City Comparison

BangkokvsChiang Mai

Can't decide between Bangkok and Chiang Mai? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.

Wat Arun temple on Chao Phraya River at sunset
Thailand

Bangkok

Bangkok is a sensory overload of golden temples, bustling street markets, and incredible street food. The Thai capital pulses with energy 24/7, offering everything from ancient Buddhist sites to world-class rooftop bars.

November to February
35°C / 32°C
Thai Baht (฿)
Thai

Known for

street food
temples
markets
nightlife
Explore Bangkok
Chiang Mai temple at sunset
Thailand

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Thailand's cultural capital, a laid-back city surrounded by misty mountains and ancient temples. This spiritual hub offers cooking classes, ethical elephant sanctuaries, vibrant night markets, and a thriving digital nomad community.

November to February
35°C / 28°C
Thai Baht (฿)
Thai

Known for

temples
cooking classes
elephants
night markets
Explore Chiang Mai

Head-to-Head Comparison

See how these destinations stack up in key categories

Culture & History

Bangkok
4/5

Bangkok offers Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chiang Mai
4/5

Chiang Mai offers Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Temples, Sunday Walking Street

Food & Dining

Bangkok
4/5

Bangkok is famous for its local dining scene

Chiang Mai
4/5

Chiang Mai is famous for its local dining scene

Nightlife

Bangkok
5/5

Bangkok has legendary nightlife

Chiang Mai
3/5

Chiang Mai offers a relaxed evening atmosphere

Best Time to Visit

Bangkok
4/5

November to February

Chiang Mai
4/5

November to February

Weather

Bangkok
4/5

Summer: 35°C, Winter: 32°C

Chiang Mai
4/5

Summer: 35°C, Winter: 28°C

Top Attractions in Bangkok

  • 1Grand Palace
  • 2Wat Pho
  • 3Chatuchak Weekend Market
  • 4Khao San Road
  • 5Wat Arun
  • 6Floating Markets

Top Attractions in Chiang Mai

  • 1Doi Suthep Temple
  • 2Old City Temples
  • 3Sunday Walking Street
  • 4Thai Cooking Classes
  • 5Elephant Sanctuaries
  • 6Night Bazaar

Bangkok is Popular With

backpackers
foodies
budget travelers
nightlife seekers

Chiang Mai is Popular With

digital nomads
yogis
culture lovers
budget travelers

Our Verdict

Both Bangkok and Chiang Mai are incredible destinations. Bangkok excels in street food and temples, while Chiang Mai stands out for temples and cooking classes.

Best destination for:

nightlife

Bangkok

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