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

Should you visit Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Chiang Mai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a friendly, cultural, and welcoming city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Helsinki and Chiang Mai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Helsinki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Chiang Mai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are world-renowned. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Chiang Mai has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chiang Mai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Chiang Mai are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Chiang Mai are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Chiang Mai is extremely popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai Better for Students?

Helsinki is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Helsinki is a great city 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.

Public transit in Helsinki is fairly effecient and thorough. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Helsinki or Chiang Mai a more walkable city?

Helsinki and Chiang Mai are nice when it comes to walkability.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable place. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chiang Mai or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Both Helsinki and Chiang Mai have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 2-7 days is enough time in Chiang Mai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Helsinki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chiang Mai 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

With museums and nightlife around the environmentally conscious city of Helsinki, 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.

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Helsinki, 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.

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Helsinki, 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.

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Helsinki 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.

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Chiang Mai, 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 Helsinki or Chiang Mai?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Chiang Mai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Chiang Mai. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 30°C (86°F).

In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Chiang Mai during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 146 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chiang Mai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Chiang Mai. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year.

Helsinki is much colder than Chiang Mai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 226 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. Helsinki usually gets less rain in October than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chiang Mai in the Winter?

Both Chiang Mai and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Helsinki can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Chiang Mai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Chiang Mai during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 283 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chiang Mai in the Spring?

Both Chiang Mai and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the natural beauty during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round.

Helsinki can be very cold during spring. It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 275 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Chiang Mai. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Chiang Mai and Helsinki