Chiang Mai 2 Day Itinerary

Chiang Mai 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Khao Soi Khun Yai (ข้าวสุดขุนแม่ขู่ใหญ่), a local favorite for Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao Soi.
  • Start your day with the Wat Phra Singh (วัดพระสิงห์) temple, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Chiang Mai.
  • Visit the nearby Wat Chedi Luang (วัดเจดียล่วง), a stunning example of Lanna architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant (ร้านอัญชาน์), offering delicious Thai vegetarian dishes.
  • Explore the ArtNalf Art Gallery & Café (ARTNALF), showcasing beautiful Thai art and crafts.
  • Take a traditional Thai Massage at one of the many massage parlors in the Old City, such as Itim Spa (ิทิม สปา).

Evening:

  • Dinner at Gerricks (เกริกส์), an iconic rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
  • Experience the Night Bazaar, a bustling market selling everything from clothing and accessories to food and souvenirs.

Day 2: Adventure and Culture

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Rustic & Blue (รัสติกแอนด์บลู), offering a variety of western and Thai dishes.
  • Visit the Doi Suthep (ดอยสุเทพ) temple, reached by a cable car or driving up the mountain. The temple offers breathtaking views of Chiang Mai.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Khao Kha Moo Prasitsart (ขาวขาหมูประสิทธิศาร), serving delicious slow-cooked pork leg over rice.
  • Visit the Baan Umong (บ้านอุ่มง), an eco-friendly bamboo village where you can learn about traditional Thai bamboo crafts.
  • Explore the Elephant Nature Park (ชาวสัตว์เเลฟท์ที่ธรรมดา) and spend time with rescued elephants.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Lily’s Kitchen (ค้างแซ็นเตอรี่), a vegetarian restaurant with a focus on vegan and raw dishes.
  • Relax at the Nimmanhaemin Road (สถิตย์นิมล), a trendy district filled with cafes, bars, and art galleries.

Things to Know:

  • Chiang Mai is known for its friendly locals, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.
  • The main mode of transport in Chiang Mai is by tuk-tuk, but motorbike taxis are also common and often cheaper.
  • Always negotiate the price before taking a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi.
  • Be respectful when visiting temples: dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering.
  • The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season from November to March.

Tips:

  • Rent a motorbike to explore at your own pace. Be careful, as traffic can be chaotic in Chiang Mai.
  • Try local street food for an authentic experience.
  • Visit a Thai cooking class to learn how to cook traditional dishes.
  • Consider taking a day trip to the White Temple (วัดราชานนท์) or the hot springs at Boiling Wat (อุทยานสุ่ยห้วง).