11 Best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 3 to 4 days

Introduction

Any trip to Thailand should involve a stop in Chiang Mai. The city is full of charm and culture, with countless temples to explore and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. But what truly makes Chiang Mai special are the elephant rescue centres scattered throughout its countryside.

Back when we visited, we were told that riding elephants bareback was considered acceptable—that it didn’t hurt them and even gave them a bit of exercise. And we truly enjoyed the whole experience. But over time, we’ve learned more. Even bareback riding can contribute to long-term harm, both physically and psychologically.

So if you want to connect with elephants, the best way is by visiting a true sanctuary—one that doesn’t allow riding and focuses on their wellbeing. It’s a humbling and beautiful experience, and one of the most memorable things to do in Chiang Mai. And the sanctuary we visited has gone away from riding completely.

Read: The perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary

Getting there

Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand and is well connected by air, road, and rail. Here’s how to get there:

By Plane: The easiest and fastest way to reach Chiang Mai is by flying. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) serves both domestic and international flights.

• From Bangkok, there are multiple daily flights with low-cost airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air. The flight takes just over 1 hour.
• There are also direct international flights from hubs like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Seoul.

By Train: A scenic but slower option is the train from Bangkok. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Station and take around 11–14 hours depending on the type. Night trains with sleeper cabins are a popular choice among travelers, offering a budget-friendly and relaxing journey. Book early, especially in high season.

By Bus: Buses leave regularly from Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal in Bangkok and take about 10 hours. VIP or First-Class options provide more comfort and air conditioning.

By Car: If you’re road-tripping through Thailand, Chiang Mai is about 700 km north of Bangkok. The drive takes roughly 8–9 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Tip: If you’re short on time, fly. If you’re looking for a scenic and slower adventure, the night train is a great experience.

Moving Around

Getting around Chiang Mai is easy and budget-friendly. Here are the main options:

On Foot: The Old City is compact and walkable. Many temples, cafés, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it the best way to soak up the city’s charm.

Songthaews (Red Trucks): These shared pick-up trucks are the most common form of local transport. Just flag one down, tell the driver where you’re going, and hop on. Fares are usually around 30–50 THB (€0.75–1.25 / $0.80–1.35) for short distances in town.

Tuk-Tuks: Fun for the experience but more expensive than songthaews. Always agree on a price before the ride — expect to pay around 60–150 THB (€1.50–3.75 / $1.60–4.00) depending on distance.

Grab App (Local Uber): Very convenient and reasonably priced. Perfect if you’re going outside the Old City or don’t want to haggle.

Scooter Rental: If you’re confident riding, renting a scooter is one of the best ways to explore Chiang Mai and its surroundings. Rentals cost around 200–300 THB per day (€5–7.50 / $5.30–8). Always wear a helmet and carry your international license.

Bicycle Rental: Some hostels and guesthouses offer bike rentals. It’s a relaxed way to see the city, but traffic can be intense, so use caution.

Tip: For day trips (like to the elephant sanctuaries), most tours include round-trip transport, so no need to worry.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

When to Visit

Chiang Mai is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary a lot depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best time to visit:

Dry Season (November to February): This is the most pleasant time of the year. with cool, dry weather and temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). This is perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying outdoor festivals like Yi Peng and Loy Krathong, all while avoiding the heat and humidity.

Hot Season (March to May): It gets very hot and dry with temperatures soaring between 25°C and 40°C (77°F to 104°F). It can be intense, especially during the burning season, when nearby agricultural fires affect air quality—but the Songkran water festival in April makes it a memorable time if you don’t mind the heat.

Rainy Season (June to October): With daytime temperatures between 23°C and 32°C (73°F to 90°F) and regular afternoon showers. While it’s wetter, the landscapes are at their greenest, crowds are smaller, and accommodations are more affordable.

Our tip: November to February is by far the most enjoyable time to visit Chiang Mai — especially if it’s your first time. Aim for the early dry season to avoid the crowds around Christmas and New Year.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

One of the best things about visiting Chiang Mai — and Thailand in general — is the incredible value you get for accommodation. Whether you’re going for a backpacker hostel or a luxury villa, the quality is often far above what you’d expect for the price.

In Chiang Mai, you can sleep in stylish boutique hotels, serene garden stays, or charming hostels for a fraction of what it would cost elsewhere. It’s one of those places where upgrading your comfort doesn’t mean blowing your budget.

• (€) Green Sleep Hostel – A clean and cozy hostel right in the Old Town, perfect for backpackers or budget-conscious travelers who want to be close to the temples, markets, and street food.
• (€€) Smile Lanna Hotel – A peaceful mid-range stay with traditional Lanna design, a great pool, and easy access to Chiang Mai Gate and the Saturday Night Market.
• (€€€) Villa Mahabhirom – SHA Plus – A stunning boutique hotel offering restored Thai villas, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere just outside the busy center — ideal for a more relaxed, upscale stay.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chiang Mai.

What to Eat

For us, the best Thai food has always come from the street. Chiang Mai is a street food paradise, and that’s where we had some of our tastiest (and cheapest) meals in Thailand. There’s something about the smoky wok, plastic stools, and handwritten signs that makes the experience feel just right.

Our Chiang Mai favorites?

• Rice served in a hollowed-out pineapple — sweet, savory, and tropical all at once
• Rolled ice cream — not traditional, but it’s fun and seriously good
• Local kebabs — simple, juicy, and packed with flavor
• Fried bananas — the perfect sweet snack on a hot day

If you eat meat, the street food scene gets even more exciting. From grilled skewers to crispy fried chicken, there’s something sizzling on every corner.

And of course, you’ll find all the Thai food classics:

• Pad Thai (Thai-style fried noodles)
• Som Tam (spicy green papaya salad)
• Pad See Eiw (thick stir-fried noodles with soy sauce)
• Khao Pad (fried rice)
• Gaeng Keow Wan (green curry)
• Pad Phak (stir-fried vegetables)
• Kao Niew Ma Muang (mango with sticky rice) — the perfect dessert to end any meal

Just follow your nose and trust the locals — they always know where the best bites are.

Tip: The Cooking Class, Market and Thai Herbs Garden Tour is a must to-do!

Things to do in Chiang Mai

Cool Off at Mae Sa Waterfall

Take a break from the city and unwind at Mae Sa Waterfall, a peaceful spot about 30–40 minutes from Chiang Mai’s center. This little national park is home to a series of 10 cascading tiers, each with its own vibe — some perfect for a quick dip, others just right for a shady picnic.

It’s an easy day trip if you rent a scooter. Entrance is around 100 THB per person (plus 20 THB for parking). Nothing fancy here, just lush greenery, cool water, and a quiet escape from the heat. A great place to slow things down.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chiang Mai.

Bargain at the Night Bazaar

Dive into Chiang Mai’s bustling Night Bazaar, where the energy, lights, and mix of goods make for a fun evening out. You can shop everything from colorful T-shirts and handmade crafts to souvenirs and knock-off brands.

It’s not just about shopping — the experience is in the bargaining, the friendly chatter with vendors, and the unexpected finds. There are also food stalls all around if you want to grab a snack while exploring.

Explore Wat Suan Dok’s Royal Cemetery

Visit Wat Suan Dok, one of Chiang Mai’s most peaceful temples, originally built in the 14th century. What makes it unique is its large open courtyard filled with white mausoleums — the resting place of members of the former Lanna royal family.

It’s a striking and serene place to walk around, offering a quieter, less touristy temple experience, with a golden chedi, monk chats, and a chance to reflect on the city’s royal past.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Visit Wat Sri Suphan, the Silver Temple of Chiang Mai

Stop by Wat Sri Suphan, a unique and stunning temple entirely covered in handcrafted silver. From its roof to the walls and intricate carvings, the craftsmanship tells detailed stories from Buddhist mythology.

While women are not allowed to enter the main ordination hall, the exterior alone makes it worth the visit. It’s a short walk from the city center and especially beautiful at night when it’s lit up.

Spend a Day at a Rescue Elephant Centre

Visit one of Chiang Mai’s many elephant rescue centres and get up close with these gentle giants. Most day programs start by changing into traditional clothing before learning about the elephants’ history and behavior. You’ll get the chance to feed them, walk with them, and—if time allows—even bathe them.

When we visited in 2017, bareback riding was still offered and even encouraged. We rode a teenage male named Superman, who kept nodding his head like the cheeky, playful elephant he was. It felt special and intimate at the time.

However, we’ve since learned more. Even bareback riding can be stressful for elephants and isn’t considered ethical today. Most reputable sanctuaries no longer offer rides, focusing instead on respectful observation and interaction. If you’re visiting now, look for rescue centres that prioritize the elephants’ freedom and well-being over entertainment. It’s the best way to support their care and protection.

Tip: This full-day Elephant sanctuary and half-day one are some of the best in Chiang Mai.

Explore Doi Suthep

Head up the mountain of Doi Suthep, located about 12 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai. The road itself is already scenic, and once you arrive, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the city. At the top sits Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a 13th-century temple that’s one of the most sacred in northern Thailand.

The site features a stunning golden chedi, a shrine to a white elephant (central to the temple’s founding legend), and even a replica of the famous Emerald Buddha. It’s a peaceful and spiritual spot—especially if you make it there early in the morning.

Tip: Check out the recommended Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour

Visit Doi Inthanon National Park

Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters. The park spans over 48,000 hectares and offers a refreshing escape into nature with cool mountain air, waterfalls, rice terraces, and forest trails.

It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with the highest diversity of bird species in the country. At the summit, you’ll find the iconic twin royal pagodas and panoramic views that make the journey well worth it

Tip: We recommend this Doi Inthanon National Park Eco-Friendly Tour

Stroll through Wat Phra Singh

Explore one of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, Wat Phra Singh, also known as the Temple of the Lion Buddha. Dating back to the 14th century, this beautifully preserved complex is home to stunning Lanna architecture, intricate carvings, and two important Buddha statues.

It’s also an active monastery where over 700 monks live, many of whom are open to chatting with visitors, offering a more personal insight into Buddhist life in Thailand.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chiang Mai.

Admire the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang

Visit one of Chiang Mai’s most striking historic sites, Wat Chedi Luang, also known as the Temple of the Big Stupa. Though partially ruined, the massive brick chedi still rises proudly in the city center. Once home to the revered Emerald Buddha, the temple was damaged by an earthquake in 1545 and later fell into decline during Burmese rule.

Today, it remains an active place of worship where monks carry out daily rituals, and visitors can reflect among ancient stonework and multiple Buddha shrines.

Take a Day Trip to Chiang Rai

Even if we recommend spending a night in Chiang Rai, it’s also possible to visit on a day trip from Chiang Mai. Embark on a one-day adventure to the north and discover the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the colorful Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and the Mae Kachan Hot Springs. Many tours also include a visit to a Hill Tribe Long Neck village, offering a glimpse into local traditions. Expect a long but rewarding day filled with culture and striking architecture.

Read: All the best things to do in Chiang Rai

Skip the Tiger Kingdom (NOT RECOMMENDED)

We visited the Tiger Kingdom during our early travels, but it’s not something we would recommend today. The tigers are kept in small enclosures and often seem lethargic, raising serious questions about their welfare and possible sedation.

While marketed as an attraction, it lacks the ethical framework of true wildlife sanctuaries like the elephant rescue centers. It was an uncomfortable experience for us then, and one we’ve come to regret over time. Better skip it.

Chiang Mai Itinerary

Day 1: Discover Chiang Mai’s Temples & Market Vibes

• Explore Wat Suan Dok
• Visit the Silver Temple – Wat Sri Suphan
• Wander around Wat Phra Singh
• Admire the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang
• Bargain and eat your way through the Night Bazar

Day 2: Mountain & Waterfall Escape

• Drive up to Doi Suthep and visit Wat Phra That
• Relax at Mae Sa Waterfall, hopping between the cascades

Day 3: Elephant Experience

• Spend a meaningful day at Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre – feed, learn, and bond with these beautiful animals in an ethical setting

Day 4: Nature and Altitude

• Head to Doi Inthanon National Park for a day of hiking, viewpoints, and pagodas at Thailand’s highest peak

Read: The perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary