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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chiang Mai and Nha Trang. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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 Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a resort-filled, vibrant, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Nha Trang travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Nha Trang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Nha Trang. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nha Trang attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Chiang Mai is famous for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Nha Trang is famous for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts.

How is Chiang Mai different from Nha Trang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Nightlife?

Nha Trang is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Nha Trang just to party. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Resorts?

Nha Trang is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Nha Trang has a handful of resorts to choose from. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nha Trang is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Nha Trang. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Beaches?

Nha Trang is a good destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Nha Trang offers a nice beach destination. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its old town. However, Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Chiang Mai. 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.

Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is very popular for hiking. However, Nha Trang is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Nha Trang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Many visitors go to Nha Trang to go shopping. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Nha Trang are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

Nha Trang is a very kid-friendly city. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Nha Trang both excellent destinations for a couple.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Nha Trang is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Nha Trang is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

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

Chiang Mai and Nha Trang both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Nha Trang has a few public transit options. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Is Chiang Mai or Nha Trang a more walkable city?

Nha Trang is a great city for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Nha Trang is very walkable. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nha Trang or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Nha Trang. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Nha Trang. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nha Trang.

Families should spend more time in Nha Trang than Chiang Mai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nha Trang, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Nha Trang 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 Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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.

With museums and nightlife around the high energy city of Nha Trang, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Nha Trang, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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.

Nha Trang, 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.

A week in Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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.

Nha Trang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Nha Trang, we can see that Chiang Mai is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Chiang Mai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chiang Mai than you might in Nha Trang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Mai Expensive? and Is Nha Trang Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nha Trang. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Nha Trang, 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 Chiang Mai or Nha Trang?

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 Chiang Mai or Nha Trang in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. The dry season in Nha Trang is January to August. The rainy season in Nha Trang is September to December. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Nha Trang. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Nha Trang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Nha Trang averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nha Trang in the Autumn?

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

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang. Nha Trang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in October than Nha Trang. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Nha Trang. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Nha Trang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nha Trang in the Winter?

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

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

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Nha Trang in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Nha Trang fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nha Trang in the Spring?

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

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in April than Nha Trang. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nha Trang receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Nha Trang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Nha Trang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Typical Weather for Nha Trang and Chiang Mai