Top Things To See and Do in Chiang Mai's Old City

If you’re not keen to travel far there are plenty of exciting things to see and do within Chiang Mai‘s historic city walls. The ‘Old City’ is known for its cafes, restaurants and also its sightseeing options, read on to find out more!

If you haven’t given a Thai massage a go yet, it is well worth a try and is a great way to relax your travel-weary muscles. The art of the Thai massage has been passed down through generations and dates back over 2,000 years. Thai massage is a little different to a traditional oil massage and one should be prepared to be contorted into various positions. Alternatively, The Old City’s spas also offer other treatments, including oil and foot massages for those who are looking for a more relaxing spa treatment. Pretty much every street has a massage shop so when you feel like needing a rest or some reprieve from the heat, make a beeline for one you like the look of. For something a little more luxurious head to Fah Lanna Spa just down from Wat Phra Singh.

Fah Lanna, Wiang Kaew Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 53 416 191

What better way to explore the Old City than by bicycle! The Bike Historic Old City tour gives you the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Chiang Mai while visiting some of the city’s ancient temples. You’ll visit Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai’s oldest temple, the famous Wat Chedi Luang and stop at Thae Pae Gate and Sompet Market, a bustling hive of local activity. This tour is perfect for the whole family and will take you through the quiet backstreets (sois) at a leisurely pace.

Grasshopper Adventures, 87, Bumrung Buri Rd, Prasing, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 61 740 2233

The North Gate Jazz Co-op (North Gate) is a famous Chiang Mai institution frequented by locals and expats alike. This jazz bar is for relaxed social affairs and is a great place to meet or make new friends. Each night an enthusiastic crowd can be seen spilling out of the bar (sometimes across the road and onto the city wall!) jiving to a range of highly talented musicians. North Gate serves cheap drinks and regularly hosts charity and open mic events.

North Gate, 91/1-2, Si Phum Road, Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 81 765 5246

Chiang Mai was founded over 700 years ago and has been adorned with numerous temples by its famous three kings. Chiang Mai is home to over 3oo temples or ‘wats’, with some of the most significant located in the Old City, such as Wat Phra Singh. Located in the west corner, Wat Phra Singh houses the highly respected Phra Singh Buddha and a study centre for young monks. Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the city, was part of the original structure of the city and has two sacred Buddhas made from crystal and marble. Wat Chedi Luang is also well worth a visit and features a replica of the original Emerald Buddha. You can either seek out a local tour guide to take you around the Old City’s temples or grab a map and explore the area yourself.

Wat Phra Singh, Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Keen to learn how to make those delicious Thai dishes? Chiang Mai is the perfect place to do just that and even has local specialities that you simply won’t be able to get enough of, like the iconic khao soi. Chiang Mai has numerous cooking schools to choose from. However, Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School is one of the most reputable places in the Old City. This school offers both full- and half-day courses and includes a trip to a local market where you’ll be able to hand-pick your fresh ingredients.

Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School, 31 5 Rachadamnoen Rd Soi 7, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 84 640 0988

Immerse yourself in local culture by partaking in a monk chat. A monk chat is quite literally a chat with a monk where you learn about each other’s cultures and ways of life. Most monk chats are with young monks who are eager to practice their English. Wat Chedi Luang is conveniently located in the centre of the Old City and hosts monk chats daily between 9 am and 6 pm. Please remember to wear appropriate attire and adhere to temple etiquette.

Wat Chedi Luang, 103 Road King Prajadhipok, Phra Singh, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The Sunday Walking Street Market stretches from Thape Gate all the way to Wat Pra Singh and spills down the side streets. This enchanting market is bustling with hill tribe crafts, homemade wares and delicious local food stalls. The Chiang Mai Walking Street Market has a captivating atmosphere and is the ideal spot to pick up souvenirs. The market takes place every Sunday from around 4.30 pm until midnight. It is advised to come early to escape the crowds.

Sunday Walking Street Market, Rachadamnoen Rd, Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

This article was originally written by Lena Blos and has since been updated.