A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Similan Islands vs. Chiang Rai for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Chiang Rai 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a charming, cultural, and beautiful city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Similan Islands and Chiang Rai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Rai than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Rai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Rai is more touristy than Similan Islands and is 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). Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Chiang Rai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

Chiang Rai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Chiang Rai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chiang Rai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Rai is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Rai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Similan Islands specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Chiang Rai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for the beache. However, Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Similan Islands are among the best in the world. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Chiang Rai is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

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

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Chiang Rai are destinations which offer notable hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Chiang Rai offers some nice hiking trails. 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 Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

Chiang Rai is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Families?

Chiang Rai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is an amazing island chain to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Similan Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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.

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Similan Islands and Chiang Rai.

Public transit is mostly limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

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

Is Similan Islands or Chiang Rai a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

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

Should I spend more time in Chiang Rai or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

It's fun to spend time in either Similan Islands or Chiang Rai. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Similan Islands due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-4 days is enough time in Chiang Rai.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Similan Islands. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the idyllic island chain of Similan Islands, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The friendly destination of Chiang Rai offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Similan Islands, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Chiang Rai offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

Similan Islands, a popular island chain, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island chain. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Chiang Rai is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Chiang Rai?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chiang Rai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chiang Mai, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Bangkok.

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