Top Things to Do in Chiang Mai: Best Activities & Must-Sees
By Tina
June 5, 2026
Chiang Mai, this fascinating city in northern Thailand known as the "Rose of the North," is a world apart from Bangkok or the southern beaches. As the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, founded in 1296, it has preserved its authentic soul despite the influx of visitors. For the complete experience, things to do in Chiang Mai encompass golden temples, lush green mountains, sprawling night markets, and a deeply laid-back vibe.
Best things to do in Chiang Mai: Top sights & activities 🎫
- 🌙 Chiang Mai Night Safari ⭐ From £7.03 — A unique night safari
- 🎭 Skyline Adventure 🌲 From £41.96 — Jungle Ziplines
- 🏛️ Old City 🕌 Free — Dozens of temples
- 🎪 Miracle Cabaret 🌈 From £6.56 — Cabaret show
- 🐘 Elephant Jungle Sanctuary ❤️ From £31.57 — Ethical elephant encounters
💡 Did you know? Chiang Mai actually means 'New City', even though it's one of the oldest cities in Thailand! The square Old City measures exactly 1.5 km on each side and is surrounded by moats and the remains of ancient walls. It's home to over 300 Buddhist temples – incredible, isn't it?
What to do in Chiang Mai based on your stay 📅
Unsurprisingly, your Chiang Mai itinerary will naturally depend on how much time you have. Not sure yet? Here are our recommendations based on the length and style of your trip:
Length of stay | Couples' Adventures | Family adventures | Adventures with friends | Solo |
2 days | Old Town temples + Doi Suthep + romantic dinner | Old Town + Elephant Sanctuary + Night Bazaar | Temples + Nimman cafes + Night Bazaar evening | Old Town + temples + Thai massage |
3-4 days | Temples + Doi Suthep + cooking classes + markets + spa | Old City + elephants + markets + activities for kids | Temples + ziplining + nightlife + markets | Temples + cookery classes + trekking + markets |
5 days | Days 3-4: Chiang Rai, the Golden Triangle and Hill Tribe Villages | Days 3-4: Adventure park, farms, and the great outdoors | Days 3-4 + rafting + sports + evenings | Days 3-4 + meditation + volunteering |
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Must-visit districts in Chiang Mai 🏛️
The Old Town: the sacred historical heart
The Old City is truly the heart of Chiang Mai! This square enclosure, surrounded by a moat, is home to the bulk of the city's heritage, with over 30 temples packed into just 2km² (yes, really!). Wat Phra Singh is the most revered of them all, with its sacred Buddha statue and magnificent murals.
Similarly, Wat Chedi Luang is sure to impress with its massive 82-metre chedi, which partially collapsed during an earthquake in 1545 – though it remains a truly awe-inspiring sight today. Finally, Wat Phan Tao, crafted entirely from intricately carved teak, is another absolute gem that you simply shouldn't miss.
The atmosphere is wonderfully peaceful, with quiet backstreets, hidden little cafes, and the chance to observe the monks going about their daily lives. Every Sunday evening, Ratchadamnoen Road is transformed for the Sunday Walking Street Market from 5pm until midnight. It’s Chiang Mai’s most popular market, filled with handmade crafts, delicious street food, and free performances for a fantastic evening out.
📌 Trip.com tip: Visit the temples early in the morning (6 am - 8 am) to witness the monks' ceremonies and soak up the spiritual atmosphere before the crowds arrive. Respectful dress is a must!
Nimman: the hipster and creative neighbourhood
Nimman (or Nimmanhaemin) is Chiang Mai's trendiest neighbourhood! A world away from the Old City, this modern district is home to the best speciality coffee shops (including Ristr8to Lab, world champion in latte art, Graph Café, and Nine One Coffee), designer boutiques, art galleries, and fusion restaurants. The atmosphere is young and cosmopolitan, buzzing with students, digital nomads on their laptops, and local artists alike...
As evening falls, Nimman truly comes alive, buzzing with its fantastic lounge and rooftop bars. While the prices might be a little steeper than elsewhere, the quality absolutely lives up to it!
📌 Trip.com tip: Nimman is perfect for coffee-and-croissant mornings and brunch. Don't miss the vintage boutiques tucked away in the little side streets (sois)!
Night Bazaar: Where local shopping meets nightlife
Get ready to dive into the heart of Chiang Mai's vibrant nightlife at the legendary Night Bazaar, stretching along Chang Klan Road! Spanning nearly a kilometre, you'll discover hundreds of stalls brimming with treasures – from stylish clothes and intricate handicrafts to unique souvenirs, dazzling jewellery, and even those cheeky designer knock-offs you might be looking for. The atmosphere here is absolutely buzzing, alive with twinkling lights, infectious music, and the irresistible aromas of sizzling street food wafting through the air. It's truly a traditional and local market experience, the perfect place to immerse yourself and soak up the vibrant culture of this incredible city.
The market is open every evening from 6 pm to midnight.
💡 Top tip: Haggling is a must – you can easily negotiate 30 to 50% off!
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)
Top hotels in Chiang Mai
5 star
Very Good320 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|1.64km from city centre
We had an excellent stay at this hotel. The room was spacious, modern, very clean, and comfortable. The staff were friendly, professional, and always willing to help. The facilities were well maintained, and the swimming pool was great for our family. The breakfast offered a good variety of delicious food. The location was convenient, with easy access to nearby attractions, restaurants, and the airport. We traveled with our baby, and the hotel made our stay very comfortable. Overall, we had a wonderful experience and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Chiang Mai.From£45
Great695 Reviews
Chiang Mai Riverside Chiang Mai|1.05km from city centre
Honestly, the bathroom in the basic room type was quite small, and the water quality was just average; my shower head turned a bit yellow. Overall, the room hygiene was good, and the front desk staff were very friendly.
Upon check-in, we received drink vouchers that could be used at the lounge on the first floor, but the selection was quite limited. The breakfast was decent, nothing spectacular, but it had all the essentials.
The hotel's location is very convenient. Just a short walk through the alley next to it leads to the Chang Klan Night Bazaar, and it's not far from the Michelin-starred restaurant Ekachan. We stayed here for two nights, and then moved to the Old City for the remaining two nights.
Due to time constraints, we didn't get to visit the rooftop bar, but I heard it's quite good.
The hotel attracts a lot of European and American tour groups; every time we returned, we'd see tour buses coming and going. However, luckily, we didn't hear much noise in our room this time.From£93
Great750 Reviews
Old City Chiang Mai|0.53km from city centre
The hotel boasts a beautiful environment and a convenient location, with warm and attentive service, making it perfect for exploring the ancient city and its surroundings. The room facilities are well-maintained and feature charming local characteristics, which I personally loved. Special mention goes to the bedding – it was incredibly clean and comfortable, leading to an excellent night's sleep. However, it's worth noting that the hotel is located inside the ancient city, is street-facing, and the soundproofing in the rooms isn't great. Those who require a very quiet sleeping environment might want to consider this carefully. Also, the hotel offers a souvenir for leaving a review, but this promotion is only for Google Maps and doesn't include platforms like Ctrip, which is a bit disappointing.From£84
Very Good528 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|1.28km from city centre
The room quality and Shangri-La amenities were up to standard, no issues there. It's located on a quieter stretch of Ankor Road, but still within walking distance to the bustling night market. The hotel pool was nice, and the gym met my expectations. Breakfast was pretty standard; compared to what you get in China, it was a bit disappointing. More Western options and fewer Thai dishes. Service was okay. I was a bit surprised by the security check when entering the hotel.From£89
Great288 Reviews
Chang Phuak Chiang Mai|2.92km from city centre
This hotel is perfect for kids, very clean, and the food is delicious. We'll definitely stay here again next time we're in Chiang Mai. The only downside is that there are no shopping areas nearby, which is a bit inconvenient.From£39
Business travel
Very Good80 Reviews
Wua Lai Chiang Mai|0.91km from city centre
Very nice hotel, well-located just outside the old town. The welcome was excellent, and the breakfast was simple yet good. You can also get your laundry washed and dried at very reasonable prices. The staff were very attentive and accommodating; thanks for holding our luggage during our trek. I highly recommend it.From£24
Great73 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.17km from city centre
Very nice staff, room in excellent condition, we elected thw breakfast option-am excellent decision. Can pirchase meals if desired, menu provided. The room is compact and comfortable, bright with great fittings. The shower hot water needs an instruction - turn on wash basin hot water at a good pace, then turn on the shower(best preference the rain shower overhead) at the constable HW pressure you desire. When finished turn off the wash basin HW.
Overall and excellent stay in a great location mext to Thapae gate.From£17
Very Good631 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.22km from city centre
The location is incredibly convenient; just across the moat is Tha Phae Gate, and there's a Sunday night market. Not far behind the hotel are the famous Ffparking Durian Sister and Warorot Market. Many internet-famous restaurants are within walking distance of the hotel. This hotel doesn't seem to do much marketing in China, as most of its guests are from Europe and North America. The breakfast is purely Western style. The only downside is that it's not a 'picture-perfect' hotel that young women might prefer, and the facilities are a bit dated.From£28
Very Good1017 Reviews
Chang Phuak Chiang Mai|1.56km from city centre
I had a great stay at Icon Park Hotel Chiang Mai. The location is excellent, with easy access to Chiang Mai Old City and many restaurants and shops nearby. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. The breakfast was also good with a nice variety of choices.
Overall, it was a very pleasant stay and great value for money. I would definitely consider staying here again on my next visit to Chiang Mai.From£16
Very Good1161 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.77km from city centre
Great location right on Chang Klan Road, with a 7-Eleven directly across from the hotel. Very convenient for getting around, and the price was reasonable. The Marriott is diagonally opposite, and the Intercontinental is behind the hotel. To the right are street-side restaurants. It feels like it was probably a mid-to-high-end hotel when it first opened, but over time, it hasn't been well-maintained. The downsides are that the hotel is very old, and you could even see unwashed bloodstains on the sheets. The room lighting was very dim, and the hotel's swimming pool was closed for maintenance during my stay. If you don't mind these issues, then it's fine.From£22
Family friendly
Very Good171 Reviews
Old City Chiang Mai|1.43km from city centre
Loved it, this was my second stay…
The breakfast could use a bit more variety, there weren't many options…
The quad family room was beautiful and comfortable… I'll definitely bring my family back again if I get the chance.From£49
Great1756 Reviews
Nimmanhaemin Chiang Mai|2.63km from city centre
Pros: The bedding was very clean and comfortable.
Cons: The price was a bit high, and the space was small.
Areas for improvement: The pool was very small, though good for photos. The gym was also tiny, and the treadmill and bike areas had no air conditioning or fans.
My room was facing the street, so I could see pedestrians and motorcycles from my window, which was a bit of a downside as the motorcycles were noisy at night.From£25
Very Good224 Reviews
Chiang Mai Riverside Chiang Mai|1.42km from city centre
I stayed at building A which overlooks the pool. The building is very new and very clean. AC, wifi and shower work perfect. Very secure place for a solo female traveler.
Short walk to restaurants, the river and a local market. The staff is so friendly and kind.From£16
Very Good531 Reviews
Wua Lai Chiang Mai|1.66km from city centre
A cosy retreat with fantastic service!
We stayed at Nampiangdin Hotel from the 19th to the 26th, and it was a wonderful experience. We were on the top floor (4th), and the room was incredibly cosy—high ceilings and a beautiful hanging chandelier added such a charming touch.
Housekeeping went above and beyond with their turndown service—very detailed and thoughtful. The staff were consistently friendly, always smiling, and genuinely welcoming every time we passed by.
Breakfast was a highlight—a generous buffet with both Asian and Western options, something for everyone.
As a non-smoking hotel, they’ve thoughtfully provided a smoking area outside to the left of the entrance. It’s surprisingly cosy, set under a big tree with a large garden umbrella for rainy days—felt like a little garden escape.
The only small hiccup was that the swimming pool lights weren’t working during our stay, so night swims weren’t as picturesque. But honestly, that didn’t take away from the overall resort-like, relaxing vibe.
Would definitely recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful, comfortable stay in Chiang Mai! 🌿From£29
Amazing295 Reviews
Old City Chiang Mai|1.27km from city centre
The hotel is absolutely beautiful. I booked a pool room, and even though I didn't get to swim, it still gave off a lovely vacation vibe. Breakfast is à la carte and everything was delicious. I especially loved the 'best wish' drink—it's sparkling water with chili, Sichuan peppercorns, and some herbs, very refreshing. There's a big tree in the courtyard that gives off great energy. It's not a large hotel, which makes it very quiet.From£104
Top 5 activities and landmarks in Chiang Mai 🌸
Beyond the city's must-see neighbourhoods, let's explore the top activities and unmissable sights for a perfect trip!
Chiang Mai Night Safari: The unmissable night-time adventure
The Night Safari is the perfect activity to enjoy with friends or family! This 300-hectare safari zoo at the foot of Doi Suthep offers tram tours through two zones (Savannah and Forest) to observe hundreds of animals in a nocturnal environment. You’ll see lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, tigers, and even bears and elephants as your tram travels right among them. It’s truly impressive to see these nocturnal animals so active!
📌 Practical info: Open 18:30–22:00. Aim to arrive around 18:30–19:00. Allow 2–3 hours. Bring a jumper, as it can get chilly in the open-top tram!
Skyline Adventure: Thrills in the heart of the jungle
For a bit of an adrenaline rush during your stay, Skyline Adventure offers spectacular ziplining right in the heart of the jungle! That's right – you'll soar between giant trees on cables up to 900 metres long and 50 metres high. The full course includes 24 platforms, 17 ziplines, 2 suspension bridges, and even a giant abseil. Skyline Adventure is open to everyone aged 7 and over.
📌 Top tip: bring closed-toe trainers and comfortable clothes. Everything is provided on-site.
Old City: Immerse yourself in historic temples
As we mentioned earlier, Chiang Mai's Old City is an absolute must-see! Surrounded by moats and the remains of 13th-century walls, this 1.5 km square enclosure is home to over 30 magnificent Buddhist temples, all within a very compact area.
Miracle Cabaret Chiang Mai: A Dazzling and Unique Show
Just like the Simon Cabaret in Phuket, Miracle Cabaret is a must-see show in Chiang Mai! This professional cabaret also features transgender performers (ladyboys) in singing, dancing, and comedy acts that are truly captivating. The costumes are absolutely sumptuous, with towering feathers, sequins, and rhinestones, and outfits that must weigh several kilos. A true Thai-style show!
The show lasts around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, featuring a series of acts inspired by cultures from all over the world (traditional Thai dance, Bollywood, glamorous Parisian cabaret, Broadway musicals...).
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary: The Elephant Sanctuary
Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or with friends, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is a must-visit experience! Nestled in the mountains near a Karen village, this sanctuary provides a respectful home for rescued elephants. You won't find any elephant riding here!
You'll learn all about their history, feed them bananas and sugar cane, and even join them for a bath in the river.
The experience also includes discovering the Karen way of life, traditional dress, and an authentic Thai meal.
📌 Trip.com tip: book in advance as spaces are limited. Pack a change of clothes, as you'll definitely get wet and a little muddy!
Chiang Mai, the food capital of the north 🍜
Chiang Mai is also, and above all, a culinary capital! The iconic dish is khao soi, a mild and creamy coconut milk curry with egg noodles (soft in the broth + crispy as a topping), chicken or beef, and served with red onions, lime and pickled vegetables. It’s simply addictive!
Be sure to also try the sai oua (spicy northern sausage), nam prik ong (tomato and pork dip), and kanom jeen nam ngiao (curry rice noodles)...
Our favourite spots: Khao Soi Mae Sai (Michelin Guide!), Khao Soi Khun Yai, or any local market.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai 🌤️
Seasons | Weather | Reviews | Activities |
❄️ Fresh (Nov-Feb) | Simply ideal (15-28°C) | The absolute best time! | Yi Peng/Loy Krathong (Nov), flower markets |
🔥 Hot (March–May) | Very hot (25-40°C) | Expect plenty of heat and some haze from agricultural burning during March and April. | Songkran (mid-April) |
🌧️ Rains (June-Oct) | Humid (23-32°C) | Daily showers | Lower prices, fewer crowds |
💡 Our tip: November to February is the perfect time! 15°C in the morning, 25-28°C in the afternoon, and the Yi Peng festival in November, when thousands of lanterns light up the sky, is simply magical! Book in advance, as it is peak season.
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Day Trips from Chiang Mai 🏔️
Chiang Mai is the perfect city for exploring the treasures of Northern Thailand! Here are our two favourite excursions:
Chiang Rai and the White Temple: Contemporary Buddhist Art
Chiang Rai (three hours north of Chiang Mai) is home to two of the most extraordinary and photogenic temples in all of Thailand.
Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is a truly impressive contemporary work of art: entirely white and shimmering thanks to the mirror fragments embedded in the plaster. Created by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat since 1997, this temple blends traditional Buddhist symbolism with modern pop culture references (you’ll even spot characters from The Matrix and Star Wars in the murals!).
Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) is just as impressive, featuring deep blue and gold tones and monumental sculptures of nagas (mythical serpents). Excursions typically also include the Golden Triangle, a fascinating geographical spot where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet in the middle of the Mekong River.
Practical info:
- Journey time: 3 hours by bus/van (approx. 180 km to the north)
- Transport: Bus from the Arcade terminal, private van or an all-inclusive organised tour
- Must-sees: The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), the Golden Triangle, and Chiang Rai Night Market if you're staying late.
Doi Inthanon: The Roof of Thailand and its Mountain Villages
Doi Inthanon is a truly exceptional nature trip! At 2,565 metres above sea level, it's the highest point in the whole of Thailand (hence its nickname, the 'Roof of Thailand').
This stunning national park offers lush mountain landscapes that are completely different from the rest of the country, featuring pine forests, terraced flower fields, and wonderfully crisp, fresh air.
The twin chedis built for the King and Queen’s 60th birthdays are absolutely stunning, with their pristine flower gardens and breathtaking panoramic views. The Wachirathan (80 metres high!) and Sirithan waterfalls are spectacular, especially during the rainy season. You’ll also visit Karen and Hmong villages, where you can discover their traditional way of life and shop for unique handmade crafts.
Practical info:
- Journey time: 1h 30m - 2h (approx. 90 km south-west)
- Transport: We recommend an organised tour, or you can hire a scooter or car if you're feeling adventurous.
- Must-sees: The summit and its stupa, the King and Queen’s twin chedis, Wachirathan and Sirithan waterfalls, hill tribe villages, and the Ang Ka Luang nature trail.
Chiang Mai awaits you with its golden temples, lush green mountains, captivating Lanna culture, and exceptional cuisine! Whether you're drawn to Buddhist spirituality, mountain trekking, adorable elephants, or local handicrafts, the Rose of the North is sure to charm you!
Enjoy your trip to Chiang Mai! 🌸
FAQ – Things to do in Chiang Mai
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