A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Rai vs. Da Nang for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Da Nang, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a friendly, charming, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Chiang Rai and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Rai than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Rai is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Chiang Rai is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. Also, Chiang Rai is famous for Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Chiang Rai different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Da Nang and Chiang Rai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

Chiang Rai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Rai are among the most recognizable in the world. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Rai or Da Nang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Rai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Chiang Rai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Da Nang has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Da Nang has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Chiang Rai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Rai is not a resort destination.

Da Nang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Chiang Rai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

Da Nang has a beach worth visiting. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is a well-known place for its old town. However, Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chiang Rai. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Hiking?

Chiang Rai is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Rai is a good destination for hiking. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

Chiang Rai is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Chiang Rai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Families?

Chiang Rai and Da Nang are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Rai is very family-friendly. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

Da Nang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai and Da Nang are both very good to visit as a couple.

Chiang Rai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Couples visit Da Nang frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Rai is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Da Nang is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Chiang Rai is lacking in options for its public transit.

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Is Chiang Rai or Da Nang a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Chiang Rai is a very walkable city. The old city is easy to explore on foot.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Da Nang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Da Nang or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Rai or Da Nang to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Rai than Da Nang because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Da Nang.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Da Nang 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 Rai.

One day in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

In Chiang Rai, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 authentic city of Da Nang, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Da Nang, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

In Chiang Rai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Rai has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Da Nang, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Rai or Da Nang?

Chiang Rai is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Da Nang, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Rai or Da Nang?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Rai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chiang Rai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Da Nang 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 Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Rai and Da Nang, we can see that Da Nang is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Rai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Rai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Rai 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 Da Nang would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Da Nang than you might in Chiang Rai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Rai Expensive? and Is Da Nang Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Da Nang?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chiang Rai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Da Nang, 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.