A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Rio de Janeiro for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

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 Rio de Janeiro. 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 cultural, welcoming, and natural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a multicultural, festive, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come to Rio de Janeiro because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rio de Janeiro than Chiang Mai. Rio de Janeiro is bigger than Chiang Mai, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rio de Janeiro is better known for its nightlife, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chiang Mai is more popular for its historical sights. Chiang Mai is well known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Rio de Janeiro is well known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. Also, Rio de Janeiro is famous for Christ the Redeemer.

How is Chiang Mai different from Rio de Janeiro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro.

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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rio de Janeiro are among the most recognizable in the world. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro both to be fantastic destinations.

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.

For foodies, Rio de Janeiro is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for Nightlife?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro just to party. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

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 Rio de Janeiro Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Rio de Janeiro offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro, and they are fantastic.

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.

People visit Rio de Janeiro specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro both offer plenty of fantastic spots.

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.

The abundance of shops in Rio de Janeiro make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Rio de Janeiro because of it's amazing beauty. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro are very good 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.

Rio de Janeiro is a very kid-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro both very good 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.

Rio de Janeiro is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro are fantastic places to visit.

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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rio de Janeiro. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

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

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

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

Is Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro a more walkable city?

Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro is very walkable. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

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 Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rio de Janeiro or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Rio de Janeiro because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 4-6 days is enough time in Rio de Janeiro.

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

Couples should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Chiang Mai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rio de Janeiro that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Chiang Mai 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the festive city of Rio de Janeiro, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Rio de Janeiro, 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.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Rio de Janeiro, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rio de Janeiro 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Rio de Janeiro. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Rio de Janeiroin January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Rio de Janeiroin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rio de Janeiro this time of year.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Rio de Janeiro in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. The dry season in Rio de Janeiro is May to November. The rainy season in Rio de Janeiro is December to April.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Chiang Mai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Rio de Janeiroin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Rio de Janeiro. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Rio de Janeiroin October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. Also, December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Chiang Mai