Chiang MaivsHanoi
Can't decide between Chiang Mai and Hanoi? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
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.
Known for
Hanoi
Hanoi is a captivating capital where French colonial elegance meets vibrant Vietnamese culture. The city enchants with its chaotic Old Quarter, tranquil lakes, delicious pho, and a pace of life that moves to the rhythm of motorbikes and street vendors.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Chiang Mai offers Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Temples, Sunday Walking Street
Hanoi offers Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature
Food & Dining
Chiang Mai is famous for its local dining scene
Hanoi is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Chiang Mai offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Hanoi offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
November to February
October to December, March to April
Weather
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 28°C
Summer: 33°C, Winter: 17°C
Top Attractions in Chiang Mai
- 1Doi Suthep Temple
- 2Old City Temples
- 3Sunday Walking Street
- 4Thai Cooking Classes
- 5Elephant Sanctuaries
- 6Night Bazaar
Top Attractions in Hanoi
- 1Old Quarter
- 2Hoan Kiem Lake
- 3Temple of Literature
- 4Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- 5Water Puppet Theatre
- 6Ha Long Bay Day Trip
Chiang Mai is Popular With
Hanoi is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Chiang Mai
- 1
Wat Umong (The Tunnel Temple)
A unique, forested temple complex on the city's outskirts, featuring ancient brick tunnels built into a hillside, a large stupa, and a serene meditation center.
- 2
Baan Kang Wat Artist Village
A charming, purpose-built community of traditional Thai houses housing local artists, craftspeople, and small cafes, located near Wat Umong.
Hidden Gems in Hanoi
- 1
Long Bien Bridge
A historic French-colonial railway bridge spanning the Red River, still used by trains, motorbikes, and pedestrians.
- 2
Train Street
An extremely narrow residential street in the Old Quarter where trains pass just inches from homes twice daily.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Chiang Mai
Old City (Within the Moat)
The historic and spiritual heart of Chiang Mai, defined by its square layout and crumbling brick walls.
Nimmanhaemin (Nimman)
The trendy, modern university district known for its hipster cafes, boutique shops, stylish co-working spaces, and vibrant nightlife.
Top Areas in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem District & Old Quarter
The historic heart of Hanoi, where narrow streets organized by ancient trades (silver, herbs, silk) buzz with constant activity.
Ba Dinh District
The political and ceremonial center of Vietnam, characterized by wide boulevards, grand government buildings, and significant historical monuments.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Chiang Mai
Budget in Hanoi
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Chiang Mai
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Hanoi
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Chiang Mai
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Find cheap transport to Hanoi
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Our Verdict
Both Chiang Mai and Hanoi are incredible destinations. Chiang Mai excels in temples and cooking classes, while Hanoi stands out for pho and street food.
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