Chiang Mai travel tips: 7 best ways to explore the city

Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, captivates visitors with its blend of ancient charm and modern life. From centuries-old temples and lively local markets to scenic mountains and peaceful cafes, the city offers a unique atmosphere that’s both relaxing and culturally rich. A favorite among both local and international travelers, Chiang Mai is a destination that invites you to slow down, explore deeply and connect with Thai traditions.

We share essential Chiang Mai travel tips to help you make the most of your trip. From the best time to visit, transportation options, local food experiences and cozy places to stay, to exciting activities and estimated travel costs — this guide covers everything you need for a smooth and memorable journey.

Ready to discover Chiang Mai your way? Let Hanoi Voyages be your trusted guide to a seamless and unforgettable adventure!

Visit Chiang Mai: When is the ideal time for your trip

One of the most practical Chiang Mai travel tips is choosing the right time to visit, as it greatly affects your travel experience. Each season offers different highlights, so here’s what to expect

Transportation tips: How to travel to Chiang Mai

Transportation is an essential part of your journey and this Chiang Mai travel guide will help you navigate the best ways to get to and around the city. To visit Chiang Mai smoothly and stress-free, it's important to understand your options for flights, trains, buses and local travel.

How to get to Chiang Mai

In this section of our Chiang Mai travel guide, we’ll walk you through the most convenient and popular ways to visit Chiang Mai, depending on your budget, time and travel style.

By airplane – Fastest and most convenient

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is located just 15 minutes from the city center, making air travel the fastest and easiest option.

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 – A scenic and budget-friendly option

Traveling by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a popular choice for those who enjoy slow travel and beautiful views.

• Night trains take around 12–14 hours, offering sleeper cabins (with AC or fan).

• Departure station: Bangkok Hua Lamphong or Krung Thep Aphiwat (new central terminal).

By bus – Cheap and Comfortable

Long-distance buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are another affordable option.

• Duration: 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.

• Departure: Mainly from Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok.

By car– For the adventurous and flexible traveler

Driving to Chiang Mai is a great option if you want to explore the countryside at your own pace.

• Route suggestion: Bangkok → Ayutthaya → Sukhothai → Chiang Mai

• Roads are generally in good condition with multi-lane highways.

• International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for tourists.

How to get around Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai is simple and affordable, with several options to suit your travel style. In this Chiang Mai travel guide, we suggest the most practical ways to explore the city.

• The most common local transport is the songthaew (red shared truck), which you can flag down and pay around $1 – $3 per ride.

• For short distances, tuk-tuks are quick and fun, but always negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid overpaying.

• Grab is a reliable and modern alternative - rides within the city usually cost under $3.

• If you prefer flexibility, renting a motorbike is a great option, though you’ll need a passport copy and deposit.

• For longer day trips outside the city, consider renting a car or hiring a private driver, especially if you’re traveling in a group.

Top 7 must-try activities when visiting Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a cultural síte in northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant markets and peaceful mountain scenery. If you're planning to visit Chiang Mai, this guide will walk you through the top experiences that truly capture the city’s spirit.

Explore Chiang Mai old town

One of the highlights of any Chiang Mai itinerary is exploring the Old Town, a square-shaped historic area surrounded by ancient walls and a moat. This cultural heart of the city is home to over 30 temples, some must-see temples:

• Wat Phra Singh: One of the most revered temples in Chiang Mai, known for its classic Lanna architecture and the sacred Phra Singh Buddha statue.

• Wat Chedi Luang: Famous for its massive ancient chedi (pagoda), partially ruined but still impressive and once home to the Emerald Buddha.

• Wat Chiang Man: The oldest temple in Chiang Mai, featuring beautiful carvings and housing important Buddha images.

• Wat Phan Tao: A lesser-known wooden temple with a unique teak structure and peaceful atmosphere, great for quiet reflection.

As you walk through the Old Town, take your time to enjoy the calm streets, stop by local food stalls and chat with friendly locals. This area is perfect for slow exploration and offers a glimpse into Chiang Mai's spiritual and historical heart.

You can also read: Top 10 must-visit temples in Thailand for travelers

Experience Chiang Mai night markets

A visit to Chiang Mai wouldn’t be complete without strolling through its vibrant markets. From day to night, each market offers a unique local experience.

• Warorot Market (Talat Warorot): Located near Chinatown, this is the city’s largest daytime market. Great for snacks, spices, clothes and daily life scenes.

• Flower Market: Nearby Warorot, this riverside market offers fragrant garlands and floral decorations - colorful and photogenic.

• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Open daily on Chang Klan Road. It’s touristy but full of handcrafted goods, souvenirs and street food.

• Saturday Night Market: Held on Wua Lai Road. Quieter than the Night Bazaar, with plenty of handmade items and local dishes.

• Sunday Night Market: The biggest weekend market on Ratchadamnoen Road. Lively, full of crafts, live music and food at good prices.

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

• Entrance fee: 50 THB

• Cable car (optional): 50 THB

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM

A must-see in any Chiang Mai itinerary, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits atop Doi Suthep mountain, about 15 km from the city center. This iconic temple is famous for its golden stupa, 306-step Naga staircase and breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

Check out more information: Top 7 must-see attractions in Chiang Mai

Take a day trip to Elephant Sanctuary

For those seeking authentic and responsible experiences, one of the best Chiang Mai travel tips is to visit a reputable elephant sanctuary. Just a short drive from the city, these sanctuaries offer a chance to connect with rescued elephants in a natural setting. Instead of riding, you’ll help feed, walk and bathe them - making it both ethical and memorable.

Note: Prices typically range from 1,800 Baht (~ $55) for a half-day visit to around 2,500 Baht (~$76) for a full-day program. Always book with trusted organizations to ensure ethical treatment of the animals.

Enjoy Chiang Mai festivals and celebrations

When you visit Chiang Mai, make sure to check your travel dates - many of the city’s traditional festivals are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Add these cultural highlights to your Chiang Mai itinerary:

You can also read: Top 5 must-visit Thailand festivals for a vibrant 2025 trip

Watch a Muay Thai fight

For an authentic cultural experience, don't miss the chance to watch a Muay Thai fight while in Chiang Mai. This traditional Thai martial art is intense, fast-paced and packed with energy. Fights are held regularly at stadiums like Thapae Boxing Stadium and Kawila Boxing Stadium. Most events feature both local and international fighters and ticket prices typically start at around $12 - $18.

Chiang Mai travel tips: Book your tickets in advance for better seating and choose VIP seats if you want a close-up view of the action. It’s a thrilling night activity that gives insight into Thai sports and culture.

Relax with a traditional Thai massage

After a long day of sightseeing, unwinding with a traditional Thai massage is a must in Chiang Mai. Known for its therapeutic stretching and pressure techniques, Thai massage helps relieve tension and improve circulation.

You’ll find countless massage parlors across the city, especially in the Old Town and around the Night Bazaar, with prices starting from just $6 - $15 per hour. For a more luxurious experience, consider a spa like Fah Lanna or Oasis Spa. It’s the perfect way to recharge during your Chiang Mai journey.

Recommended accommodation for your trip to Chiang Mai

Finding the right place to stay is an important part of any successful trip. In this Chiang Mai travel guide, we’ll recommend the best areas and types of accommodation - whether you're looking for budget hostels, charming guesthouses, or luxury resorts - to help you enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in the city.

Luxury hotels in Chiang Mai

For travelers seeking comfort, style and world-class service, these luxury hotels in Chiang Mai offer the perfect blend of elegance and relaxation amidst the city's cultural charm.

Some luxury hotels in Chiang Mai for your perfect trip:

• Cross Chiang Mai Riverside Resort

• U Nimman Chiang Mai

• AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai

• Shangri-La Chiang Mai

You can also refer: Top 9 hotels in Chiang Mai for your Thailand trip

Mid-range hotels in Chiang Mai

If you're looking for great value without sacrificing comfort, these mid-range hotels in Chiang Mai offer stylish stays, convenient locations and excellent amenities at affordable prices.

Our recommended mid-range hotels in Chiang Mai:

• Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort - A Vegan Retreat

• Khum Phaya Resort & Spa

• Stay With Nimman

• Thai Akara - Lanna Boutique Hotel

Budget hotels in Chiang Mai

If you're planning a trip on a tight budget, don't worry - Chiang Mai offers a wide range of affordable accommodations that don’t compromise on comfort or convenience. These budget hotels in Chiang Mai are perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the city without overspending, offering clean rooms, friendly service and great locations.

You can refer some budget hotels in Chiang Mai

• Nimman Mai Design Hotel

• Aksara Heritage Hotel

• Buri Gallery House

• Rimping Village

Some famous restaurants in Chiang Mai for local flavor

One of the best ways to truly experience a destination is through its food—and Chiang Mai is no exception. In this part of our Chiang Mai travel guide, we’ll introduce some of the most famous restaurants where you can savor authentic local flavors and enjoy unforgettable meals.

The Garden By Lemongrass

⭐Rating: 5.0/ 5.0 (Tripadvisor)

⏱️Opening hours: 5.00 pm - 1.00 am

Hidden away from Chiang Mai’s busy streets, The Garden by Lemongrass is a peaceful retreat offering Thai fusion cuisine in a charming, candle-lit courtyard. The menu focuses on fresh, aromatic dishes inspired by Northern Thai flavors—think grilled lemongrass chicken, refreshing pomelo salad and jasmine rice paired with tropical sauces.

Bodhi Terrace

⭐ Rating: 4.9/ 5.0 (Tripadvisor)

⏱️ Opening hours: Breakfast: 6.30 am - 10.30 am; Lunch: 10.00 am - 2.30 pm; Dinner: 5.30 pm - 10.00 pm

Nestled in the peaceful grounds of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Bodhi Terrace offers a serene riverside dining experience with a touch of elegance. Guests can enjoy their meals under the shade of bodhi trees, surrounded by soft lighting and the soothing sounds of the nearby river. The restaurant serves a refined selection of Thai cuisine and international favorites, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and presented with style.

Baan Mae Café & Restaurant

⭐Rating: 4.9/ 5.0 (Tripadvisor)

⏱️Opening hours: 11.00 am - 10.00 pm ( Last order: 9.00 pm )

Baan Mae invites you into a welcoming space where tradition and comfort come together. Housed in a lovingly renovated Thai-style home, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of Northern Thailand with dishes like slow-cooked gaeng hang lay, tangy nam prik ong and savory handmade sausages. The relaxed garden setting, soft music and friendly service create a homely yet refined dining atmosphere - perfect for those looking to enjoy local flavors in a peaceful, intimate environment.

For more information: Top 9 best restaurants in Chiang Mai

How many days to visit Chiang Mai?

If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai, setting aside 3 to 4 days is ideal to fully experience the charm of this northern site. From exploring ancient temples to enjoying peaceful mountain views and ethical elephant sanctuaries, a few well-planned days will allow you to take in both the city’s cultural highlights and its natural beauty.

Explore Chiang Mai in 3 days

Looking to explore Chiang Mai in 3-4 days? This vibrant city offers a perfect mix of culture, nature and adventure, all within a short trip. Firstly, what can you expect in Chiang Mai for 3 days? Let’s find out!

Day 1: Discovery of the city and the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple

• Start your day by exploring the old city, beginning with the ancient city wall, moat and gates. Visit Chiang Mai's most stunning temples, including Wat Prah Singh, Wat Phan Tao and Wat Chedi Luang

• Enjoy a cyclo ride through charming streets lined with traditional houses, before heading to the bustling Warorot Market for a taste of local life.

• Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain over 1,000 meters high to enjoy panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

• Take a tour of the nearby craft villages, where you can witness the artistry of lacquerware, silk weaving, umbrella making, wood carving and goldsmithing

Day 2: Hike to Karen village and overnight stay with locals

• In the morning, depart by local truck heading north from Chiang Mai.

• On the way, make a brief stop at the Mae Malai market to purchase food and vegetables for the trek.

• Continue the journey and stop at Mok Fah waterfall to take a refreshing swim and relax. Then, head towards Karen Village.

• Embark on a 3.5-hour walk to another Karen hill tribe village, Bann Pa Kao Lam, where you can explore the village and interact with the locals to learn about their traditional lifestyle.

• A highlight of the day is the unique experience of caring for elephants for 40 minutes - feeding them and bathing them in the river.

• The day usually ends with a cozy campfire, filled with entertainment such as jokes, games and funny stories led by the guide.

Day 3: Exploring the Lahu Tribe Village

• Spend the day exploring the culture of the Lahu tribe, known for their colorful traditional dress.

• Begin with a 1.5-hour jungle trek to the river, then enjoy a 30-minute bamboo rafting ride to an elephant camp.

• At the camp, feed and bathe elephants in the river - no riding involved - while capturing memorable photos.

• Continue rafting downstream to reach a Lahu village, where you can experience the tribe's unique lifestyle and traditions.

• End the day with a 2-hour bamboo rafting journey and a short visit to a Shan village before returning to Chiang Mai.

Explore Chiang Mai in 4 days

A 4-day Chiang Mai itinerary is ideal for discovering the city’s culture, temples and natural beauty - offering a perfect mix of history, nature and local experiences.

Day 1, 2, 3: The schedule is the same as above

Day 4: Cooking class and cruise on the Mae Ping River

Start your day with a delightful cooking class at Khrua Baan Thai Chiang Mai. This Thai cooking workshop, conducted in French, offers a fantastic opportunity to learn the tricks behind Thailand’s renowned cuisine. Enjoy a friendly and family-like atmosphere as you master 4 to 5 recipes, depending on the menu for the day. You'll also receive a free recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home.

• Schedule: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM

• Group size: 2 to 6 people

In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful two-hour boat cruise on the Mae Ping River, passing traditional teak houses and lush riverbanks - a relaxing way to take in Chiang Mai’s charm.

For more information: Discover Chiang Mai in 3–4 Days: What to see and do

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

	Thailand family tour 14 days: Discover the land of smiles Thailand family tour 14 days: Discover Ayutthaya, the Northern magic rich culture, the nature of Khao Sok and the beautiful Khao Lak beach
	Paradise trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days Paradise trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days: Explore from the cultural treasures of Bangkok to the scenic beauty of Chiang Mai
	Thailand tour 14 days From Northern to Southern Charms Thailand Tour 14 Days: From Northern Charms of Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai to the Southern in Koh Yao Yai and Phuket

In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Estimated total budget when traveling Chiang Mai

The average cost for exploring Chiang Mai is around $200 per person per day. This covers a mid-range to luxury hotel stay, delicious local and international meals, transportation, entrance fees to cultural sites and nature parks, light shopping and memorable experiences such as Thai massages or elephant sanctuary visits.

With this budget, you can enjoy a smooth and enriching journey - staying at 4- to 5-star accommodations, dining at well-rated restaurants, exploring top attractions like Doi Suthep or the Old City and moving around easily with Grab or a private car service.

If you're seeking a thoughtful, hassle-free experience that blends comfort with local charm, Hanoi Voyages is ready to help design your ideal Chiang Mai itinerary.

From temple hopping to Thai massages and unforgettable elephant encounters, these Chiang Mai travel tips are your key to unlocking the best of the city. Let every moment count on your Northern Thailand adventure - and if you want a seamless, tailor-made experience, plan your trip with Hanoi Voyages for expert guidance and local insight every step of the way.