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

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Torquay?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Torquay, 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 beautiful, friendly, and charming city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay

Torquay is a thriving, outdoorsy, and trendy surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Chiang Rai and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Torquay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Rai than Torquay, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Rai is better known for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Torquay is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Chiang Rai is well known 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). Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Chiang Rai different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Rai is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Rai are world-renowned. 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 Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

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

Chiang Rai is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Rai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Both Chiang Rai and Torquay have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Chiang Rai. 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.

Torquay has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Torquay is an amazing surf town to visit for the beache. However, Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is great for its old town. However, Torquay does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Chiang Rai to see the historical old town. 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.

Torquay does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Torquay is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Chiang Rai. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Torquay?

Chiang Rai is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for Families?

Chiang Rai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Chiang Rai or Torquay Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai and Torquay are both superb 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 Torquay frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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

Chiang Rai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town 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.

Torquay is a good city to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

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

Torquay 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.

Torquay has some public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

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 Torquay a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai and Torquay are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Torquay is a very walkable destination. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Torquay?

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

Families should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Torquay. 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 Torquay. 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 Torquay 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 Torquay?

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 thriving surf town of Torquay, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 Rai or Torquay?

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 Torquay, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this surf town.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Torquay?

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.

Torquay, a popular surf town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Torquay?

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.

Torquay is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Torquay?

Chiang Rai has a larger population, and is about 66% larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Torquay, 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.