Introduction to Chiang Mai
If you are planning a trip through northern Thailand, this question is surely already on your mind: things to do in Chiang Mai. And we’ll let you in on a secret: much more than you imagine. This city was one of our favorites in Southeast Asia, and we don’t say that lightly. We lived for 21 nights in Chiang Mai, walked its streets at different times, tried its food, great cafes, and used it as a base to explore the region.
Chiang Mai combines ancient temples, lush nature, vibrant markets, and a relaxed energy that is captivating. It doesn’t matter if you have little time or several days; there is always something to discover. In this guide, we tell you things to do in Chiang Mai, with itineraries, real tips, and our experience as digital nomads traveling for over 8 years.
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Where is Chiang Mai and how to get there
Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, about 700 km from Bangkok. It is the second most important city in the country and a key hub for travelers.
How to get there:
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✈️ Plane: daily flights from Bangkok (approx. 1h15).
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🚆 Night train: an experience in itself.
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🚌 Bus: economical option, though longer.
We arrived by plane and it was super practical.
How many days do we recommend in Chiang Mai
This is one of the most common questions about things to do in Chiang Mai.
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1 day: barely an introduction.
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2 days: just enough for temples + markets.
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3 to 5 days: ideal for adding nature and experiences.
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More than a week: perfect if you travel slowly or work remotely (our case).
Things to do in Chiang Mai: must-see temples
Chiang Mai has over 300 temples. You don’t need to see them all, but these are a must.
Wat Phra Singh
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old town, Wat Phra Singh is one of the most important and visited temples in the city. We especially liked it for its classical Lanna-style architecture, with golden details and intricate roofs (it is very impressive), and for the calm atmosphere that is breathed even when there are visitors. It is an ideal temple to explore at your own pace, observe local life, and begin to understand why temples are a central part of Thai culture.
Wat Chedi Luang: history and grandeur in the heart of the old town
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most imposing temples with the most historical weight in the city, and a classic in any guide on things to do in Chiang Mai. Its huge ruined chedi (stupa) dominates the old town and makes clear the power this place had in the past, as it was the original home of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred image in Thailand.
We found it especially pretty and special. It is recommended to visit at sunset when the heat drops and the light gives it an even more special feel.
Wat Chiang Man: the oldest and most authentic temple in Chiang Mai
Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and one of those places worth visiting if you are looking for a calmer, more local experience among things to do in Chiang Mai. Unlike other more famous temples, it usually has fewer tourists, allowing you to explore it calmly and better appreciate its details, such as the ancient stupas and the elephant figures surrounding it. We liked it precisely for its authentic atmosphere and its historical importance to the city.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: the most famous temple in Chiang Mai
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is, without a doubt, the most iconic temple and one of the big must-sees when thinking about things to do in Chiang Mai. It is located at the top of Doi Suthep mountain and, in addition to its impressive golden chedi, offers incredible views of the city when the weather is clear. It is a site very visited by both locals and tourists, which is why our advice is to go early in the morning to explore it with more peace and better enjoy the place. Getting here is already part of the experience.
Wat Suan Dok (Wat Buppharam): a distinct temple full of history
Wat Suan Dok, also known as Wat Buppharam, is one of the most interesting temples to add to the list of things to do in Chiang Mai, especially if you are looking for something less touristy. Located a few minutes from the old town, it stands out for its white stupas that house the ashes of members of the Chiang Mai royal family and for its large central golden chedi.
We really liked the calm climate of the place and its views of the mountains on clear days. Additionally, it is often a venue for talks with monks, a unique opportunity to learn more about Thai Buddhism.
Other temples to see in Chiang Mai
Wat Umong, a mystical tunnel temple
A bit away from the center, Wat Umong is one of the most different and quiet temples in Chiang Mai. It is surrounded by nature and is famous for its underground tunnels and its forested setting, ideal for escaping the noise of the city. We found it a perfect place to go calmly, walk among trees, and live a more spiritual and less touristy experience, very different from the temples in the old town.
Chiang Mai’s old town
The historical heart is surrounded by a wall and a moat. Here, many temples, cafes, hostels, and markets are concentrated. Walking aimlessly was one of our favorite activities.
Yee Peng and Loy Krathong: the most magical festivals in Chiang Mai
If you travel to Chiang Mai in November, you can live one of the most special moments of the year in Thailand. Yee Peng and Loy Krathong are two traditional festivals that are celebrated almost at the same time and turn the city into a completely different stage. The streets are filled with decorations, the temples take on even more prominence, and the atmosphere becomes deeply spiritual and festive. It is, without a doubt, one of the experiences most sought after by those who research things to do in Chiang Mai, and a great reason to plan the trip according to the calendar.
Yee Peng: the sky lantern festival
Yee Peng is a celebration typical of northern Thailand and one of the most visually impressive events. During this festivity, thousands of paper lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky as a symbol of leaving behind worries, attracting good luck, and beginning a new cycle. Seeing them float all together is an image that has gone around the world and that many dream of witnessing in person. In Chiang Mai, Yee Peng is experienced with special intensity, both in organized events and in more local celebrations.
Loy Krathong: thanking and releasing in the water
At the same time, Loy Krathong is celebrated, a festival that takes place all over the country, but in Chiang Mai, it is experienced in a very special way. The tradition consists of releasing small krathongs (rafts made with banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense) into rivers, lakes, or moats. The gesture symbolizes gratitude for what has been lived and letting go of the negative things of the year that is ending. It is a more intimate and emotional celebration, ideal for understanding the spiritual side of Thai culture.
👉 Important tip: if your idea is to travel during these dates, book accommodation and transportation well in advance, as Chiang Mai receives many visitors during these festivals.
Without knowing it, we coincided with these dates; it was great, an unforgettable experience! It is one of the most famous events in the country and one of the experiences most sought after by those who research things to do in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Markets
Sunday Night Market / Walking Street
Our favorite. Handicrafts, street food, and live music.
Night Bazaar
More touristy, but ideal for a first night.
Things to do in Chiang Mai beyond the temples
Thai cooking classes
A spectacular cultural experience. You learn, eat, and better understand local gastronomy.
Thai massages
Cheap and excellent quality. Ideal for resting after walking.
Cafes and coworkings
Chiang Mai is a digital nomad paradise. There are plenty of cafes with good WiFi.
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Nature and getaways: things to do in Chiang Mai and surroundings
Doi Inthanon
The highest point in Thailand. Waterfalls, trails, and fresh air.
Ethical elephant sanctuaries
Do your research well. We only recommend places without saddles or shows.
Sticky Waterfalls
Waterfalls where you can literally climb without slipping.
Things to do in Chiang Mai in 1 day
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Old Town
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Wat Phra Singh
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Wat Chedi Luang
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Night Bazaar
Ideal if you are passing through.
Things to do in Chiang Mai in 2 days
Day 1: temples + old town
Day 2: Doi Suthep + markets
A perfect balance.
Things to do in Chiang Mai in 3 or more days
Add nature, cooking classes, and quiet days. This was how we enjoyed it the most.
Things to do in Chiang Mai Map
The city is divided into:
- Old City/ Historic center, within the walls of Chiang Mai.
- Nimmanhaemin (modern area)
- Riverside
Practical tips for visiting Chiang Mai
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Best time: November to February
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Motorbike rental: only if you have experience
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Cash + card
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Old City/Historic Center: central, close to everything
- Nimman: more modern, near the huge MAYA Center mall.
- Riverside: quiet
For price and comfort, we stayed in the Suthep area, which is a university zone a bit further away. For us, it was fine; to go to the center, we would take a Grab or occasionally a truck.
Eating in Chiang Mai
Dishes you must try:
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Khao Soi (our favorite)
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Pad Thai
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Mango sticky rice
FAQs about things to do in Chiang Mai
Is Chiang Mai safe to travel?
Yes, very safe even walking at night.
Is Chiang Mai expensive?
No, it is cheaper than Bangkok.
Can you work remotely from Chiang Mai?
Totally, it is one of the most famous nomad hubs in the world.
Should you rent a motorbike?
Only if you know how to drive and have a license.
When to avoid Chiang Mai?
March and April due to agricultural burning.
Is Chiang Mai worth it compared to Bangkok?
They are different experiences, but Chiang Mai captures your heart.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, you already know: things to do in Chiang Mai is not a closed list; it is an experience that is lived. For us, it was a city where we could work, explore, and slow down. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and enjoy it as much as we did.
If you are putting together a route through Thailand, Chiang Mai cannot be missing. 💛✈️
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🔗 Resources & Useful Links for your trip to Chiang Mai
Do you have questions or want to add your own recommendations about things to do in Chiang Mai?
💬 Leave your comment or write to us, we love reading other travelers’ experiences.
Thank you very much for being part of this adventure!— Nanu & Facu 🌎 | Recalculando Viajes 💜
