A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Sukhothai vs. Chiang Mai for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Chiang Mai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a welcoming, natural, and temple-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sukhothai and Chiang Mai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Sukhothai and Chiang Mai are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Sukhothai is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Chiang Mai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

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

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

Chiang Mai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Chiang Mai has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai and Chiang Mai are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

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

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking. 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.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. 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.

Sukhothai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Chiang Mai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Chiang Mai. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Sukhothai and Chiang Mai.

Sukhothai has some public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

You'll find some public transit in Chiang Mai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Sukhothai or Chiang Mai a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is very good for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. 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.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chiang Mai or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Both Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Chiang Mai.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Sukhothai. 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 Sukhothai. 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 Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Sukhothai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sukhothai, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Sukhothai, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Sukhothai 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 popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand.

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai or Chiang Mai?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Chiang Mai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Chiang Mai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Chiang Mai during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 146 hours of full sun in the summer.

Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai in the summer. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 30°C (86°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Chiang Mai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Chiang Mai. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 226 hours of full sun.

In the autumn, Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sukhothai in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Chiang Mai in the Winter?

Both Chiang Mai and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. In January, Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chiang Mai during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 283 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 25°C (77°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Chiang Mai in the Spring?

Both Chiang Mai and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Sukhothai usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chiang Mai. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 275 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. It's very hot in Sukhothai this time of the year. Sukhothai is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai in the spring. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Chiang Mai and Sukhothai