Chiang Mai 2 Day Itinerary

Chiang Mai 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Rimping Supermarket, a local market offering a wide range of Thai dishes and fresh produce.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Visit Doi Suthep, a mountain peak with a stunning temple on top, offering breathtaking views of Chiang Mai. You can hike up or take a songthaew (red truck) from the base.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Head to Old City Walls and Moat for a leisurely walk around the historic center. Explore the ancient walls, gates, and moat that surround the old city.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning Buddha images.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a local restaurant serving traditional Khao Soi dishes.
  • 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Explore the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a bustling market offering a wide range of goods, from souvenirs to clothing and street food.

Day 2

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Take a day trip to Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Learn about elephant conservation and interact with these majestic creatures.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Visit Bo Sang Umbrella Village, a charming village famous for its handmade paper umbrellas.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Have lunch at Huen Phen, a local restaurant serving traditional Thai dishes in a historic setting.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center, a museum showcasing contemporary art and cultural exhibitions.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, a scenic restaurant offering stunning views of the Mae Ping River.
  • 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Take a romantic Mae Ping River Cruise to see Chiang Mai’s skyline from a different perspective.

Accommodation

  • Baantai Hotel: A boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Stamps Backpackers: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.

Transportation

  • Songthaew (Red Truck): A cheap and convenient way to get around Chiang Mai. Just flag one down and negotiate the fare.
  • Tuk-Tuk: A fun way to explore the city, but be prepared to haggle over prices.
  • Rent a Scooter: Explore Chiang Mai on your own terms with a rented scooter.

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
  • Respect local culture: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggle over prices, it’s part of the fun!
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Learn some Thai phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic Thai phrases like “sawatdee” (hello) and “khop khun krap” (thank you).

Other Things to Know

  • Weather: Chiang Mai can be hot, so stay hydrated and bring sunscreen.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Thai phrases.
  • Currency: The Thai baht is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Safety: Chiang Mai is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Chiang Mai!