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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or The Hague?

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 The Hague. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Chiang Mai and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or The Hague?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than The Hague, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while The Hague is known for its music. Chiang Mai is more touristy than The Hague 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. The Hague is popular for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Chiang Mai different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Chiang Mai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

The Hague offers plenty to do in the evening. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Music?

The Hague is a great city for live music. However, Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

The Hague has a thriving music scene. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

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

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or The Hague?

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

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Chiang Mai or The Hague Better for Students?

The Hague is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

The Hague is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

The Hague 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 The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and The Hague are good 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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or The Hague?

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

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague?

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 shopping and nightlife around the diverse city of The Hague, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in The Hague, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or The Hague?

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 live music around the big city destination of The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or The Hague?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of The Hague. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

The Hague 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 The Hague in the Summer?

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

Chiang Mai is much warmer than The Hague in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than The Hague during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 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 The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 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 The Hague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as The Hague. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and The Hague averages at about 11°C (51°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 The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 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 The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague 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, the winter months attract visitors to The Hague because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hague can be very cold. In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or The Hague in the Spring?

Both The Hague 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, the activities around the city are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than The Hague in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as The Hague. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for The Hague and Chiang Mai