Chiang Mai, former capital of the Lanna kingdom, is Thailand's second-largest city. Located 800 km from Bangkok, it is the ideal starting point for exploring the mountains of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai invites travellers to discover its magnificent monuments, its traditions, its gastronomy and to enjoy the warm welcome of its inhabitants. What's more, the city nicknamed the "Rose of the North" is surrounded by lush natural beauty. So, whether you want to see magnificent temples, discover the Thai way of life, enjoy good food or have quick access to a bewitching natural environment, don't hesitate and discover Chiang Mai.
1. Discover Chiang Mai's most beautiful temples
Chiang Mai, a must-see stopover in Northern Thailand, is home to numerous Buddhist temples. Quite simply, there are temples on almost every street corner. Each one has its own charm, but don 't miss Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the "Silver Temple", or Wat Umong, whose tunnels are adorned with frescoed murals. The city's oldest temple is Wat Chiang Man. Founded in 1297, it lies within the walls of the old city. One of Chiang Mai's must-see experiences is a visit to Doi Suthep temple. Perched on a mountain 1,200 m above sea level, the edifice is not only sublime, but also offers breathtaking views of the city below.
Explore Chiang Mai's temples such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Srisuphan and the Three Kings Monument by booking this this private Tuk Tuk tour of the city's temples.
2. Explore Chiang Mai's old town
Chiang Mai, the second largest city after Bangkok, has grown over the years. But it has preserved a magnificent old town surrounded by ramparts. So take the time to lose yourself in the streets of the historic heart and open your eyes wide by booking this guided tour, for example. There are over 300 temples in Chiang Mai! It's also an opportunity to push open the doors of art and craft stores. The narrow streets are also filled with restaurants, bars and lively markets. It's a paradise for gourmets, who can take advantage of their wanderings to stop for pad thai or a milk shake.
Book my Chiang Mai guided tour
3. Night markets
Chiang Mai, a great destination for a spring trip, is inseparable from its night markets. Warorot Market is one of Chiang Mai's main food markets. You'll find plenty of fresh produce and typical foods. The Saturday Night Market Walking Street is the place to go for a taste of Thai culinary specialties. Located in the old town, it stretches for over a kilometer and features numerous street food stalls. Handicrafts are also on sale, and artists create portraits on site. On Sundays, from 5 p.m., the Sunday Night Market is another must-see for clothes, jewelry, paintings and, of course, Thai flavors! Tempted? Click here to book your culinary tour of Chiang Mai's night markets!
Always wanted to see floating markets? Schedule a stopover in Pattaya during your trip to Thailand and discover its must-see sights.
4. Stroll through Chiang Mai's museums
Chiang Mai and northern Thailand have a number of museums to help you better understand their history and special features. The Lanna Folklife Museum is a pretty white building whose objects and works (paintings, textiles, pottery, etc.) bear witness to Lanna art and culture. The National Museum of Chiang Mai is another interesting place to learn more about the evolution of the Lanna people through time. Chiang Mai also boasts a number of unusual museums, such as Art in Paradise, an optical art museum featuring interactive illusions in works of art. Or the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, dedicated to insects, fossils, amazing stones and other rarities found in Thailand.
5. Attend a Thai boxing match
For those wondering what to do in Chiang Mai? Why not attend a Thai boxing match? This tradition is deeply rooted in the country's history. Also known as Muay Thai, this practice is actually a little more violent than boxing, since fighters can use not only their fists, but also their knees, elbows, feet and shins to strike their opponent. The atmosphere is always buzzing around the ring. The main stadiums in Chiang Mai are Kalare Stadium, Thapae Boxing Stadium and Loi Kroh Stadium.
Book my place for a Thai boxing match
6. What to do in Chiang Mai? Try the cuisine!
Eating is one of the must-do things to do in Chiang Ma. There's a wide range of flavors to discover. Visitors can go to restaurants or take advantage of the street food stalls in the markets. Lanna cuisine is particularly delicious.A must-try is Khao Soï, a cooked and fried noodle soup dipped in curry and coconut milk. But also the spicy chicken stir-fry served with rice, or Som Tam, a spicy green papaya salad. Visitors can book a cooking class in Chiang Mai right here and learn how to make one of these specialties.
7. A Chiang Mai massage - a must!
What could be better after a day of sightseeing and walking than a massage to soothe aching muscles? There are many massage parlors in Chiang Mai. It's all part of the local culture. You can enjoy a typical Thai massage, or focus on specific areas such as the skull or feet. Pure relaxation. Some salons are very simple, but others are more luxurious, set in lush gardens filled with the sound of flowing water and birdsong.
Book my traditional Thai Lanna massage
8. Meet the elephants
Meeting elephants is one of the things to do when staying in Chiang Mai. But beware: some people don't hesitate to mistreat the animals in exchange for tourists' change. We recommend a visit to the Elephant Retirement Park, a sanctuary set up to take in abandoned elephants that have suffered years of abuse. The idea is to offer them a natural environment in which to readapt to life in the forest. Visitors to the park can spend time with the elephants. Stroll through the park alongside them, or play in the water.
Discover the Chiang Mai elephant sanctuary by booking your visit here. Learn how to care for and feed them!
9. Attend the Loi Krathong Festival
Travelers to Chiang Mai in November have the chance to attend the Loi Krathong Festival, also known as Yi Peng. Held in honor of Buddha, this festival of lights is a sight to behold. The locals decorate the fronts of their houses with lanterns. Lanterns can also be seen on the boats that sail down the river. The release of lanterns into the sky symbolizes the abandonment of all the ills and misfortunes of the previous year. The city is abuzz with activity during this traditional festival, and good humor is always the order of the day.
Take part in an experience that celebrates timeless Thai traditions by booking your ticket to the Sky Lantern Festival right here.
10. Boat trip on the Mae Ping River
Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai? Now's the time to take a stroll along the tranquil waters of the Mae Ping River. The walk starts in the center and gradually moves away towards less urban and more rural areas. It's best to take a camera with you to immortalize the different styles of houses and the life of the locals along the river. A soothing activity that also includes, to the delight of gourmets, the tasting of a traditional snack.
Book your unforgettable Chiang Mai boat trip along the Mae Ping River here.
11. Hiking in Doi Suthep National Park
Chiang Mai is a great destination if you want to alternate between the city and enchanting nature. Doi Suthep National Park, one of the must-see places on a trip to Thailand, lies around 15 km north of the city. The park is home to lush vegetation and is a wildlife sanctuary with species such as the Asiatic black bear, Temminck's cat, muntjac and Assam macaque. You can also relax at the foot of waterfalls such as Mon Tha Than Waterfall, and meet the inhabitants of the Hmong Doi Pui Village. Doi Suthep National Park is also home to Bhubing Palace, the winter residence of the Thai royal family. You can visit it when the family isn't around, and enjoy its gardens with a bamboo grove and rose garden.
We recommend that you book this guided hike to the top of Doi Suthep National Park an unforgettable experience!
Where to stay in Chiang Mai?
As Chiang Mai is the gateway to the mountainous territory of northern Thailand, numerous hotels are scattered throughout the city. Discover our selection of 3 of the best hotels.
- The Rachamankha Hotel, ideally positioned
The Rachamankha Hotel is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai's historic center, a stone's throw from the sublime Wat Phra Singh temple. The rooms, bookable hereare sumptuously decorated in traditional Thai style. The hotel features a restaurant, swimming pool, library and massage pavilion. Comfort is excellent. Value for money is impeccable.
- Yaang Come Village Hotel, immersion in Lanna style
It's hard not to fall in love with this hotel bookable here a perfect blend of traditional Lanna style and modern comfort. The rooms have been carefully designed and crafted by local artisans. The setting is lush and green, and you can also enjoy a magnificent swimming pool. The Yaang Come Village Hotel also features a restaurant and massage parlour. The Night Bazaar and Saturday Night Market Walking Street are within easy reach. Our favorite!
- Raming Lodge Hotel & Spa, for the ultimate wellness experience
There's nothing to fault about this hotel, which you can book here, with its exotic decor and rooms offering all the comforts you could wish for. Breakfast is generous, and the restaurant serves traditional cuisine. In addition to a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, the Raming Lodge Hotel & Spa features a spa with sauna, thermal pool and the option of traditional Thai massages. The main sights of the old town can be reached in no time.
What to do in Chiang Mai in 2 days?
Here's what you can do in 2 days when a trip to Thailand includes a visit to Chiang Mai and the north of the country. The first day starts by exploring the old town with its historic temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Then it's on to the maze of alleyways lined with cafés and craft markets. In the afternoon, it's on to Doi Suthep, a temple perched on a hill with a breathtaking view of the city below. The second day begins with a visit to the Lanna Folklife Museum for an insight into Lanna culture through art. Then, in the afternoon, we head to the Elephant Retirement Park to meet the pachyderms in an ethical setting. This 2-day excursion can end with a night market where you can sample delicious local flavours and buy souvenirs.
Have you fallen under Chiang Mai's spell? Discover the 15 must-see places in Thailand and our top picks for Thailand's must-sees, from the South to the country's most beautiful beaches!
Discover also the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai:
