Chiang Mai hits different than the rest of Thailand. While Bangkok buzzes with chaos and the islands draw beach crowds, the north offers something quieter—ancient temples tucked behind crumbling walls, curry noodles that’ll ruin you for any other version, and mountains where elephants roam sanctuaries instead of tourist camps.
Three days here is enough to cover the highlights without rushing through them. This itinerary walks you through the best temples, where to eat khao soi like a local, and how to choose between an elephant sanctuary and Thailand’s highest peak for your adventure day.
How many days do you need in Chiang Mai
Three days in Chiang Mai covers the essentials: temple-hopping in the Old City, a signature Northern Thai cooking class, and one major day trip like an ethical elephant sanctuary or Doi Inthanon National Park. It’s the sweet spot for first-timers who want a real taste of the north without rushing.
Got four or five days? You can tack on a trip to Chiang Rai’s White Temple or head into the mountains toward Pai. A full week opens up multi-day trekking with hill tribe homestays. But honestly, three days works beautifully if you’re strategic about it.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
The cool season from November through February brings comfortable temperatures and clear skies. This is also when Yi Peng (the lantern festival) and Loy Krathong happen, so expect crowds but also unforgettable atmosphere.
One thing to know: February to April is the burning season. Farmers clear fields, smoke settles over the valley, and air quality tanks to “Unhealthy” AQI levels of 150–200+. Skip these months if you can.
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Cool (best) | Nov–Feb | Pleasant weather, festivals, peak crowds |
| Hot | Mar–May | Burning season, poor air quality |
| Rainy | Jun–Oct | Afternoon showers, green scenery, fewer tourists |
How to get to Chiang Mai
From Bangkok by train
The overnight sleeper train is the scenic alternative—12 to 14 hours through the countryside, and you wake up in the north. I booked my tickets ahread through 12Go Asia.
From other parts of Thailand
Buses connect Chiang Mai to northern cities like Chiang Rai and Sukhothai. Coming from the southern islands? You’ll likely route through Bangkok first.
Direct flights
Chiang Mai’s airport handles direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and several Chinese cities. It’s surprisingly well-connected for a regional hub.
Pre-selected hotels in Chiang Mai Old Town, with a rating of 9 or more. Can’t go wrong with these.
How to get around Chiang Mai
Songthaews and tuk-tuks
Songthaews are red pickup trucks with bench seats—Chiang Mai’s unofficial public transport. They’re cheap (20–30 baht for short trips) and run constantly around the Old City. Tuk-tuks work too, but always agree on a price before climbing in.
Renting a scooter
Scooter rentals give you freedom for day trips, though traffic can get chaotic. An international driving permit is technically required. Only rent if you’re genuinely comfortable on two wheels.
Using Grab
Grab is Thailand’s version of Uber. Fair pricing, no haggling, and it’s especially handy for airport transfers or late-night rides.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Best area: Old Town or Nimman?
Simply put, if you’re following this itinerary and be close to the main sights, Old Town makes the most sense. You can walk to temples, night markets are steps away, and budget guesthouses line the streets.
Nimman Road is the trendy district—specialty coffee, rooftop bars, boutique shops. It’s popular with digital nomads but farther from the temple action.
Best hotels to stay in Chiang Mai
Below are my top two choices when I was looking – both are cheap, have WiFi and are conveniently located in the Old Town.
Mid-range hotel
Stylish and charming, this hotel has breakfast included and a salt-water (!) swimming pool.
Budget guesthouse
With an excellent location, friendly staff and clean minimal rooms, this guesthouse is suited for the more budget-conscious.
Or… find your own accommodation!
Booking.comDay 1 Explore Old Town temples and night markets
Morning temple tour in the Old City
Start inside the ancient walls. Wat Chedi Luang features a massive 14th-century stupa that once housed the Emerald Buddha. A short walk brings you to Wat Phra Singh, the most revered temple in Northern Thailand.
Add Wat Chiang Man—the oldest temple in the city—and you’ve got a solid morning without exhausting yourself. The Lanna Folklife Museum nearby fills in cultural context.
Lunch break for Khao Soi
Khao Soi is Chiang Mai’s signature dish: coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy egg noodles. You’ll find excellent versions everywhere, but Khao Soi Khun Yai near the Old City is a local favorite.
Sunset and night market exploration
Your evening depends on which day you arrive:
- Sunday Walking Street: The big one. Ratchadamnoen Road transforms into a massive market. Plan your trip around this if possible, this was one my highlights of Chiang Mai!
- Saturday Walking Street: Smaller but equally good on Wualai Road
- Night Bazaar: Open nightly, more touristy but convenient
Graze through street food stalls for dinner—this is how locals do it.
Day 2 Hike to Doi Suthep and take a cooking class
Morning hike on the Monk’s Trail
The Monk’s Trail starts near Chiang Mai’s university and winds through jungle all the way up to Doi Suthep temple. It’s a moderate hike passing small shrines and meditation spots, but make no mistake: this is 12km outside of Chiang Mai. If hiking isn’t your thing, songthaews run up the mountain road regularly.
If hiking isn’t your thing, songthaews run up the mountain road regularly. Aim to visit as early as possible for fewer crowds, but it’s at sunset that reaches its peak beauty.
Opening hours for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep are 6am-6pm every day.
To get there, the most convenient way is to rent a songthaew: make sure you arrange a return trip with your driver. Choosing a clear day can help bring out the amazing views.
Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This golden temple perched on the mountainside is Chiang Mai’s most iconic landmark. You’ll climb 309 steps flanked by Naga serpent railings—or take the tram. The views over the city are spectacular, especially in late afternoon light.
Afternoon Thai cooking class
Most half-day sessions include a market tour where you pick fresh ingredients, then you learn to make Pad Thai, green curry, and Tom Yum. You eat everything you cook. Book ahead—good classes fill up. Klook has plenty of cooking class options: I went with Asia Scenic but Mama Noi is also a quite popular one.
Evening Thai massage or Nimman Road
After a full day, a traditional Thai massage is widely available and affordable. Or wander Nimman Road’s cafes and bars for a more modern evening.
Day 3 Adventure day trip from Chiang Mai
Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
This is the most popular activities in Chiang Mai and for good reason. The challenge is to find a provider that does NOT support elephant riding. I went with Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, but another valid option is the Elephant Nature Park.
Let me be clear here. BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE. Ethical sanctuaries fill up weeks ahead, especially in high season. You can reserve your spot in Elephant Jungle Sanctuary through Klook.
Explore Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand’s highest peak makes for a fantastic nature escape. Highlights include Wachirathan Waterfall, the King and Queen Twin Pagodas, and cloud forest trails. It’s a full-day trip—hire a driver or join a tour.
Discover the Sticky Waterfalls and Wat Ban Den
Bua Tong “Sticky Waterfalls” are genuinely unique—mineral deposits make the rocks grippy, so you can climb UP the waterfall. Combine the trip with nearby Wat Ban Den, a colorful temple complex that sees far fewer tourists.
What to eat in Chiang Mai
Khao Soi the signature dish
Creamy coconut curry broth, soft egg noodles, crispy noodles on top, served with pickled mustard greens and shallots. Usually served with a small side dish of lime, pickled green mustard, and red onions. You haven’t done Chiang Mai if you skip this./p>
Sai Oua and other Northern Thai specialties
Northern Thai cuisine is distinct from Bangkok food:
- Sai Oua: Grilled sausage with lemongrass, galangal, and herbs
- Khao Kha Moo: Braised pork leg over rice
- Nam Prik Ong: Tomato and pork chili dip with vegetables
Best restaurants and street food spots
Chang Puak Gate comes alive at night with street food stalls. The cowboy hat lady’s pork leg rice is legendary. For Khao Soi, try Khao Soi Khun Yai or Khao Soi Mae Sai.
What if you have more than 3 days in Chiang Mai
Day trip to Chiang Rai and the White Temple
The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is unlike anything else in Thailand—contemporary Buddhist art covered in mirrors and white plaster. It’s a three-hour drive each way, so expect a long but worthwhile day.
The Pai loop adventure
Pai is a mountain town with a backpacker-hippie vibe. The Mae Hong Son Loop is a classic motorbike route through stunning scenery. Budget at least two to three extra days.
Multi-day trekking in the mountains
Chiang Mai is a hub for multi-day treks to hill tribe villages with homestays. Plenty of operators can set you up with guided expeditions.
Quick tips for planning your Chiang Mai trip
- Book elephant sanctuaries early: ethical ones sell out weeks ahead
- Bring layers: cool season mornings get surprisingly chilly
- Carry cash: markets and small vendors don’t take cards
- Download Grab: essential for hassle-free transport
- Dress modestly for temples: cover shoulders and knees
Planning your flights to Thailand? Check out our guide to the best apps to find cheap flights and save yourself some serious baht.
Pre-selected hotels in Chiang Mai Old Town, with a rating of 9 or more. Can’t go wrong with these.
FAQs about visiting Chiang Mai
Is Chiang Mai worth visiting for only 3 days?
Yes. While there is a lot to do and see in Chiang Mai, three days covers temples, one major day trip, and plenty of Northern Thai food. You’ll leave wanting more—but that’s a good thing.
What should I pack for a trip to Chiang Mai?
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for temples, layers if visiting in cool season, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
How much does a 3 day Chiang Mai trip cost?
Chiang Mai is budget-friendly. There are very affordable guesthouses, street food meals cost less than 150 THB, and activities like cooking classes are still reasonable. You can do very comfortably on less than 3,000 THB per day, all included.
Is Chiang Mai safe for solo travelers?
Very safe. It’s one of Thailand’s most popular destinations for solo travelers and digital nomads.
Can you combine Bangkok and Chiang Mai in one Thailand itinerary?
Absolutely. Many travelers spend two to three days in Bangkok, then fly north before heading to the islands.
What’s your must-do in Chiang Mai? Temple-hopping, elephant encounters, or eating your weight in Khao Soi?
