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Discover Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage by joining Culture Trip's epic 10-day Northern Thailand tour – led by our local insider.

Bangkok

Reasons Why You Should Visit Chiang Mai Over Bangkok

Check out our easy guide on how to make the most of 48 hours in Chiang Mai. Explore sacred temples, vibrant markets, local eateries and more.

Thailand

Chiang Mai

How to Spend 48 Hours in Chiang Mai

Hidden away in the forests of Chiang Mai, Wat Umong is an undeniably serene and peaceful place to visit.

Discover Wat Umong, Chiang Mai's Hidden Temple

Chiang Mai's museums offer something of interest to everyone! Check out our pick of the best museums in Chiang Mai for you to explore.

The Best Museums to Visit in Chiang Mai

Follow our guide to discovering the delightful village of Baan Kang Wat, an area which provides the ideal mix of modern and traditional Thai lifestyle.

A Traveller's Guide to Baan Kang Wat

Insider Travel Guides

Chiang Mai, founded in 1926 on the banks of the Ping river in northern Thailand’s mountainous region, has a rich cultural history, breath-taking surrounds and a laid-back lifestyle that have made it an irresistible stop on the backpacker circuit.

The Insider Guide to Chiang Mai

Reconnect with nature, with history and with yourself in Chiang Mai. The so-called New City’s mystical energy has drawn visitors for generations – and for good reason. Tour the temples in and around the city walls to get introspective. There are many to choose from, but don’t miss the black jade Buddha at Wat Chedi Luang, the elegant assembly hall at Wat Phra Singh, the elephant sculptures at Wat Chiang Man and the five-tiered chedi (a pogoda-like structure) at the Burmese-style Wat Chedi Liam. 

The city’s power to reawaken the spirit spreads beyond its walls and moat. Escape on an excursion through the historic Tha Phae Gate to see more Buddhist architecture at the Doi Suthep, a temple set in a granite mountain, with incredible views back towards Chiang Mai. And yes, everyone does it – because it’s incredible: you can’t leave Chiang Mai without feeling the magic of Mother Nature up close by helping out with feeding time at the Elephant Nature Park. 

Back in Chiang Mai proper, immerse yourself in Thai life by wandering the Talat Warorot, a market that’s been operating for more than a century. Alongside the souvenirs, you’ll find typical Thai household goods and plenty of surprises – this market is one of the largest in the country. 

After all that exploring and reflection, stop off for a traditional Thai massage, with options quite literally around every corner – or you could take things a step further and book yourself in for a meditation session with a Buddhist monk. 

As night falls, you’ll be ready to discover the emerging roof bar scene, with several new builds topped with decks for cocktails at dusk. Now Chiang Mai has worked its magic on you, you’ll want to bring your new-found Zen home with you. Head to the night bazaar to pick up trinkets and souvenirs to remind you of your trip.


The Main Attractions

Oran

Setif

Algeria

Luanda

Angola

Cotonou

Porto-novo

Benin

Botswana

Ouagadougou

Burkina Faso

Burundi

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Chad

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Morocco

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Pakistan

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Asia

Guide to Food & Drink in Chiang Mai, Thailand | Culture Trip

Memorable Food and Drink Experiences

Local food and drink experiences you can book on Culture Trip

Great Eats & Drinks

Discover the best spots for good food & good vibes

Restaurants

The Best Local Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Restaurants

The 10 Best Restaurants in Chiang Mai's Old City

Restaurants

The Best Restaurants in Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai

Guides & Tips

The Best-Kept Food Secrets of Chiang Mai, Thailand

Restaurants

The 10 Best Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Restaurants

The Best French Restaurants In Chiang Mai, Thailand

See & Do

The 10 Best Italian Restaurants In Chiang Mai, Thailand

Food & Drink

The Best Burger Joints in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Restaurants

10 More Amazing Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Bars We Love

Music

The 10 Best Karaoke Bars in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Bars & cafes

The Best Bars in Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai

Bars & cafes

The 10 Best Bars In Chiang Mai's Old City, Thailand

Bars & cafes

The Best Bars in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Breakfast

A collection of our favourite morning and brunch spots

Food & Drink

The Best Brunch Spots In Chiang Mai's Old City, Thailand

Food & Drink

The 10 Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots In Chiang Mai, Thailand

Markets & Shops

Food & Drink

The Best Street Food Spots in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Food & Drink

The Best Cooking Classes in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See & Do

The Best Markets in Chiang Mai, Thailand