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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Washington?

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 Washington. 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.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse 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. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Chiang Mai and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Washington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Washington is known for its theatre productions, music, and quaint atmosphere. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Washington 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. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

How is Chiang Mai different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Washington.

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 museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Chiang Mai is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Washington both to be first-rate 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, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Chiang Mai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its historic old town. However, Washington 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Washington?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Washington. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Chiang Mai does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Washington are high quality 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Washington both high quality 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Chiang Mai or Washington Better for Students?

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

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore 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 Washington a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Washington?

Both Chiang Mai and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Washington than Chiang Mai. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Chiang Mai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Washington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Chiang Mai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Washington that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

With theater and nightlife around the monument-filled city of Washington, 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 Washington?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Washington, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Washington?

Chiang Mai, a popular city, 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 city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Washington?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Washington?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Washington, 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 Washington?

Washington 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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington 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, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Washington. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington 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, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Washington. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 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 Washington. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Washington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Washington. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Washington during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Washington. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Washington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Washington. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. 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 Washington. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Washington and Chiang Mai