3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary, Northern Thailand’s Temple-Filled Gem

Wondering if 3 days in Chiang Mai is enough? In this article, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Thailand’s laid-back nature haven—from the best temples to elephant sanctuaries to where to find the best “khao soi.” More importantly, this post is entirely based on my own three days in Chiang Mai in 2018, yet fully updated for 2025.

First off, congratulations are in order—you’re clearly planning a trip to Thailand or perhaps are already traveling through the country, and you’re adding Chiang Mai to your itinerary. That’s an excellent judgment call. In my opinion, Chiang Mai is a must-visit while in Thailand.

Chiang Mai is a laid-back riverside town located in a lush, mountainous region of Northern Thailand. The small town feels worlds away from the hectic streets of Bangkok. It’s often recognized as Thailand’s cultural hub, where artisan markets and temples line the streets and the rich aroma of Thai spices roams through the air.

With this 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, you’ll have ample time to enjoy the city’s slower pace, as well as explore hikes and waterfalls nearby. I’ve also included additional information on traveling to Chiang Mai, like the best time to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and, of course, what to pack.

Is Chiang Mai worth it? You decide.

For those of you who have already been to Bangkok, or plan to start your trip there, know that Chiang Mai is a much more chill introduction to Thai culture. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains, rice paddies, and forests, it also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures. Think: hiking, elephant sanctuaries, and waterfalls. More than that, it’s all about the vibe.

Chiang Mai strikes the perfect balance of adventure and the slower, local way of life, attracting travelers seeking the same. Case in point, yoga studios and work-friendly cafes are aplenty. The 700-year-old city is known for trapping travelers with its leisurely charm, turning three-day visits into much longer stays.

Here’s a quick overview of what your three days in Chiang Mai might look like:

• Explore the Old City: Chiang Mai’s Old City is bordered by ancient walls built centuries ago. Inside, you’ll find some of the most impressive temples in the country, lots of cafes and khao soi-slinging restaurants, and cute little boutiques.
• Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Singh: Located within the Old City, these temples showcase Lanna architecture and house revered Buddha images.
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Perched atop a mountain, this is the most famous temple in the city.
• Elephant Nature Park: Volunteer or simply spend the day among rescued elephants.
• Eat Khao Soi: This creamy coconut curry noodle soup is a Northern Thai specialty.
• Thai Cooking Class: Learn from locals how to make regional dishes (like Khao Soi).
• Night Bazaar: Shop your heart out at this buzzy night market.
• Sunday Walking Street: Every Sunday, this market features cultural performances and local artisanal products.
• Doi Inthanon National Park: Take a day trip to Thailand’s highest peak and find waterfalls, trails, and the beautiful King and Queen pagodas built on top of a mountain.

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How many days should you spend in Chiang Mai?

I recommend spending 3 to 5 days in Chiang Mai to fully experience the city’s cultural highlights, natural attractions, and culinary scene. If you’re into slow travel and like working remotely from different destinations, this is the kind of place you’d want to kick back in. I’d happily spend a few weeks or even a month living and working in Chiang Mai.

Is three days in Chiang Mai enough?

Three days is typically sufficient to explore the main temples, enjoy a market or two, experience local cuisine, and participate in an ethical elephant encounter or day trip. If you’re interested in doing a yoga or meditation retreat, or taking more day trips to places like Chiang Rai or Pai, add two extra days.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has three notable seasons: cool, hot and rainy. Overall, the temps in Chiang Mai are cooler than Bangkok due to the city’s geographical location.

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season from November to February, when humidity and rainfall are low.

• Pros: Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, outdoor activities, and festivals like Loy Krathong (November) and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February).
• Cons: Peak season, lots of tourists, prices for accommodations may be higher.

You want to avoid traveling to Chiang Mai in March or April, known as the burning season. This is when local farmers burn old crops to make way for new ones, sparking a crazy-high level of air pollution across the city. Extreme heat and poor air quality due to haze make it an unpleasant time to visit.

Chiang Mai is also known for many of its notable festivals:

• Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (January): Celebrates traditional umbrella-making.
• Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February): Vibrant floral parades and displays.
• Songkran Festival (April): The Thai New Year is celebrated with city-wide water fights (yes, you read that correctly), representing cleansing and renewal.
• Visakha Bucha Day (May): Candlelit temple processions commemorate Buddha.
• Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November): Thousands of lanterns are sent up to the sky, symbolizing releasing negativity and welcoming good luck.
• Loy Krathong Festival (November): Floating banana-leaf rafts down the river to let go of misfortune and make wishes.

How to get there: Flight, bus or train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

In summary: The easiest way is to fly. The 1-hour 20-minute flight can be incredibly affordable, as low as $15 for a one-way ticket.

Odds are you’re starting your trip in Bangkok, or at the very least have a layover there before continuing to Chiang Mai. You can fly directly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), which is located just a short drive from the city center. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of taxis and songthaews (shared red trucks) that can take you to the city center for a fixed fee. You can also book a taxi using the Grab App.

By Plane – Fastest & Most Convenient

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Airports: Flights depart from both Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports in Bangkok, arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
• Cost: Fares range from $15 to $100, depending on the airline and how early you book.

By Train – A Very Local Experience

• Duration: Between 10 to 14 hours, depending on the train type.
• Departure: Trains leave from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
• Classes:
  • First-Class Sleeper: Private cabins with two beds; ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking privacy.
  • Second-Class Sleeper: Shared cabins with air conditioning or fan options; a balance between comfort and cost.
  • Third-Class: Basic seating; most economical but less comfortable for long journeys.
• Cost: Prices range from $20 for third-class seats to $70 for first-class cabins. 

Note: Overnight trains are popular as they 1) are a really cool local experience 2) save you a night on accommodation costs.

 By Bus – Budget-Friendly Option

• Duration: Approximately 10 to 12 hours.
• Departure: Buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok.
• Arrival: Buses arrive at the Arcade Bus Station in Chiang Mai.
• Cost: Tickets range from $15 to $30, depending on the bus type and operator. 

Note: These companies are a safe bet: Green Bus and Nakhonchai Air.

How to get around during your three days in Chiang Mai

Getting around the city of Chiang Mai is easy. If you’re staying in or near the Old City, you can walk to many notable temples, restaurants, bars and shops. There are also plenty of transportation options, including:

• Songthaews
• Tuk-tuks
• Uber and Grab
• Taxi

The most popular form of local transportation method is the songthaew, a converted pickup truck with rows of seats. It’s very easy to locate them all over the city. Tuk-tuks are also readily available, if you prefer not to share a ride.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Southeast Asia’s own version, Grab, are also available in Chiang Mai. Many times, these apps are cheaper than a regular taxi service. Traditional taxis are also available, but most people only use them to get to and from the airport, train station or bus station. 

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

There are hotels and hostels of all kinds and for all budgets in Chiang Mai. The Old City is the most convenient place to stay, especially if spending just three days in Chiang Mai. From here, you can easily walk to all the major temples and attractions, as well as hundreds of restaurants and shops. I’ve rounded up a few great hotel options in the Old City:

HILLDA HOUSE — best budget option

Hillda House features minimalistic yet modern double rooms at an excellent price. Rooms come with air conditioning, private bathrooms and complimentary toiletries. You can also count on a 24-hour front desk, tour-booking desk and luggage storage.

BURI GALLERY HOUSE — beautiful mid-range option

Can my future home please look like this? This hotel is a rustic tropical oasis. The Buri Gallery House is just a short walk from Wat Phra Singh and the Sunday Street Market. It features a pool, a restaurant nestled in a lush garden, a mini library and a shop selling local goods on site.

PHRA SINGH VILLAGE — a luxury stay

A gorgeous property with mountain views, a pool, gardens and room service. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed; some even offer spa-like hot tubs and a sun terrace.

Where to eat the best khao soi in Chiang Mai

If there’s one thing you must eat while in Chiang Mai, it’s khao soi. It’s the star of Northern Thai cuisine, and you can find it all over the city. Here are a few notable spots where you can experience all the robust flavors of Northern Thailand.

1. Khao Soi Khun Yai: Order the coconut milk-based khao soi. The restaurant is very popular and often quite busy.
2. Khao Soi Mae Sai: Popular street stall with a rich rendition of beef khao soi.
3. Kao Soy Nimman: Lovely restaurant with a varied selection of khao soi.
4. Tong Tem Toh: Trendy spot with a full range of Northern Thai fare.
5. Khao Soi Islam: Serves the original Halal version of the khao soi dish.
6. Huen Phen: Another busy spot specializing in khao soi, especially for lunch. 

Three days in Chiang Mai budget

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Chiang Mai, like all of Thailand, can be a very affordable trip. If you’re traveling on a budget, you can spend as little as $25 to $30 per day. If you plan on dining out repeatedly and participating in a day tour or two, then plan for anywhere from $40 to $70 per day. Luxury travelers who opt for high-end hotels, fine dining, and spa treatments would likely spend $100 or more a day.

In 2018, I spent about $60 per day. This included two day trips and quite a bit of shopping and dining.

How to pack & what to wear in Chiang Mai

Thailand is a warm destination, where you spend most of your time visiting outdoor attractions. That being said, you want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing that’ll get you through a full day of exploring under the sun. 

Here’s a look at some of my Thailand packing essentials:

• Lightweight tops
• Breathable bottoms
• Long & short dresses (this dress is perfect for visiting temples since it covers both your knees and shoulders)
• A light shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting temples
• Good pair of hiking boots
• Flip flops that can get wet
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Flat sandals
• eBags packing cubes to stay organized (I never travel anywhere without them!)
• Quick-drying microfiber travel towel

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3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai

Before we jump in, here’s a quick overview of what to expect from the itinerary. It’s a well-rounded introduction to Chiang Mai for first-time visitors.

• Day 1: Explore the Old City & visit temples (AM) + Night Bazaar (PM)
• Day 2: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (AM) + traditional Thai cooking class (PM)
• Day 3: Elephant Nature Park (All Day)
• Day 4 (optional): Day trip to Chiang Rai or Doi Inthanon National Park (All Day)

Tip: Make the most of your three days in Chiang Mai with the TAGTHAi Chiang Mai Day Pass. It offers free entry or discounts to top attractions, experiences, and local transportation—all for one price. A great value if you’re planning to hit several spots in a short amount of time. There are different kinds of passes available—including one that grants unlimited access to premium spas and massage centers for just $20.

Day 1: Explore temples in Chiang Mai’s Old City

Welcome, or Sawasdee ka! The first day of this 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary is all about getting acquainted with the laid-back town and Northern Thai culture.

You’ll start your day with breakfast in Chiang Mai’s Old City, bounded by ancient walls built hundreds of years ago to protect the city from invasions.

Head over to Good Morning Chiang Mai, a guest house serving breakfast in a beautiful tropical setting. Or swing by local staple Jok Sompet for a traditional Thai breakfast of rice porridge stacked with pork or seafood, and egg. There are veg-friendly options in both.

Now that you’re fueled up, it’s time to begin your temple exploration. The most notable temples in the Old City are:

• Wat Chedi Luang: an enormous, pyramid-like structure with a water serpent staircase and a base decorated with elephants
• Wat Phra Singh: a visually stunning golden temple with slanted roofs; one of the most famous in the Old City, and home to a giant reclining Buddha statue
• Wat Chiang Man: the very first temple built in Chiang Mai in the late 1200s
• Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang: lesser-known but equally impressive Burmese-style temple
• Wat Rajamontean: colorful temple featuring by a large sitting Buddha

Here’s an easy walking tour that covers the five temples above, but feel free to stop at others you find along the way:

After all those temple visits, you’re probably getting hungry. It’s time to introduce you to the delicious dish known as khao soi. Scoop up a bowl of the creamy noodles at any of these highly recommended restaurants: Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Mae Sai or Khoa Soy Nimman.

In the afternoon, head over to the Terracotta Garden (a hidden gem!) for a cool drink in its leafy cafe. Trust me when I say you’ll be more than happy to sit back and cool off from a full day of temple-hopping. 

Alternatively, you could check out the buzzy Nimmanhaemin Road, which is lined with lots of trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops.

By now, you’re probably ready to head back to the hotel to freshen up for the evening.

At night, you’ll cross another major Chiang Mai experience off your bucket list: The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. The city’s biggest street market begins setting up around sunset at the intersection of Chang Khlan and Loi Khro roads. Here you can buy everything from Thai silk and jewelry to backpacker favorites like the Thai elephant pants.

Day 2: Visit Chiang Mai’s most famous temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Day two of this 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary starts with an excursion outside the city.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most sacred temples in northern Thailand and a must-visit for anyone traveling through Chiang Mai. The Buddhist temple most commonly known as “Doi Suthep” stands out from all the rest for its innate beauty and unique location, found at the top of a mountain by the same name, overlooking the city below. Shrined in gold and surrounded by ornate Buddhist statues, the visually striking place of worship is a significant pilgrimage site for the Thai people. When you arrive, you can either walk up the 300 or so steps to the top or take a funicular. Have your camera ready—the views up top will take your breath away.

Despite its unique location, Doi Suthep is relatively easy to get to:

• Driving: If you rented a car or a motorbike, you can take the 1004 or Huay Kaew Road toward Chiang Mai Zoo. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the center of the Old City.
• Songthaew: Many people choose to hire a songthaew. Drivers going to Doi Suthep leave from Huay Kaew Road near the zoo, and they usually wait until the car is full of passengers before leaving. You can also hire one from anywhere in the city if you’re in a group.
• Hiking: This is the most exciting way to get to the temple! The Monk’s Trail starts on Suthep Road past Chiang Mai University, near the zoo. You’ll come across the Pha Lat Temple first, then continue onto Doi Suthep.

Make sure you head back into town early enough to enjoy a traditional Thai cooking class. You’ll learn to make regional dishes like khao soi, pad Thai, and delicious Thai curries. Two popular culinary establishments are Grandma’s Home Cooking School and Smile Organic Farm Cooking School, both of which offer full-day, half-day, and evening classes.

Alternatively, treat yourself to a massage from one of the city’s top wellness centers with this unlimited spa pass, available for just $20 with TAGTHAi.

Day 3: Spend the day at Elephant Nature Park

You’ll spend your third and final day in Chiang Mai with some of the most beautiful creatures on earth.

Elephant Nature Park is a rescue and rehabilitation center for elephants and other animals. It’s known as a pioneer in the ethical treatment of elephants—a place where tourists are absolutely not allowed to touch the elephants. There is no riding, feeding, or bathing allowed.

You may come across several other tour operators claiming to be “ethical elephant sanctuaries,” but make sure to do your own research. We are responsible for our impact on the places we travel to—so, let’s make a positive one.

Considering this is one of the most popular experiences in Chiang Mai, I recommend heading to their office as soon as you arrive. This will likely take up an entire day of your three days in Chiang Mai, so plan accordingly. There are several different day trips available, and all include transportation from the city. You can even stay overnight and volunteer at the sanctuary, too. View all packages available here.

Note: Aside from visits to the rehabilitation center itself, there are also trips available to different villages that are trying out the park’s concept of caring for the elephants rather than using them for work. During this kind of visit, you’ll most likely be able to walk alongside the elephants in their natural habitat, and sometimes even help bathe them in a stream or waterfall. Remember that you should never, under any circumstances, ride the elephants.

Day 4 (Optional): Day trip to Chiang Rai or Doi Inthanon National Park 

If you can add a fourth day to your 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary, there are a number of day trips worth looking into. Two of the most popular day trips from Chiang Mai are 1) Chiang Rai to visit the White Temple or 2) Doi Inthanon National Park, where you’ll find the highest peak in Thailand.

Chiang Mai day trip to Chiang Rai

Many travel to Chiang Rai to visit the iconic White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun. It’s an impressive all-white shrine with unbelievably intricate carvings (maybe you’ve seen it on Instagram). Chiang Rai is about three and a half hours from Chiang Mai. You can drive there yourself, take a bus or schedule a day tour that’ll include additional stops along the way.

Chiang Mai Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

The Doi Inthanon National Park features several hikes, waterfalls and the highest peak in Thailand. But the park is mainly known for Naphamethinidon and Naphaphonphumisiri, the King and Queen pagodas, two towering structures in a colorful garden overlooking the Thai mountains.

The park is about two hours from Chiang Mai by car; you can either rent a car and explore the park on your own or go with an organized tour. I personally did a full-day tour that included a stop at the beautiful Wachirathan Waterfalls, as well as the highest point in Thailand. We also stopped at artisanal markets and a local village known for its handmade textiles and coffee.

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