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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Torquay?

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 Torquay. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay

Torquay is a trendy, casual, and laid back surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Torquay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Torquay are popular destinations, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Torquay attracts visitors for its beaches and small town charm. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Torquay 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. Torquay is famous for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Chiang Mai different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Mai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Chiang Mai for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Torquay is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Torquay offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its old town. However, Torquay does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Chiang Mai to see the historical old town. 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.

Torquay does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is renowned for hiking. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Chiang Mai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Torquay is a popular spot for hiking. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Torquay?

Chiang Mai is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town 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.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town 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.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Torquay both great destinations for a couple.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Torquay is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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

Chiang Mai is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town 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.

Torquay is a good city to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

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

Chiang Mai and Torquay both offer nice 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.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Chiang Mai or Torquay a more walkable city?

Torquay is a great surf town for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Torquay is very walkable. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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 Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Torquay?

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

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

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 casual surf town of Torquay, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 Torquay?

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 Torquay, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this surf town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Torquay?

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.

Torquay, a popular surf 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 Torquay?

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.

Torquay is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Torquay?

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

Torquay 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 Torquay in the Summer?

Both Torquay and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Torquayin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Torquay in the Autumn?

Both Torquay and Chiang Mai during the autumn 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 autumn months attract visitors to Torquay because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Torquayin April. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Torquay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Torquay. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Torquay in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Torquay fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Torquayin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Torquay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Torquay. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Torquay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Torquay averages at about 21°C (71°F)in October.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Torquayin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Torquay and Chiang Mai