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 |
🎁 Kickstart your trip with 5% off Chiang Mai attractions. 👇
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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 Good319 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|1.64km from city centre
First impression upon entering the lobby was good, felt like a locally run establishment. They provided a nice welcome package in the room, which was a pleasant touch. However, the shower water kept fluctuating between hot and cold, and the bath towels had yellow stains – I didn't make a big deal out of it at the time. The next morning, after the staff cleaned the room, they took our room card which was in the power slot. I noticed immediately and went to the hallway to confirm. The cleaner tried to take it again, but then returned it to us. If I hadn't checked promptly, I probably would have been charged for it upon checkout. Also, the cleaner threw away my orange earplugs that I left on the bedside table. It's really hard for me to sleep without earplugs every night, so I was quite upset about that. Finally, breakfast was very disappointing – too monotonous, mainly simple Western options, and they didn't even have the most basic Southeast Asian noodle soup. I regret booking the room with breakfast. It's not as good as the Mario Pork Trotter Rice place across the street; their noodle soup is delicious. The 0.5 points out of 3.5 for service is specifically for the welcome snacks they provided. The pool is nice though.FromUS$72
Great654 Reviews
Chiang Mai Riverside Chiang Mai|1.05km from city centre
The hotel's cleanliness was decent, and the beds were quite soft. We booked for three people, and one bed was a sofa bed. The sofa bed was a bit firmer, which actually made it more comfortable to sleep on.
Breakfast was just okay: the cutlery, especially the forks, often wasn't clean, which happened two out of three days. The noodle soup was good, and the fruit was also nice, including rambutan. The yogurt was quite tasty.
The check-in service was alright. They charge a 1000 deposit every night, and everything in the minibar is chargeable. The hotel also offers room service and bicycle rentals if you book in advance, which is a nice touch.
For getting around, we mostly took taxis. The nearby 7-Eleven is a bit far, so if you like to visit a 7-Eleven every night before returning to the hotel, it's not very convenient.FromUS$197
Great730 Reviews
Old City Chiang Mai|0.53km from city centre
Right opposite Wat Chedi Luang, this hotel boasts an excellent location in the Old City and even offers private parking, which is incredibly convenient! The main entrance is tucked away in a small alley, and I initially thought it would be a small place, but once inside, it's a pleasant surprise with a beautiful garden and pool. The hotel also features an integrated commercial complex with a spa, salon, bar, and restaurant. The owner truly offers a comprehensive range of services!FromUS$115
Very Good511 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|1.28km from city centre
Upgraded to an executive room at the hotel for an extra charge. The view is great, and the service is very nice. Breakfast, afternoon tea, etc., are all abundant. Personally, I think the value for money is better than the InterContinental. Highly recommended!FromUS$210
Very Good270 Reviews
Chang Phuak Chiang Mai|2.92km from city centre
This hotel was fantastic and provides all you need as a tourist here in Chiang Mai. The room was spacious and the pillows/beds were all super comfortable. The breakfast was also great, very sumptuous.
A negative side about the hotel is the pool, which were all very shallow and small and suitable only for kids. There were virtually no adult using the pool.
A downside about its location is that it is about 25 minutes of walking distance from the Nimman mall, which is the closest central area. The hotel offers some shuttle busses to the mall, but the shuttles were a bit infrequent, starts at noon, and there is no pick up from the mall back to the hotel. This means you need to use Grab or Bolt traveling back and forth. Now, this would be fine if there were good dining options nearby. But unfortunately I did not find anything good next to the hotel. The hotel has a restaurant, which seems to be on the more expensive side.
This makes me want to book something closer to the Nimman mall next time, despite the comfort provided by this hotel. I would recommend the hotel to implement some more shuttle busses or songthaew to various locations near Nimman or even old city. This would improve accessibility by a lot.FromUS$51
Business travel
Very Good82 Reviews
Wua Lai Chiang Mai|0.91km from city centre
Just 3 minutes from the city walls, 5 minutes from the night market, and 8 minutes from the Night Bazaar. This is an old hotel that has been renovated. The breakfast is very simple, but more than sufficient for Europeans who enjoy coffee and toast. It's clean, and the receptionist is absolutely charming.FromUS$37
Very Good57 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.17km from city centre
The location is super convenient, right near Tha Phae Gate. I've stayed here many times before. There are lots of night markets nearby, so finding food is really easy. The service is great, very polite. I'll definitely stay here again next time I visit Chiang Mai.FromUS$22
Very Good598 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.22km from city centre
I was with a group at the hotel, and then extended my stay here. Super friendly staff, and every inquiry was dealt with in a timely manner. Breakfast was good. Hotel was clean. It was also very convenient. I loved everything about the hotel, honestly. Didn’t use the pool. I regret that, It looked very inviting. I would highly recommend.FromUS$38
Very Good985 Reviews
Chang Phuak Chiang Mai|1.56km from city centre
The hotel provides excellent service. The staff are friendly, professional, and always willing to help. The room was clean and comfortable, and the overall experience was very pleasant. I would definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to others.FromUS$22
Very Good1128 Reviews
Chang Khlan Chiang Mai|0.77km from city centre
Though dated, I like that the room is spacious and comes with a bath tub and separate shower area. The mattress may seem hard to many but we had a good sleep every night.
The hotel is indeed dated but It is clean and comfortable. Location is right smack in the nightly bazaar but the nightly bazaar is really boring to us.
Taking Bolt e-hailing is affordable so it is just 10 to 15 minutes' ride to anywhere in Chiangmai city.
Breakfast was edible but it was the same menu for the 5 days we were there.
If I visit Chiangmai again I will probably pick somewhere nearer to the Thae Phae Gate area.FromUS$27
Family friendly
Very Good165 Reviews
Old City Chiang Mai|1.43km from city centre
We stayed here for 4 nights and main issue is that amenities are quite outdated. Shower floor didn’t drain quick enough and became like a mini swimming pool. Bed had a loose spring and scraped my leg. However, the staff provided great service and are very friendly. When notified about the bed spring issue, they got someone to fix it straight away. Amenities really needs to be updated as they are quite old.FromUS$23
Great1665 Reviews
Nimmanhaemin Chiang Mai|2.63km from city centre
The staff are very friendly. The room is spacious, but the large window facing the street means motorbike noise can be quite loud late into the night. The location is not far from Nimman, and there's a 7-Eleven conveniently located across the street. I recommend using a shower filter. The hotel's 8th-floor pool is quite fun; definitely visit with friends and take lots of photos there.FromUS$38
Very Good216 Reviews
Chang Phuak Chiang Mai|1.83km from city centre
The location is great, all the staff are friendly, and the breakfast offers a good variety. Although the facilities are a bit old, they are well-maintained and clean, which I really appreciated. The bed is also very spacious. I initially planned to stay for 6 nights, but I liked it so much that I extended my stay by an extra night.FromUS$28
Very Good1487 Reviews
Huay Kaew Chiang Mai|3.65km from city centre
This resort is so green! I enjoy the paradise atmosphere with plants all around me. The staff are so welcoming.
This resort has comfortable design and a lovely pool deck. The garden is perfect for morning routines. I am happy to have a room close to the rooftop balcony. The room is clean and the service staff are friendly to help me.
The Lush Café is too cute.
My favourite place is sitting in the gazebo and listening to the water ambience.
Location is accessible
Shops nearby for lunch and coffee
** Vegan options for all day dining within walkable distance!! **
Breakfast is delicious with plant based salad bar
I’d recommend this stay for travelers with holistic mindset, mindfulness practice and smooth aesthetics.
I would stay again. Much Love.FromUS$18
Very Good232 Reviews
Chiang Mai Riverside Chiang Mai|1.42km from city centre
I spent a few nights here at the beginning of November 2025. The room is a decent size. The beds are relatively comfortable. The bathroom was ok and the water pressure was good. The TV was large and accepted a fire stick. The balcony in building 'A' was nice. The place was mostly peaceful. There was not much street noise, however you can hear noise from the surrounding rooms. The pool is large and well maintained. There is no elevator, so if you have problems with stairs, try to get a room on the ground floor.FromUS$24
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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