Chiang Mai Thailand 3 Day Itinerary

July 10, 2024

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Rustic & Blue, known for its unique café vibe and delicious Thai dishes.
Visit Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep): Take a taxi or hire a songthaew (red truck) to reach the temple located on a mountain 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai. The temple offers stunning views of the city and is an important religious site for Thais.
Lunch: Head back to the Old City and have lunch at Khao Soi Arun Kai, a popular spot for Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao Soi.
Afternoon: Visit Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, two of the most important temples in Chiang Mai.
Dinner: Dine at Gerrick’s Gourmet Deli, which offers a variety of Western and Thai dishes.
Evening: Explore the night bazaar for souvenirs, food, and entertainment.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning: Have breakfast at Maya Cafe, which offers a beautiful garden setting and Thai and Western dishes.
Visit Baan Tong Luang: Learn about the art of umbrella painting in this traditional village, just outside Chiang Mai.
Lunch: Head to Kao Soy Leh Chana Road for another chance to try Khao Soi.
Afternoon: Visit Boh Bo Hill Tribes Museum to learn about the various hill tribes in Northern Thailand.
Dinner: Dine at Tarocco Restaurant, an Italian restaurant set in a beautiful villa.
Evening: Relax with a traditional Thai massage at Ananda Massage or explore the nightlife at Zoe in Yellow.

Day 3: Adventure and Nature

Morning: Start your day with breakfast at The Kitchen at 99 Thongtakian, which offers a variety of healthy options.
Visit Elephant Nature Park: Spend the morning interacting with rescued elephants and learning about their conservation efforts. Book your visit here.
Lunch: Have lunch at the park’s on-site restaurant or return to Chiang Mai and try Ploy Restaurant for Northern Thai cuisine.
Afternoon: Visit Muang On Hot Springs or take a cooking class at Thai Farm Cooking School.
Dinner: Dine at Flower of Siam for a fine dining experience featuring Thai royal cuisine.

Things to Know:

Chiang Mai is a city in Thailand’s northern highlands and is the capital of the province of the same name.
The currency in Thailand is the Baht (THB).
The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by foot, songthaew (red truck), or taxi.
Tuk-tuks are also available but are more expensive than songthaews.
Always negotiate the price before starting your journey in a songthaew or tuk-tuk.
The weather in Chiang Mai is hot and humid year-round, with the dry season lasting from November to February.
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.

Tips:

Try to bargain when shopping at markets.
Always carry water with you, especially during the hotter months.
Learn a few basic Thai phrases to make interactions with locals easier.
Stay safe by avoiding deserted areas at night and keeping your belongings secure.