We visited Chiang Mai before heading out on our Mae Hong Son road trip, and we made sure to explore the city properly first. Coming from Bangkok, it felt like such a refreshing change — quieter, greener, and with a laid-back vibe that instantly made us slow down.
It didn’t take long for us to realize that Chiang Mai is the kind of place where you could easily stay longer than planned.
What makes this city so special is the mix of experiences you can have in just a few days. One moment you’re wandering through centuries-old temples in the Old City, and the next you’re enjoying live reggae music with a drink in hand, or planning a day trip into the nearby mountains.
And let’s not forget the food — from the famous khao soi to street food stalls and cozy cafés, eating here quickly became one of our favorite things to do. Later, we will share our absolute favorite restaurant, which we visited almost every day.
In this Chiang Mai travel guide, we’re sharing everything we loved, along with practical tips and honest insights from our time here.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a backpacker looking for a mix of fun and culture, or just someone who wants to experience the relaxed charm of northern Thailand, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.
Map of all the top things to do in Chiang Mai
13 Best Things To Do in Chiang Mai
1. Explore the Old City Temples
Exploring the Old City temples is easily one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. The Old City is small and walkable, and honestly, every corner seems to hide another stunning temple.
We walked across the Old City and explored it entirely on foot. We honestly recommend this — it’s the best way to experience the atmosphere, and stop wherever you like.
Each temple has its own vibe, which is why we loved spending an entire day just wandering, taking photos, and appreciating the slower pace.
Wat Chedi Luang
This quickly became a favorite. The massive, partially ruined chedi is so impressive up close, especially in the early morning when it’s quiet and the sun is just coming up. We stayed here longer than planned, just walking around and taking in the history and calm vibe.
Wat Phra Singh
Known for its detailed Lanna-style architecture and gleaming golden details, Wat Phra Singh is one of the city’s most famous temples — and for a good reason. The craftsmanship here is stunning, and we recommend visiting in the late afternoon when the sunlight hits the golden structures perfectly.
Wat Chiang Man
The oldest temple in Chiang Mai and one that feels like a step back in time. It’s smaller and less busy than some of the others, and we loved the mix of history and quiet atmosphere here. If you’re only in the city for a day, make sure this is on your list.
Wat Phan Tao
This one surprised us the most. Built mostly of dark teak wood, Wat Phan Tao feels completely different from the gold-covered temples nearby. The wooden details are beautiful, and it has a really peaceful vibe — we loved just sitting here for a while to rest and watch the world go by.
Wat Lok Molee
Wat Lok Molee is another gem we didn’t expect to like as much as we did. It’s just outside the Old City walls, so it’s a bit quieter, and the combination of the ancient brick chedi with colorful prayer flags makes it such a photogenic spot.
Wat Rachamontian
If you’re looking for something a bit different, this temple is known for its massive golden Buddha statue that towers over the grounds. It’s not as busy as the others, and we liked how calm it felt despite being in the middle of the city.
Tip: Most temples are either free or cost around 20–50 THB to enter. Make sure to dress modestly (cover your shoulders and knees) and visit early in the morning to enjoy the cooler weather and fewer crowds.
2. Visit Doi Suthep
Entrance Fee: 50 THB per person for foreigners
Opening hours: 6 AM – 6 PM
A trip to Chiang Mai wouldn’t be complete without visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the city’s most famous temple perched on a mountain overlooking the city. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the Old City, and while it’s one of the busiest spots in town, we still think it’s absolutely worth it.
We spent around two hours here, which felt just right — enough time to wander around the temple grounds, take in the view, and snap some photos without rushing. If you’re planning to light incense or sit quietly to enjoy the peaceful vibe, you might want to allow a bit more time.
What we loved most was the golden chedi shining brightly in the sunlight — it’s breathtaking up close.
The panoramic view over Chiang Mai is just as impressive, especially in the morning when the air is clear. We recommend going early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
Getting here is easy: you can hop on a songthaew (red truck) for 40–60 THB per person, take a Grab, or rent a motorbike if you’re comfortable driving the winding roads.
Once there, be ready for 306 steps to climb, but if you’d rather skip the workout, there’s a tram for a small fee.
Tip: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), bring water, and if you can, visit during the week — weekends are much busier.
3. Stroll Through the Sunday Night Market (and Saturday Night Market)
Opening hours: 4 PM – midnight
Since we don’t have anything quite like this in Europe, we always enjoy visiting night markets in Thailand — and Chiang Mai’s are some of the best. If you’re in the city over the weekend, don’t miss the night markets — especially the famous Sunday Night Market.
It runs along Ratchadamnoen Road, starting right at Tha Phae Gate, which is why some people also call it Tha Phae Walking Street.
The road is closed to traffic during the market, turning it into a pedestrian-only street lined with endless stalls.
It’s always crowded with tourists, but the atmosphere is so lively that we didn’t mind walking through the crowds.
The food stalls are mostly set up in a separate area, which makes it easier to shop without constantly bumping into people eating. We spent around two hours exploring, leaving with a few clothes and souvenirs. Honestly, we would have bought more, but our backpacks were already overweight and full — a classic traveler problem.
If you can’t make it on Sunday, the Saturday Night Market along Wua Lai Road is smaller but still worth visiting. It’s a little more relaxed and less crowded, which makes it easier to stroll, shop, and actually chat with the vendors.
Tip: Go early if you want to shop comfortably, as it gets very busy later in the evening. Bring cash, wear comfy shoes, and give yourself enough time.
4. Take a Thai Cooking Class
Joining a Thai cooking class is one of the most popular experiences in Chiang Mai. It’s a fun way to dive into Thai food culture and learn to prepare some of the country’s most iconic dishes, like pad thai, green curry, and the local specialty, khao soi.
Most classes last 4–5 hours and cost around 800–1,000 THB per person, with both morning and evening sessions available. Many schools include a visit to a local market to pick up fresh ingredients, along with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
If you want a smaller, more hands-on experience, we recommend trying the highly rated Cooking Class, Market & Thai Herbs Garden Tour — it has a 4.8-star rating and over 2,800 reviews on GetYourGuide, making it one of the most trusted options in Chiang Mai.
Book your cooking class now with a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tip: Go on an empty stomach — you’ll be eating plenty of what you cook.
5. Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
Spending a day with elephants is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. We wanted to do it the right way, so we made sure to choose an ethical sanctuary — one that doesn’t allow riding or shows, and focuses entirely on caring for rescued elephants.
We booked the Elephant Sanctuary Feeding Program – Half-Day Tour through GetYourGuide, and we can honestly say it was one of the highlights of our trip.
With a 4.8-star rating and over 1,600 reviews, it felt like a safe choice — and it delivered. The staff was amazing at explaining everything, and spending time feeding and walking alongside these gentle giants in such a peaceful setting was unforgettable.
The half-day program was perfect for us. It included hotel pickup and drop-off, a short drive to the sanctuary, and a few hours of interaction and learning.
It didn’t feel rushed, and we loved that the entire experience was respectful and calm — no chains, no tricks, just happy elephants living freely.
Book your elephant sanctuary half-day tour now with a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tip: Book early, especially in high season. These tours fill up quickly, and for good reason.
6. Take a Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park
Entrance Fee: 300 THB for adults, and 150 THB for children 3-14 years old, it covers entry for five consecutive days.
Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 6 PM
Doi Inthanon was actually our first stop on the Mae Hong Son Loop road trip, and we went there on scooters, which took us about two hours. Since we wanted to catch the sunrise at the highest peak in Thailand (2,565 meters), we had to leave super early in the morning — but it was completely worth it.
You don’t need to be doing the road trip to experience Doi Inthanon, though — a day trip from Chiang Mai works perfectly if you’re short on time.
We also hiked the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, and it was absolutely beautiful — easily one of the highlights of our time there. The only thing we didn’t like was that the trail requires a paid guide.
The trail itself is well-marked and easy to follow. Since we’re used to hiking alone in Europe, this was a bit disappointing — we felt a little rushed and couldn’t stop for as many photos as we wanted.
That said, the views were incredible, and the trail itself made it worth it.
We stopped at the viewpoint of the Twin Royal Pagodas, which is on the trail, but it’s possible to go directly there if you want to see them up close.
One of our favorite parts was walking the Ang Ka Nature Trail — it’s a short, peaceful walk through a lush, mossy forest that honestly feels like something out of a fairytale. The best part? It’s free and doesn’t require a guide, so you can explore at your own pace.
Don’t forget to wear properly, it gets cold early in the morning and in the late afternoon.
If you’re traveling solo or don’t want to drive, we recommend the Doi Inthanon National Park Eco-Friendly Tour — it’s a comfortable and well-organized way to explore the park.
7. Listen to Live Reggae Music at Roots Rock Reggae
If you’re into live music, Roots Rock Reggae is the place to be in Chiang Mai. This bar is all about good vibes, great energy, and live reggae bands that keep the crowd moving late into the night.
We actually stumbled upon this place while walking back to our accommodation one evening, and we just had to stay.
Before we knew it, we were sitting there with drinks in hand, enjoying the music and the atmosphere.
Make sure to try their signature cocktails — they’re refreshing and have local flavors. If you’re hungry, don’t forget to check out the food menu. Offering a nice variety of Thai dishes, from flavorful curries to light, refreshing salads.
Tip: Get there early if you want a good seat — it fills up quickly once the music starts.
8. Party and Have Fun
Chiang Mai might be more laid-back than Bangkok, but when it comes to nightlife, this city knows how to keep the fun going until the early hours.
Around the Roots Rock Reggae bar, you’ll find a cluster of bars with live music, affordable drinks, and a mix of travelers and locals.
One spot we really recommend is Zoe in Yellow, the most popular dance club in the area. Before 11 PM, it feels like a regular neighborhood bar — but after that, the place comes alive.
From around 11 PM to 1 AM, the dance floor is packed, and people even get up on stage. Most drinks are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is just pure fun.
What makes this area even better is that it’s surrounded by other bars playing different types of music, so it’s easy to find a vibe you like. There’s also an outdoor food market nearby where you can grab something to eat between drinks.
We ate there every time we went out — the food was great, portions were generous, and the prices were cheap. Plus, the people in this area were always super friendly, which made the nights even better.
9. Relax with a Thai Massage
After a day of exploring temples, hiking, or even partying, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a traditional Thai massage — and Chiang Mai is full of places offering everything from quick foot massages to full two-hour sessions.
We tried a couple of spots around the Old City and were never disappointed, but one that really stood out was Tira Massage.
The ladies there are super friendly and always up for a laugh, which instantly makes you feel at ease. Don’t be fooled by their smiles, though — they’re incredibly strong but know exactly how to keep the massage relaxing, not painful.
We went for the 1-hour traditional Thai massage, and they focused on the places we asked for, which felt amazing after hours of walking around the city.
The back cracks? Absolute magic. They released so much tension that we walked out feeling lighter, almost like we were floating. If you don’t like back cracks, tell them to skip it.
Prices usually start around 250–300 THB for an hour, making it affordable enough to treat yourself more than once during your trip. Street massages are also fun to try — especially in busy areas like Sunday Night Market — but be ready for the noise and people walking by.
Tip: Don’t be shy about asking for a discount if you’re booking multiple sessions or going as a couple. Sometimes, they’ll give you a better deal if you ask politely.
10. Chase Chiang Mai’s Waterfalls
Chiang Mai is surrounded by lush nature, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is by visiting its many waterfalls. Unfortunately, when we visited, the waterfalls were mostly dried up, so we skipped them this time. But if you visit right after the rainy season (around late October to early December), they’re at their best — full, powerful, and perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Some of the most popular waterfalls that were on our list:
- Bua Thong (Sticky Waterfalls): Famous for its grippy limestone rocks that let you literally walk up the falls — a unique and fun experience.
- Mae Sa Waterfall: A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall that’s perfect for a relaxing picnic or just escaping the city heat.
- Huay Kaew Waterfall: Located close to the city, it’s a great option for a quick stop if you’re short on time.
11. Take a Day Trip (or Longer) to Chiang Rai
We spent around 5 days in Chiang Rai, which gave us plenty of time to explore all the amazing things to do — and honestly, we absolutely loved it there.
If you’re short on time, you can do a day trip from Chiang Mai, but staying a few days lets you enjoy the city at a slower pace and discover even more hidden gems.
Here are the highlights we think you shouldn’t miss:
- Wat Rong Khun (White Temple): This is hands down one of the most stunning temples we’ve ever visited. The details are mind-blowing.
- Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple): What we loved here is the incredible contrast of deep blues and golden accents. It’s smaller and less crowded than the White Temple.
- Wat Huay Pla Kang: This temple surprised us, too. The giant white statue of Guan Yin overlooking the valley is breathtaking, and you can actually take an elevator to the top for panoramic views over Chiang Rai.
Extra Tip: If you have time, stop by Lalitta Cafe, a gorgeous spot with dreamy gardens, ponds, and colorful flowers everywhere. It’s a perfect place to grab a coffee, take a break from sightseeing, and snap some beautiful photos.
Since the journey to Chiang Rai is quite long and the drive on a scooter can be exhausting, especially for a day trip, we highly recommend the Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples Day Trip with Hot Springs.
This guided tour has an impressive 4.8-star rating with over 2,600 reviews and takes you to all the must-see spots we mentioned above — Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Suea Ten, and Wat Huay Pla Kang — plus a relaxing stop at the local hot springs.
You’ll also visit a long-neck Mae Kachan village, which adds an interesting cultural experience to the trip. It’s the perfect option if you want to see everything in one day without the stress of navigating or getting exhausted from the ride.
Book your Chiang Rai day tour now with a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
12. Dive Into Chiang Mai’s Coffee Scene
Chiang Mai is a coffee lover’s paradise, and exploring its cafe scene is easily one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.
The city is filled with cozy spots, from trendy specialty coffee shops to hidden gems in quiet alleys where you can sip an iced latte (our favorite) while planning your next adventure.
What makes it special is that many cafes source their beans locally from the mountains around Chiang Mai, so you’re not just getting great coffee — you’re supporting local farmers too.
Some spots we recommend checking out:
- Graph Café: Minimalist vibe with some of the best specialty brews in town.
- Ristr8to: Perfect if you’re into latte art and strong, well-crafted coffee.
- Akha Ama Coffee: A local favorite that works directly with farmers for high-quality, ethically sourced beans.
- Chom Café: If you loved the dreamy vibe of Lalitta Café in Chiang Rai, you’ll want to visit Chom Café in Chiang Mai.
If you’re not a coffee fan, don’t worry — most cafes serve amazing smoothies, teas, and light snacks too.
13. Take a Day Trip (or Longer) to Pai
We spent a couple of days in Pai as it was our last stop on the Mae Hong Son Loop, and honestly, we’re so glad we did. The town is small, laid-back, and full of charm — but don’t let its size fool you, because there’s plenty to see and do.
Our absolute favorites were the night street food market, where we wandered for hours tasting everything from Thai pancakes to freshly grilled meats; Pai Canyon, where we caught a stunning sunset; and Yun Lai Viewpoint, which gave us incredible panoramic views of the city.
Read our complete guide for visiting Pai Canyon.
Since there aren’t many tours offering a proper day trip to Pai, we recommend renting a scooter and driving there yourself. Just make sure you’re confident riding — the trip takes 2–3 hours depending on traffic, and the route is full of winding roads and steep hills.
Tip: Leave early in the morning if you’re visiting for the day so you have enough time to explore, or even better, spend at least one night in Pai to soak up its relaxed vibe.
But honestly, that’s what we loved about the journey — the adventure, the twists and turns, and the mountain views made it unforgettable.
Read our complete guide about the best things to do in Pai.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
During our time in Chiang Mai, we stayed in the Old City, and honestly, we loved it. Everything was right at our doorstep — from cozy cafes and massage shops to temples and street food stalls. It made exploring incredibly easy, as most attractions were within walking distance or just a quick ride away.
If you’re planning your trip, here are the best areas to consider:
- Riverside – Quiet, scenic, and perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Old City – Best for first-timers, central and walkable.
- Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) – Trendy, full of cafés, shops, and nightlife.
Best hotels in Chiang Mai
Check availability
Where to Eat and Drink in Chiang Mai
During our travels, we always visit the best-reviewed restaurants and bars, and Chiang Mai didn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for places that combine great vibes with quality food and drinks, here are some of our favorites:
- Garden to Table Chiangmai – A cozy, garden-style café serving fresh, farm-to-table healthy dishes. Perfect for a relaxed breakfast or lunch.
- Mr. KAI Restaurant – Affordable and authentic Thai food with generous portions. Their pad thai and green curry are must-tries.
- Another World – A laid-back spot with a creative menu and a cool, artsy atmosphere. Great for dinner and cocktails.
- Gladwell Cocktail Bar – Chic bar with expertly crafted cocktails and a warm, intimate vibe. Perfect for date nights or a chill evening.
- The White Rabbit – Fun and playful setting with unique cocktails and live DJ sets on weekends.
- Space Base Bar – Trendy and modern, with strong drinks and a lively crowd — great if you’re starting a night out in Chiang Mai.
How to get around Chiang Mai
We found getting around Chiang Mai super easy, and there are plenty of options depending on your budget and comfort.
Walking
We walked a lot during our stay, and honestly, we loved it — a bit of movement is never a bad thing. If you’re staying in the Old City, walking is the easiest way to explore. Most temples, cafes, and restaurants are within a short walk.
Scooter
We rented our scooter from Mango Scooter Rental Chiang Mai, the best-reviewed rental in the city — and honestly, we couldn’t be happier.
The process was quick and easy, and the scooter was in perfect condition. The only catch? Because they’re so reliable, scooters often get booked out. Text or call them in advance to secure one for your trip.
Expect to pay around 250–300 THB per day for a standard scooter, or slightly more if you rent a bigger model.
Tip: If you want to ride a scooter, make sure you have an international driving license. There are frequent police checkpoints around the city, and travelers without the proper license almost always get fined.
Grab
Grab is like the Uber of Southeast Asia and works seamlessly in Chiang Mai. It’s affordable, safe, and perfect for getting around when you don’t feel like driving or walking.
Songthaews (Red Trucks)
These shared red trucks are a cheap and fun way to get around. Just flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and hop in. Prices usually start around 30–40 THB for short rides.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a year-round destination, but some months are definitely better than others.
The cool and dry season (November to February) is the most popular time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies — perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring temples. It’s also the busiest season, so book accommodation early.
The hot season (March to May) is very warm, often above 35°C. March and April also bring the burning season, causing haze and poor air quality, especially in the mountains. When we visited in March during the Mae Hong Son Loop, Chiang Mai wasn’t too bad, but the visibility up north was much worse.
The rainy season (June to October) brings daily afternoon showers, but the city remains lush and green, with lower hotel prices. If you don’t mind some rain, this can be a beautiful and budget-friendly time to visit.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai has so much to offer, but if you only have one day, we’d recommend starting with Doi Suthep for its breathtaking views and golden chedi, then spending some time exploring a few of the beautiful temples in the Old City, and wrapping up your evening at the Sunday Night Market for shopping, street food, and that unforgettable night-market vibe.
If you have more time, slow down, explore the coffee scene, and take in the laid-back charm of the city — it’s what makes Chiang Mai so special.
Planning your trip? Save this guide for later and share it with friends — and if you’ve been to Chiang Mai before, drop your favorite tips in the comments below!
