Thailand is an incredible country in Southeast Asia and its’ two biggest cities are Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Choosing between these two cities can be a daunting task when traveling abroad. Let’s breakdown the major differences between Bangkok and Chiang Mai so that your next trip abroad is one you won’t forget.
Transportation
In terms of transportation, Bangkok is the clear winner. Bangkok is a huge city – home to more than 10 million people as of spring 2023. Getting around a city this huge should be a seamless experience and Bangkok excels here. The options are plentiful. You can choose between the BTS Skytrain, the MRT underground subway system, and lastly Tuk Tuks or rideshare apps like Grab, Bolt or Gojek.
Chiang Mai in comparison is a smaller city with more than one million people as of spring 2023. Transportation options like Tuk Tuks and ridesharing are in operation here; however light rail and subway options are not. One option Chiang Mai offers that Bangkok does not, are little red trucks called Songthaew. These are converted pick-up trucks which operate as a shared ride system for between 8-10 people. You hail one from the street like a taxi, riders hop in the back and grab a seat on one of the two benches. The ride cost should be around 30 Baht, per person.
Transportation Winner: Bangkok
Adventure
It maybe a tad tougher to navigate Chiang Mai, but when it comes to adventure Chiang Mai shines bright. Outdoor activities are endless – we’re talking waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries, Whitewater Rafting, caving and trekking in the jungle. Check out TripAdvisor’s article on the 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Chiang Mai if you’d like to explore more about each of these activities.
Bangkok does offer these options however you’ll have to travel further outside of the city to experience them.
Adventure Winner: Chiang Mai
Nightlife
This category is a close one – but I’m going to give this win to Bangkok. Much akin to New York City, Bangkok is also regarded as ‘The City that Never Sleeps’ and for good reason. Bangkok offers everything from chic rooftop bars, to one of a kind cocktail bars, lively clubs and everything in-between. Places like Khao San Road, Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy and Patpong are iconic and open until the wee-hours of the morning.
Don’t get me wrong Chiang Mai is not a place to sleep on in terms of nightlife. There are many places to have a great time, after-hours. Some of my favorites are the North Gate Jazz Co-Op, the White Rabbit and Zoe in Yellow.
Nightlife Winner: Bangkok
Food
This category is a tie hands-down. The food in Thailand, no matter the city is fantastic. It truly doesn’t matter where you visit, you’ll find a plethora of food to eat. My must eat list of dishes in Thailand include: Mango Sticky Rice, Tom Yum Soup, Papaya Salad, Pad Thai and Pad Kra Pao.
Food Winner: Tie
Summary
Thailand is an absolute must visit – no matter the city. If you’re stuck between traveling to Bangkok and Chiang Mai, consider visiting them both. Transportation between the two cities is surprisingly simple. Your options include taking the train or bus. Each of these options take anywhere between 10-15 hours of travel. 12Go is a great resource for booking train or bus routes in Thailand. Of course you could always take a short 1 hour flight to reach either city.
If you must absolutely choose between the two – it all boils down to the experience you want. If you’re looking for round the clock parties in a bustling city – then it’s Bangkok.
If you’re seeking laid-back vibes and more outdoor adventures in a city that’s more walkable – then Chiang Mai is the city for you.
No matter your adventure I hope you have the best time and hopefully this article has helped you plan your journey.
Cheers.
