Traveling to Chiang Mai soon? Prepare to fall helplessly in love with it! Chiang Mai is, in my opinion, one of the best places to visit in Thailand, and one that I keep going back to again and again.
Chiang Mai is located in the north of the country, surrounded by mountainous terrain, and it’s incredibly rich in history, traditional culture, and food.
Some say the local cuisine is the best in all of Thailand, and I don’t argue with that. Besides, it has a fabulous coffee culture and digital nomad scene that make it even more interesting.
I could spend weeks on end in Chiang Mai, exploring its night markets, beautiful temples, and nearby attractions, but not all of us have that much time to spend there. If you’re visiting on holidays, I’d say that 3 days is a good length of time to check out the major attractions of the city.
Here you’ll find a super comprehensive 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, with all my tips to discover the very best of this bewitching location. Start reading!
Psst. Most people who come to Chiang Mai arrive from Bangkok. You can make the trip by plane, train, or bus. Check out here all the transport options to plan your journey and get your tickets in advance.
Table of Contents
DAY 1: TEMPLES & SHOPPING
Morning: Explore the Temples of Chiang Mai
One of the most important landmarks in Chiang Mai are its temples! There are plenty, some of which are more impressive and historically significant than others.
Topped with a golden spire and part of a large temple complex is Wat Chiang Man, built over 700 years ago. The complex itself is relatively well kept, and it’s best seen during the morning hours.
Inside the complex you’ll find several homes and altars, multiple Buddha statues, 500-year-old statues commemorating the creation of Chiang Mai, a library, and even a pond. You can spend an entire morning wandering the area!
Wat Rajamontean is one of the most beautiful ones, boasting intricate details and architecture, and an impressive golden Buddha statue. It was built in the 15th century during the Lanna Kingdom as a place of worship and meditation.
Other temples I recommend visiting are Wat Lok Moli, a wodden Buddhist temple from around the 14th century that features guardian statues at the entrance, and Wat Suan Dok, whose main attractions are the spires and a 500-year-old Buddha statue.
Then there’s Wat Chedi Luang, an almost 700-year-old temple that has undergone a number of renovations but still stands proud in the middle of Chiang Mai’s historic district.
Unlike the intricate, golden temples you’ll see all around town, this one has a much more simple architecture. It’s especially beautiful at night, when it’s illuminated, but also incredible to see during the day.
You can visit the temples on your own, or join a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of Buddhism as you explore these sacred locations.
▶️ The Chiang Mai: 3 Hour Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour takes you around the city with a local guide, who will introduce you to the local customs and history as well as Buddhist rituals as you explore the major temples. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ With this Bike Historic Old City Chiang Mai – Active Day Tour, you’ll be cycling around the city as you learn about its culture and traditions from a local guide. You’ll stop at a roadside market for fresh juice, visiting various temples, and get plenty of photo opportunities! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go for lunch to Nimman
Nimman is the trendy, hipster area of Chiang Mai where you’ll find the Digital Nomad and expat communities, an astounding variety of cafés and Western eateries, and a lively social scene. Art galleries, shops, and local markets also make up this modern and bustling part of town.
Nimman is located outside of the Old City, a short Grab ride away. I’d recommend heading there for lunch, since the offer will be diverse and delicious, and exploring the area before relaxing at one of the stylish coffee shops for a drink.
Cafe Rosemary is the most iconic place for brunch as it serves a great variety of breakfast dishes, both sweet and savory, as well as lunch options and fabulous coffee. The Hideout is a good alternative, specializing in salads and sandwiches.
For a proper lunch, head to Ginger Farm Kitchen for delicious Thai cuisine and a wide range of fresh juices and beverages. If you’re in the mood for Western food, Beast Burger & Pizza and Why Not? Italian Restaurant & Wine bar are solid options.
Some of the coolest cafés in Nimman include Food 4 Thought, The Barisotel (the picture above!) and SS1254372 (yes, that’s the actual name). You can also check out Graph One for the quirkiest coffee menu!
Afternoon | Go on a Food Tour
Northern Thailand is renowned for its world-class cuisine, and the best way to try allll its delicious dishes (and learn about them) is by joining a local foodie.
You’ll get to sample a great variety of food items at once as you immerse yourself into the gastronomic scene of Chiang Mai through its flavors and traditions. What better way to eat that this one?
▶️ This Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings is a great option. You can start at 4 or 5 PM, and the tour lasts 4 hours, so you’ll be all set for dinner! You’ll visit restaurants only known to locals, and enjoy a wide range of flavors as you sample over 15 dishes and bites. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Night | Go Shopping at the Night Market
The night market is one of the most interesting attractions in the city. Its comes alive in the evenings, full of stalls that sell everything from spices and curry pastes to clothes, handbags, souvenirs, and home decor.
You’ll also find street food vendors, amazing performers, and sweet stalls where you can sample the beloved mango sticky rice. The market is a worthy attraction on itself, so check it out even if you’re not planning to buy anything!
You’ll taste some of the most authentic local cuisine, and might even find fried scorpions or bug snacks if you look carefully. The prices are cheaper than in the stores, and you can haggle in most of the stalls to get the prices down. The market starts at dusk, and it’s open until around 10 PM.
DAY 2: MOUNTAINS AND MASSAGES
Morning | Hike to Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, known as just Doi Suthep, is one of the best known temples in all of Chiang Mai, and an absolute must see. Coated almost completely in gold, the temple is nearly 800 years old and has been evolving and growing for that entire time period.
Despite being almost 10 miles outside of the city proper, the temple is high enough in the mountains that the downtown area of Chiang Mai can be seen. It is obviously a popular spot with tourists so arriving in the morning will give you a chance to beat the crowds.
You can certainly take a bus or a taxi to get here, but I recommend hiking the Monk’s Trail to Doi Suthep. It takes a couple of hours to get there and it’s a bit steep at times, but if I’ve done it, trust me, you can do it too! Just bring a lot of water with you.
▶️ You can also join a guided Wat Phra That Doi Suthep spiritual Sunrise Tour with an Ex-monk. You’ll start by witnessing an alms-giving ceremony in the early morning, and seeing the sunrise from one of the highest viewpoints in the area. Explore the temple with an ex-monk, who’ll be able to give you all the insights into Buddhism. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
OR | Get a Traditional Sak Yant Tattoo
Fancy an even more traditional and spiritual experience? The art of the Sak Yant (Bamboo Tattoo) is an ancient one. Sak Yant tattoos are believed to provide protection, and there are over 1000 tattoo designs associated with different kinds of protection.
The experience starts with a chat with the ajarn (tattoo master), where you’ll talk about your life, values, and troubles, to best decide what kind of protection you need.
The only company I feel comfortable recommending for such a delicate experience is Where Sidewalks End. This responsible tour operator takes the ceremony very seriously by making sure the equipment is sterile and safe, and by pairing you with a translator/guide who will help you communicate with the tattoo master.
Sure, you can find cheaper operators out there, but I heard horror stories about people not being able to communicate with the ajarn and ending up with a tattoo they didn’t like.
Also, the safety standards are not always respected. I’m of the opinion that if you decide to go for something as permanent as a tattoo, you should go with the best, not the cheapest.
▶️ Check out this Sak Yant Experience in Chiang Mai to get your tattoo. It includes a private driver who’ll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, and a guide/translator who’ll be present during the consultation. You’ll decide the tattoo that suits you best, take part in the Sak Yant ceremony, and refuel with a meal afterward. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
READ ALSO: How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Bangkok
Afternoon | Take a Cooking Class
After having been in Thailand for a few days, most visitors find that they’d like to know how to cook Thai food in their own home, because they’re not ready to leave it behind when the holiday’s over. And I don’t blame them! Thai cuisine is one of the tastiest in the world, and way easier to make than you would initially think.
I’m a great advocate for attending cooking classes in different countries, as the local cuisine is always tightly tied to the culture and customs of the place, and Thailand is one of my favorite countries to cook it.
In Chiang Mai, you’ll find plenty of cooking schools offering workshops where you’ll discover how to recreate your favorite Thai curries at home. The ones below are, in my opinion, the best options.
▶️ The Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai is one of the most popular cooking classes in town. You’ll enjoy a short visit to a local market, where you’ll learn about different ingredients, and tour the organic farm where the produce and herbs for the classes is grown. Then, follow your chef’s instructions to prepare five different dishes, from curries and stir fry to the famous spring rolls. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai introduces you to the gastronomy and culture of the Akha, a local minority. You’ll visit a market with your guide, learning about various ingredients, and then head to the kitchen for a cooking class starring Thai and Akha staples. Prepare around 10 dishes, and take home a cookbook as a souvenir. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Evening | Enjoy a Traditional Massage at Kiyora Spa
In the evening, your body will be sore and you will likely be in the mood to relax. Thailand is known for its amazing spas and massage techniques all over the world, and they’re so accessible in Chiang Mai! So make sure you pamper yourself with a Thai massage after a long day of exploration.
READ ALSO: Where to Get the Best Massage in Chiang Mai
When choosing a spa, I recommend going to the Kiyora Spa, which is close to the majority of downtown sights. The spa is open until 9 PM, making it easy to arrive after a long day on your feet and relax without feeling rushed.
I was invited by Kiyora Spa to go for the 2-hour Soothe ‘N’ Bliss package and absolutely loved it. This package is a combination of Thai massages and herbal compresses.
First the body is deeply massaged, getting out all of the soreness and tiredness from your body – the masseuses are very professional and will ask you multiple times if the pressure is good, so don’t feel shy and make sure it’s the right level of pressure for you.
I love a strong massage but they can definitely go lighter if that’s what you prefer.
Then they will place herbal compresses on your back, and will massage you one more time. The heat of the herbal compresses helps further relax your muscles and heal any small skin irritations you have picked up along the way. After this, an aromatherapy massage will relax you even further.
Finally, a scalp massage to relieve any lingering tension and complete your relaxation experience rounds out the day.
But it’s not over, because when you get out of the room you’ll find some ginger tea and mango sticky rice waiting for you. Nothing better than a healthy snack after a massage!
Kiyora Spa offers all kinds of packages and different types of massage, and includes free transportation to/from your hotel when you choose a package. Make sure you reserve a spot in advance, the spa is pretty popular!
Kiyora Spa is located at 26/1 Chang Moi Soi 2, and it’s walking distance from the Tha Pae Gate. The Soothe ‘N’ Bliss package costs 2,800 baht, but they offer plenty of other treatments!
▶️ You can book a traditional Thai massage, an Herbal ball massage, or a Tok Sen Massage, all of which include transfers from your hotel. ➥ BOOK HERE
▶️ An alternative is booking a 2, 3, or 4-hour package (such as the one I did) that includes multiple treatments for a blissful day of relaxation. Transfers are also covered with the price. ➥ BOOK HERE
DAY 3: GO ON A DAY TRIP
There are so many astounding locations near Chiang Mai that warrant a day trip! On your third day, I recommend starting bright and early and heading to explore one of these places.
Interact Responsibly with Elephants
No visit to the area is complete without going to the Elephant Nature Park and seeing the majestic creatures in their natural setting. This is probably my favorite place in the area, and truly must do in Chiang Mai.
The elephants you can find here have been rescued from situations where they were abused, but now they roam free.
Large and small elephants in the park love humans, will often take food from them, and are always more than happy to show off. Activities such as eating lunch alongside the elephants or swimming with them in the river are always popular.
You will find many, many “elephant sanctuaries” in the area but almost all of them are actually places where elephants are abused and chained. Tickets for Elephant Nature Park aren’t cheap, but you are sure that the park takes good care of the animals.
There is no elephant riding allowed (please, NEVER ride an elephant) and visitors interact with them in a responsible way.
The sanctuary is about 30 miles outside of Chiang Mai, but transportation to and from the hotel is included in your ticket price.
Visit the Temples in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is mainly famous for its jaw-dropping, visually stunning temples, and they’re the number one reason people visit the city!
Blending traditional architecture with modern artistic styles, the temples reflect the region’s spirituality and beliefs while standing out as an architectonic marvel and iconic tourist attraction.
The most renowned temple is the Wat Rong Khun, also referred to as the White Temple. Its facade is completely white, covered in mirrored glass pieces that reflect the sun, making it look as though the temple is shimmering. Its intricate sculptures and details are also mesmerizing!
Another popular temple is the Wat Rong Suea Ten, or the Blue Temple. It’s smaller than the white one, and features a vividly blue facade with golden accents that’s equally beautiful.
The Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, named after the famous Emerald Buddha that is now housed in the Grand Palace of Bangkok, and the Wat Saeng Kaew Photiyan is another awe-inspiring temple.
Since you’re in the area, don’t miss the Baan Dam Museum, better known as the Black House, for an interesting blend of modern art and ancient artifacts.
Chiang Rai is 115 miles (186 km) north of Chiang Mai, and it takes approximately 4 hours to get there by bus, so you need to leave very early in the morning. None of the temples is in the city center of Chiang Rai, so unless you’re willing to rent a scooter and drive to all of them, I recommend visiting with a tour from Chiang Mai.
▶️ The Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai accommodates groups of up to 15 people. You’ll be flexible with your time and itinerary, and get to visit the iconic White and Blue Temples, the Wat Saeng Kaew Photiyan, and the Chinese Wat Huay Pla Kang. A guide, entrance fees, and lunch are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai City with Golden Triangle is a full-day excursion that takes you to the most spectacular temples around Chiang Rai, and to see the remnants of an ancient Thai kingdom. Then, enjoy a boat ride along the Khong River to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Explore Doi Inthanon National Park
The Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most popular parks in the country, renowned for its viewpoints and stunning waterfalls.
There’s plenty to do in Doi Inthanon, from hiking the few trails that snake around the park to checking out the insane views above the clouds, birdwatching, and keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits it.
It also offers prime views of sunrise and sunset, since it’s home to the highest peak in Thailand, and it’s often dubbed as the Roof of Thailand. Incredible sculptures, bridges, and architecture dot the massive park, making it super enjoyable to explore.
Doi Inthanon National Park is 57.5 miles (92.6 km) southwest of Chiang Mai, approx. 1.5 hours by car. You can arrange your own ride, or join a tour.
▶️ The BestSeller! Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project takes you to the National Park with a professional guide. You’ll visit the King and Queen Pagodas, stop at various viewpoints, visit a market, and a striking waterfall. Refuel with a Thai lunch, with vegan and vegetarian options. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Doi Inthanon Private Tour with Trek & Lunch from Chiang Mai is for groups of up to 15 people. You’ll visit the famous waterfalls of the park, stop by a handicraft market, and hike through paddy fields and coffee farms to Thailand’s highest peak. Lunch at a local restaurant is included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI
Whatever your budget, you’ll be sure to find the perfect option in town. There are so many hotels in Chiang Mai! Book your accommodation by using the map below.
Luxury & Boutique Hotels
The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai: It doesn’t get much better than this. 5-star hotel on 24 hectars with farm fields, temples,… you have to see the pictures to really understand how beautiful this place is. Book in advance as it gets fully booked.
Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai: Shangri-La is synonym with luxury, and the one in Chiang Mai doesn’t disappoint. Beautiful rooms in Thai style. Great outdoor pool with jacuzzi.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort: In a traditional Norther Thai style, this 5-star hotel offers beautiful rooms that overlook the river. An oasis in a peaceful location, yet close to the Old Town. Lovely bathrooms with a tub in the suites.
Panviman Chiang Mai Resort: This place is paradise! Check out a full review below.
Affordable Luxury: <$100 a Night
Phra Singh Village: 5 star with a boutique design that mixes modern and traditional Thai elements. Great outdoor pool, and perfect location right in the middle of the old town.
Art Mai Gallery Nimman Hotel Chiang Mai: Looking for a design hotel? Look no further. This is a 5-star, one-of-a-kind art hotel where every room is decorated with different art subjects. Right in the middle of Nimman, the hipster student neighborhood, but in a quiet location.
Budget Hotels & Hostels
Rinn Boutique House: An excellent budget hotel with spacious rooms with a kettle and everything else you need. 10-minute walking to the Old Town. Free bikes to explore the city.
THE TIPPANET (adults only): With a 9,8 score on Booking, you know this hotel must be good. Spotless clean rooms, helpful staff, and common areas. Complimentary coffee, biscuits and custard sticky rice in the morning.
Pakping Hostel: Pakping is an elegant, minimalist hostel that features both dorms and private rooms, and offers daily breakfast. It’s super clean and in a great location.
IF YOU HAVE 4 OR 5 DAYS IN CHIANG MAI: RELAX AT PANVIMAN CHIANG MAI RESORT
If you have 4 or 5 days in Chiang Mai, trust me, you need to come here. After a few full days of exploring and running around, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the green hills around Chiang Mai.
Nestled in Mae Rim, north west of Chiang Mai, is my favorite hotel in the area, Panviman Chiang Mai Resort & Spa. It’s the perfect place to relax for a couple of days!
Panviman is actually located not far from the Elephant Nature Park, so you could even bring your luggage when you visit the park and arrange your pickup there with Panviman to avoid the back and forth.
Where to start telling you about this place… maybe with the fact that you can enjoy the tranquility of the mountains while relaxing in your private hot tub on the terrace? How does that sound?
Trust me, it’s pure bliss. I literally spent hours in it, just listening to music and the sounds of nature and letting the thoughts run about the magical 2 months I had just spent in Chiang Mai.
The three days I spent at the resort, courtesy of Panviman, were the most relaxing I had in a while! And when the water turned cold, well, your room isn’t exactly a bad place where to spend your time.
I stayed in one of the seven Jacuzzi Villas, that come with a huge king bed, plenty of living room and desk space if you need to get some work done, and a luxurious bathroom with one of the biggest showers I’ve ever found in a hotel. The terrace is also furnished with a table and chair.
What’s special about Panviman though, is its stunning grounds, with the two-story pool nestled in the nature. When you get bored of spending time in the pool or sunbathing, you can go for a walk around the property or exercise in the fitness center.
Other activities include free yoga classes in the weekend, giant chess, and a kids’ club, just to name a few. You can also indulge in a massage in the SPA, I surely did and had a great time!
If you decide to base yourself at Panviman and want to visit Chiang Mai from here, you can do so by booking in advance the free shuttle service (twice a day) that brings you to and from the city center, so you can explore the markets and temples.
The breakfast selection is great, with everything from fresh fruit and Thai dishes to made-to-order eggs, pancakes, pastries and smoothies.
The restaurant also offers a gigantic selection of Thai and Asian dishes and Western options, and the two times I ate there I had a great experience. The dishes are very reasonably priced considering the resort isn’t walking distance to any other place.
I only ate there twice though, because the first two days I was busy with a 3-day juice cleanse I did in collaboration with BOOST, the only place in Chiang Mai that delivers cold-pressed juices to your house. It was my first time doing a juice cleanse and I’ll admit it, it wasn’t easy, but I felt so healthy afterwards.
During high season, I recommend booking in advance because the resort is pretty popular.
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE HOTEL HERE
