Chiang Mai is easily one of my favourite places in Thailand.
After spending 6+ months travelling around this country, Chiang Mai was the place I returned a few times and stayed the longest.
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If you have just a few days to spend here, this itinerary is ideal for you! This article focuses on how to spend just 2 days in Chiang Mai and how to see all the highlights.
A plan is essential when you arrive here because there is so much to see and do.
Chiang Mai is famous for its Old City, surrounded by remnants of a historic wall and a moat, where golden temples and bustling markets come alive.
It’s also a gateway to the surrounding mountains, hill tribes, and elephant sanctuaries.
Visitors love Chiang Mai for its laid-back vibe, beautiful landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its people. Known as Thailand’s “Rose of the North,” this city has something for everyone.
The ideal time to explore Chiang Mai is between November and February. During this period, the weather is cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and humidity is lower, making it pleasant for sightseeing. This season is also dry, which is perfect for outdoor adventures like temple visits, hiking, and market strolls.
Additionally, this period coincides with Loy Krathong (the Festival of Lights) and Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), both held in November.
These celebrations fill the city with floating lanterns, colourful lights, and cultural performances—a truly magical experience.
The rainy season in Chiang Mai, Thailand is from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall in August and September.
It’s best to avoid visiting Chiang Mai in March and April, as this period marks the burning season.
During these months, air pollution from forest fires, agricultural burning, traffic, and other urban sources creates heavy smoke in the area. March is particularly affected, with high levels of pollution leading to limited visibility and poor air quality, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.
Chiang Mai is a haven for food lovers and you probably won’t be able to eat all their special foods in just 2 days in Chiang Mai.
But here are five foods to try, especially for those keen to explore Northern Thai cuisine.
Read more: 12 Top Dishes to Try in Thailand
Here’s the perfect way to spend two days in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Start your first day with a tour of some of Chiang Mai’s most famous temples. You can visit them on your own, or join a guided tour starting around 9 a.m for a deeper insight into their histories and architecture.
There are so many temples in Chiang Mai, but I suggest focusing on the three main ones in the Old Town.
This means you can walk between them or, as mentioned, join the guided tour, which also includes fascinating highlights of the Old City.
Please be aware that this tour is top-rated and often gets booked out in advance, so I recommend you book your spot in advance here.
Begin with this impressive temple, home to a towering ancient chedi, partially restored but still imposing.
Wat Chedi Luang, or the Temple of the Great Stupa, is a central landmark in Chiang Mai’s Old City, rich with history and architectural beauty. Built in the 14th century, it was once among the tallest structures in the city, with a massive chedi reaching 82 metres (269 feet).
Although an earthquake partially destroyed it in 1545, the remaining structure still inspires awe with its carved Naga (serpent) staircases and elephant statues symbolising protection. Don’t forget to look up for all the details.
Wat Chedi Luang once housed Thailand’s revered Emerald Buddha, which is now in Bangkok; a replica now sits in its place.
Unique to the temple is the Inthakhin (City Pillar Shrine), which is said to protect Chiang Mai, along with monk chats where visitors can converse with monks and learn about Buddhism.
Visiting in the morning is especially nice as the ancient structure glows in the soft morning light, adding to its peaceful, reflective atmosphere.
Just next door is this charming wooden temple, a peaceful spot with beautiful gardens and a relaxed ambience.
Wat Phan Tao quickly became one of my favourite temples that I stumbled upon when I was exploring on the Sunday Night market.
Unlike the grand structures nearby Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao stands out with its charming, rustic charm — it’s a wooden temple, entirely crafted from teak, giving it a warm, welcoming feel.
Walking inside, I felt an almost meditative calm, surrounded by detailed wood carvings and golden Buddha statues that glowed softly in the dim light. Outside, a peaceful garden with small ponds and hanging lanterns makes it feel like a tranquil retreat.
Visiting in the evening at sunset is especially magical, as the temple grounds light up with lanterns that reflect in the water, creating a scene that feels straight out of a fairytale, but the light here is gorgeous in the morning as well.
It’s a place where you can sit back, slow down, and really feel the spiritual side of Chiang Mai.
Conclude your temple tour at Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most beautifully preserved temples. Built in the 14th century, this temple complex is a stunning example of Lanna architecture, known for its elaborate woodwork, multi-tiered roofs, and elegant gilded details.
Wat Phra Singh is famous for housing the Phra Singh Buddha statue, a respected image believed to bring blessings to those who come to pay their respects.
The temple grounds are beautifully maintained, with several ornate buildings featuring elaborate murals depicting scenes from daily life and Buddhist teachings. As you wander, you’ll notice the temple’s golden chedi glistening in the sunlight.
Wat Phra Singh is especially lively during Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) when it becomes a central spot for festive celebrations and traditional ceremonies.
The entrance fees for the three temples in Chiang Mai are as follows:
Head to It’s Good Kitchen for lunch, where you can enjoy a variety of authentic Thai dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Another one of my favourite places to eat nearby in this area is called SP Chicken.
More details about this restaurant and our favourite places to eat are in our Chiang Mai Food Guide.
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, don’t miss Akha Ama nearby, a local favourite for its sustainably sourced coffee from northern Thailand.
Thais love their iced coffees, so why not try their specialty “dirty coffee” or one coffee with orange?
Dive into the flavours of northern Thai cuisine by joining a cooking class at 2.00 pm.
You’ll start with a market visit to learn about Thai ingredients and then get hands-on experience preparing classic Thai dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.
This was one of my favourite experiences in Chiang Mai when I first visited Thailand. It was so much fun, I met new people and I got to eat a lot of Thai food!
The cooking class is very popular so I suggest to book early. Reserve your ticket here.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the Old Town which is so pleasant in the evening. It’s not too hot anymore and the lights add to its magic, a must do activity during your 2 days in Chiang Mai.
You might need it to walk off some of the food you had at the cooking class and then head towards the night market to eat more local Thai food!
Depending on the day of the week, there are different options.
If you happen to be in Chiang Mai on the weekend or Sunday, the old town transforms into a night market that will not be missed.
Or there are plenty of places to sit down and eat during your 2 days in Chiang Mai. The Old city has also plenty of options for Vegetarians.
My favourite is in the heart of the old town, a small place called Mr Green.
On any other night head to Chiang Mai’s famous Night Bazaar for a taste of local snacks, refreshing mango shakes, and vibrant souvenirs.
This bustling market is the perfect place to pick up unique handicrafts and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city at night.
Or for something closer to the Old City, you might love the smaller food market near Chiang Mai Gate, which is open every night as well.
For an unforgettable start to the second day of your 2 days in Chiang Mai, make your way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a beautiful mountaintop temple, for sunrise.
You’ll need to be up around 5 a.m., but the early wake-up call is worth it to see the temple bathed in morning light and to enjoy sweeping views over Chiang Mai before the crowds arrive.
You can reach Doi Suthep by local songthaew or join this guided sunrise tour with pick up from the old town meeting point.
Doi Suthep is both a mountain and a cultural treasure located about 15 kilometres from Chiang Mai’s city centre. Rising over 1,600 metres (5,249 feet) above sea level, it’s best known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the iconic temple perched near the summit.
This temple is one of the most sacred sites in Northern Thailand, dating back to 1383.
According to legend, it was founded when a white elephant, bearing a Buddha relic, climbed the mountain, trumpeted three times, and then collapsed, signaling a divine spot for the temple.
The journey up to the temple is memorable itself. Once you arrive, you’ll climb the 306-step staircase flanked by colourful naga (serpent) sculptures or take a funicular if you prefer a quicker ascent.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with an intricate gold-plated chedi (stupa) that shines brilliantly in the sunlight. This golden stupa is surrounded by statues, bells, and shrines, creating a serene and awe-inspiring space.
The temple offers panoramic views over Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular spot for sunrise and sunset visits.
Aside from the temple, Doi Suthep also forms part of the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, where visitors can explore lush trails, waterfalls, and the Hmong village nearby, which offers a glimpse into the hill tribe culture.
The temperature is usually cooler up here so if you are coming early in the morning, have an extra layer. Some tours to Doi Suthep include a visit/stop at nearby villages. This 4-hour tour includes a visit to Doi Suthep & Hmong Village.
After returning to Chiang Mai, treat yourself to brunch or lunch. Try the Nimman area for its trendy café scene. This is a very different area of Chiang Mai and home to many digital nomads.
There are fantastic coffee roasteries, international restaurants, and the Maya shopping mall.
As for my tip for breakfast or lunch, I suggest going to Groon. This cosy spot serves delicious breakfast bowls, sandwiches, salads and fresh juices, and it is one of my favourites.
Or head back into the Old Town and eat at Fern Forest Café.
This Instagram-worthy café offers a garden setting, complete with lush greenery and delicious meals.
And if you need more suggestions, read our detailed blog on the 11 best brunch cafes in Chiang Mai.
The midday heat is the perfect excuse for some pampering. Chiang Mai is known for its affordable and highly skilled massage therapists.
Consider visiting the Women’s Massage Centre by Ex-Prisoners, where ex-inmates have been trained in traditional Thai massage, offering a relaxing experience with a meaningful social impact.
Thai massage is an ancient healing practice combining acupressure, yoga-like stretching, and deep muscle massage. Unlike Western massage, where you lie on a table, Thai massage is traditionally done on a mat on the floor. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, knees, and even feet to press, stretch, and manipulate your body in a series of movements designed to relieve tension and improve flexibility.
Often described as a “passive yoga” experience, Thai massage is performed with the recipient fully clothed (in comfortable, loose attire). The therapist guides your body through a series of assisted stretches while also applying rhythmic pressure along the body’s energy lines, or “Sen” lines, which are similar to meridian lines in traditional Chinese medicine.
This approach is thought to release blocked energy and promote balance and well-being. The cost of a one-hour Thai massage in Chiang Mai is around 250 – 300 baht.
In the cooler evening, wander through the smaller streets of the Old Town to take in the relaxed atmosphere and admire the unique architecture.
If you’re in town over the weekend, don’t miss the Saturday or Sunday Walking Street Markets, which offer an array of street food and handicrafts.
Otherwise, head back to the Night Bazaar for a fresh selection of local eats.
Wrap up your day with a drink and live music at North Gate Jazz Co-Op, a local favourite for its relaxed vibe and talented musicians.
This lively bar is known for jazz performances that add a special touch to your Chiang Mai evening. There are usually 2-3 bands each night.
If you are coming to Chiang Mai for just 2 days, I think the best place is to stay in the heart of the Old city so you are a short walking distance from the temples and restaurants or the weekend night market.
Here’s a range of options, from budget-friendly stays to charming boutique spots in the Old City. Plus, a couple of excellent choices in the trendy Nimman area.
Ed Hostel (Budget 300-600 THB/night): A favourite among budget travellers, Ed Hostel, provides basic but clean dorms and private rooms, with communal spaces to meet fellow travellers. Situated within the Old City, it’s ideal for solo backpackers and those who prioritise location and a social atmosphere.
Green Sleep Hostel (Budget from 700 THB/night): An eco-friendly hostel in the Old City, Green Sleep provides clean dorms with cosy pods, individual lights, and ample storage. The communal areas are ideal for socialising, and the breakfast buffet—with vegan options—is a nice touch for budget-conscious travellers.
Cozy Inn Chiang Mai (Mid-Range 1,200-2,000 THB/night): True to its name, Cozy Inn offers a warm, inviting stay with modern, comfortable rooms just outside the Old City walls. This is a good option for those wanting a quiet, relaxing stay close to Chiang Mai’s main attractions.
Villa Vacay Chiang Mai (Mid-Range, ~1,500-2,500 THB/night): Villa Vacay is a stylish boutique hotel offering cosy, well-designed rooms and a peaceful garden, providing a private retreat close to the Old City. It is ideal for couples or families seeking comfort and a quiet atmosphere without the high price tag.
Chada Mantra Hotel (Mid-Range, from 1,200 THB/night): Chada Mantra combines traditional Thai decor with an affordable price. Spacious rooms decorated with local art give it a boutique feel, and the garden and pool make it a relaxing choice for those exploring the Old City on foot.
The Sila Boutique Bed & Breakfast (Boutique/Mid-Range, ~1,800-2,800 THB/night): The Sila is a charming, upscale B&B in the Old City, featuring rooms that blend traditional Thai and modern design. Known for its personal service and homey ambience, it’s perfect for travellers seeking a boutique experience.
El Barrio Lanna (Boutique, ~3,000-4,500 THB/night): Located in the Old City, El Barrio Lanna offers a stylish mix of traditional Lanna and Spanish-inspired decor. This boutique hotel has well-appointed rooms, a peaceful garden, and a rooftop pool with great city views, making it ideal for couples and travellers seeking something unique.
The Inside House (Boutique, Mid to High Range, from 8,000 THB/night): This stylish boutique hotel blends Lanna-inspired decor with luxury touches. Rooms offer soaking tubs, some with private plunge pools, while the courtyard features a saltwater pool and fountain, creating an oasis of calm in the Old City.
View ALL accommodations in the Old City
Sabaiday Guesthouse Nimman (Budget, from 800 THB/night): A cosy, budget-friendly guesthouse in Nimman, Sabaiday is a comfortable choice for travellers exploring this trendy neighbourhood. With simple, clean rooms and a friendly, welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for budget-conscious travellers.
Like a Local (Budget, from 1000 THB/night): True to its name, Like a Local offers a homey atmosphere with a simple, authentic design that immerses guests in Chiang Mai’s local culture. It’s ideal for those who want a more personal, intimate stay in the heart of Nimman’s vibrant cafe and nightlife scene.
View ALL accommodations in Nimmanhaemin
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Here’s a list of how to get to Chiang Mai from various points of entry. Most travellers come to Chiang Mai from Bangkok.
From Bangkok:
By Air (Flight):
By Bus:
By Train:
International Travellers:
By Air:
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from major cities in Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo.
Many budget airlines like AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and Nok Air offer affordable options.
From Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to the Old City:
From Chiang Mai Bus Station (Arcade Bus Terminal 2):
While 2 days in Chiang Mai can provide an introduction to the city’s rich culture, stunning temples, and zen vibes, it’s generally not enough to fully experience all that the region has to offer.
The suggested 2-day itinerary is designed to help travellers make the most of a short stay, hitting key highlights like the Old City, Doi Suthep Temple, and local markets while also indulging in the city’s delicious cuisine.
However, for a deeper exploration, especially if you’re interested in day trips outside the city, a 3-day stay in Chiang Mai is recommended.
On your third day, consider a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful trekking trails.
Alternatively, a visit to the Elephant Nature Park or an overnight hike with a visit to a local tribe family. I recommend the Monk’s Trail for a lovely hike, which only takes about 30 minutes to hike up to the top to see the temple and about 20 minutes down. You can read our guide to hiking the Monk’s Trail to learn more.
This trail is easy to get to with a Grab or Bolt taxi.
For something really off the beaten path, you could continue your journey north and visit the small town of Lampang in Thailand, which is only a short bus ride away from Chiang Mai, which most tourists skip.
I hope this 2 days in Chiang Mai itinerary helps you plan your stay in this truly incredible city. I adore and love Chiang Mai for everything it has to offer, and I hope you experience this too.
And if you are exploring more of Thailand (and you should), here are 15 amazing things to do. We recommend you consider visiting Nan after your stay in Chiang Mai.
Here are 14 best things to do in Nan to give you an idea of why it’s totally worth a visit! And the quaint lakeside town of Phayao was very relaxing. We recommend spending two days in Phayao if you have the time.
If you’d like to share more about your time here or suggest a place to see or eat at, let me know in the comments below.
We have many travel guides and tips for Thailand—what a delicious country!
Our 26 helpful tips for travel in Thailand are good to know before you arrive.
Start by tasting these top 12 Thai dishes and then explore more of this incredible cuisine. We love to eat here, and Thailand is featured in our top 10 best countries for food lovers.
There are many reasons why it’s the perfect destination, and here are 15 amazing things to do in Thailand to help plan your next trip.
Our ultimate Southeast Asia packing list covers what to take (and what to leave at home). Learn a few basic Thai expressions to impress the locals!
If you plan on travelling to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand (which I highly recommend), read our perfect 2 day itinerary for Chiang Mai. Our accommodation guide for Chiang Mai may also be helpful to you.
We recommend hiking the Monk’s Trail while you’re here.
Chiang Mai is a food lover’s paradise; our food guide on its best restaurants and places to eat is essential reading! Plus, don’t miss our 10 best Brunch Cafes in Chiang Mai!
For those looking to stay a little longer in Thailand, this country is a digital nomad & remote workers’ heaven! Read our detailed digital nomads guide to both Chiang Mai vs Chiang Rai and Ko Samui vs Ko Phangan for remote workers.
Some of our favourite places include Kata Beach, on the island of Phuket – here are ten awesome things to do in Kata Beach, and of course we put together this ultimate food guide for Phuket Town.
We recommend visiting Lampang, a lesser-known (but fantastic) city – here are 11 reasons to visit Lampang!
If you enjoy Lampang, why not visit the quaint lakeside town of Phayao? Here’s how to spend two days in Phayao.
Nan is another place worth visiting in Northern Thailand; our comprehensive post includes the 14 best things to do in Nan.
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