Ultimate Chiang Mai Itinerary 2024

This article contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See our full disclosure for more information.

This guide to planning a trip to Chiang Mai has everything you need to know to make your stay in this popular Northern Thailand city memorable. You should allow yourself at least 3 days in Chiang Mai and below are our itinerary suggestions including the top Chiang Mai attractions, and what to include in your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Are you planning your trip to Chiang Mai last minute?

Chiang Mai Travel Planning Facebook Group

Check out our free Chiang Mai Travel Planning Facebook Group. You are welcome to join and it’s a great resource to ask any questions about visiting Chiang Mai Thailand. Many experts are on hand to help.

Where in Thailand is Chiang Mai located?

Chiang Mai is approximately 700km North of Bangkok in the Chiang Mai Province of Northern Thailand. Located in a fertile valley surrounded by some of the highest mountains in Thailand, Chiang Mai is the gateway to the most spectacular mountain scenery in Asia.

Chiang Mai Map

Top Chiang Mai attractions you need to include in your itinerary

Here is a handy list of attractions and experiences that will ensure you get the most out of your stay. Read on for more in-depth details.

  • Visit the Old Town Temples
  • Explore the Sunday Night Walking Street Markets in the Old City
  • Try the signature Chiang Mai dish of Khao Soi
  • Take a ride to the top of Do Suthep Mountain for spectacular views of the city
  • Visit the many markets of Chiang Mai
  • Spend a day taking a traditional Thai cooking class
  • Take an Instagram shot in front of Tha Phae Gate
  • Spend a fun evening at one of the many live music clubs
  • Learn about Buddhist way of life by talking to a Monk at Monk Chat
  • Visit the 14th Century temple of Wat Chedi Luang in the Old City
  • Visit the Night Bazaar, Kalare Night Bazaar and Anusarn Market which come alive after dark
  • Indulge in afternoon tea and fine dining for a fraction of the price back home
  • Take in the excitement of a Chiang Mai festival
  • Visit the Chiang Mai Zoo
  • Zoom around the city in a TukTuk and Songthaew
  • Temp your taste buds with some of the best Thai food in Thailand
  • Take a day trip to explore the delights of Chiang Rai

Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai is a city where the ancient and modern coexist, you will find the ancient walls of the Old City (Town) standing alongside modern high-rises. Visit Chiang Mai Old City, here you can walk the streets and discover why Chiang Mai’s laid back friendly lifestyle makes it a popular destination for tourists.

The Old City is enclosed by a water filled moat and can be entered by five gates constructed of hand made bricks. The main gate being the Tha Phae Gate. Tourists flock to the Tha Phae Gate and it is one of the top places to visit and definitely needs to be included in your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Insurance

Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

The Sunday night walking street market located in the Old City is famous, with hundreds of stalls. This seemingly endless Chiang Mai night market is a highlight for many first time visitors to Chiang Mai.

Held every Sunday evening, the market begins at the entrance to Tha Phae Gate located in the heart of the old city’s main tourist area and runs from Tha Pae Gate approximately 1 km towards Ratchadamnoen Road to the west.

The road is closed to all traffic from 4 pm creating a temporary walking street, which also branches out into the surrounding streets.

Some of the items for sale include Northern Thai arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing and much, much more. If you are hungry street carts selling local delicacies are there to tempt you. Make sure to get there early because it gets crowded. A visit to the Sunday Night Market of Chiang Mai is a must to include in your itinerary.

Sunday night walking street market in Chiang Mai
Sunday night walking street market Chiang Mai

North Gate Jazz Co-Op

North Gate Jazz Co-Op is for the Jazz enthusiast and located across the road from the Chang Puak Gate (North Gate of Moat). Get in early as seats are limited and be prepared to be blown away by the Chiang Mai’s talented Jazz musicians. Grab a quick bite to eat at the market stalls across the road from Chang Puak Gate.

Chiang Mai Gate Market

No Itinerary would be complete without a visit to Chiang Mai Gate Market, which is located at Chiang Mai Gate, the southern entrance of the moat. A favourite for locals this is a traditional Thai food market, it’s a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of day to day local life and well worth visiting.

Each morning Buddhist Monks gather to receive breakfast offerings in exchange for blessings. Pots of exotic dishes bubble while delicious crispy chicken and fish tempt you to buy this unique Thai style take out. If you want to cook at home there is a large range of fresh fruit, vegetables, noodles and spices for sale.

Chiang Mai Gate Market food dishes
A selection of Thai dishes at Chiang Mai Gate Market

Chiang Mai Historical Centre, Chiang Mai Arts and Cultural Centre, Lanna Folklife Museum

These three museums can be found at the Three Kings Monument in the Old City. Chiang Mai has over 700 years of history and if you are interested in learning more about the history, customs and culture of the region a visit to these museums is a must during your stay in Chiang Mai.

Three Kings Monument in the Old City of Chiang Mai
The Three Kings Monument. Be sure to visit the surrounding museums to learn more about Chiang Mai’s history and culture

Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phan Tao

Located in the heart of the Old City is Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phan Tao, these stunning Buddhist temples are among some of the oldest in the city with construction dating back to the 14th century.

At the temples you can learn more about Buddhism by joining in Monk Chat. Sit down with local Monks for an informal discussion about this peaceful religion. This is a way of giving back to the Buddhist community by exchanging Buddhist knowledge while improving the Monks English language skills.

Inside Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan
The stunning beauty of Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan

Where to eat in Chiang Mai Old City

The Old City is full of wonderful restaurants catering to most cuisines. It would take years to try them all but here are a few of our favourites. For early risers looking for a hearty breakfast see our guide on some of the popular places to enjoy breakfast.

Dash Restaurant

Dash is hidden away on Moon Muang Lane 1. Dash is a local favourite with Thai’s and expats alike. This traditional teak Lanna style house has been transformed into a charming restaurant. The atmosphere is welcoming and invites you to sit, relax and while away the hours with good company and exceptional food. Dash offers a range of Thai and Western cuisine, favourites include Crispy Tamarind Chicken and Phad Kee Mao – flat noodles with a spicy home made sauce.

Exterior of Dash Restaurant
Dash Restaurant set in a charming traditional teak house

Ugo Bar & Restaurant

Ugo Bar & Restaurant is a small restaurant just south of the Tha Phae Gate. Dining is casual and serves a range of Thai and Western cuisines. There is a choice of airconditioned or outdoor dining options. Favourites include Mango Shake, Vegetarian Pizza and Khao Soi a Northern Thai specialty.

DaDa Kafé

DaDa Kafe is a small café on Ratchamanka Road. Dining is casual and serves a range of healthy vegetarian, vegan, Thai and Western cuisines. The food is delicious, served in massive portions and the staff are friendly and welcoming.

Where to stay Chiang Mai Old City

Accommodation in Chiang Mai varies and you are sure to find something to suit all tastes and budgets. The Old City is a wonderful place to stay especially for the first time visitor. Apart from the numerous ancient attractions, dining options and markets all within walking distance, being in the heart of the city it is easy for tourists to find transport to other areas outside of the Old City.

As this is the oldest part of Chiang Mai most accommodation is smaller style guest houses and boutique hotels. You won’t find any multi story hotels in this area, but the charm of the area makes it an ideal area to base yourself while exploring what the area has to offer.

Tamarind Village Review

Tamarind Village is in a superb location just down from Tha Phae Gate on Rachadamnoen Road. This charming Boutique Hotel is in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. If you love shopping it’s just a step from the action of Chiang Mai’s famous Sunday Night Walking Street Market. You will be spoiled by the choice of spa’s, restaurants and bars in this vibrant area.

The Tamarind village is a contemporary hotel that is complimented by traditional elements giving it a modern Thai style. Facilities include pool, The Village Spa and The Tamarind Boutique, the place to buy those uniquely Thai designed artefacts, clothing and jewellery.

The well-appointed Ruen Tamarind Restaurant serves both traditional Thai and Western dishes. The Tamarind Village is our top choice for hotels in the Old City.

Click here for reviews and pricing of Tamarind Village

Chiang Mai places to visit – Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman)

Nimmanhaemin Road or Nimman as it is fondly known, is a trendy area full of boutiques, cafes, galleries, speciality coffee venues, restaurants and bars. Nimman is the place to be seen and is a popular area for young Thai’s and digital nomads looking for a Chiang Mai Coworking space.

Nimmanhaemin Road is also close to the shopping hub of Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center. A modern multi-story mall with everything you need including boutique and brand name shops, eateries and cinema complex.

Finding the perfect Chiang Mai restaurant– Nimmanhaemin Area

The Nimmanhaemin area is full of top quality eateries and way too many to list here. However, you will have so much fun trying them all. Below is an example of a popular choice for many visitors.

Why Not? Italian Restaurant & Wine bar

Why Not? Is an Italian restaurant and wine bar with a relaxed atmosphere. They serve a selection of cheeses and antipasti. Their pizzas are huge, the pasta and mains meals are delicious and best of all they have an extensive list of Italian wines.

Why Not? is located at 14 Nimmanhaemin Rd. , SOI 11

Nimmanhaemin Hotels & Condos

Known as the trendy area of Chiang Mai with its vast supply of coffee shops, eateries to suit all tastes and endless supply of things to see and do, Nimman is the place to stay for many digital nomads and visitors looking for Chiang Mai nightlife such as trendy bars and clubs. The Nimman neighbourhood is ideal for those looking for 4 star hotels in Chiang Mai.

Click here for a pricing and reviews of Nimmanhaemin hotels

If your itinerary includes staying for a longer term (1 month and above) an alternative to hotels is to rent a condo in Chiang Mai. Although condos normally require a minimum of 3 months you will find that some do offer shorter durations of a month. These condos can be found on sites such as Airbnb and Vrbo. Alternatively as a cheaper option and if time permits you can visit the condos in person to check availability and usually move in within 1 day.

Siri Condominium

We have stayed in the Siri Condominium which is located on Siri Mangkalajarn Lane 1. This Chiang Mai condo is perfect for those who want to enjoy the charms of Chiang Mai for a longer period of time.

This condo suited us because the location is close enough to Nimmanhaemin Road without the noise of the areas nightlife. In saying that, all of Nimman is under a flight path, fortunately with the doors and windows closed you can hardly hear the planes.

Siri Condo has light airy one-bedroom apartments. The apartment is equipped with a kitchen hob, microwave, full size fridge and washing machine. Some linen and kitchen equipment are supplied. The apartment has a small balcony and we were fortunate enough to have spectacular views of Doi Suthep mountain.

Check our video below for an example of what to expect when renting a condo in Chiang Mai.

The apartment block is very secure with key cards only giving access to your floor and the shared residence rooftop entertainment area. The rooftop is the perfect place to relax, watch the planes take off while enjoying sweeping views of the city and Doi Suthep mountain. The Siri Condominium’s other facilities include well equipped gym, sauna and pool

What to do at night in Chiang Mai

The Night Market stalls line the sidewalks of Chang Klan Road the main commercial and tourist street of the city located near Tha Phae Road. Winding your way through these tightly packed stalls it would be easy to miss the larger Night Bazaar, Kalare Night Bazaar and Anusarn Markets. These Markets open up and branch out from the street stalls and offer a larger variety of merchandise, spas, restaurants and bars.

The Night Bazaar

The Night Bazaar specialises in the traditional arts, wood carvings, paintings, Hill Tribe arts & crafts and clothing. The Night Bazaar is a shopping wonderland.

Kalare Night Bazaar

The Kalare Night Bazaar has a fabulous food court and an assortment shops. The popular music venue Boy Blues Bar can be found upstairs, a great place to rock the night away.

Anusarn Market

The Anusarn Market will be astound you with its range of souvenirs, clothing, textiles, arts and crafts and jewellery. It also has a huge choice of restaurants and cuisines on offer. You can relax with a massage or try a fish spa. There is no way to describe the sensation of tiny fish nibbling at your skin but it is a lot of fun.

Anusarn Market stalls in Chiang Mai
Anusarn Market Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Cabaret Show

This ladyboy show that is located at Anusarn Market. Here you will find glitz and glamour as you watch this talented group of artists sing, dance and entertain you. A thrilling, raunchy and cheeky night out.

Cabaret Show Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Cabaret Show

Selection of available Chiang Mai Tours. Book yours now!

Chiang Mai restaurants – Night Market Neighbourhood

The night market area located near the River Ping has many local and fine dining establishments and caters to every budget from small street stall vendors and small restaurants to upmarket fine dining at many of the large hotels. Below is a selection of places we have visited that offer unique dining experiences and would be recommended to include in your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Nakara Jardin Bistro

A short walk from one of the best hotels in Chiang Mai the Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa, the Nakara Jardin Bistro sits on the River Ping amid lush tropical gardens and the place to enjoy a delicious lunch or traditional afternoon tea. The Nakara Jardin Bistro is tucked away from the road and is not easy to find but any local driver will know the location and it is well worth visiting if only to indulge in the afternoon tea experience. It is located at 11 Soi 9, Chang Khlan Sub-district.

Afternoon Tea at the Ping Nakara Hotel
Afternoon Tea at the Nakara Jardin Bistro

Marriott Hotel – Sunday Brunch Buffet

The Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is hard to miss as it is one of the tallest hotels in the night market area and the Sunday buffet is a Chiang Mai favourite. The place to get together with friends to enjoy a mouth-watering array of International dishes. Spend a leisurely Sunday in the relaxing atmosphere of Marriott Hotel. Bookings are essential.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai – Night Market Area

This area of the city being home the night markets is popular for tourists that want the convenience of being close to an abundance of shopping and entertainment options that cater to foreign visitors. The establishments are used to catering to visitors and businesses in the area have everything a visitor would require. Choosing a hotel in this area is a good choice especially for those looking for comfort and modern amenities not always found in some of the smaller traditional Thai hotels in Thailand.

Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa Review

The Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa is a colonial style Boutique Hotel in the Night Market area of Chiang Mai. We stayed at the Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel after a long-haul flight and enjoyed a relaxing massage and body scrub from the Ping Nakara Spa and cocktail on the colonial inspired verandah by the pool. The perfect place to stay in Chiang Mai.

Click here for pricing and reviews of the Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa

Things to do in Chiang Mai in November – Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festival

If you visit Chiang Mai it is during the festival season between November and March you will be in for treat especially if your itinerary coincides with one of the yearly festivals. The most famous of all Chiang Mai festivals is the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festivals that are held every November.

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival video

During the Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festivals, Chiang Mai comes alive with colourful parades, beauty and lantern contests that lead up a spectacular lightshow as thousands of lanterns are released into the night sky. An unforgettable experience.

Add a Thai Cooking Class to your Chiang Mai itinerary

Learning the art of Thai cooking is a popular Chiang Mai tourist activity. There are cooking schools all over Chiang Mai, just waiting for you to discover the secrets of this fascinating cuisine.

Ros at a Thai Cooking School
Ros enjoying a Thai cooking class

Most cooking schools will take you to a local market where you will discover the range of exotic vegetables, herbs and spices that are the heart of Thai cooking. Learn the art of preparing and cooking Thai style while having fun trying these authentic Thai dishes.

Include a visit to the Chiang Mai Zoo

Chiang Mai Zoo is famous for its Panda enclosure, here you can watch Pandas relaxing in their climate controlled habitat. The zoo is also home to Giraffes, Flamingos and Hippopotamus.

The zoo is spread out over a large area so if your time is limited make sure to take the Zoo shuttle buses that stop at various points around the Zoo. Chiang Mai Zoo can be reached by TukTuk, Songthaew or Grab rideshare.

Flamingos at Chiang Mai Zoo
Flamingos at Chiang Mai Zoo

Wat Phra That Temple – Doi Suthep Mountain

Sitting on Doi Suthep mountain, Wat Phra That looks out over the city of Chiang Mai. The road twists and turns on the journey up the mountain to this stunning Buddhist temple complex. Once there you will be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch out to the horizon.

Walk up the 300 steps of the Naga serpent staircase. Temple bells ring as you walk around these peaceful terraces shaded by flowers. Temples glitter as they lead you to the magnificent golden Phra That Chedi that shimmers in the sunlight.

Wat Phra That - Doi Suthep Buddhist Temple
Wat Phra That – Doi Suthep Buddhist Temple

Orchid Jade Factory – Doi Suthep Mountain

The Orchid Jade Factory is across the road from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Buddhist temple. There is a mini jade museum and short film which delves into the history of jade and distinguishes the quality of the different jade minerals of nephrite and jadeite.

If you are interested in jade it is the place to pick up that perfect piece of jewellery or carving. You will be surprised that jade comes in a variety of colours which include green, lavender, blue, black, red, yellow and white.

The factory has a shaded sitting area to relax with a coffee after exploring Wat Phra That Buddhist temple, the colourful market stalls and tiny restaurants that surround the area.

Orchid Jade Factory
Orchid Jade Factory

Visit Bhubing Palace

A short 4 km (2.5 mile) drive from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Bhubing Palace, the home to the Thai Royal family during their visits to Chiang Mai.

The Royal residence is built in the Northern Lanna style and is famous for its spectacular rose garden and exotic plants from Thailand and the world over.

When visiting the palace make sure to dress respectfully, covering your knees and shoulders. Bhubing Palace may be closed if the Royal family are in residence.

From Bhubing Palace take the twists and turns onward 3.2 km (2 miles) to the Hmong hilltribe village.

The village is located on Doi Pui Mountain and there are spectacular views of the mist shrouded mountains along the way.

You will see many of the villagers walking around in their colourful hand-woven clothing. Winding your way through the street markets, you will find silver and tribal jewellery, hand woven shoes, traditional tribal costume, fruit and vegetables, herb and trinket shops as well as a selection of restaurants.

After visiting the market take time to explore the village, you will fall in love with the children who look adorable in their traditional dress and admire the handsome roosters that can be seen wandering around the village.

Hmong Hilltribe Village
Shopping at the Hmong Hilltribe Village

Things to do around Chiang Mai

There are many attractions just outside of Chiang Mai, some of these include Orchid and Butterfly Farm, Maesa Snake Farm and Maesa Waterfalls.

Here are my favourites for the ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary.

Baan Tawai Handicrafts Village

Baan Tawai Handicraft Village is the place to visit for exquisite handicrafts, furniture, paintings, clothing and lighting. Baan Tawai Handicrafts Village showcases a large range of homewares from traditional Thai teak carvings to modern furnishings and accessories. Baan Tawai Handicrafts Village is a homemaker’s dream.

Baan Tawai Handicrafts Village is in Hang Dong, around half an hour’s journey (longer during peak hour) from central Chiang Mai.  Due to the distance, it is advisable to hire a Songthaew or Taxi from the day, negotiate a price with the driver and pay on your return.

Baan Tawai Handicraft Village
Beautifully decorated carvings at Baan Tawai Handicraft Village

Maesa Elephant Camp

Maesa Elephant Camp is outside of Chiang Mai in the Mae Rim area. You will find lots of attractions in this area and you can either hire a Songthauw (red bus) or hire a car and driver. The Maesa Elephant Camp is set within picturesque forest and streams and is the place to discover how intelligent these beautiful beasts are.

Pongyang Zipline and Jungle Coaster

Set high in a canopy of lush tropical forest, Pongyang Zipline and Jungle Coaster is the place to come for adventure. There are  range of zipline choices and include the jungle coaster and aerial trishaw.

Sky Tricycle at Pongyang Zipline
Sky Tricycle at Pongyang Zipline and Jungle Coaster

Visit Mon Jam in Northern Thailand

Mon Jam is surrounded by spectacular mountain views. Take the winding mountain road until you reach Mon Jam or Mon Cham as it is sometimes known.

The mist shrouded mountains overlook the terraced farms of the fertile valley. Open air huts play host to friends and families who come to relax over lunch to enjoy the view. Watch as traditionally dressed Hill tribe children run and play in their brightly coloured clothing.

Traditional dress at Mon Jam
Traditional dress at Mon Jam

Chiang Mai day tours – Chiang Dao – Pai – Mae Hong Son

I have only touched on Chiang Mai itinerary suggestions, there is much more to do and experience. For those who have more time in the region here are just some of the Chiang Mai attractions that should be included in your itinerary.

Visit Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao is a 1 ½ hour drive from Chiang Mai. Chiang Dao is a small Northern Thai town that is shadowed by the breathtaking beauty of Doi Chiang Dao mountain. Here you will find the attractions of the Chiang Dao Caves, or you can walk up a mist clouded mountain to visit the Wat Tham Pha Plong Buddhist monastery.

Wat Tham Pha Plong Buddhist monastery
The golden pagoda at Wat Tham Pha Plong Buddhist monastery

Check out the town of Pai

Pai is a dizzy 3-hour bus ride from Chiang Mai. The tight curves of the Chiang Mai to Pai road can lead to motion sickness but the journey is well worth the experience.

Once you arrive at Pai you will find a laid-back hippy hangout with lots of relaxed restaurants and bars. Pai attractions include, mountain scenery, waterfalls and canyons.

Lanterns at town of Pai Northern Thailand
The pretty village of Pai

Discover Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son is around 3-hour drive from Pai. There is a lot to see on the road to Mae Hong Son, sacred fish caves, thermal mud beauty spas and stunning mountain lookouts. The town of Mae Hong Son will charm you and it is a must to see if you have the time.

Night Market Mae Hong Son Northern Thailand
Night Market Mae Hong Son

Can I use a credit card in Chiang Mai?

Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht and exchange rates fluctuate daily. For the latest rates Click Here 

You will find that most of Thailand is a cash society and though credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments they are not always accepted by smaller vendors who prefer to deal in cash.  If you need cash ATM’s are widely available in major cities.

Transport options in Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai couldn’t be easier, Chiang Mai transport options include Taxi, TukTuk, Songthaew, and Grab rideshare.

Taxi kiosks are located at the airport for a pre-paid Taxi vouchers to your selected Hotel. Taxis can be hired for day tours, the cost to be negotiated with the driver.

TukTuks are a fun way to get around the city. TukTuk’s are motorcycle taxis that can be hailed if needed. Prices to destinations are negotiated with the driver and payment is paid at the destination.

Songthaew (red bus) are the open backed shared taxis that can be seen all over the city.

To get a Songthaew just hail one off the street, tell the driver where you want to go (it helps if you have a landmark in mind), sometimes the driver will say no but that is because he is heading in another direction so try another. Just remember that Songthaew’s are shared taxis, the driver will take the closest passenger home first and sometimes it can take time to get to your destination, if you are in a hurry call a Taxi, Grab or TukTuk.

Songthaews cost 30 Baht around the city more for other destinations, payment is made once you reach your destination. Songthaews can be hired for the day to explore tourist attractions. I love travelling by Songthaew, it’s a great way to see day to day life in the city.

Typical Chiang Mai Songthaew (Red Bus)
Typical Chiang Mai Songthaew (Red Bus)

Grab rideshare is similar to Uber and makes life easier for those late nights out and trips outside the city centre. Just download the Grab app and you are on your way.

For those who want more freedom to explore Chiang Mai and the surrounding area, motorbike and car hire is widely available.

Northern Thailand Weather

Chiang Mai has a cooler, milder climate than Southern Thailand making it a more comfortable city to visit for those not used to the tropical heat. Chiang Mai will still be hot but you won’t experience the blistering heat of the south. Be prepared for tropical storms by making sure you pack a good quality travel umbrella.

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cooler months between November and February, the days are still hot but the temperatures drop in the mornings and evenings making for a pleasant stay.

From February to April Chiang Mai like most of Northern Thailand is usually affected by what is locally called “The Smokey Season” which means it can be blanketed in smoke from crops being burnt off. Each year farmers in Thailand and neighbouring countries burn fields in preparation for planting crops.

There has been and continues to be much debate on how to deal with this ongoing yearly activity, but it remains a problem and the air quality can be significantly affected during this time. Unfortunately it is difficult to know in advance how bad the air quality will be each year as prevailing winds or rain can lessen the impact on pollution and some years are worse than others. Those with respiratory issues would be advised to choose dates outside these months.

If you are visiting during the cooler months make sure to bring a light jacket, we have experienced days where we needed to rug up against the cold.

FAQ

Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Yes, Thousands of tourists from around the world visit each year. The city is rich in culture and nearby mountain area home to many hill tribes and lush rain rainforests. With temples seemingly on every block, it has an endless supply of markets, and the food scene caters to all tastes, from small family run traditional Thai restaurants to high end establishments normally much cheaper than you would find in your home country. With a milder climate than cities in Southern Thailand it offers visitors the best Thai experience and a place we return to every chance we get.

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?

4 days minimum to take in the local sights of the Old City, take a trip to Doi Suthep mountain, explore the daytime and night markets, take in the historical temples, visit the hill tribes and nearby lush rainforests and pamper yourself with a spa and Thai massage.

Is Chiang Mai cheaper than Bangkok?

Overall Chiang Mai is considered cheaper than Bangkok for accommodation, food, and transport. While you can certainly spend similar in Chiang Mai to Bangkok it will largely depend on your comfort expectations and dining choices.

What is the name of the most famous temple in Chiang Mai?

Wat Phra That on Doi Suthep Mountain. Take a ride to the top of Doi Suthep Mountain and take a lift or walk up the 300 steps of the Naga serpent staircase to Wat Phra That and be rewarded with stunning views over Chiang Mai city and beyond.

What food is Chiang Mai known for?

The signature dish of Chiang Mai is Khao soi. Made from rice or egg noodles, coconut milk, and curry soup base. Khao soi is served with chicken, pork, or beef and topped with crisply fried noodles and accompanied with garnishes of lime, red onion and pickled greens.

Last words on an ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary

I hope you enjoyed our suggestions for the ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary, as I said there is so much to see and do in Chiang Mai I’m sure it will be the beginning of your love affair with this beautiful part of the world. What is your favourite place to visit in Chiang Mai?

PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS ↓

Ultimate Guide to Chiang Mai
Ultimate Guide to Chiang Mai #chiangmaiguide #chiangmai

Sharing is caring!

About The Author

6 thoughts on “Ultimate Chiang Mai Itinerary 2024”

  1. Uber sold his business to the Grab. By the way, now in the city appeared bikes Mobike. 10 baht for 30 minutes. Are standing on every corner, can drop any corner also. Well, a proven vehicle – motorbike =)

  2. Alan Cuthbertson

    Yes Uber are finishing this week to be replaced by Grab. The push bikes are also a good option for those looking for that means of transport.

  3. I have been planning/plotting to take our daughters to Chiang Mai for a while now and have saved your post for reference. So much to do there, I’d love to put them into distance education for 6-12 months and stay to really get to know the region. Alas… they are in high school now and do not think it would be as amazing as I do!

  4. Alan Cuthbertson

    Thank you Jane I’m sure you would enjoy a visit to Chiang Mai. It has so much to offer.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Scroll to Top