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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Ubud?

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 Ubud. 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 cultural, welcoming, and natural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Ubud

Ubud is a famous, cultural, and breathtaking town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Ubud travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Ubud: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Ubud, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ubud is more popular for its resorts and small town charm. Chiang Mai is well 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. Ubud is well known for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts.

How is Chiang Mai different from Ubud?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chiang Mai on the map. 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.

Ubud offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Ubud both to be terrific 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, Ubud is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Chiang Mai know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Ubud has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for Resorts?

Ubud is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Ubud for its luxury resorts. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Ubud does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Many visitors go to Ubud for the hiking trails. There are many stunning walks and hikes just outside of town. There are stunning views from Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Jalan Subak Sok Wayah Walk will take you through the rice paddies and Kajeng Rice Field Walk is close to town but tucked away from the crowds. One of the biggest draws of the area is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces Walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Chiang Mai is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ubud. Head to the Ubud shopping street for boutiques, markets, and local items. The town has grown into a shopper's paradise with many Balinese handicrafts around.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a stunning setting, which makes it appealing to tourists, but to truly enjoy the beauty you'll want to get a bit outside of town.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Ubud offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the jungles and rice paddies. There are also many great restaurants that are family-friend. Ubud is a bit cooler than the beach towns of Bali, so kids will enjoy an escape from the hotter temperatures.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud Better for Couples?

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

Ubud is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners flock to this small town for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. There are luxury hotels, spas, massages, and poolside escapes that will make for the perfect honeymoon. You'll also find world class restaurants and breathtaking hikes in the area.

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 Ubud Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a very popular city to visit 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.

Ubud is very popular with the backpacker crowd. If you need a break from the party scene on Bali, then you'll enjoy the reprieve of this small town. There are still plenty of backpackers and hostels, but the town itself offers a more relaxed setting.

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

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its public transit. However, Ubud is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Chiang Mai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ubud. Many people hire a vehicle or driver to explore the area. There are also tourist shuttles around with Perama Shuttle being one of the most established.

Is Chiang Mai or Ubud a more walkable city?

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

Ubud is very walkable. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

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 Ubud Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ubud or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Both Chiang Mai and Ubud have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Chiang Mai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chiang Mai than Ubud. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 4-7 days is enough time in Ubud.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Ubud. 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.

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

Chiang Mai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the popular town of Ubud, 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 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 Ubud?

Chiang Mai is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ubud, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the food. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Ubud, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Chiang Mai is a laid-back city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Ubud is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, and The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Ubud, we can see that Ubud is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Ubud would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ubud 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 Ubud Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Ubud?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ubud. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Ubud, 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.