Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary: Amazing 3 Days in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai quickly became one of my favourite places in all of Thailand, and I know I’m not alone in feeling that way.
From peaceful temples and lively street markets to unforgettable day trips in the surrounding mountains, this northern city has such a special charm.
On my two visits here, I found myself falling in love with the slower pace, the endless massage options (I seriously went everyday), and of course, the food (khao soi is the superior Thai food, trust me).
In this Thailand guide, I will share my Chiang Mai travel itinerary, complete with everything we did so you get my personal touch and real experience.
Get ready for three perfectly planned days that cover the highlights, plus extra activities if you’re spending a little more time in Chiang Mai.
Some links in this Chiang Mai itinerary are affiliate. If clicked, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Map of Chiang Mai & Itinerary Snapshot
Click the arrow on the upper left hand corner of the map to get the Chiang Mai itinerary snapshot.
Where is Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, about 700km (435 miles) north of Bangkok. You can think of it as Thailand’s cultural capital of the north.
It’s both a city and a province, the city of Chiang Mai is the main hub where most travelers stay, and it’s surrounded by the larger Chiang Mai province, which is full of mountains, waterfalls and hill tribe villages.
When people say they’re “going to Chiang Mai,” they usually mean the city, but many activities are spread throughout the province.
Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?
Chiang Mai is 1000% worth visiting. Honestly, it ends up being almost everyone’s favourite place in Thailand. Just ask people who have been, and I guarantee they will tell you how much they loved it.
It’s full of woodsy, jungle temples, quirky shops, endless massage spots, cozy cafes and incredible northern Thai food (hello, khao soi!!! 🤤).
It has a slower, more laid-back pace compared to Bangkok or the islands, but it never feels boring.
Do not skip out on Chiang Mai when visiting Thailand. It was my favourite northern stop in Thailand and might even be my favourite in the entire country.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season, from November to February. This is when the weather is cooler, skies are clear and exploring the city and mountains is much more enjoyable.
A major highlight during this season is the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong Lantern Festival, usually held in November. It is one of the most magical events in Thailand, thousands of lanterns float in the sky and candles are lit across the rivers.
Just know it is one of the busiest times of year, so you will want to book accommodations well in advance. We spent the celebrations in Sukhothai, Thailand, arriving in Chiang Mai at the tail end of their festivities and it was insanely busy.
Another big event is Songkran (Thai New Year), celebrated in April. In Chiang Mai, the whole city turns into a giant water fight, with locals and tourists soaking each other in the streets.
It is another amazing cultural event to be a part of but also keep in mind the crowds and booking in advance.
Important to note: In February to April, northern Thailand experiences burning season, when farmers burn fields and crops to prepare for the next planting cycle.
This causes haze, smoke and ultimately poor air quality, making travelling in the region uncomfortable.
If you can, aim to visit between November and February for the best weather and clean air.
How Many Days Do You Need in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai deserves more time than most people give it, but if you’re on a tight schedule and only visiting Thailand for a couple of weeks, you can still see the highlights in 3 days.
I will show you how to make the most of it in this 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary. I will also sprinkle in some extra activities in case you have more time.
I experienced 1 fabulous week in Chiang Mai and I always say the more time the better. However, I understand that most of you will not have that time so let’s pack this Chiang Mai travel itinerary full!
How to Get to Chiang Mai
Getting to Chiang Mai is pretty straightforward, and you have a few options depending on your time, budget and travel style.
Plane
The quickest way to get to Chiang Mai is via plane. If visiting from Bangkok it is easy to grab a 1 hour domestic flight from either of Bangkok’s airports. It is also easy to grab a flight to Chiang Mai from other Thai cities (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui).
If arriving internationally, you are also in luck as Chiang Mai has an international airport, Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), and flights from other major international hubs fly here (Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong as examples).
If you are short on time, flying is your best and easiest option.
Check out flights here! Don’t forget to set an alert and watch for flight fluctuations.
Train
If you prefer a slower and scenic journey, the train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most popular routes.
The first class sleeper train books up WELL in advance.
When we were looking to buy them after our 5 days in Bangkok, they were already sold out (so keep this in mind).
The overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can be booked on 12Go Asia and takes around 11-13 hours.
This train trip is a great way to see some incredible northern Thailand views.
Bus
This is how we travelled, albeit from Sukhothai, not Bangkok. However, this is another great option.
I have a slight fear about night buses (had some not so great experiences in Vietnam, story for another time), however, people definitely recommend them.
I just opt to do the journey during the day and download a bunch of shows to help the time pass.
The bus takes about 10 hours from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It is probably the cheapest option but it is definitely less comfortable than a plane or train.
Check out the schedules and fares at 12Go Asia.
For reference, we visited Sukhothai, Thailand after Bangkok to break up the journey between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. This left us with a 7 hour bus ride (Bangkok to Sukhothai) and a 5 hour bus ride from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai.
My ultimate recommendation: fly if you’re short on time, but if you have flexibility and want experience, book the train (well in advance), for a fun and classic Thai adventure!
How to Get Around Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a very walkable city, especially within the Old City walls. We wandered around the temples, cafes and markets on foot daily without problem.
For activities a little outside the city, like a cooking class or elephant sanctuary, transportation is almost always included in the tour price, so you won’t have to worry about arranging it yourself.
Within the city, the most common way to get around is by red songthaews (shared rickshaw-style trucks). See photo below.
You will see them everywhere. They usually have set prices for popular destinations, but there is always a bit of room for negotiation.
My rule is to always negotiate ahead of time. However, these trucks usually request payment upfront before the drive.
We used the red songthaews for our day trip to Doi Suthep and the surrounding area, and it worked well. The driver waited for us when we asked and another brought us back to the Old City at the end of the day.
I also recommend downloading the Grab app for easy, convenient and inexpensive travel. That app was my holy grail during my Asia travels.
Between walking, songthaews and Grab, getting around Chiang Mai is simple and affordable.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
I have been to Chiang Mai twice, and stayed in two different areas, both were amazing.
The first time, we stayed right in the Old City at a hotel called Hooman Hostel, which was literally steps from the Sunday Walking Street Market.
I don’t think you can beat that location, being able to walk everywhere (temples, cafes, massage spots, and markets). It made exploring super easy.
If it’s your first time in Chiang Mai, staying in the Old City is hard to beat.
The second time, we chose Thee Kashatharn, just outside the Old City walls.
This area has a slightly quieter vibe but is still within easy walking distance of the Old Quarter. It was perfect for a more relaxed stay while still being close to everything.
Both options will give you a great Chiang Mai experience. It just depends on whether you want to be in the heart of the historic center or somewhere with a little more breathing room.
Check out hotels in Chiang Mai here.
Where to Eat in Chiang Mai
These were all of our favourite food spots in Chiang Mai. All of the locations listed below are pinned on the itinerary map above.
We also ate a ton of street food at the Saturday and Sunday markets and loved every single thing we tried. So do not be afraid to snack your way through the markets!
Here are some restaurants, cafes and dessert spots I absolutely recommend:
Its Good Kitchen
We went here twice for their khao soi and each time it was INCREDIBLE.
Tomorrow Cafe and Bistro
Another repeat spot for us. Their penang chicken curry is divineee.
Pork Stew Vendor (Outside the Phra Singh Post Office)
This tiny street vendor was recommended by a local bartender and oh my GOODNESS, we went back again and again.
His pork leg stew melts in your mouth. Be there right at 5:00PM when he opens, because once he sells out, he closes up. It is affordable and so worth it.
Click here for the Google link to the food stall.
Akha Ama Phrasingh Cafe
This cafe was close to our first hotel and I enjoyed the aesthetic vibes of it. Coffee culture here is amazing and this place is no exception.
Pakorn’s Kitchen
The BEST Massaman curry I have ever had in my life. We ordered the beef (size medium) and that thing is HUGE. It was worth the 1 hour wait, TRUST ME.
Neng Clay Oven Roasted Pork
A local favourite. The roasted pork is smoky, tender and comes out of the clay oven perfectly crisped.
Great Shot Bar Cnx
This is a fun little spot to grab a drink or coffee. I had my first charcoal coffee here and it was super cool.
This is the bartender that recommended a few local eats for us in Chiang Mai and we loved it. There is an art and vintage shop to check out on the floors above the cafe/bar!
The Volcano One Nimman
A cute little cafe in the shopping area of One Nimman. This place specializes in milk bread and it is such an unreal dessert.
We loved the honey vanilla butter flavour.
Important Info for Your Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary
Before you dive into the itinerary, here are a few quick tips that will make your trip to Chiang Mai smoother:
Plan for the Weekend Markets
Chiang Mai has date-specific walking street markets that you cannot miss.
The Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Walking Street) and the Sunday Night Market (Tha Pae Gate Walking Street) are massive, lively and packed with food, shopping and entertainment.
Try to line up your visit so that you’re in Chiang Mai on a Saturday and/or Sunday, trust me, they’re worth it.
Download Grab App
Grab is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, and it is a lifesaver in Chiang Mai.
Whether you don’t feel like haggling with a songthaew driver or just want a quick ride back to your hotel after a night market, Grab is cheap, easy and reliable.
Use 12Go Asia for Bookings
For booking trains, buses and transfers to/from Chiang Mai, download the 12Go Asia app or use their website.
It is the easiest way to check schedules and secure your tickets in advance (especially for popular Bangkok → Chiang Mai overnight train).
Cash is King
Many markets, street food vendors, and even some massage shops only take cash. Keep small bills handy, especially if you’re planning to snack your way through night markets.
Extra tip: break bigger bills at spas, malls or 7-Eleven.
With these basics covered, you’ll be all set to explore Chiang Mai stress-free!
Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary
Day 1 in Chiang Mai
You have two solid ways you can kick off your time in Chiang Mai depending on what you’re in the mood for: temples & meditation or temples & cooking class. Both are amazing!
Option 1: Temples & Meditation
Morning: Visit Chiang Mai’s 3 Most Famous Temples
Wat Phra Singh: one of the city’s most revered temples with stunning Lanna architecture.
The temple grounds are so lush and we saw monks reading and meditating throughout.
Wat Chedi Luang: my personal favourite. The ruins of this massive chedi are so cool, and it is especially gorgeous to visit this place at sunset.
The temple ruins reminded me of our day trip to Ayutthaya, another must see in Thailand.
Wat Chiang Man: the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and home to some beautiful Buddha images.
Afternoon: Half Day Meditation Course at Wat Suan Dok
If you want to go deeper into the cultural and spiritual side of Chiang Mai, head to Wat Suan Dok (another stunning temple), for a meditation course.
The session runs from 1:30PM – 5:00PM.
I wasn’t sure what to expect (never having meditated before, but omg I need it), but honestly, this was one of my highlights in Chiang Mai.
The monk leading our course was hilarious and made the experience fun while helping us really tap into meditation and mindfulness.
I went solo since my husband wasn’t into it and I am so glad I did! I met other likeminded travelers who were also trying meditation for the first time.
The course is donation-based (you register online in advance), and they also offer multi-day retreats if you have more time.
Tip: If you’d rather just learn about monk life without the meditation course, they also host a daily Monk Chat at Wat Suan Dok from Monday-Friday from 5-7PM, where you can sit down with monks and ask questions about their lives.
Option 2: Temples & Cooking Class
Morning: Thai Cooking Class
If food is your priority when traveling Thailand, start the day with a cooking class. Two of the best options are:
- Zabb E Lee Cooking School (the one we chose): pick up is 8:20AM, ends at 2-2:30PM
- Grandma’s Home Cooking School: pick up at 9:00AM, ends at 1:45PM
Both include a morning market visit, which adds that local touch and helps you learn about the different Thai ingredients before cooking.
You get to make SO much food at this course. At Zabb E Lee we had the option between a starter, fried rice/pad thai dish, soup, curry and mango sticky rice.
Mine and Arujan’s choices were:
- Appetizer: spring rolls (both of us)
- Stir Fry dish: chicken pad thai (Joanna), pineapple fried rice (Arujan)
- Soup: Tom Yum (Joanna), Tom Kha Gai (Arujan)
- Curry: Khao Soi (Joanna), Massaman Curry (Arujan)
- Dessert: mango sticky rice (both of us)
As you can see, that is a TON of food. Don’t worry the course is a few hours so you have time to pace yourself and enjoy.
Afternoon: Temples
After class, you will still have time to explore temples. Realistically, you can probably fit in 2 out of the 3 (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man).
If you only choose two, my personal recommendation is:
- Wat Phra Singh
- Wat Chedi Luang (especially nice right around sunset)
Save Wat Chiang Man for another day!
Evening: Thai Massage
Wrap up your day with a Thai massage, trust me, this is the best way to end a busy day in Chiang Mai.
You can get massages inside some temples (where they train new masseuses) or at a spa around the city.
We went to C And R Thai Massage Spa twice and still rave about it. My masseuse (A3) was incredible, and my husband had A4 and A6, both just as good.
Good night!
Day 2 in Chiang Mai
Morning: Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
One of the biggest reasons people head north to Chiang Mai is to spend time with elephants.
I think visiting an elephant sanctuary is an incredible experience, but there are a few important things to know.
Not all elephant sanctuaries are ethical.
Even though I thought I had done proper research before my visit, I later found out the place I chose did not fully follow ethical practices (which was so upsetting).
Please learn from my mistake and double-check where you’re going.
Here’s what to look for in an ethical elephant sanctuary:
- No elephant rides
- No bathing the elephants (this is stressful for them)
- No petting or hugging elephants
- Elephants are never chained
- You observe the elephants from a respectful distance, letting them live their lives naturally.
The gold standard in Chiang Mai is Elephant Nature Park. Many of their elephants were rescued from circuses or logging camps and are now given safe, peaceful lives.
It’s not about forcing interactions with elephants, but about supporting their care and watching them thrive.
Half day visits usually run in the morning with pick up around 8:00AM, return around 2:00PM.
I recommend you book in advance to secure your spot.
Responsible Travels lists out other ethical elephant sanctuaries around Asia.
Afternoon: One Nimman
After a morning with elephants, head over to One Nimman, one of Chiang Mai’s trendy spots for boutique shopping, cafes and food. It’s super aesthetically pleasing, industrial vibes with local brands and a mix of Thai and international bites.
If you go, make sure you stop at The Volcano for their famous Japanese milk bread. They are so fluffy and delicious, ughhhh YUM.
Late Afternoon: Buak Hard Public Park
Once you’ve eaten your way through Nimman, head back to the Old Town and walk off your snacks at Buak Hard Public Park.
This is one of those places that really lets you see local life, kids playing soccer, groups working out on public exercise equipment and families out for a nice walk!
It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy a slice of Chiang Mai beyond the tourist highlights.
Evening: Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Walking Street)
If your trip lines up with a Saturday, don’t miss the Wua Lai Walking Street Market, just a short walk from Buak Hard Park.
Personally, the Sunday market is my favourite, but the Saturday one is also great if your trip lines up with it!
The streets come alive with food stalls, handmade crafts and live performers! You will find everything from clothes and jewelry to quirky souvenirs.
I even picked up a GoPro chest strap here that we ended up using for the rest of our trip.
You bet that I also grabbed a bunch of snacks before calling it a night. Markets in Thailand are dangerous for that haha.
Day 3 in Chiang Mai
Day Trip: Doi Suthep, Doi Pui Village & Wat Phra Lat
A trip to Chiang Mai wouldn’t be complete without heading up into the mountains to see Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most famous temples in Thailand.
Pair it with a stop at Doi Pui Village and the jungle temple of Wat Phra Lat, and you’ve got a fab day trip!
You can absolutely book this with a group tour, but honestly, (having done it on our own), I’m here to tell you it is super easy and cheaper to do without!
Here’s how:
- Get a Grab to Chiang Mai University or Chiang Mai Zoo
This is where the red songthaews (shared rickshaws) line up to take people up the mountain.
- Songthaew to Doi Suthep
- The price is around 50THB per person (one way)
- They will usually wait until the truck fills up before heading up. If you don’t wait to wait you can negotiate and pay extra to have the driver privately for the day
- Explore Doi Suthep
The temple is stunning, with golden spires, sweeping views over Chiang Mai and the iconic staircase lined with dragon nagas.
Bring water, you’re going to have to walk up and down 300+ steps! Take your time.
Entrance fee is 30 THB if you are walking up the steps. There is a cable car option for 20 THB extra.
Give yourself at least 1 hour here.
- Continue to Doi Pui Village
From Wat Phra That Doi Suthep songthaew station, you can arrange a ride further up the mountain to Doi Pui Village.
The cost is 60THB one way, they will quote you the round trip price and they will wait for you at the top.
This tribe village has handicrafts, gardens and traditional shops. It’s touristy but still a fun stop.
- Wat Phra Lat (The Jungle Temple)
On your way back down, ask to stop at Wat Phra Lat. This temple is tucked away in the forest and feels like a hidden gem compared to busy Doi Suthep.
The jungle temple is free to visit.
Waterfalls, mossy steps and peaceful vibes, it is well worth the visit.
- Return to Chiang Mai Old Town
Once your songthaew fills up again, head back down the mountain and into the city.
If you’re more interested in visiting Doi Suthep via group tour check out these two options:
Evening: Sunday Night Market
After a full day of exploring, it’s time to relax and shop.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Chiang Mai on a Sunday, you’re in for one of the absolute highlights of the city: the Sunday Night Walking Street Market.
The market takes over Ratchadamnoen Road and side streets in the Old Town from 4:00PM until 10:00PM.
It is packed with vendors selling everything from crafts to souvenirs with endless street food.
Tip: Never skip the food stalls. Smoothies, dumplings, curries and snacks for days, all for great and affordable prices.
This market is one of the best in Thailand. It’s vibrant, busy and a super cool experience that will make you fall in love with Chiang Mai.
Line up your Chiang Mai trip with a Sunday, you won’t regret it!
Extra Time in Chiang Mai
If you have more than 3 days in Chiang Mai, or if you’d like to swap out something from the main itinerary, here are a few extra Chiang Mai experiences worth checking out.
Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple)
Located just outside the Old City, near Wua Lai Walking Street, Wat Sri Suphan is completely covered in silver, inside and out.
It’s a super cool temple (just not one of the top 3 in Chiang Mai).
Women are not allowed to go inside the ordination hall (a traditional rule), however, you are able to walk around and admire the surroundings.
Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong Waterfalls)
About 1.5 hours outside of Chiang Mai, these waterfalls are super unique because the rocks are “sticky”. Literally, you will not slip on them (well, maybe haha).
The mineral deposits create a non-slip surface and help you walk up the falls without slipping.
Visiting the Sticky Waterfalls is a fun half day trip to take out of Chiang Mai and a great way to break up temple hopping.
I recommend this if you want something unique and fun and not too far away from Chiang Mai. It will take about half a day to enjoy.
Check out this tour to visit the Sticky Waterfalls.
Mae Kha Canal
This area has been revamped into a charming little walking street with cafes, shops and little market stands.
While it’s not an absolute must do activity in Chiang Mai, it’s nice for a little laid-back afternoon or evening.
Jing Jai Market
This weekend market is more focused on crafts, organic produce and handmade products rather than souvenirs. If you’re a big market lover, it’s definitely worth checking out.
However, the vibe is different than the traditional tourist markets like the Saturday & Sunday Market.
Doi Inthanon National Park
If you’re craving more nature in northern Thailand, check out Doi Inthanon National Park.
The national park is 1.5-2 hours away from Chiang Mai city, and is the home to the highest peak in Thailand, gorgeous waterfalls and the famous twin Royal Pagodas surrounded by flower gardens.
It’s cooler in temperature up here compared to the city so make sure to pack a jacket or sweater.
I recommend Doi Inthanon National Park if you want a full day trip outside of Chiang Mai. This is more for the nature lover and for a day full of mountains and beautiful temples. This will be great for you if you want some hiking!
Check out this tour to visit Doi Inthanon National Park.
Final Thoughts on Your 3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary
That wraps up my 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary!
Whether you’re here for the temples, the food, or the mountain day trips, Chiang Mai has a way of pulling you in and making you want to stay longer.
This city is such a different vibe from Bangkok or the islands, and it’s the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
I can’t recommend it enough. However you decide to spend your days, I’m confident you’ll fall in love with Chiang Mai the same way I did. 🥰
