The first time I arrived in Chiang Mai, I felt like I had stepped into a city that perfectly balances the charm of its ancient past with the energy of modern life. Within the Old City’s square walls, history comes alive in the form of centuries-old temples, intricately carved and wrapped in greenery. Just a few steps away, you’ll find trendy cafés buzzing with conversation, their sleek designs offering a stark but beautiful contrast to the weathered stone of the surrounding streets.
Outside the city, the landscape feels like something out of a dream. Mountains rise dramatically in the distance, promising hidden temples and cool breezes, while rice paddies stretch endlessly toward the horizon. There’s a peacefulness to the rhythm of life here—a sense that, unlike other bustling cities, Chiang Mai allows you to slow down, breathe deeply, and take it all in.
What struck me most about Chiang Mai was its effortless hospitality. Everywhere I went, from a tiny food stall at a night market to the quiet halls of a temple, I was greeted with warmth and generosity. The city has a way of making you feel at home, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.
Chiang Mai is a place to linger, to wander, and to lose yourself in the beauty of its culture and landscape. You could spend days here temple hopping, diving into the vibrant food scene, or simply wandering the streets, soaking in the layers of history that have shaped this city. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll stumble across a tucked-away café or a hidden gallery that leaves you marveling at how much there is still to discover.
This guide is here to help you explore Chiang Mai in all its complexity and charm. From where to stay and what to eat to the unforgettable experiences that make this city so special, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know for a trip that’s as inspiring as it is unforgettable.
What To Know Before Visiting Chiang Mai
Best Time Of Year To Visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai’s charm is amplified by its seasons, and timing your visit can make all the difference. The cool, dry season from November to February is arguably the best time to go. The skies are clear, the weather is mild, and the city comes alive with outdoor festivals and activities. It’s also the perfect season for temple visits, trekking in the hills, and exploring the night markets without breaking a sweat.
If you’re visiting between March and May, be prepared for heat—the air gets heavy, and the temperatures can climb quickly. Meanwhile, the rainy season from June to October transforms the landscape into lush greenery, adding a different kind of beauty to the region. While the rains can be intense, they often come in short bursts, leaving plenty of time to explore.
Amount Of Time In Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the kind of place that rewards slow exploration. If you’re pressed for time, a weekend is enough to get a glimpse of the city’s highlights, like a temple or two and a visit to a night market. But to truly experience its charm, spend at least five to seven days. This allows you to dive deeper into the city’s culture, explore the surrounding countryside, and venture in the region for day trips.
How To Get To Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai International Airport makes arriving easy, with direct flights from cities like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. The airport is just a short drive from the city center, so you’ll be checking into your hotel in no time.
For a more scenic route, consider taking the overnight train or a bus from Bangkok. The train, in particular, is a journey worth taking—watching the countryside roll by as the city fades behind you is an experience in itself. It’s slower, but for budget travelers or those with extra time, it’s a memorable way to arrive.
What to Expect
Chiang Mai feels like a world apart from the hustle of Bangkok. It’s more relaxed, more intimate, and infinitely more walkable. The Old City, with its temples, cafés, and shops, is a hub of activity, while the neighborhoods like Nimman exude a creative, bohemian vibe.
The pace here invites you to slow down. Locals are warm and welcoming, and there’s a sense of balance in the way tradition and modernity coexist. Whether you’re wandering temple grounds or sipping a perfectly crafted latte, Chiang Mai is a place that feels as though it’s waiting to be savored.
My Favourite Neighbourhoods In Chiang Mai
Old City
The Old City is where Chiang Mai’s history and culture come alive. Within the ancient walls, you’ll find stunning temples, bustling markets, and quiet corners perfect for soaking in the city’s charm. I love wandering here in the early morning, when the streets are peaceful, and stopping at a local market for fresh fruit or breakfast. It’s the perfect place to slow down and connect with Chiang Mai’s roots.
Nimman Road
Nimman is Chiang Mai’s trendy, creative hub, filled with boutique cafés, stylish restaurants, and concept stores. It’s where I go when I’m craving great coffee, unique shopping, or a lively evening out. The neighborhood has an effortlessly cool vibe, with rooftop bars and live music venues that make it come alive after dark.
Riverside
The Riverside is my go-to for peace and relaxation. It’s lush, green, and feels worlds away from the hustle of the city center. Whether I’m staying in a riverside retreat or simply enjoying a sunset stroll along the banks, this area always leaves me feeling refreshed. The views of the Mae Ping River, especially at dusk, are absolutely unforgettable.
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai
Tamarind Village — This boutique hotel is my go-to in Chiang Mai. Set within the Old City walls, it’s steeped in history and charm, with lush courtyards and traditional Lanna architecture. The intimate setting and exceptional service make it feel like a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city.
Raya Heritage — Located just outside the Old City along the river, Raya Heritage is a serene retreat with a focus on understated luxury. Its minimalist design blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating a sense of calm that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Anantara Chiang Mai — Set along the river in the Riverside area, just a short ride from Nimman, this sleek property offers large, recently renovated rooms and stunning views of the Mae Ping River. It’s ideal for families or anyone looking for a mix of luxury and convenience.
Where To Eat In Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, with something for every craving. From street food stalls to fine dining, the city celebrates flavors with creativity and tradition, and a coffee culture rivaling that of cities like Paris and Rome. Here are my favorite spots:
Coffee Shops
Akha Ama Coffee – A local staple for ethically sourced, perfectly roasted coffee,
Carrotcoffeecnx – Quiet and unassuming, with great coffee and even better pastries.
SELF – Minimalist design meets thoughtfully crafted lattes.
FOHHIDE – A hidden gem with a cozy atmosphere and top-notch drinks.
Cafe at Kalm Village – Beautifully designed, combining a focus on coffee and traditional craftsmanship.
Casual Dining
Arjun Saiyud’s Kitchen — Homestyle cooking from a mother-daughter duo with stunning plating. Save room for dessert, and order the sweet potato.
Mrs. Pa’s Fruit Shake — You’ll find this little fruit shack amongst a dozen other food trucks just across from the 7-11 at the South Gate. It’s beloved with locals, who claim she has the freshest fruit and creamiest smoothies in town.
Thapae East — Jazz nights and poetry slams – this is where the cool kids in Chiang Mai go at night.
Gin Udon — Little izakaya with some of the best hand pulled noodles I’ve had in my life.
Ginger Farm Kitchen — True farm-to-table dining located inside of the swanky One Nimman.
The Camellia Cafe & Music Bar — A great people watching venue on Nimman Road that’s popular with a younger crowd, especially on the weekends.
Fine Dining
Food For You Restaurant — Unexpectedly incredible dining pretty much in the middle of nowhere. Reservations are both essential and difficult to make unless you speak Thai, so ask a friend or concierge to help you out with this one.
Khaomao-Khaofang Imaginary Jungle — Did you ever go to Rainforest Café as a kid? Imagine that, but polished for adults with a Michelin nod.
THUUB Bar — Swanky speakeasy spot for cocktails and light bites with an interior design that’s richly evocative of Lanna heritage.
Kiti Panit — Newest restaurant by the owners of acclaimed Michelin restaurant Le Du that takes a contemporary look at traditional Lanna cuisine.
The Service 1921 — Very cool concept restaurant located in a building that was formerly the British consulate. The happy hour here is great.
Redbox— Buzzy restaurant featuring contemporary Thai dishes with influences from the chef’s background in Malaysia and Brunei.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen — Seriously fine dining using fresh local ingredients and experimental techniques. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss this.
The Best Things To Do In Chiang Mai
Browse Through Kalm Village — Design-forward new development in Old City that has a great mix of shopping with a focus on traditional craftsmanship and sustainability. There’s also a cool concept café, as well as regularly scheduled yoga classes and movie screenings.
Summit Doi Suthep — An incredibly sacred mountain with an eponymous temple at the summit. I recommend coming here with a guide for context, as this is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Thai people, and participating in all the blessings and prayers.
Eat Your Way Through The Morning Market — Morning markets have a special energy that you should experience at least once. Find the Flower Market every morning on Prasanai Road along the river or the Thapae Gate market in Old City.
Visit Huay Tung Tao Lake — Hang out like a local on a sunny afternoon. There are dozens of traditional restaurants lining the lake, and every person will tell you a different one is the best. Pick any one that looks good, you can’t go wrong!
Experience InClay — Stunning pottery studio that functions as both a retail and gallery space. The owner, Jirawong, also offers traditional ceramics classes.
Visit the Night Markets — There are actually quite a few night markets throughout Chiang Mai that you could explore. My favourite is the Tha Pae Walking Street Market, which comes alive once a week with all kinds of vendors and performers. If you can’t make that, the Night Bazaar runs every evening and encompasses an entire neighbourhood.
Go Temple Hopping — Chiang Mai is renowned for having more than 300 temples, many of them within the historic old city walls. I booked a guided tour through Tamarind Village which included riding through the old town by traditional samlor to the morning market, where we picked up some breakfast both for ourselves and the monks we were visiting.
How to Get Around Chiang Mai
Getting around Chiang Mai is easy and part of the fun. Whether you’re exploring the Old City or heading to the countryside, there’s a transportation option for every need and budget.
Grab (Ride-Hailing App)
For the ultimate convenience, download the Grab app, Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber. Grab offers transparent pricing, reliable service, and an air-conditioned ride—perfect for longer trips or when you don’t feel like negotiating with a tuk-tuk driver. You can use Grab to get to attractions like Doi Suthep, Nimman, or the Riverside with ease.
Tuk-Tuks
Tuk-tuks are an iconic way to get around Chiang Mai. These three-wheeled vehicles are perfect for short trips and offer a quintessential Thai experience. You can find them everywhere, but always agree on a price before the ride—negotiating is part of the charm!
Songthaews (Red Trucks)
The red pickup trucks you’ll see all over the city are shared taxis called songthaews. These are a great budget option for getting around Chiang Mai. Simply flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and hop in if they’re heading that way. Fares are generally fixed within the city, but confirm with the driver before you go.
Motorbikes
Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore Chiang Mai and its surroundings. It’s especially handy for day trips to places like Huay Tung Tao Lake or the waterfalls near Doi Suthep. Motorbike rentals are affordable, but you’ll need an international driver’s license and a cautious approach to riding in busy traffic.
Bicycles
Chiang Mai’s Old City and quieter neighborhoods like Nimman are perfect for cycling. Many hotels and guesthouses rent bicycles, and it’s an eco-friendly way to explore temples, markets, and scenic streets at your own pace.
Walking
For shorter distances, walking is the best way to take in Chiang Mai’s charm. The Old City’s compact size makes it easy to wander between temples, markets, and cafés. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore all day.
Words & Phrases to Know
Sawasdee (sah-wah-dee) is the universal Thai greeting, meaning both “hello” and “goodbye.” – add ka (for women) or krub (for men) at the end for politeness.
Khop Khun (cop-coon) – means “thank you.” – again, add ka or krub to show respect.
Kor Tod (kor-tote) means sorry or excuse me – you’ll often hear it navigating busy markets.
Mai Pen Rai (my pen rye) means “it’s okay” or “no worries,” embodying the laid-back Thai mindset.
Khao Soi (cow-soy) is Chiang Mai’s iconic noodle dish, a must-try for every visitor.
Nam (nahm) is the word for water water – add plaow (plow) for plain or soda for sparkling.
Aroi (ah-roy) means delicious and…
Chon Kaew (chon gao) is Cheers!
Mai Pet (my pet) means not spicy, but if you can handle the heat then ask for Pet.
Check Bin (check bin) is how you can ask to get the bill.
Chai (chai) means yes and Mai Chai (my chai) is no.
Be Sure To Pack
Slip-On Shoes
Temples and some local shops require you to remove your shoes before entering. Opt for comfortable, slip-on styles like Sanuk Gora Gora slides, which are easy to kick off and stylish enough for city strolls.
Modest Clothing for Temples
Chiang Mai’s 300+ temples are stunning, but visitors must adhere to dress codes. Lightweight, breathable outfits that cover shoulders and knees are perfect. A midi dress with a scarf or a pair of loose pants paired with a short-sleeve top strikes the right balance of comfort and respect.
Quick-Dry Fabrics
The tropical climate can be hot and humid, so pack clothes that wick moisture and dry quickly. Abercrombie’s Traveler Collection offers polished yet practical pieces ideal for the weather.
Sunscreen and Hat
Between exploring temples, trekking, and market visits, you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors. A wide-brimmed hat and a good reef-safe sunscreen are must-haves to protect against the sun.
A Lightweight Rain Jacket
If you’re visiting during the rainy season (June–October), bring a compact, waterproof jacket to stay dry during sudden downpours.
Day Pack or Crossbody Bag
Chiang Mai’s night markets, morning bazaars, and trekking spots call for a sturdy, lightweight bag. Opt for a water-resistant daypack with anti-theft zippers for added security in busy areas.
Leave Room In Your Luggage
- Coffee Beans – Locally grown and ethically sourced, perfect for coffee lovers.
- Ceramics – Handmade pieces from studios like InClay are both beautiful and functional.
- Silk – Thai silk is famous for its quality and vibrancy.
- Hill Tribe Silverware – Intricate, handcrafted jewelry and utensils made by local artisans.
- Tea – Northern Thailand is known for its aromatic teas, a lovely reminder of your trip.
Some Final Insider Tips
Timing is Everything
- Visit popular attractions like Doi Suthep or the Tha Pae Walking Street Market early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- If you’re temple-hopping, try to plan around the monks’ alms-giving ceremonies (typically at sunrise) for a more authentic experience.
Street Food Safety
- Chiang Mai’s street food is amazing, but stick to busy stalls with lots of locals—it’s a good sign of freshness and quality.
- Start with cooked dishes like grilled meats or stir-fries if you’re hesitant to dive into raw or spicy options.
Respect Local Customs
- Always dress modestly when visiting temples—cover your shoulders and knees. A scarf or wrap can be a lifesaver if you’re caught unprepared.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples or even some stores. Slip-on shoes make this much easier.
Cash is King
- While many places now accept cards, smaller markets, street food stalls, and tuk-tuk drivers operate on cash. Keep small bills and coins handy for convenience. It’s also worth noting that crumpled notes are considered rude, and will often be rejected, so try to keep your cash crisp or exchange it at a bank.
Explore the Backstreets
- Don’t stick to main roads—Chiang Mai’s hidden gems are often tucked away in side streets and alleyways. You’ll find unique cafés, boutique shops, and quiet temples just waiting to be discovered.
Local Markets Over Souvenir Shops
- For authentic souvenirs, head to the Warorot Market or the Saturday Night Market instead of touristy stores. You’ll find better prices and unique, handmade items.
Embrace the Slow Pace
- Chiang Mai invites you to slow down. Don’t feel the need to over-schedule—spend an afternoon lingering at a café or strolling through a park. The city’s charm is in its unhurried rhythm.
