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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 natural, temple-filled, and laid-back 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Stockholm. While Stockholm is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, and shopping, while Stockholm attracts visitors for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Stockholm and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town.

How is Chiang Mai different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Mai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Chiang Mai or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Chiang Mai and Stockholm.

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.

Stockholm offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Chiang Mai or Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm is a world-class destination for live music. However, Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is revered around the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

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.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chiang Mai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Chiang Mai or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Chiang Mai or Stockholm Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Stockholm is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Stockholm can get you around easily. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

Both Chiang Mai and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Stockholm has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Stockholm than Chiang Mai. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Stockholm than Chiang Mai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Stockholm that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With live music and food around the expensive city of Stockholm, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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 Stockholm?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the big city destination of Stockholm, 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 live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Stockholm, a popular 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 city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stockholm 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 of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Stockholm. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Stockholm averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Chiang Mai during the winter 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 travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Stockholm in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Stockholm. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Stockholm averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Chiang Mai