Visit Chiang Mai: Top 10 Things To Do & See

Chiang Mai is one of the gems of Thailand’s north and it is an attraction for those spending any time in the country. It is a must-visit to explore its historical temples, picturesque mountains, breathtaking views and take part in some special activities.

Moreover, Thailand consistently ranks among the nations with the world’s richest cuisines. Thai food is a masterful combination of the four basic flavors of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy. We’ll also expose you to the Chiang Mai dishes that are must-try foods in this article.

Get in touch with Hanoi Voyages immediately for itinerary guidance and have great experiences at the most reasonable prices. So without further ado, let’s get started on the perfect itinerary when you visit Chiang Mai!

Best things to do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city where tradition meets adventure, offering endless experiences for every traveler. If you’re wondering about the must-try things to do in Chiang Mai, here are 10 unforgettable activities you shouldn’t miss

Chiang Mai Old Town

Chiang Mai’s Old Town is the historic heart of the city, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. Rich in culture and tradition, it’s the perfect place to discover temples, local life and the city’s fascinating history.

What to do in Chiang Mai Old Town?

• Visit Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the city (1296–97)

• Explore Wat Phra Singh, famous for its stunning Lanna-style architecture

• Admire the grand Wat Chedi Luang with its towering ruins

• Stroll the charming narrow streets lined with cafés, shops, and guesthouses

• Learn about Buddhism and history through inscriptions and artifacts

• Discover multiple temples within walking distance, each with its own unique beauty

Wat Chedi Luang

Among the top things to do in Chiang Mai, a visit to Wat Chedi Luang is truly special. This ancient and sacred temple is admired for its grand ruins, intricate details, and peaceful atmosphere, offering travelers both cultural discovery and spiritual experience.

What to do at Wat Chedi Luang?

• Explore the towering ancient chedi, once the tallest structure in Chiang Mai

• Admire the traditional Lanna architecture and detailed carvings

• Join locals in prayers and ceremonies to experience authentic Buddhist culture

• Stroll the peaceful grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere

• Learn about the temple’s history and role in Chiang Mai’s heritage

Visitor information

• 📍 Address: 103 Prapokkloa Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai Old City

• ⏰ Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM

• 🎟️ Entrance Fee: 40 THB (~$1.3) (adults), 20 THB (~$0.6) (children)

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

Doi Suthep–Pui National Park is not only home to the iconic temple but also a stunning natural setting with scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The park hosts over 2,000 species of ferns and flowers and around 300 bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Popular activities include:

• Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the famous mountaintop temple

• Hiking through lush forests and waterfalls

• Biking along mountain trails and exploring hill tribe villages

• Taking meditation lessons

• Touring Phu Ping Palace and enjoying panoramic views of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Night Market

Among the top things to do in Chiang Mai, visiting the night markets is a must. The lively Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is the most famous, offering a mix of shopping, food, and culture all in one place.

What to do at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar?

• Browse stalls selling handicrafts, embroidery, wood and silver carvings

• Shop for handmade goods and souvenirs to take home

• Sample delicious local street food and snacks

• Enjoy live art performances and shows throughout the market

• Experience the lively atmosphere and bargain for unique finds

Elephant Sanctuaries

You may already know that the elephant is the symbol of Thailand, so the Thai government built this elephant sanctuary to preserve them. In Asia, Elephant Nature Park and Elephant Haven are the two largest elephant care and rehabilitation facilities.

• Elephant Nature Park: This facility treats elephants that have been injured or abused by their owners before moving them to a nursing area in Haven once they have recovered.

• Elephant Haven: is a large resort area for elephants with an area of up to 800 hectares, many tourists visit this area, here you will see first-hand the animals.

Elephants are incredibly friendly and adorable; you can feed them, bathe them, etc, which attracts tourists the most. However, we have a small note for you that prices will be around 1800 Bahts for half a day and can reach 2500 Bahts for a full day.

Join us on a journey to Chiang Mai to explore its rich cultural heritage. To make your trip even more memorable, you can explore our carefully designed tours with Hanoi Voyages below

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Doi Inthanon

One of the top must-visit destinations in Thailand, Doi Inthanon is the country’s highest mountain, offering breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural experiences. 

Highlights of Doi Inthanon

• Visit Wachirathan Falls, the park’s second largest waterfall, with cascades plunging 60–80 meters.

• Explore the twin stupas, built to honor the King and Queen on their 60th birthdays.

• Immerse yourself in serene landscapes, lush forests, and cool mountain air.

Travel tips for visiting this site

• Temperatures can vary greatly at the summit—bring appropriate clothing.

• Pack umbrellas, raincoats, insect repellent, and sunscreen if visiting during the rainy season.

• No public transport is available from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon. The best options are:

  • Motorbike rental: ~200 THB/day

  • Car rental: ~800 THB/day (prices subject to change)

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Chiang Mai festivals and celebrations

Festivals are always the most anticipated event, so what are you waiting for, let’s find out top 3 biggest festivals in Thailand.

The Songkran 📅 Date: April each year Thailand’s most vibrant festival, Songkran celebrates the New Year with joyful water fights. Grab a bucket or water gun and join the fun as locals and travelers splash away the old year and welcome the new
Loi Krathong  📅 Date: November each year Also known as the “lantern festival,” Yi Peng lights up the sky and rivers with thousands of glowing lanterns. A magical cultural experience not to be missed in Northern Thailand.
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival  📅 Date: First weekend of February This colorful festival celebrates the beauty of Northern Thailand’s blooms with vibrant flower displays, dance performances, float parades, and lively outdoor concerts.

Muay Thai Fight

Have you ever seen a Muay Thai match on television or in person? If you ever get the chance to visit Thailand, do not pass up the opportunity to witness some Muay Thai in Chiang Mai. This sport is incredibly well-liked by spectators both domestically and overseas. Famous traditional Thai martial art known as Muay Thai. If you visit Chiang Mai, take advantage of the chance to see a Muay Thai bout in Chiang Mai. You will experience a truly professional match and gain a deeper understanding of a facet of Thai culture.

📍 In Chiang Mai, there are three stadiums where spectators may watch Muay Thai matches: Kalare Stadium, Thapae Boxing Stadium, and Loi Kroh Stadium.

Traditional Thai Massage

On a luxury trip to Thailand, a traditional Thai massage is the perfect way to unwind after exploring golden temples. Combining yoga stretches, Ayurvedic techniques, and Chinese acupressure, it offers both relaxation and therapeutic benefits.

Typical prices:

• Foot massage (1 hour): ~250 Baht (~$8)

• Full-body massage: ~500 Baht (~$16)

• Luxury massage service: ~1000 Bath - 3000 Bath (~$30 - $100)

👉 Personalized care ensures the massage suits your health needs, making it an essential cultural and wellness experience in Thailand.

Zip-line adventure

If you love thrills and outdoor fun, Chiang Mai offers plenty of adventure activities. From ziplining through jungles to trekking in the mountains, these experiences are perfect for adrenaline seekers and families alike.

• Experience the thrill: Fly through the jungle on steel cables 40–70 meters above the ground.

• Scenic views: Cross forests and mountains while soaring above the treetops.

• Family-friendly: Perfect for kids as an alternative to temples and city tours.

• Safety assured: All participants are equipped with proper safety gear.

How to get to Chiang Mai

Getting to Chiang Mai is simple, whether you’re coming from Bangkok or Chiang Rai, with options like flights, trains, and buses. Once there, getting around by tuk-tuk, songthaew, motorbike, or private car makes exploring easy.

Bangkok To Chiang Mai

By airplane

The plane is a great option for people who don’t have much time and want to go quickly because the flight is only 700 miles. There are several flights available every day with a variety of departure times. The flight takes between 75 and 90 minutes to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai but compared to alternative options, the fare will be more costly.

By train

Train is one of the preferred ways to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai because of its cheap price and good quality. The carriages are designed with modern luxury to bring comfort and convenience to visitors. To get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, you start from Hua Lamphong station. I believe that it will bring comfort to everyone who experienced it.

By bus

Bus is a cheap means of transportation that is also very popular. You can find some cars with reclining seats and sleepers for 500-700 baht. Some bus companies you can refer to are: Nakhorn Air, Siam First Tour, Sombat Tour, etc. However, there will be no fixed price because the price depends on the time and number of passengers.

By private car

If you want to explore on your own and it’s convenient for you to move around, you can rent your own car. The advantage is that everyone can freely schedule their travel and stop where they want. However, if you want to drive yourself, you must have a driver’s license in Thailand.

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

By bus

For buses, visitors should choose high-class bus lines. Although this is a popular means of transportation, old cars will not be fully equipped like modern cars. With the current high-class bus line, you have full facilities such as wifi, restrooms, air conditioning, soft seats, …. This is the perfect transportation option that everyone can consider when moving from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.

By taxi

Taxis are available everywhere and at any time, so this is the easiest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. You can choose the type and size of the car depending on the number of people and luggage to move comfortably. Taxis also take less time than buses, but the cost will be higher. If you do not worry about the price, the option of moving from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is not a bad choice at all.

Travel around Chiang Mai

There are many options for you to move around places when in Chiang Mai such as songthaew, tuktuk, large and small buses, trains, motorbikes and technology cars booked through apps. However, I recommend for when you come to Chiang Mai, you should travel by tuk tuk, technology car or rented motorbike. There are a few things to keep in mind:

• For tuk tuk, you remember to negotiate the price before getting in the car.

• You can call grab to go around the city very cheap, under 100 baht/trip.

• If you want to rent a motorbike by yourself, the price is about 150-200 baht. To rent a motorbike, you need to prepare a photocopy of your passport and a deposit in advance.

The best weather to visit Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to February, when the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for festivals and outdoor activities. Avoid the rainy season (June–October) due to heavy rainfall. For budget travelers, late April to October offers lower prices on flights and hotels.

For couples who want to enjoy their honeymoon or hold a wedding here, they can refer to the suggestions below.

• Honeymoon: Winter is a great time for couples to honeymoon while visiting Chiang Mai. It is a time when the weather is cool and dry and couples can enjoy a romantic time at the Lantern Festival.

• Wedding: The best time to organize a wedding in Chiang Mai is from mid-November to mid-February. That’s when there’s no heavy rain and it’s a great time for outdoor activities.

If your budget is tight, you should visit Chiang Mai from late April to late October because lodging and airfare are often less expensive then. Hopefully, the above information can help you choose the ideal time for your trip to Chiang Mai.

Best hotels in Chiang Mai: Where to stay

Chiang Mai is home to an array of accommodations that blend modern comfort with the city’s unique charm. From stylish boutique hotels to well-known resorts, these top picks are highly rated by travelers and promise a memorable stay in Northern Thailand.

Melia Hotels

💸 Price: starting at $150 per night

Melia Chiang Mai is located in the city center and very close to places such as Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Warorot Market, Tha Pae Walking Street.

It also provides facilities and services including a bar, swimming pool, relaxing spa, terrace and coffee shop. The transportation is also very convenient because it is only a 4-minute drive from Chiang Mai Station and an 18-minute drive to Chiang Mai International Airport. 

Four Season Resort in Chiang Mai

💸 Price: starting at $1000 per night

Four Seasons Chiang Mai is their wonderful tropical resort in the North of Thailand. The place has geographical, climatic and cultural characteristics quite similar to that of South Vietnam.

With a luxurious design but still with indigenous architectural features, Four Seasons brings a sense of antiquity, peace and relaxation. Besides, still fully meeting modern facilities for everyone, especially Four Seasons has Khao restaurant which was recently honored with the first Michelin star from Michelin Guide Thailand 2020.

Shangri-La Hotel in Chiang Mai

💸 Price: starting at $170 per night

Shangri-La Chiang Mai is just 6.4 km from the airport, has a free water park and is only a 5-minute drive from Chiang Mai Night Market. Moreover, Shangri-La is known for offering some of the largest rooms available in many destinations.

There is a full range of accommodation options, ranging from deluxe rooms, to luxurious suites. Other featured amenities at this luxury hotel include an outdoor pool, a complimentary kids club, and a poolside bar. Everything in the Shangri-La makes visitors feel at home.

While you can certainly book these hotels on your own, choosing Hanoi Voyages means enjoying a truly seamless journey—where every stay, transfer, and experience is carefully curated for your comfort, exclusivity, and peace of mind.  👇 >>> CONTACT US NOW <<<

Where to eat in Chiang Mai: Best restaurants for your trip

Exploring the best restaurants in Chiang Mai is a must for any trip to Thailand, especially for those who want to find luxury Thailand tour. From riverside fine dining to modern Thai fusion, the city offers unforgettable culinary experiences that perfectly complement your journey.

Bodhi Terrace Chiang Mai

⭐Rating: 4.9/5.0 (Tripadvisor)

📍 Address: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, 123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Road, Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai 50100

Bodhi Terrace at Anantara Chiang Mai offers serene riverside dining under shady bodhi trees. Enjoy refined Thai and international dishes, artfully presented with premium ingredients, in an elegant yet relaxed setting.

Baan Mae Café & Restaurant

⭐Rating: 4.9/5.0 (Tripadvisor)

📍 Address: 72/1 Santisuk Road, T. Chang Phuak, A. Meung, Chiang Mai 50300

Housed in a restored Thai home, Baan Mae serves authentic Northern comfort food with modern flair. Signature dishes like gaeng hang lay and house-made sausages make it a cozy yet refined stop on any Thailand luxury tour.

The Garden By Lemongrass

⭐Rating: 5.0/5.0 (Tripadvisor)

📍 Address: 127 Loi Kroh Rd, Chang Moi, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

The Garden by Lemongrass is a peaceful escape offering Thai fusion in a candle-lit courtyard. Signature dishes like grilled lemongrass chicken and pomelo salad highlight fresh Northern ingredients, making it a perfect spot for couples or solo travelers.

For more options: Top 9 best restaurants in Chiang Mai

From ancient temples and vibrant markets to lush mountains and cultural treasures, the top 10 things to do in Chiang Mai promise experiences that will stay with you long after your trip. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or authentic local culture, Chiang Mai has it all—waiting to be explored. Start planning your unforgettable journey today with Hanoi Voyages.