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Hanoi vs Chiang Mai: which is cheaper?

For a mid-range week for two, Hanoi is about 3% cheaper (excluding flights).

7-day tripHanoiChiang Mai
Backpacker (1 person)$182$196
Mid-range (2 people)$994$1,022
Comfort (2 people)$3,010$3,150

Prices side by side

Typical price (USD)HanoiChiang Mai
Accommodation (mid-range room)$40$40
Hostel dorm bed$8$10
Food per day (mid-range)$25$25
Transport per day (mid-range)$8$8
Activities per day (mid-range)$18$20

Best time to visit

Hanoi: October to December and March to April. Summers are hot and humid; winters (January to February) are cool and grey.

Chiang Mai: November to February. Avoid March and April if you can: the burning season brings heavy smoke and haze.

Hanoi cost guide Chiang Mai cost guide

Estimates for planning, checked 2026-10-11. Flights are not included because they depend on where you fly from.