Your Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Chiang Mai
Find tranquility in Chiang Mai, a laid-back mountainous city in northern Thailand known for its ancient temples, lush landscapes, and ethical elephant sanctuaries.
Chiang Mai is reached by flight from Bangkok or by overnight train. November–February is cool and dry; March–April can be smoky from burning season. Rent a scooter or use songthaews and ride apps to reach temples and the countryside. Book ethical elephant experiences and popular restaurants ahead. The Old City is walkable; allow time for temples, night markets, cooking classes, and day trips to Doi Suthep or sticky waterfalls. Chiang Mai is more relaxed than Bangkok and pairs well with a few days in the north or at the beach.
Discover the best landmarks, where to eat, and where to stay in Chiang Mai.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai
Spring
36°C / 22°C
Very hot and dry, smoky season
Summer
33°C / 24°C
Hot and rainy, lush green landscapes
Fall
32°C / 23°C
Rains tapering off, pleasant evenings
Winter
30°C / 16°C
Warm days, cool and crisp nights
Day 1
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
In addition to its gold stupa, pagodas & museum, this mountainside temple offers broad city views.
Morning activity: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Khao Soi Khun Yai
Lunch nearby: Khao Soi Khun Yai.
Old City Temples
14th-century Buddhist temple boasting gold & copper Buddhas, murals & ancient manuscripts.
Afternoon sightseeing: Old City Temples.
Dash Teak House
Dinner in the area: Dash Teak House.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.
Evening experience: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Day 2
Elephant Nature Park
Elephant rehabilitation facility offering intimate visitor experiences such as feeding & bathing.
Morning activity: Elephant Nature Park.
SP Chicken
Lunch nearby: SP Chicken.
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
Visitors can climb up this waterfall that sees fast running waters passing over limestone rocks.
Afternoon sightseeing: Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls.
Huen Phen
Dinner in the area: Huen Phen.
Sunday Walking Street
Evening experience: Sunday Walking Street.
Day 3
Doi Inthanon National Park
Trails offers scenic views in this popular national park with pagodas near the summit & waterfalls.
Morning activity: Doi Inthanon National Park.
Cherng Doi Roast Chicken
Lunch nearby: Cherng Doi Roast Chicken.
Nimman Road
Buzzing road lined with craft coffee shops, boutiques, hip restaurants & cocktail bars.
Afternoon sightseeing: Nimman Road.
The Service 1921
Dinner in the area: The Service 1921.
Chiang Mai Cabaret
Gay-friendly cabaret presenting lip-syncing performers in sequined outfits & comedy sketches.
Evening experience: Chiang Mai Cabaret.