Chiang Mai Thailand 7 Day Itinerary

Chiang Mai 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Settling In

  • Accommodation: Centara Villa Fang (Book Here) or similar, centrally located for easy access to major attractions.
  • Lunch: Visit Khao Soi Khun Yai (ข้าวซอยขุนใหญ่) for a taste of the famous Chiang Mai dish - Khao Soi.
  • Afternoon: Relax and adjust to the new time zone, explore Nimman Haeminda Road for shopping and cafes.

Day 2: Old City Exploration

  • Breakfast: Try breakfast at Riverside Village (ริเวอร์ไซด์ ვილลัজ) or grab a coffee at Ristr8to (RISTR8TO CAFE).
  • Morning: Visit the historic Old City, including Wat Phra Singh (วัดพระสิงห์), Wat Chedi Luang (วัดเจดียลู่ง), and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep (วัดพระธาตุดอยสุเทพ) with its stunning views over Chiang Mai.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at Warorot Market (Kad Luang) for local Thai street food.
  • Afternoon: Explore Art Zone 9 (Art Lane), a creative alleyway filled with art studios, cafes, and shops.
  • Dinner: Savor authentic Northern Thai cuisine at Gae (แก).

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary & Night Safari

  • Morning: Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary like Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary or Elephants Nature Park to learn about and interact with these magnificent creatures.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the sanctuary.
  • Afternoon: Rest and freshen up before heading out for Chiang Mai Night Safari, an open zoo park where you can observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitats.
  • Dinner: Dine at the Night Safari’s Predator Pizza Company or Savanna Restaurant.

Day 4: Day Trip to Mae Hong Son

  • Early Morning: Depart for a day trip to Mae Hong Son, a beautiful mountainous region known for its stunning landscapes and hill tribe communities. Book a tour with a reputable provider like Chiang Mai Day Trips or arrange your own transportation.
  • Lunch: Try local dishes at one of the roadside eateries along the way.
  • Afternoon: Visit Pai Mok Fa Waterfall, Ban Rung Wa Hill Tribe Museum, and the scenic Mae Hong Son Loop.
  • Dinner: Return to Chiang Mai in the evening for a well-deserved rest and dinner at your leisure.

Day 5: Cooking Class & Massage

  • Morning: Join a cooking class like Thai Farm Cooking School or Khum Phayam Cookery School to learn traditional Thai dishes.
  • Lunch: Savor the fruits of your labor during lunch at the cooking school.
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage at a local spa such as Let’s Relax or ITM (International Training Massage School).
  • Dinner: Dine at Thai Temple View Restaurant, located next to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, for panoramic city views.

Day 6: Bamboo River Rafting & Shopping

  • Morning: Head out for a morning of bamboo river rafting on the Pai River with a tour operator like Chiang Mai Adventure Company or JungleBuddy Eco Tours.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a riverside lunch during your rafting trip or grab a bite at a local eatery upon return.
  • Afternoon: Visit Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for shopping and souvenirs, or explore Wualai Street for silk weaving demonstrations and handicraft shops.
  • Dinner: Try Thai street food at Kad Luang – Warorot Market or grab a meal at Khao Niew Mae Rim (ข้าวเนียวแม่ริม).

Day 7: Departure Day

  • Breakfast: Savor your last moments in Chiang Mai with breakfast at your accommodation or a favorite spot from the week.
  • Departure: Transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you memories of an unforgettable experience in beautiful Chiang Mai.

Things to Know

  • The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by renting a scooter or using Grab taxi services (similar to Uber).
  • Tuk-tuks are available but can be more expensive than taxis and Grab.
  • Always negotiate prices, especially for tuk-tuks and tours.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
  • Stay hydrated, and remember to apply sunscreen during the day.
  • Enjoy the unique blend of ancient and modern culture that Chiang Mai has to offer!