Imagine wandering through ancient temples where golden Buddhas gleam in the sunlight, learning to cook authentic Thai dishes with ingredients you picked yourself, and watching elephants play freely in their natural habitat. This is what awaits you in Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural jewel in the north, where every street corner tells a story and every smile welcomes you home.
🏠 Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Prince Khum Phaya Resort & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Shangri-La Chiang Mai
- 🏨 4-Star: Yaang Come Village
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Buri Gallery House
- 💸 Cheap: Amaka Bed & Breakfast
- 🏢 Apartament: Glory Boutique Suites
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Opium Serviced Apartment
- 🏩 For Couples: Viangluang Resort
I’ve visited Chiang Mai multiple times, and each visit reveals new secrets of this enchanting city. From morning alms-giving to monks and afternoon cooking classes to evening street food adventures at the famous night markets, I’ll share with you how to spend an unforgettable three days in this magical city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this guide will help you experience the best of Chiang Mai like a local, not a tourist.
💁 Best Guided Tours from Chiang Mai
- Half-Day Thai Cooking Course at Smile Organic Farm from €20 (⭐5/5)
- Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai from €40 (⭐5/5)
- Doi Inthanon National Park and Waterfall Tour from €40 (⭐4.8/5)
- Smile Elephant Sanctuary from €45 (⭐4.9/5)
- Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Pha Lat Hike from €20 (⭐4.9/5)
Perfect 3 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary: Quick Overview
- Day 1 🏛️ Old City & Temples: Start with sunrise at Wat Phra Singh for morning alms, explore ancient Wat Chedi Luang, enjoy authentic khao soi lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai, discover local life at Warorot Market, then dive into the bustling Night Bazaar for evening shopping and street food.
- Day 2 🌄 Mountain Temple & Culture: Catch sunrise at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep by songthaew, master Thai cuisine at a local cooking school, take a serene sunset hike to hidden Wat Pha Lat temple, finish with dinner in trendy Nimmanhaemin district.
- Day 3 🐘 Nature & Adventure: Choose between ethical elephant encounters at Elephant Nature Park or trek through Doi Inthanon National Park with waterfall swimming and bamboo rafting. End with farewell dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant.
Day 1: Explore Chiang Mai’s Old City
We recommend the following tours for this day:
- The Best City Tour View Points Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Pha Lat: When you’re in Chiang Mai, this guided experience takes you through the must-see temples including Wat Doi Suthep’s golden spires, Wat Chedi Luang’s ancient ruins, and the hidden gem Wat Pha Lat, making it an essential part of any visit to the city.
- Chiang Mai Temples and Market Tuk-Tuk Evening Night Tour: This tour combines the magic of illuminated temples with northern flavours Chiang Mai food experiences as you explore the city after dark, making it an essential evening activity for anyone visiting the cultural capital of northern Thailand.
- Private Chiang Mai Old City Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour: Explore the historic old city Chiang Mai in a private tuk-tuk tour that’s perfect for your 3-day itinerary, visiting ancient temples and hidden gems at your own pace.
Morning: Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
Temple Time: I started my morning temple exploration at 7 AM, beating both the crowds and the scorching Chiang Mai heat. The ancient walls of the Old City were still draped in morning mist as I made my way through the quiet streets.
Golden Glory: My first stop was the majestic Wat Phra Singh, where monks in saffron robes were already performing their morning rituals. The temple’s golden spires pierced the morning sky, and the sweet scent of incense filled the air. The entrance fee is 40 THB ($1.20), and I spent about an hour exploring the intricate Lanna-style architecture and admiring the famous Phra Singh Buddha image.
Ancient Giant: Just a 10-minute walk east, I reached the imposing Wat Chedi Luang. The partially ruined 14th-century chedi (stupa) towers 80 meters high. What struck me most was the massive stone elephant statues guarding the temple’s base. Entry fee: 40 THB ($1.20).
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss at Wat Chedi Luang:
- The ancient Lanna-style ordination hall
- The reclining Buddha in the southern temple
- The City Pillar shrine (Sao Inthakin)
Gate Grandeur: I wrapped up my morning at Tha Phae Gate, the eastern entrance to the Old City. The restored brick gate makes for fantastic photos, especially with the mountain backdrop. The plaza in front often hosts cultural events and is surrounded by cute cafes perfect for a mid-morning coffee break.
| Temple Essentials | Cost (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Pass | 180 | $5.30 |
| Individual Entry | 40 | $1.20 |
| Monk Chat Donation | 100 | $3.00 |
| Water Bottle | 20 | $0.60 |
Afternoon: Local Food and Warorot Market
Noodle Quest: After a morning of temple-hopping, I followed the local lunch crowds to Khao Soi Khun Yai, tucked away in a quiet soi near Wat Phra Singh. The aroma of coconut curry and crispy noodles hit me before I even saw the place.
Curry Magic: This northern Thai curry noodle soup is one of Chiang Mai’s most famous culinary treasures. The dish combines rich coconut curry broth, tender egg noodles, and crispy noodles on top, served with traditional condiments. At just $1.50 per bowl, it’s one of the best things to do and see while visiting Chiang Mai.
Market Flavors: As part of my visit to Chiang Mai, I explored Warorot Market, where the ground floor offers incredible Thai snacks. The mango sticky rice here is a steal at $1.20 – perfect for anyone following travel tips on a budget. This market is one of the city’s oldest and most authentic food destinations.
Night Magic: The Sunday market comes alive at sunset with street performers and food stalls. I found the best pad thai of my trip here for just 60 THB ($1.80).
| Northern Thai Specialties | Cost (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Khao Soi | 50 | $1.50 |
| Nam Prik Ong | 40 | $1.20 |
| Sai Oua (Northern Sausage) | 60 | $1.80 |
| Herbal Tea | 25 | $0.75 |
Evening: Night Bazaar
Neon Dreams: As the sun sets over Chiang Mai, the Night Bazaar transforms into a vibrant wonderland of lights, aromas, and sounds. I love arriving around 6 PM when vendors are setting up and the evening air is cooling down.
Food Paradise: My first stop is always the food court area, where the fragrant curries and grilled seafood create an irresistible atmosphere. You can feast like royalty without breaking the bank.
Market Maze: Between bites, I weave through countless stalls selling everything from hand-woven textiles to modern electronics. The market extends over multiple blocks, and I’ve discovered the best handicrafts are usually found in the smaller sois (alleyways).
Night Entertainment: After shopping, you have two amazing options for evening entertainment. The Northgate Jazz Co-op offers live music from 9:30 PM to midnight, where local and international musicians create an unforgettable atmosphere. Alternatively, catch a Muay Thai match at Thapae Boxing Stadium, where fights typically start at 9 PM.
Jazz Journey: End your evening at the Northgate Jazz Co-op, where the city’s soul comes alive through music. The intimate venue hosts different bands nightly, and Tuesday nights are special jam sessions where you might catch both local and traveling musicians performing together.
Day 2: Nature and Culture Outside the City
We recommend the following tours for this day:
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike: This unique tour of Chiang Mai combines a visit to the iconic Doi Suthep temple with a peaceful hike to the hidden Wat Pha Lat, perfect for your 3-day itinerary in the city. Whether you’re spending 5 days in Chiang Mai or just passing through, this day trip offers both spiritual and natural experiences that the city is known for.
- Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai: When you visit the city of Chiang Mai, this organic farm cooking class offers one of the best flavours food tour experiences, perfect for your 3-day itinerary. The half-day course is what the city is known for, combining hands-on cooking instruction with fresh ingredients from the farm’s own gardens, making it an essential activity in any Chiang Mai travel guide.
- Evening Cooking Class in Organic Farm with Local Market Tour: The class combines a local market visit with hands-on cooking instruction at an organic farm near chiang mai, making it an ideal evening activity that the city is known for throughout the year.
Morning: Doi Suthep Temple
Mountain Dawn: Setting off at 5:30 AM might seem crazy early, but watching the sun rise over Doi Suthep temple was worth every yawn. The mountain air was crisp and cool as our songthaew wound its way up the serpentine road.
Transport Tales: I flagged down a red songthaew near the Old City’s North Gate. The driver waited until we had six passengers before departing – a local practice that keeps costs down. The journey takes about 45 minutes, including the wait time for other passengers.
| Transportation Options | Cost (THB) | USD | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Songthaew | 60 | $1.80 | 45 mins |
| Private Songthaew | 500 | $15 | 30 mins |
| Grab Taxi | 400 | $12 | 30 mins |
| Guided Tour | 800 | $24 | 4 hours |
Stair Stories: The famous 306-step staircase to the temple wasn’t as daunting as I’d imagined. The mythical naga (serpent) banister and the cool morning air made the climb almost meditative.
Temple Entry:
- Entrance fee: 30 THB ($0.90)
- Sarong rental if needed: 20 THB ($0.60)
- Camera fee: None
Golden Hour: Arriving by 6:30 AM meant I witnessed the monks’ morning chanting and caught the first rays of sunlight hitting the golden chedi. The view of Chiang Mai city slowly emerging from the morning mist was breathtaking.
Afternoon: Thai Cooking Class
Farm Fresh: After researching several cooking schools for our 3-day itinerary, I chose Thai Farm Cooking School. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Thai cuisine and one of my favorite things to do in Chiang Mai. The school’s organic garden setting and stellar reputation make it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Market Magic: Our first stop was Ruamchook Market, where our instructor Kim taught us about exotic ingredients like galangal, Thai aubergines, and fresh lemongrass. The produce was stunning – piles of banana flowers, mushrooms, and colorful spices filled every corner.
Kitchen Setup: Each student gets their own cooking station equipped with a wok, chopping block, and all necessary utensils. The semi-outdoor kitchen setting keeps things cool and provides gorgeous views of the surrounding farm.
Hands-On Cooking: Over the next few hours, we learned to prepare classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and green curry from scratch. The instructors were patient and knowledgeable, ensuring everyone could follow along regardless of cooking experience.
Cooking Journey: During the afternoon session, I learned to make:
- Authentic pad thai with perfectly chewy rice noodles
- Aromatic tom yum soup bursting with herbs
- Creamy Thai curry from scratch
- Crispy spring rolls
- Sweet mango sticky rice for dessert
Evening: Wat Pha Lat
Jungle Path: I started the hike to Wat Pha Lat at 4 PM, when the afternoon heat begins to fade. The trailhead, marked by orange monk robes tied around trees (called the Monk’s Trail), sits just behind Chiang Mai University.
Trail Tales: This 45-minute experience in the city winds through dense jungle, following sacred cloth markers. For anyone planning to travel to Chiang Mai, this trail offers a different perspective from the usual day trip outside the city. The sound of cicadas and distant temple bells created a magical atmosphere that made my time in Thailand truly special.
Hidden Temple: Unlike its famous neighbor Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lat sits quietly in the forest, half-hidden by trees. Stone dragons emerge from the foliage, and ancient Buddha statues peek through the leaves. No entrance fee – just peaceful contemplation.
Dinner Dreams: After completing this highlight of my trip to Chiang Mai, I headed to Nimmanhaemin Road, just a 10-minute ride away. This trendy area, conveniently located near many hotels, comes alive at night with local restaurants and cafes, offering the perfect ending to a day in your travel experience.
Local Flavors: I chose a small family-run restaurant called Tong’s, where the northern Thai curry with crispy noodles (khao soi) was exceptional. The owner proudly uses her grandmother’s recipe.
| Dinner Spots | Average Cost (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food | 50-100 | $1.50-3.00 |
| Local Restaurant | 150-300 | $4.50-9.00 |
| Craft Beer | 180-220 | $5.50-6.50 |
Day 3: Adventure or Relaxation
We recommend the following tours for this day:
- BestSeller! Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project: This full-day tour takes you to Thailand’s highest peak in Doi Inthanon National Park, featuring stunning waterfalls and the beautiful Royal Project gardens.
- No.1 Chiang Mai: 24km Suthep National Park HIKE& DH Mountain Bike: This adventurous day trip to Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep National Park combines an exhilarating mountain bike ride with hiking, perfect for active travelers looking to add excitement to their 3 day itinerary.
- Chiang Mai Elephants Sanctuary, Wat Banden & Sticky Waterfall: When you visit the Chiang Mai region, this full-day tour combines what the city is known for – ethical elephant encounters – with the unique Sticky Waterfall and spiritual Wat Banden temple.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
Gentle Giants: The morning air buzzed with excitement as our van wound through the countryside to Elephant Nature Park. Located an hour from Chiang Mai, this 250-acre sanctuary has been rescuing elephants since the 1990s.
Morning Welcome: Our group arrived at 8:30 AM and met Mae, our guide, who shared heart-warming stories about the sanctuary’s residents. The elephants here have been rescued from logging, circus shows, and riding camps.
Feeding Time: We started by preparing fruit baskets filled with watermelon, bananas, and pumpkin. Mae taught us the proper way to feed the elephants – palm up, stepping back after they take the food. The feeling of an elephant’s trunk gently taking a banana from my hand was unforgettable.
Common Tourist Mistake: Don’t wear bright colors or strong perfumes – elephants have sensitive noses and can be startled by unusual scents or sights.
| Sanctuary Options | Cost (THB) | USD | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Visit | 2,500 | $75 | 6 hours |
| Full-Day Visit | 3,500 | $105 | 9 hours |
| Weekly Volunteer | 15,000 | $450 | 7 days |
Jungle Trekking
Mountain Magic: The morning mist still clung to the mountains as we set out at 8 AM for our trek through Doi Inthanon National Park. The air was crisp and cool at 2,565 meters above sea level, Thailand’s highest point.
Waterfall Wonders: Our first stop was the stunning Wachirathan Waterfall, one of the best things to see in Chiang Mai. The trail here winds through dense evergreen forest, offering an experience in the city that’s completely different from the temples.
| Trekking Options | Cost (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Trek | 1,500 | $45 |
| Full-Day Trek | 2,800 | $84 |
| Two-Day Adventure | 4,400 | $132 |
Trail Treasures: The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This well-maintained path takes about 2.5 hours to complete, with several spots perfect for photography.
Village Vibes: Our Karen guide showed us edible plants and shared stories about the forest. The trail passes through their village, where we stopped for a traditional lunch of herbs and bamboo shoots cooked in banana leaves.
Essential items for the trek:
- Good grip hiking shoes
- Light long-sleeve shirt
- Small backpack
- Insect repellent
- Raincoat (year-round)
Evening: Farewell Dinner
River Romance: For my final evening in Chiang Mai, I chose The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, a legendary spot that’s been enchanting visitors since 1984. The wooden decks overlooking the Ping River created the perfect setting for a memorable farewell dinner.
Sunset Spectacle: Whether you drive from city center or take a short tuk-tuk ride, the journey to this riverside venue caps off any Chiang Mai 3-day adventure perfectly. The sound of waterfalls mixed with soft live acoustic guitar created an atmosphere that many hotels in Chiang Mai recommend to their guests.
Modern Alternative: If you prefer a more contemporary take on Thai cuisine, The House by Ginger offers an eclectic menu in a quirky, bohemian setting. Their Chiang Mai platter lets you sample an array of northern specialties.
| Riverside Favorites | Cost (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Thai Curries | 220-320 | $6.50-9.50 |
| Fresh Seafood | 350-500 | $10.50-15 |
| Craft Beers | 180-250 | $5.50-7.50 |
Practical Tips for Visiting Chiang Mai
Where to Stay
Budget Bliss: When planning your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, the Old City offers the perfect location for budget travelers. The area around Tha Phae Gate, a must-visit in Chiang Mai, buzzes with affordable hostels starting at just $5.30 per night.
Local Life: Explore the Old City’s maze of quiet sois (lanes) filled with family-run guesthouses. This authentic experience in Chiang Mai combines traditional Thai hospitality with modern comforts – many include free breakfast and bicycle rentals, perfect for a 3-day stay.
Nimman Nights: For those seeking a contemporary Chiang Mai travel experience, Nimmanhaemin’s boutique hotels offer excellent mid-range options. This trendy neighborhood, just a 10-minute drive from Chiang Mai’s Old City, features stylish accommodations like U Nimman and The House by Ginger.
Mountain Magic: The area near Doi Suthep provides a luxurious escape from the city buzz. These high-end resorts blend seamlessly with the mountain landscape, offering stunning city views and serene environments.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (THB) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm Bed | 180-300 | $5-9 |
| Budget Private Room | 600-1,200 | $18-35 |
| Mid-range Hotel | 2,000-4,000 | $60-120 |
| Luxury Resort | 8,000+ | $240+ |
How to Get Around
Red Rides: One of city’s most iconic sights is the red songthaew (shared pickup truck), the perfect way to explore the historic old city. Whether you’re visiting Chiang Mai for 3 days or spending a full 30 days in Thailand, these communal taxis are your best option for getting around.
Street Smarts: After three days of exploring, I mastered the art of songthaew negotiation. A firm but friendly “How much to Nimman?” works better than jumping straight in. Within the city, never pay more than 30-40 THB ($1-1.20) per person.
Two Wheels: To find the perfect way to explore north of Chiang Mai and take popular day trips, consider renting a motorbike. Near Tha Phae Gate, I found a reliable rental shop charging $6 daily for an automatic scooter – ideal for a 3-day itinerary or even 4 or 5 days of exploration. They required a $90 deposit or passport.
Common Tourist Mistake: Never accept the first tuk-tuk price. They typically start at double or triple the local rate. I learned to negotiate down to about $3-4.50 for city trips.
❓ FAQ
Is 3 days enough time to explore Chiang Mai?
Three days in Chiang Mai provides enough time to experience the city’s main attractions. You can explore the historic old city temples, take a Thai cooking class, visit the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and enjoy the vibrant Chiang Mai night bazaar. While you might not see everything northern Thailand has to offer, it’s the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors to get a genuine taste of Chiang Mai’s culture and atmosphere.
What are the must-visit temples in Chiang Mai for a 3-day trip?
During a 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, prioritize visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the iconic mountain temple offering panoramic city views. Within the old city, don’t miss Wat Chiang Man (the oldest temple), Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chedi Luang. These temples showcase the best of Lanna architecture and are perfect spots for experiencing traditional Thai culture.
Should I include a day trip from Chiang Mai in my 3-day itinerary?
If you’re spending 3 days in Chiang Mai, consider taking a day trip to popular destinations like Chiang Rai temples, Chiang Dao caves, or the Elephant Nature Park. However, with limited time, you might prefer focusing on Chiang Mai’s attractions and saving day trips for a longer stay. The city itself offers plenty of activities like Thai cooking classes and traditional Thai massage.
What’s the best way of getting around Chiang Mai for a 3-day visit?
For getting around Chiang Mai, use a mix of transport options. Red songthaews are perfect for city travel, while Grab taxis offer convenient night transportation. For exploring the old city, rent a bike to see historic temples and local markets. When visiting Doi Suthep or taking day tours, organized transport or private tours from Chiang Mai are recommended.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai for a 3-day trip?
The perfect time to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February when the weather is cooler and ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities. Avoid March to April (burning season) and July to October (rainy season) if possible. During your stay, plan temple visits in the morning to avoid the heat of the day, and save the Chiang Mai night markets for evening exploration.
