Planning a trip to Chiang Mai? You’re in for a treat. Laying in the mountains of Northern Thailand, this city is a vibe. It was my first destination is SE Asia, and I completely fell in love. With big city conveniences, but small town rhythm, it is a great place to discover Thai culture at your pace, and even find a good community of expats. Whether you’re squeezing in a long weekend during your Thailand trip, or settling in for ten full days, here’s how to make the most of every moment.
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When to Visit Chiang Mai
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is November through February. The weather is dry, cool(ish), and perfect for temple-hopping or hiking without sweating through your clothes. This is also when the famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival lights up the sky.
From March to May, the heat cranks up—great for mangoes, not so much for walking tours. June to October brings more greenery and afternoon downpours, thanks to the rainy season. If you’re okay with a few showers, this can be a quiet and beautiful time to visit.
Days 1–3: Chiang Mai Essentials
If you only have a few days, stick close to the heart of the city—the Old Town.
Start by Temple-hopping your way through iconic sites like Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man. Hire a guide to get the historical and cultural background – there is very few information on the sites!
Visit the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for sunset (yes, the one with all the steps – it is worthy it!). You can get a more smooth experience by hiring a private driver (with AC) to take you there.
Another experience that you might want to fit into these first days is a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary (look for ones that don’t allow riding). The Elephant Nature Park is the most ethical option, with the chance to understand more about the work of care for elephants in the Sunshine for Elephant center. It is a bit more pricey, but unforgettable experience.
Spend your afternoons and evenings at the Night Bazaar or Warorot Market, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food.
Take your time to chill or try some Acro Yoga at the Buak Hard Public Park in the afternoon. Also great for people watch, and learn the sport modalities the locals play. In addition, they have free yoga every morning.
Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage (or two).
Sample khao soi, Chiang Mai’s iconic curry noodle soup—you will miss it wherever you go.
Days 4–7: Time for Culture, Nature, and Creativity
Now that you’ve covered the basics, it’s time to get your hands dirty—in the best way.
The first thing to fit if you have more time is to join a Thai cooking class (many include a market tour!) to learn the secrets behind those bold Northern flavors. You will love to discover where so much flavor comes from.
Try a local craft workshop: make your own jewelry, learn batik, throw pottery, or even take a Muay Thai class. You can find many half-day workshops at the Baan Kang Wat Art Village.
Now, if you are in for some nature-connection time, escape the city for a day trip to Bua Thong “Sticky” Waterfalls.
Another nature scape with amazing views is the Doi Inthanon National Park to explore cloud forests and mountaintop temples.
🧘 Days 8–10: Live Like a Local
With a full 10 days, you can start blending in with the slow, mindful Chiang Mai rhythm.
Spend a lazy afternoon by the Ang Kaew reservoir at Chiang Mai University—a favorite local picnic spot with stunning mountain views.
Or, explore Nimmanhaemin (aka “Nimman”), the artsy district full of Instagram-worthy cafés, boutiques, and co-working spots.
You can also decide for joining a meditation retreat (maybe with a few more days).
Or maybe take a short getaway to Pai if you’re craving a mountain escape with hippie vibes.
Another day (or two-day trip) you can take is to the amazing Chiang Rai.
🍜 A Quick Guide to Northern Thai Food
Northern Thai cuisine has its own delicious identity. Dishes are rich, herbaceous, and often spicy. My advice is to always ask for low spicy – the medium one is enough to make you cry.
- Khao soi (curry noodle soup) is non-negotiable.
- Try sai ua (spicy Northern sausage), nam prik noom (green chili dip with veggies), and of course, sticky rice with everything.
- Street food is queen here—some of the best meals come from a cart with a plastic stool. Be brave and try as many as you can!
💡 Practical Tips for Visiting Chiang Mai
- Cash is essential. Most small restaurants, markets, and tuk-tuks won’t accept cards.
- ATMs are everywhere, but they charge around 220 baht per withdrawal, so take out what you need in larger amounts.
- For transportation, hop on a red songthaew (shared truck-taxis) or use Grab, Thailand’s answer to Uber.
- When choosing where to stay:
- Old Town is central, full of temples and great for first-timers.
- Nimmanhaemin is modern, stylish, and buzzing with cafés and nightlife.
- Riverside is quieter and scenic, perfect for romantic getaways.
- Santitham is a more local, budget-friendly neighborhood that’s popular with long-term travelers and digital nomads.
✨ Be Prepared to Love It
Chiang Mai is one of those rare destinations that can feel like a retreat, an adventure, a cultural immersion, and a foodie paradise—all in the same trip. One thing’s for sure: a few days in Chiang Mai will stay with you long after you’ve gone. Maybe you won’t even leave – that’s what I did!
So go ahead! Chiang Mai is waiting.
