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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Toulouse. Chiang Mai is bigger than Toulouse, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Toulouse 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. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

How is Chiang Mai different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Toulouse both to be fantastic 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, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Toulouse offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Chiang Mai and Toulouse.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Toulouse are very good family-friendly destinations.

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.

Toulouse is a very kid-friendly city. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Toulouse both very good 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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Chiang Mai and Toulouse both offer notable 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.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Chiang Mai or Toulouse a more walkable city?

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

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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 Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Mai or Toulouse. 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 Toulouse.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Toulouse. 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse?

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 dynamic city of Toulouse, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse, 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 food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Toulouse?

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse 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, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulouse. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Toulouse. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Toulouse. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Chiang Mai