantastic 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 Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Chiang Mai and Rotorua 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.

Rotorua has a few public transit options. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Chiang Mai or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

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

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

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

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 museums and nightlife around the world-renowned town of Rotorua, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Rotorua?

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.

Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

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.

Rotorua 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 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Rotorua?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Rotorua. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Rotorua. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 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 Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is cooler than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Chiang Mai during the spring 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 visitors come to Rotorua in the spring for the natural beauty.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Chiang Mai