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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Stuttgart?

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 Stuttgart. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a diverse, dynamic, and modern city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Stuttgart: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Stuttgart?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Stuttgart. Chiang Mai is bigger than Stuttgart, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Stuttgart 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. Stuttgart is well known for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum.

How is Chiang Mai different from Stuttgart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Stuttgart 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.

Stuttgart is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

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

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

For foodies, Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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, Stuttgart makes for a great culinary experience. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Chiang Mai and Stuttgart.

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.

Stuttgart offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

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.

Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

People visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Stuttgart?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Stuttgart 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.

Stuttgart is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stuttgart. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for couples. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Stuttgart is a nice destination for couples. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Stuttgart is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.

Is Chiang Mai or Stuttgart Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Stuttgart. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

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 Stuttgart a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Stuttgart 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.

Stuttgart is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Stuttgart or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Stuttgart?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Mai or Stuttgart. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Stuttgart.

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

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 museums and nightlife around the modern city of Stuttgart, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do 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 Stuttgart?

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 nightlife and food around the big city destination of Stuttgart, there's plenty to do. 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 Stuttgart?

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.

Stuttgart, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Stuttgart?

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.

Stuttgart 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 Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Stuttgart?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Stuttgart. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart?

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Stuttgart. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Stuttgart for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Stuttgart. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Stuttgart fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stuttgart this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Stuttgart during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Stuttgart receives 238 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 Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Stuttgart receives 62 mm (2.4 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 Stuttgart in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Stuttgart. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Stuttgart in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Stuttgart in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Stuttgart fluctuates around 13°C (56°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 Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stuttgart receives 122 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Stuttgart receives 51 mm (2 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 Stuttgart in the Winter?

Both Stuttgart 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, most visitors come to Stuttgart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Stuttgart can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Stuttgart. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Stuttgart averages at about 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Stuttgart during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Stuttgart receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Stuttgart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Stuttgart in the Spring?

Both Stuttgart 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, the spring months attract visitors to Stuttgart because of the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Stuttgart. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Stuttgart fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stuttgart receives 154 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Stuttgart. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Stuttgart receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Stuttgart and Chiang Mai