The ultimate Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary | The Gem of Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai is one of the most unique and vibrant cities in Thailand. Considered the favourite destination for travellers, digital nomads and adventurous, Chiang Mai has a lot to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, in this guide, you have an overview of the best Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary.

A detailed itinerary of what to do in Chiang Mai in 3 days, must-do, places to eat and additional tips that will help you organise a fantastic escape in Thailand. Chiang Mai has something for everyone, so grab your camera and comfortable shoes and get ready to discover one of the most amazing cities in Northern Thailand. 

Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Yes, yes and always Yes! There is no doubt about it, Chiang Mai is a must-see in Thailand. During our Chiang Mai itinerary, we discovered so many incredible places; in fact, we ended up extending our stay from 10 days to a month. You can read our full article, where we list all the reasons why visit Chiang Mai.

How to get to Chiang Mai

PLANE |  Many airlines, like AirAsia, operate direct flights from Phuket, Bangkok, Hanoi and many other major cities in Thailand and surrounding neighbourhoods. The airport is pretty close, only 4 km away from the Old Town. You can take a taxi, Grab or Bolt and reach the airport.

TRAIN | If you’re backpacking in Thailand and have a daily budget to spend, perhaps catching a train to Chiang Mai is the cheapest option. We took the sleeper train, 2nd class AC, from Bangkok to Chaing Mai. You can watch our YouTube video here! It was an interesting experience, and to be honest, we loved it. We pre-booked tickets in advance; in fact, we only paid £25. Make sure you check 12GoAsia before departing.

BUS | If you’re already in Thailand and looking to visit Chiang Mai, you can also book the sleeper bus. It’s cheaper than the sleeper train, although you might have only some comfort. You can still recline your seat, but not entirely, as there is not enough space with the person behind you. Although, if you are okay with the long journey with the bus, you can book the tickets here.

How to get around Chiang Mai

WALK | One of the reasons why we love Chiang Mai so much is that it’s a walkable city. Staying in the Old Town means you don’t need a scooter to move around. Instead, you can walk from one side of the city to the other, and the overall journey is at most 30 minutes. 

SONGTHAEW | It’s the most popular transport in Chiang Mai, known as the red bus; with 30 Baht, you can quickly reach your destination. (Remember to negotiate the price before boarding. Usually, it is 30 Baht, but they will always try to get more) They can take you within the Old Town walls but even outside Chiang Mai City, but the price might increase depending on the location. 

SCOOTER RENTAL | Renting a scooter in Thailand is super easy, and there are many rental places around Chiang Mai. With the scooter, you can visit temples and markets further away; however, remember you need an international driving licence. Recently, we saw a massive increase in roadblocks by the Thai police stopping foreigners. Most of the time, they were fined as people don’t have/carry the International Driving Licence. 

Thailand Visa

If you’re travelling to Thailand anytime soon, we highly recommend you check your visa requirements. As of 2022, almost 2023, if you hold an EU, UK or US passport, you don’t need a visa to enter Thailand. 

You can get a visa on arrival; however, this is subject to a few restrictions. To be eligible for the visa on arrival, you must have proof of an outbound flight from Thailand. We proved that we were going to cross the border with Laos from Chiang Rai and showed the accommodation, and Singapore Airlines accepted it. 

As of today, the visa on arrival is for 30 days; however, if you wish to stay longer, you can extend the visa, which will cost you around $30. Remember to bring some passport pictures with you as you will need them. 

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

Visiting Chiang Mai is always a good idea. However, you need to pick the right seasons. The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February. During this time, there is the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and blue skies. Additionally, this is the best time to visit Chiang Mai, thanks to its festival. Make sure you attend Loy Krathong and Chiang Mai Flower Festival. 

The rainy season goes from June to October, so if you’re looking to visit Chiang Mia during these months, be prepared for heavy rains. 

Avoid visiting Chiang Mai from late February to April as there are burning seasons. Farmers burn their fields in preparation for the next crop. As a result, there is a lot of pollution, and the air quality is not the best. 

Chiang Mai Travel Insurance

Don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, no matter your journey. We have learned that at our expense, that’s why we suggest you book your insurance now! Thailand is safe, but you never know what can happen. From a flight delayed to an urgent medical expense, you need travel insurance when travelling! .

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A fantastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link.

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads.

Chiang Mai 3-day itinerary

Tips on how to spend 3 days in Chiang Mai and don’t get destroyed

Before getting deeper into our Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary, it is worth spending a few words on managing distances, hot temperatures and overwhelming things to do. Spending just 3 days in every location might not be enough to visit everything, and it is the same for Chiang Mai. For example, you can easily spend 3 days in Chiang Mai Old Town and then the other three just around the centre, but still not in the countryside.

Well, first of all, carry water with you, it is essential, the heat in the central hours of the day is awful. Avoid travelling to Chiang Mai around the burning season; the air is unbreathable; even locals escape from here during this time of the year. Book your accommodation and activities well in advance. Having a short time, the last thing you want is for the activities to be fully booked, and you might be disappointed. There is a fun nomad and expat community, so hanging out is easy. The markets are your budget-friendly source of food and drinks. If you hire a scooter, get an international driving licence and wear a helmet.

MORNING & AFTERNOON | Temple Hopping

Chiang Mai is known for its gorgeous and ancient temples. Once you arrive in the city, you must spend at least half a day visiting all its stunning temples. Start visiting Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and continue with Wat Phra Singh, known as the golden temple and for its gorgeous Lanna-style architecture. Continue your temple-hopping itinerary with Wat Chedi Luang, featuring a massive pagoda partially destroyed during the earthquake in the 16th century.

After grabbing a bite in a local restaurant, you can continue your day and visit Wat Sri Suphan, the silver temple in Chiang Mai. If you saw the White Temple in Chiang Rai, you will see some similarities between the two. The last temple on the list is Wat Suan Dok, located outside the walls, a 15-minute walk from Suan Dok Gate. Tourists often skip this Royal temple of the Third Class, but we highly recommend you visit it as it’s impressive. 

These are just some of the most important temples to visit during your Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary. You will be surprised to know that within Chiang Mai’s old town, there are over 300 temples. Most of the temples in Chiang Mai and overall in Thailand are free. However, some of them have a small entrance fee. 

TIPS | Remember to dress according to local culture, especially when visiting the temples. We know Thailand can be pretty hot, but you can always bring backup clothes/dresses and wear them before entering the temples.

CHIANG MAI TEMPLES DETAILS

WAT CHEDI LUANG | Among all the temples, this is an unmissable sight of Chiang Mai’s old town. Once, this temple hosted the Emerald Buddha, which was then relocated to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, and we included it in our guide to the Thailand Capital. Wat Chedi Luang is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm. The entrance to the temple is 40 THB, which is about $1.17, €1.06, £0.94. CHECK THE AVAILABILITY.

WAT PHRA SINGH | Another touristy temple in Chiang Mai is Wat Phra Singh. The most significant example of the architecture of the ancient Lanna Kingdom stands in the old town. The temple is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm, and you have to pay 20 THB ($0.58, €0.53, £0.47) for the entrance. Book your tour now.

WAT SAEN MUANG MA LUANG | One of the most visited temples in Chiang Mai, you will spend hours roaming around and enjoying the details. Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm and is FREE to enter.

WAT INTHKHIN SADUE MUANG | The temple of the city navel, as correctly translated, was built over 700 years ago and is right in the centre of the old town. The temple sees details in dark wood and gold accents, unique in style. Wat Inthkhin Sadue Muang is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm. The entrance to the temple is FREE.

WAT CHIANG MAN | The oldest temple in town will introduce you to Chiang Mai Style. Wat Chiang Man is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm and is FREE to enter.

WAT PHAN TAO | This is another temple with dark wood details and is one of the most visited in Chiang Mai. Wat Phan Tao is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm and is unmissable while walking the streets of the old town. The entrance to the temple is FREE.

SUNSET SPOT | The Phae Grill rooftop

After a busy morning exploring Chiang Mai’s best temples, there is nothing better than ending the day with a gorgeous sunset view. The Phae Grill rooftop offers an incredible view of the city, and you can watch a lovely sunset from here. So grab a beer or a cold drink and enjoy the sunset hour.

If you’re hungry, you can also grab a bite before ending your first day in Chiang Mai in one of the most popular bars ever.

EVENING | Zoe in Yellow

Okay, let’s start by saying that whatever happens in Zoe stays in Zoe. Jokes apart, Zoe in Yellow is one of the most popular bars in Chiang Mai. It’s the place where everyone goes with friends and parties. Located in the heart of the old town, this is the famous nightlife spot you must experience during your Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary. So grab a drink or a bucket, like we used to do, dance, mingle and enjoy the best nights of your life. 

MORNING | Sticky Waterfall & Khuang Phra Chao Lanna

It is better than starting the day early and enjoying the famous sticky waterfall with few people around. We highly recommend renting a scooter and making your way up to the waterfall. The ride from Chiang Mai centre is around 1h, depending on traffic. This is an unusual waterfall. Don’t expect to swim in the waterfall, as it is known for its non-slip surface, allowing you to climb up without slipping. After enjoying Chiang Mai’s sticky waterfall, you can check out the nearby temple, Khuang Phra Chao Lanna, an incredible gold and white pagoda surrounded by lovely gardens.

AFTERNOON | Thai Cooking class

After a productive and busy morning exploring Chiang Mai’s best waterfall, there is nothing better than signing up for a Thai cooking class. There are so many places to choose from; we picked this one and loved it. We did the half-day morning cooking class, cooking 5 dishes and eating them all. 

It was so lovely to experience the local cuisine, plus the reward of eating a Pad Thai after cooking; it is even better. If you pick the morning class, it includes visiting the local market to buy fresh products. Regardless of your pick, you will have the best time cooking and getting to know the local tradition.

EVENING | Shopping at Night Bazaar market

One of the best places where we loved hanging out was the Night Bazaar, located 10 minutes outside Chiang Mai walls. The market is happening every day with stands, shops and food trucks going on till 10 pm. It’s an excellent place for shopping and food, and you can’t miss it. Also, make sure you try the local Khao Soi, typical from northern Thailand!

NIGHT | Cabaret Show

At the end of day 2 of your Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary, we suggest booking a table at the Anusarn Night Market, which is a few minutes away from the Night Bazaar. The show usually starts around 9 pm, so make sure you’re accessible by then. Grab a beer or two and enjoy the fantastic performances. You can get a preview in our video below. Trust us; you will have a lot of fun!!! Tickets are 390 THB – £9.08, and it includes a drink!

We have an alternative for your Chiang Mai night out; if you are a food lover, you can go on a guided street food tour to let you taste the best Thai food. Check out this tour in Chiang Mai to not get disappointed.

SUNRISE | Doi Suthep Temple

One of the main attractions to visit during your 3 days in Chiang Mai is Doi Suthep. Located on a mountain, this is the perfect spot for sunrise. The temple opens at 6 am, so make sure to be there early to avoid crowds and be able to enjoy the peaceful and stunning surroundings. Make sure to visit the famous golden pagoda, dress appropriately, and remove your shoes before entering. Small but essential rules that you must follow before visiting Doi Suthep.

We suggest booking a tour, as the road to the top is steep. In our case, the tour was cheaper than hiring a driver or making our way with a Songthaew. Check this tour and book in advance.

Alternatively, you can also book a tour to Doi Suthep and Doi Inthanon National Park and Pagodas all in one day to optimise the time. Check out this tour!

AFTERNOON | Thai Massage

You can’t leave Chiang Mai without experiencing a Thai Massage. After an early morning, you deserve a bit of rest. Thailand is known for their reputable massages and spa treatment, and during your Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary, you must experience a proper Thai massage.

They use different techniques, pressure and stretching ways to release tension and improve circulation. If you have a sensible body and you can’t stand the pain, make sure you tell them in advance. Alessia is very delicate; therefore, she always asks for a soft massage. 

EVENING | Chiang Mai night market

Last night in Chiang Mai means last night to experience Chiang Mai’s night market. One of the most important night markets happening in Chiang Mai is the Sunday Night Market, starting from the famous Tha Phae Gate. It is, for sure, one of the most impressive and incredible markets in Thailand; nothing can beat this night market, not even Phuket. Prices are so affordable for food and shopping, so make sure you have some cash to try local food and buy some souvenirs.

Additional activities for extra days in Chiang Mai

Elephant Sanctuary

If you have additional days in Chiang Mai and are looking to do something different, Chiang Mai is known for its elephant sanctuary. Let’s start by saying that wherever you’re going, make sure to read reviews and descriptions. There are still so many “sanctuaries” where the elephants are used for tourism and not treated well. Choose a sanctuary that is committed to ethical practices and doesn’t force elephants.

Day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

We spent an entire day exploring Doi Inthanon National Park. Located about a 2 hours ride from Chiang Mai, this National park is home to the highest mountain in Thailand and, without any doubt, offers one of the most stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore the waterfall, the twin pagodas, and the garden, and you can even follow the various hiking trails. The entrance to the National Park is 300 THB – £7.05 for adults and 150 THB for kids. 

You can book a private tour here and enjoy a day trip from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park.

Chiang Rai temples

From Chiang Mai, you can organise a day trip to Chiang Rai. There are so many private tours to choose from. Spend an entire day between some of the most impressive temples in Chiang Rai. From the incredible White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) to the Blue Temple and the Goddess of Mercy Temple, you will fall in love with these temples. If you have enough time, you can spend even a night in Chiang Rai and be able to enjoy the night market. Read our ultimate guide to Chiang Rai Vs Chiang Mai.

Visit Pai

Backpacking in Thailand, you can take advantage of your itinerary Pai. The famous chilled hippie atmosphere will attract you up to the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai. The popular hangout hub is famous among travellers as it is on the backpacker’s route and part of the Mae Hong Son Loop. To get to Pai, you must embrace 462 turns of bad roads and very evenly divided drivers.

However, if you are brave enough and well-experienced, you can have a unique adventure making your way to Pai by motorbike. Lush green, fantastic natural pools, canyons and engaging activities surround the village. You can walk freely in Pai, enjoying the laid-down atmosphere and fantastic nightlife made of chilled cafes and cheap eateries and accommodations.

Best places to eat in Chiang Mai

NIGHT MARKETS | It doesn’t matter which market you are visiting, from the famous Sunday Night Market to the Night Bazaar, the food that you will try around the markets is the best. Still now, when thinking about Chiang Mai, we talk about its delicious food. So far, it’s one of our favourite Asian cuisines. Going to Vietnam soon, so that might change 🙂 

GRAZIE THAI LOCAL FOOD | This is our favourite place ever. During our Chiang Mai itinerary, we ate here so many times, and we tried all of their menus. From the local Northern Thailand Khoa Soi to Pad Thai and Fried Chicken with rice, there are only a few dishes that we liked. So make sure you try their food, as it’s fantastic. 

NUMBER 9 RESTAURANT | This was the first restaurant that we tried when we arrived in Chiang Mai, as it was close to our accommodation. Cheap and good, this is another excellent restaurant to consider when visiting Chiang Mai.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Q&A Chiang Mai 3 days itinerary