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Should I Visit Bangkok or Chiang Mai on a 7-Million-Dong Budget?

27 May, 2025

Bangkok vs Chiang Mai: Which is the Better Choice on a Budget?

Thailand has always been a captivating destination for Vietnamese travelers, but when it comes to choosing between the vibrant Bangkok and serene Chiang Mai, which city offers the most bang for your buck with a budget of 7 million VND?

Let’s delve into the differences in costs, experiences, and travel styles between these two alluring cities to help you make an informed decision.

Transportation Costs: Bangkok Takes the Lead

Airfare is a significant consideration when planning any trip. As the capital city, Bangkok boasts more direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with return tickets ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 million VND if you snag a good deal.

In contrast, Chiang Mai has fewer direct flights and often requires a layover in Bangkok, pushing ticket prices higher to around 3.5 to 4.5 million VND. If you’re looking to keep transportation costs down, Bangkok emerges as the more economical option.

Accommodation: Chiang Mai Offers Better Value

When it comes to accommodation, Chiang Mai is a bit more budget-friendly than Bangkok, especially if you’re aiming to save money without compromising on comfort. Bangkok, being the economic and tourist hub of Thailand, tends to have higher prices.

In Bangkok, basic hostels typically range from 250,000 to 400,000 VND per night, while mid-range hotels can cost anywhere between 600,000 to 1,200,000 VND per night, depending on location and amenities.

If you prefer staying close to popular areas like Sukhumvit, Siam, or Khaosan Road, expect slightly higher rates, but you’ll be rewarded with convenient access to entertainment and shopping hotspots.

On the other hand, Chiang Mai, with its laid-back vibe, offers an array of homestays and hostels at more affordable rates. You can find accommodations starting from as low as 200,000 to 350,000 VND per night, and even mid-range hotels fall within the range of 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night. The accommodations in Chiang Mai often exude a calm and nature-centric ambiance, providing a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling Bangkok.

So, if you’re drawn to the hustle and bustle of city life and convenience, Bangkok might be your cup of tea, despite the higher price tag. However, if you yearn for a peaceful escape, wish to immerse yourself in local culture, and appreciate cost-effective options, Chiang Mai is the ideal choice.

Experiences: Bangkok for Modern Vibes, Chiang Mai for Nature’s Embrace

Bangkok is a bustling, modern metropolis boasting mega-malls like Siam Paragon, MBK, and Central World, as well as vibrant night markets such as Chatuchak and Asiatique.

For a cultural fix, explore iconic landmarks like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife on Khaosan Road. Entrance fees for Bangkok’s attractions vary, ranging from 100 to 500 baht (approximately 70,000 to 350,000 VND) depending on the venue.

In contrast, Chiang Mai exudes a sense of tranquility with attractions like the sacred Doi Suthep temple (30 baht, roughly 20,000 VND), trekking at Doi Inthanon (around 300 baht or 210,000 VND), and elephant camp experiences (approximately 1,500 baht or 1,000,000 VND, including meals and elephant interactions).

If you visit Chiang Mai in November, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in the enchanting Yi Peng lantern festival, one of Thailand’s most distinctive cultural events.

Bangkok is ideal for those who relish the hustle and bustle of city life, shopping, and urban exploration. Conversely, Chiang Mai beckons to those seeking relaxation, natural surroundings, and a deeper connection with local culture.

Cuisine: Bangkok for Variety, Chiang Mai for Affordable Delights

Bangkok’s street food scene is legendary, offering an array of options, from budget-friendly bites at roughly 50 to 100 baht per dish (35,000 to 70,000 VND) to upscale restaurants. Signature dishes like Pad Thai (stir-fried rice noodles), Som Tam (spicy green papaya salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), and Mango Sticky Rice are must-tries, with prices ranging from 50 to 100 baht per dish (35,000 to 70,000 VND).

Chiang Mai, on the other hand, tempts taste buds with specialties like Khao Soi (curry noodle soup) and sai ua (Chiang Mai sausage) at prices that are roughly 10 to 20% lower than Bangkok. If culinary adventures are your priority, Bangkok is a foodie’s paradise, but if you crave local specialties at gentler prices, Chiang Mai will satisfy your cravings.

Verdict: Bangkok or Chiang Mai on a 7 Million VND Budget?

Bangkok edges ahead slightly in terms of costs but offers the convenience and allure of a dynamic city. Chiang Mai, with its slightly lower price tag, boasts natural beauty and appeals to those seeking a cultural immersion and relaxation.

Here’s a budget breakdown for each destination:

Bangkok: Airfare (3 million VND) + Accommodation (1.5 million VND) + Food, Transportation, and Attractions (approximately 2.5 million VND)

Chiang Mai: Airfare (4 million VND) + Accommodation (1 million VND) + Food, Transportation, and Attractions (approximately 2 million VND)

So, if you’re seeking an action-packed trip filled with diverse activities, Bangkok is your go-to. However, if unwinding in serene surroundings, connecting with nature, and embracing local culture are your priorities, Chiang Mai will leave you utterly content.