Chiang Mai on a budget: daily costs 2026
How much a trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand costs per day: where you sleep, eat, get around and what you do. Estimates in US dollars with today's THB rate.
Daily costs by category
| Per person per day | Backpacker | Mid-range | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10 dorm | $20 ($40 room) | $80 ($160 room) |
| Food & drink | $10 | $25 | $60 |
| Local transport | $3 | $8 | $25 |
| Activities & sights | $5 | $20 | $60 |
Hostel dorm bed, street food & markets, public transport, mostly free sights. Mid-range and comfort room prices are per room per night, shared by two.
Trip budgets for Chiang Mai
| Trip length | Backpacker (1) | Mid-range (2) | Comfort (2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 days | $84 | $438 | $1,350 |
| 5 days | $140 | $730 | $2,250 |
| 7 days | $196 | $1,022 | $3,150 |
| 14 days | $392 | $2,044 | $6,300 |
Book for less
Flights to Chiang Mai
- From Bangkok
- From Phuket
- From Bali
- From Kuala Lumpur
- From Penang
- From Singapore
- From Hanoi
- From Ho Chi Minh City
- From Da Nang
- From Siem Reap
- From anywhere else
Best time to visit
November to February. Avoid March and April if you can: the burning season brings heavy smoke and haze.
Money-saving tips
- Shared red songthaew trucks are the cheapest way around town; agree the price before you get in.
- The Sunday and Saturday walking street markets are the cheapest places for dinner and souvenirs.
- Rent a scooter only if you are experienced and properly insured.
Free things to do
- Wander the temples inside the Old City moat, many of which are free to enter.
- Hike the Monk's Trail up to Wat Pha Lat.
- Browse the Sunday Walking Street market on Ratchadamnoen Road.
Events & festivals near Chiang Mai
Compare Chiang Mai with
- Chiang Mai vs Bangkok
- Chiang Mai vs Phuket
- Chiang Mai vs Bali
- Chiang Mai vs Kuala Lumpur
- Chiang Mai vs Penang (George Town)
- Chiang Mai vs Singapore
Questions
How much does a day in Chiang Mai cost?
As a rough guide: about $28 per day for a backpacker, $73 per person per day mid-range (two people sharing a room), and $225 per person per day for a comfortable trip. Flights are extra.
How much money do I need for 5 days in Chiang Mai?
For one backpacker about $140; for two people mid-range about $730 in total, excluding flights. Add a 10% buffer.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
November to February. Avoid March and April if you can: the burning season brings heavy smoke and haze.
What currency is used in Chiang Mai?
THB. Use the live converter on this page and pay in local currency when given the choice.
These are planning estimates based on typical prices, checked 2026-10-11. Prices vary by season, neighbourhood and how you travel. Always check the final price when you book. How we estimate