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

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Dunedin, 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 cultural, beautiful, and friendly city. Chiang Rai offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Rai travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a vibrant, small, and hilly city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Dunedin travel costs.

Chiang Rai and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Rai than Dunedin. While Dunedin is larger than Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Rai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Dunedin is known for its nightlife and beaches. Chiang Rai is popular for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. It is also home to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). Dunedin is popular for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Chiang Rai different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Rai is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

Many visitors head to Dunedin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

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

Chiang Rai is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Dunedin 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.

Dunedin has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

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 Dunedin Better for Beaches?

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

Dunedin has a beach worth visiting. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Dunedin 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.

Dunedin does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Chiang Rai and Dunedin are both places where visitors can find good hiking trails.

Chiang Rai has hiking trails worth exploring. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Chiang Rai and Dunedin.

Chiang Rai is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Dunedin. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin More Beautiful?

Chiang Rai is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chiang Rai offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the mountains and filled with temples and impressive parks, this city is a beautiful place.

Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Families?

Chiang Rai and Dunedin 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.

Dunedin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Chiang Rai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai and Dunedin are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Chiang Rai. 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.

Dunedin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Chiang Rai or Dunedin Better for Students?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

Dunedin is a great city to visit as a student. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

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

Dunedin 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.

Dunedin has some public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

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 Dunedin a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai and Dunedin are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Dunedin is a very walkable destination. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Rai and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Rai than in Dunedin. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Dunedin. 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 Dunedin. 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 Dunedin than Chiang Rai 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 Dunedin.

One day in Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

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 cultural city of Dunedin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dunedin, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

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 Dunedin, there's plenty to do. 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 Dunedin?

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.

Dunedin, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Dunedin?

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.

Dunedin 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 New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Dunedin?

Dunedin has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Chiang Rai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Dunedin, 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.