Chiang Mai, Thailand-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
  • Take a taxi or songthaew (red truck) to your accommodation in the old city area (~150 THB)
  • Check-in at The 3 Sis or similar boutique hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples (free admission, but dress modestly)
  • Explore the surrounding old city walls and moat
  • Wander through the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for a taste of local culture and shopping (open from 6 pm)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Dash! Restaurant & Bar for modern Thai cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the Mae Ping River and enjoy the city lights

Transportation

  • Songthaew (red truck): flag one down on the street, negotiate the price (~20-50 THB per person)
  • Taxi: available at the airport or around town (~150-200 THB to old city area)

Tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples
  • Bargain at markets and shops
  • Try local transportation for a fun experience

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit Doi Suthep, a mountain peak with stunning views of the city (30 THB entrance fee, plus 40 THB for a songthaew)
  • Explore the beautiful Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple at the summit

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class at Chiang Mai Cooking School to learn about Thai cuisine (1,200 THB per person)
  • Visit the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center for local art and exhibitions (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant for a scenic view of the Mae Ping River
  • Explore the lively Nimmanhaemin Road area for bars, restaurants, and shopping

Things to Know

  • Doi Suthep is a sacred site, so dress modestly
  • Chiang Mai Cooking School offers classes in English and Thai language

Day 3: Nature Escapes

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Mae Sa Valley, a scenic area with elephant sanctuaries, orchid farms, and waterfalls (book a tour or rent a car for ~1,500 THB)
  • Visit the Chiang Mai Zoo for a chance to see giant pandas and other animals (150 THB entrance fee)

Afternoon

  • Explore the tranquil Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, featuring beautiful flora and a peaceful atmosphere (50 THB entrance fee)
  • Take a scenic drive along the Mae Ping River and enjoy the countryside views

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Good View for a panoramic view of Chiang Mai
  • Return to the old city area for a relaxing evening stroll

Transportation

  • Book a tour or rent a car for the Mae Sa Valley day trip
  • Songthaew (red truck): available for transportation around town (~20-50 THB per person)

Day 4: Adventure Activities

Morning

  • Take a zip lining adventure with Flight of the Gibbon for an adrenaline-packed experience (2,499 THB per person)
  • Visit the Chiang Mai Monkey School, a unique attraction featuring trained monkeys (100 THB entrance fee)

Afternoon

  • Go on a scenic rafting trip along the Mae Ping River with Mae Ping River Cruise (800 THB per person)
  • Explore the local markets and try some street food

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Ginger & Kafe for healthy, organic options
  • Take a sunset stroll along the Mae Ping River promenade

Things to Know

  • Book zip lining and rafting trips in advance due to limited availability
  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for adventure activities

Day 5: Last Day in Chiang Mai

Morning

  • Visit Wat Suan Dok, a beautiful temple with white stupas and scenic views (free admission)
  • Explore the Chiang Mai University Art Museum, featuring local art and exhibitions (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Take some last-minute shopping at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or Warorot Market
  • Visit the Saturday Walking Street Market (only on Saturdays) for a lively atmosphere and local goods

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Service 1921 for upscale dining
  • Depart from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

Transportation

  • Songthaew (red truck): available for transportation around town (~20-50 THB per person)
  • Taxi: available at the airport or around town (~150-200 THB to old city area)

Tips

  • Try some local street food and drinks before departing
  • Exchange currency or withdraw cash from an ATM for your next destination