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Whether strolling through its peaceful city centre or venturing into the lush countryside on a motorbike, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Nan.
Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of this stunning province.
A trip to Nan wouldn’t be complete without visiting Wat Phumin, the city’s most iconic temple.
Wat Phumin is the most famous attraction in Nan town, particularly among Thai visitors, but we loved it too!
Originally built in the 16th century by a former ruler of Nan, this royal temple underwent significant renovations in the mid-to-late 1800s.
During this time, a local Tai Lue artist painted its renowned murals.
These murals vividly capture Buddhist scenes and snapshots of life in Nan during the 1800s, including the iconic image “Whispers of Love” (pictured above).
A visit to Wat Phumin is one of the best things to do in Nan; don’t miss it!
š Location on Google Maps: In the heart of Nan, Wat Phumin is easily accessible from the city centre.
Set in a stunning traditional teakwood building, once the royal residence of the Nan rulers, the Nan National Museum is the ideal place to learn about the region’s rich history and culture.
You’ll find fascinating exhibits on everything from local textiles and hill tribe traditions to ancient artifacts.
The museum entrance fee is 100 THB; however, the lower level was being renovated during our visit (Nov, 2024), so the fee was reduced to 50 THB.
We loved this museum and thought the information (in Thai and English) was clear and very interesting.
š Location on Google Maps: Centrally located, it’s just a short walk from Wat Phumin.
If you’re up for an uphill climb (it takes around 30 min one way) or a quick motorbike ride, head to Wat Phra That Khao Noi for one of the best panoramic views of Nan.
The temple is perched on a hill overlooking the city, and its golden Buddha statue facing the valley below is particularly stunning at sunset.
While cycling is an option to reach this spot, the final stretch requires leaving your bike at the base of the stairs and climbing up to the temple and viewpoint.
Alternatively, you can hire a songthaew or taxi (or use the Grab App to arrange a ride) for a more convenient round-trip journey.
š Location on Google Maps: Around 10 minutes from the city centre by motorbike.
Nan’s night market (known locally as āKad Khuang Mueang Nanā) is a vibrant hub where locals and visitors socialise to enjoy street food, handmade crafts, and live music.
Enjoy freshly cooked northern Thai foods such as khao soi, grilled meat skewers, fresh coconut ice cream or coconut pancakes and soak in the relaxed vibe.
š Location on Google Maps: Open Friday-Sunday 5pm-10pm.
You must make time to enjoy a bowl of delicious Khao Soi noodles at this bustling little restaurant.
Now, I’ve eaten many Khao Soi noodles in my time after living in the delicious city of Chiang Mai (and I’ve listed the best Michelin star-rated Khao Soi place you need to eat here in my Food Guide to Chiang Mai), but this Khao Soi was fantastic!
Order it with chicken or even crispy pork (as I did here, which is a first for me; I often eat it with pork balls or sliced pork), but make you stop by!
At 50 THB per bowl, it’s a winner!
š Location on Google Maps: Located in the city centre, you can walk or cycle here for a top-rated lunch!
Read more: 26 Best Travel Tips For Thailand
This elegant temple stands out with its elaborate white carvings and tranquil atmosphere.
It reminds us very much of the famous White Temple in Chiang Rai, however, Wat Ming Muang is on a much smaller scale.
It’s the perfect spot to escape the midday heat and marvel at Nan’s artisans’ craftsmanship.
š Location on Google Maps: Located near the city centre, this is another easy stop if you’re walking or cycling around the city.
TIP: If you need a caffeine hit, I recommend you stop by Nan Specialty Coffee Cafe, conveniently located just a few minutes from Wat Ming Muang. They make excellent specialty coffees here and sell bags of award-winning coffee beans from northern Thailand. Of course, we purchased a bag of fresh beans and had them grind it for us, as we use our portable espresso machine on the road as we travel.
For art buffs, this gallery offers a peaceful retreat showcasing recent works by Thai artists.
Set along the Nan River, it’s a beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy creative inspiration.
š Location on Google Maps: About 20 minutes from the city centre, best reached by motorbike.
Nanās city centre is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle, but a tram tour offers a fun and relaxing alternative.
Departing twice daily at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM from the tourist information office (opposite Wat Phumin), the tram ride costs just 30 Baht.
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If you have a motorbike and a sense of adventure, a trip to Bo Kluea is a must.
These ancient salt wells in a panoramic valley are still in use today.
The motorbike ride takes you through winding mountain roads, which are in excellent condition by the way – and the views and tranquil setting is part of the appeal.
š Location on Google Maps: Approximately 1.5 – 2 hours motorcycle ride from Nan city centre (or longer if you stop to take gorgeous photos along the way).
This age-old temple is surrounded by lush rice fields, making it an ideal blend of history and nature.
Wander around the temple grounds and admire its ancient stupa, then enjoy the serene countryside setting.
š Location on Google Maps: A short drive from the city, Wat Phra That Chang Kham can be reached by motorbike.
Each evening, this area turns into a small night market with street food vendors all set and grilling meats, wok frying pad thai, som tum (Thai papaya salad), grilled meat steaks and salads and more.
There’s an area in the middle to sit and enjoy your dinner, and a musician that plays the guitar and sings; it’s very relaxing.
Don’t miss the famous soy milk street cart vendor at the front right-hand side of the market.
They make excellent soy products and fry the best Thai doughnuts I’ve ever tasted!
Visiting these markets is one of the best things to do in Nan to appreciate the local people and culture.
š Location on Google Maps: Only steps away from Wat Ming Muang.
Known as “Hong Chao Fong Kham,” this 200-year-old teakwood mansion once belonged to a prominent Nan nobleman.
Now a museum, it showcases antiques and traditional life in Nan.
Open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 AM-5 PM, with a 20 Baht entry fee.
Nanās morning market is one of the best spots to witness Buddhist monks on their early morning alms round.
This daily ritual allows locals to make merit by offering food or provisions to the monks.
With several temples clustered in Nanās compact city centre, the area around the morning market becomes a vibrant and colourful scene.
While anyone can participate in alms giving, itās important to follow proper etiquetteāif unsure, simply observe and follow the lead of Thai locals.
Photography is allowed, but be discreet and always show respect toward the monks and those offering alms.
Sapan Village is a reflective place surrounded by mountains, rivers, and rice terraces for those who ventured to Nan province to immerse in nature.
It’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of rural life.
This is one of the best things to do in Nan, and it’s much easier to get here if you have a motorbike or your own wheels.
š Location on Google Maps: Roughly 2 hours from Nan City, Sapan is fantastic for an overnight trip if you have the time.
After a day of exploring, you’ll want a comfortable spot to rest. Nan has accommodations to suit every budget.
Paknap Hostel in Nan offers free bikes, a shared lounge, a terrace, and free WiFi. The hostel also features evening entertainment and a shared kitchen for guests.
š° Price: From $9 per night
Boasting garden views, Ban Roojai features modern accommodation with free bikes and a relaxing balcony to enjoy morning coffee. This is where we stayed in Nan, and we recommend it for travellers looking for a modern, clean room at a reasonable price.
š° Price: From $23 per night
Set in a serene location outside the city, Nan Seasons Boutique resort combines luxury with tranquility. With stunning views, a pool, and top-notch service, it’s worth the splurge.
š° Price: From $90 per night
The city centre is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle. For attractions further afield, renting a motorbike is the best option.
Many guesthouses and homestays offer free bicycle rental when you stay with them, at least this was the case for our very comfortable accommodation at Ban Roojai.
If you don’t have bicycles included with your accommodation provider, never fear; daily rentals are affordable and allow you to venture into the stunning countryside at your own pace.
If you’d like to hire a motorbike, a few places in town will be able to help you. I recommend hiring a motorbike with at least a 150cc engine to ensure you make it easily up some of those uphill climbs.
Nan may not have the crowds of other northern Thai destinations,Ā but that’s whatĀ makes it soĀ special.
From its breathtaking temples to its tranquil rice fields, cool coffee shops, and artistic flair, Nan offers countless things to do for every type of traveller.
Whether wandering the city streets, sampling local dishes at the night market, or rolling through the countryside on a motorbike, Nan will surely leave you with memories to treasure.
So, pack your bags and let Nan’s charm do its thing!
If you’re keen to explore more of northern Thailand, we recommend you visit the quaint lakeside town of Phayao. Check out our post about how to spend two days in Phayao.
We have many travel guides and tips for Thailandāwhat 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 Monkās 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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