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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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 friendly, cultural, and welcoming city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Sarajevo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Sarajevo attracts visitors for its historical sights. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Sarajevo is famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food.

How is Chiang Mai different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are world-renowned. 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.

Sarajevo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Sarajevo both to be terrific 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, Sarajevo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

Is Chiang Mai or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Chiang Mai has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Chiang Mai or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

The historic old town of Sarajevo is revered around the world. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Chiang Mai and Sarajevo, and they are terrific.

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.

People visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chiang Mai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Is Chiang Mai or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Mai is very family-friendly. 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Chiang Mai or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

Chiang Mai makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Chiang Mai is extremely popular 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.

Sarajevo is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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

Sarajevo is a great 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 Sarajevo is fairly effecient and thorough. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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 Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Sarajevo are nice 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.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Sarajevo. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the quaint city of Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sarajevo, 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Sarajevo, a popular city, 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 Sarajevo?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Sarajevo 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Sarajevo?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Sarajevo. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Sarajevo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 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 Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Sarajevo. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 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 Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo 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 visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Chiang Mai