A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Chiang Mai for Food, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Tartu or Chiang Mai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Chiang Mai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tartu

Tartu is a historical, lively, and intellectual university town. Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Tartu and Chiang Mai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Tartu. Chiang Mai is bigger than Tartu, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Tartu and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Tartu is well known for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Chiang Mai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Tartu and Chiang Mai.

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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 Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for its Old Town?

Both Tartu and Chiang Mai have very good historic old towns worth visiting.

Tartu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

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.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for Hiking?

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

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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 come from all over to visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai Better for Students?

Tartu is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Tartu is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Tartu and Chiang Mai both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Tartu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

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

Is Tartu or Chiang Mai a more walkable city?

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

Tartu is very walkable. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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 Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chiang Mai or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Both Tartu 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 Tartu. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-7 days is enough time in Chiang Mai.

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

With nightlife around the lively university town of Tartu, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tartu, one day is sufficent for most.

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

With nightlife around the destination of Tartu, 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 university town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Tartu, a popular university town, 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.

Chiang Mai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Tartu 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.

Each neighborhood in Chiang Mai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket.

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

Which is Bigger, Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu or Chiang Mai?

Tartu 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 Tartu or Chiang Mai in the Summer?

Both Chiang Mai and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Tartu is much colder than Chiang Mai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tartu in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 30°C (86°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tartu. Tartu usually receives more sunshine than Chiang Mai during summer. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 146 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. In July, Tartu usually receives less rain than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Tartu or Chiang Mai in the Autumn?

Both Chiang Mai and Tartu during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round.

In October, Tartu is generally much colder than Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 6°C (43°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 226 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tartu usually gets less rain in October than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Tartu or Chiang Mai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Chiang Mai. Many visitors come to Tartu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Tartu can get quite cold in the winter. Tartu is much colder than Chiang Mai in the winter. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around -7°C (19°F) in January, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Chiang Mai during winter. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Chiang Mai receives 283 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tartu usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Tartu or Chiang Mai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Chiang Mai. Most visitors come to Tartu for the natural beauty during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year.

Tartu can be very cold during spring. Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Tartu is much colder than Chiang Mai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tartu in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 31°C (88°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chiang Mai receives 275 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in April than Chiang Mai. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Chiang Mai and Tartu