Travel Budget for Chiang Mai Visit Chiang Mai on a Budget or Travel in Style

Chiang Mai, Changwat Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled city known for Elephant Nature Park, Doi Inthanon National Park, and the Saturday Night Market. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Chiang Mai, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Chiang Mai?

You should plan to spend around $57 (฿1,919) per day on your vacation in Chiang Mai. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $19 (฿655) on meals
  • $3.94 (฿133) on local transportation
  • $56 (฿1,904) on hotels

A one week trip to Chiang Mai for two people costs, on average, $795 (฿26,866). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $57
    ฿1,919
  • One Week Per person
    $397
    ฿13,433
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $795
    ฿26,866
  • One Month Per person
    $1,703
    ฿57,570
  • One Week For a couple
    $795
    ฿26,866
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $1,590
    ฿53,732
  • One Month For a couple
    $3,407
    ฿115,140
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Chiang Mai cost?

A one week trip to Chiang Mai usually costs around $397 (฿13,433) for one person and $795 (฿26,866) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Chiang Mai on average costs around $795 (฿26,866) for one person and $1,590 (฿53,732) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Chiang Mai will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Chiang Mai on average costs around $1,703 (฿57,570) for one person and $3,407 (฿115,140) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Chiang Mai expensive to visit?

Chiang Mai is a large city with an international reputation. As such, it attracts many travelers who range in their budget and travel styles. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

If you choose to make it so, Chiang Mai can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $21 (฿706) per day, mid-range travelers spend $57 (฿1,919) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $166 (฿5,614) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Chiang Mai.

Within Asia, Chiang Mai is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Mandalay, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Similan Islands.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Chiang Mai Expensive?

Chiang Mai street vendor Chiang Mai street vendor

How much money do I need for a trip to Chiang Mai?

The average Chiang Mai trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Chiang Mai travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Chiang Mai cost?

Chiang Mai on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$10
(฿339)
$28
(฿952)
$87
(฿2,942)
Local Transportation 1 $2
(฿51)
$4
(฿133)
$10
(฿352)
Food 2 $8
(฿261)
$19
(฿655)
$48
(฿1,618)
Entertainment 1 $5
(฿161)
$14
(฿460)
$44
(฿1,474)
Alcohol 2 $1-4
(฿48-144)
$4-11
(฿124-372)
$10-29
(฿324-973)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Chiang Mai with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.

The Truth on Budget Travel

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $21 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Fortunately, Chiang Mai has plenty of hostels such as Stamps Backpackers, Hostel Lullaby (Non-Smoking), and Big&O's House 2. At hostels like these, you can find cheap accommodation in a dorm as well as a social atmosphere, but with very little amenities. Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Chiang Mai, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. When visiting Chiang Mai, you'll want to see Elephant Nature Park, Doi Inthanon National Park, or the Saturday Night Market. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $57 per person, per day.

Chiang Mai offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Baan Boo Loo Village is an excellent choice, while Baanlek Home Stay is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Chiang Mai.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $166. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the city, be prepared for premium pricing. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Doi Suthep Temple and Bau Thong Waterfalls Private Tour - offered by Viator.

Chiang Mai, Thailand Chiang Mai, Thailand

Accommodation Budget in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $22, but during peak winter season, they can average $41. Prices range from $12 to $93, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Chiang Mai for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $56 (฿1,904). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $28 (฿952) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $28
    ฿952
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $56
    ฿1,904

Hotels in Chiang Mai

Looking for a hotel in Chiang Mai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Chiang Mai

The average hotel room price in Chiang Mai based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $22 in the low season and $41 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Chiang Mai include:

  • Shewe Wana Boutique Resort & Spa starting at $26
  • 99 The Heritage Hotel starting at $56
  • Makkachiva starting at $40
  • Tamarind Village starting at $113
  • Shewe Wana Suite Resort starting at $90
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Chiang Mai

As a sizable city, Chiang Mai offers numerous lodging options. From affordable hostels such as Stamps Backpackers to cozy vacation rentals and upscale hotels, there's plenty of variety. However, be prepared for higher rates if you stay in the city center, where you'll also have easy access to public transit and attractions.

Chiang Mai's great public transit offers the flexibility to stay farther from the city, but be mindful that your transportation costs may increase, and it could be a time drain.

In a family-friendly place like Chiang Mai, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children. It's a large city, so don't be surprised if the rooms feel a bit small and cramped.

Many visitors spend up to a week in Chiang Mai. If you're going to be in town for a long time, you may want to find a vacation rental with a kitchen. This will let you prepare at least some of your own meals.

If you plan to avoid winter and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

The city's historic old town draws many tourists. While accommodations in this area might be expensive, they often come with a lot of charm and are well-placed for easy access to everything.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has a solid public transit system that covers many major attractions. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is a great choice as long as it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are also available throughout town.

Chiang Mai is quite walkable in certain areas, making it easier to explore various sights. 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.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $3.94 (฿133) per person, per day, on local transportation in Chiang Mai. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Chiang Mai is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $3.94
    ฿133

Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:

  • Chiang Mai Airport PRIVATE Arrival or Departure Transfer for $24 details
  • Private Arrival Transfer - Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Mai City Hotel(SHA Plus) for $17 details
  • Chiang Mai Private Car :Airport To Hotel transfer (one way) for $11 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Chiang Mai
How much does it cost to go to Chiang Mai? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Chiang Mai
The price of renting a car in Chiang Mai will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.


What did other people spend on Transportation in Chiang Mai?

Below, you'll find common transit prices in Chiang Mai, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.


  • Tuk Tuk Ride
    ฿40
  • Moped Rental
    ฿180


Food Budget in Chiang Mai

With its world-class cuisine, Chiang Mai is a food lover's paradise. Make it a priority to eat at local restaurants and try their standout dishes. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Chiang Mai can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Chiang Mai is $19 (฿655) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $19
    ฿655

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Chiang Mai is around $19 (฿655) per person, with previous travelers spending from $8 to $48. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Chiang Mai are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $2 to $6
  • Lunch: $3 to $8
  • Dinner: $6 to $14
  • Coffee: $2
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $3

Khao Soi seems to be Chiang Mai's signature dish, as it can be found in many places around town. This yellow wheat noodle dish has a curry broth and is usually served with chicken or meat.

Restaurants serving not just Thai food, but every type of international food can be found in Chiang Mai. Many Thai restaurants cater to tourists, and therefore are not considered "authentic" by the locals or discerning travelers. Look for restaurants or street vendors without signs in English, or those away from the main tourist drags.

Food in Chiang Mai

Food & Dining Tips

Dining at nicer restaurants for lunch rather than dinner can help you save money. Many restaurants in touristy areas or business hubs provide lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' Often, these options are simply smaller and more affordable versions of their dinner menus. If you play your cards right, you could enjoy a full multi-course gourmet meal without breaking the bank. Then, you can keep it light for dinner.

When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Save some money and appreciate the beautiful scenery by having a picnic. Find a nearby grocery store or market, pick out some fresh food, and choose a nice park or scenic spot for your meal.

Opt for a reusable water bottle to avoid buying drinks everywhere. It's beneficial for the earth as well.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.

If you want to experience the culture in Chiang Mai, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Half Day Evening Cooking Class with Market Tour in Chiang Mai for $27 details
  • Online Thai and Akha Cooking Class for $35 details
  • Motorbike Food Tour in Chiang Mai for $76 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on food and dining in Chiang Mai?

Listed below are typical food prices in Chiang Mai, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Sit Down Dinner (for One)
    ฿195
  • Roti Snack (Bread)
    ฿24
  • Casual Breakfast
    ฿40
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    ฿200
  • Mangoes
    ฿30
  • Coffee
    ฿50


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Chiang Mai

It's not surprising that visitors come to Chiang Mai, as it offers museums and attractions, food, hiking, and budget-friendly accommodations.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Chiang Mai typically cost an average of $14 (฿460) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $14
    ฿460

A few of the most popular sights are:

  • Elephant Nature Park for ฿2500
  • Doi Inthanon National Park for ฿300
  • The Saturday Night Market (Free)
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for ฿30
  • The Sunday Walking Street (Free)
  • Wat Pha Lat (Free)
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (Free)
  • Chiang Mai Night Safari for ฿1600
  • Chiang Mai Zoo for ฿350
  • The Sticky Waterfall (Free)
  • Wat Umong (Free)
  • The Chiang Mai National Museum (Free)
  • Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara (Free)

The old city center is surrounded by ancient walls, and contains many historic temples and architectural gems. The city sprawls outward from here, and mostly east towards the Ping river and the nearby Night Bazaar with surrounding restaurants, hotels, and shops. While many markets are open during the day as well, the nighttime activity at the market brings in the crowds and a vibe of excitement.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a temple 13km outside of the city, and makes for a great half-day trip. Many visitors rent motorbikes or hire a taxi for the ride up the hill to explore the temple and take in the great views of the city from up high. For more information on religious sites in the area, see this great guide to the temples of Chiang Mai.

For information on elephant parks, see the Activities section below.

If museums interest you, several great finds are available in Chiang Mai. The Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre offers a modern and air-conditioned experience showcasing the history and culture of northern Thailand. The Chiang Mai National Museum also offers a good overview of history. Don't miss the unique Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, which displays a wide range of butterflies, bugs, wildlife, geologic samples, and other natural science exhibits.

The Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium also draws in a number of visitors, most of which are Thai. Foreign visitors tend to give the Zoo unfavorable ratings as the animals are kept in small areas and there are more kiosks selling trinkets than the number of animals on display.

Muay Thai Boxing is quite popular in Chiang Mai, just as it is in Bangkok. Various venues around town showcase the sport. But unlike in Bangkok, it is much less expensive in Chiang Mai. The Kalare Boxing Stadium is near the Night Market, and Tha Phae and Loi Kroh are other popular venues.



If you want to wrap everything that northern Thailand offers into a few days, then a jungle trek is a convenient, although somewhat touristy option. Many guesthouses, hostels, and hotels run multi-day treks into the surrounding countryside that combines the beautiful scenery with elephant rides, local villages, and a bit of rafting or swimming. Note that many of these trips are not very authentic as you will be with other travelers and in locations that are not far from Chiang Mai. (Also, many hostels only open rooms up to travelers who agree to go on their organized treks.)

Elephant tours, and visits to elephant parks, are perhaps the most popular activity in northern Thailand, and a number of Elephant parks are in or near the Chiang Mai area. These parks are often very controversial, as many do not take care of their elephants very well, while others are not just for tourists but also act as animal sanctuaries. Do your research first, and ask other tourists what their experiences were like.

Some elephant parks with good reputations include Baanchang Elephant Park (one of the less expensive places), Eddy Elephant Care Chiang Mai (a full day ore more experience), Elephant Nature Park (a sanctuary with day, night, and weekly options), and Friends for Asia Elephant Camp Volunteer Project (two week minimum with lodging options).

Cooking classes are very popular in Chiang Mai, as a number of small cooking schools have opened up to benefit the tourists. These classes are usually a full day, and the students are instructed by local Thai people on how to prepare and cook various Thai dishes. The day usually begins with a trip to the local market where various ingredients are explained (curry, exotic herbs, interesting fruit, etc). Then the students, under instruction and guidance from the teachers, prepare dishes such as salads, curries, meats, and desserts. Many of these classes also involve some entertainment and humor from the teachers, which makes for an enjoyable experience. And, of course, there is much eating.

Tours to hilltribe villages are also quite popular and make for a great cultural experience. The northern jungles of Thailand are home to a dozen or so tribes, each with their own culture and history. Many of the trips to these villages are touristy, and sometimes exploitative of the locals, so do your research first. The further away from civilization, the more authentic your experience will likely be.

Mountain biking is another popular activity, as a number of bike trails have been created in the surrounding hills. Inquire at local travel agencies or at your hostel or hotel or options.

Spas, heath centers, yoga studios, and massage centers are also quite prevalent in Chiang Mai. As always, do your research first to make sure that you are getting what you paid for, not less, and not "more". Many places also offer Thai massage classes.

If you're interested in local markets and handicrafts, make sure you visit the Umbrella Village in Chiang Mai. Here, local artisans make umbrellas and other crafts by hand with generations of traditional techniques.

With so much to offer at great prices, Chiang Mai offers a great addition to any budget-oriented trip through the region. For more information about traveling on a budget, check out this guide to backpacking Thailand.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in Chiang MaiChiang Mai is well-known for its iconic museums and renowned landmarks. 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.

Historical Sights:
Old Town in Chiang MaiThe charming old town is a magnet for tourists. 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.

Hiking:
Hiking in Chiang MaiDiscovering the hiking trails around Chiang Mai is a delight. 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.

Shopping:
Shopping in Chiang MaiShopping here is a unique experience you'll want to have. 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.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Chiang Mai. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Chiang Mai Coffee Tour: Trekking to Farm, Roast and Brew Workshop for $115 details
  • 7 Hour Sticky Waterfall and ATV Guided Adventures for $88 details
  • 1 Day Sukhothai Historical Park from Chiang Mai Private Tour for $182 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on sightseeing in Chiang Mai?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Chiang Mai. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.


  • Thai Cooking Class
    ฿1,300
  • Doi Suthep Entrance Ticket
    ฿60
  • Kratong Lessons
    ฿100
  • Pedicure
    ฿150
  • Chiang Mai Museum (for Two)
    ฿180


Nightlife Budget in Chiang Mai

The nightlife scene in Chiang Mai is exciting and dynamic, drawing visitors who enjoy exploring the local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $7.33 (฿248) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Chiang Mai per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $7.33
    ฿248

Nightlife in Chiang Mai

Nightlife Tips

The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.

Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Chiang Mai. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Chiang Mai Pub Crawl: The Best Nightlife in Town! For $10 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol in Chiang Mai?

Here are some typical drink and nightlife prices in Chiang Mai, drawn from the experiences of past travelers. These costs can give you a general sense of what to expect, though your own spending will differ based on how often you enjoy alcoholic beverages and how much you consume. Remember, one of the most effective ways to reduce your travel costs is to limit alcohol consumption.


  • Wine
    ฿100


Travel cost data last updated: Dec 3, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Chiang Mai

  • To keep costs down, make sure to enjoy the free activities. Some of the best include:
    • The Saturday Night Market
    • The Sunday Walking Street
    • Wat Pha Lat
    • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
    • The Sticky Waterfall
    • Wat Umong
    • The Chiang Mai National Museum
    • Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara
    • Wat Phra Singh
  • During peak season in winter, expect higher prices and larger crowds. To save money and enjoy fewer crowds, plan your visit for the shoulder or low seasons instead.
  • Chiang Mai is large enough that you can often find various price levels for hotels, meals, and activities. Save money by exploring options, booking in advance, and checking out free things to do.
  • Opting for a slower travel pace can help you keep your budget in check while enjoying the scenic beauty. If you overbook your days with activities, you'll find yourself spending more. But taking your time often results in lower costs and a more fulfilling experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • If you're traveling with young children, a private vehicle or taxi is probably the best choice. Skipping the complexities of public transit can make things easier, but it may come at a higher cost.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Chiang Mai.

Why would you recommend Chiang Mai to budget travelers? Or, why not?

Cheap hotels, cheap airbnb's, cheap food, and so many free activities. I don't know if I found anything that was actually expensive here. The night markets are full of delicious food that doesn't cost anything and the temples and other tourist attractions are so cheap.

noodles_and_curry
-
Aug 28 2023

What makes Chiang Mai a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We stayed in Chiang Mai for awhile because it was a fun city with cheap prices and easy access to many parts of northern Thailand.

trista
-
Jan 21 2024

We stayed for awhile in Chiang Mai because it's cheaper than the southern cities in Thailand. The market is great and there are tons of cheap restaurants.

leon_p
-
Sep 7 2023
Traveling in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Rice Fields near Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is both the cultural center of northern Thailand and a launching point for trips into the rural areas, small towns, and lush jungles of the country's northern regions. Known for great food, historic temples, arts and crafts, and a lively night market, Chiang Mai is a very popular destination for travelers. In some areas, tourists and ex-pats dominate, but it's quite easy to get away from the tourist scene and into the real culture of Thailand, as Chiang Mai (and the surrounding countryside) is quite large.



Neighborhoods & Around

Chiang Mai is an interesting mix of old and new. At the city's center is the old historic area enclosed by a mostly square moat that was once a wall (some of which has been restored). Inside the moat and wall sections are the historic temples along with shops and restaurants.

To the east of the old city, along Tha Phae Road and Loi Kroh Road, heading towards the river, is the main section of shops, hotels, restaurants, and other amenities that tourists would be interested in, such as the Night Market and riverside vendors.

The airport lies to the southwest of the old city.

Straight to the west of the old city is the Su Thep area, and beyond is the border of Doi Suthep Pui National Park (which is home to the Wat Phrathap Doi Suthep temple).

Related:
Partying in Chiang Mai or other parts of Thailand?
Going to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?
Hitting the beach in Koh Samui?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.