Chiang Mai-7-day-itinerary
Chiang Mai 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
- Arrival: Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Transportation: Take a taxi or ride-share to your hotel ( approx. 15-20 minutes, 150-200 THB / $5-$6 USD)
- Hotel: Stay at The Grand Naga Residence or similar
- Places to go:
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (walkable from most hotels in the old city area)
- Doi Suthep Temple (approx. 30 minutes by taxi, 100 THB / $3 USD per person for parking)
- What to eat: Try traditional Khao Soi at Khao Soi Mae Sai or similar
- Things to know:
- Exchange your money for Thai Baht (THB)
- Learn some basic Thai phrases, such as “sawatdee” (hello) and “khop khun krap” (thank you)
Day 2: Culture and History
- Places to go:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (free admission, but parking costs around 100 THB / $3 USD per person)
- Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center (approx. 10-15 minutes by taxi, free admission)
- What to do:
- Attend a traditional Thai dance performance at the city arts center
- Explore the surrounding streets and shops
- Where to eat: Try The Good View Restaurant for delicious Thai cuisine with a view of the river
- Tips: Be respectful when visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes as required
- Transportation: Use the local songthaew (red truck) or take a taxi to get around
Day 3: Nature Escapes
- Places to go:
- Doi Inthanon National Park (approx. 1 hour by taxi, entrance fee around 300 THB / $10 USD per person)
- Mae Sa Valley (approx. 30 minutes by taxi, various attractions and activities available)
- What to do:
- Hike the scenic trails of Doi Inthanon National Park
- Visit the stunning waterfalls and scenic viewpoints in Mae Sa Valley
- Where to eat: Try The Elephant Nature Park for a delicious meal with a focus on sustainability
- Things to know:
- Be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities
- Respect the animals and their habitats at Doi Inthanon National Park
Day 4: Hill Tribes and Villages
- Places to go:
- Mae Wang Hill Tribe Village (approx. 1 hour by taxi, entrance fee around 100 THB / $3 USD per person)
- Baan Pha Mon Hill Tribe Village (approx. 30 minutes by taxi, various attractions and activities available)
- What to do:
- Learn about the local hill tribes and their traditions
- Explore the surrounding villages and markets
- Where to eat: Try The Mae Wang Hill Tribe Restaurant for traditional hill tribe cuisine
- Tips:
- Be respectful of the local culture and traditions
- Support local communities by buying handmade crafts or trying their food
Day 5: Shopping and Night Markets
- Places to go:
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (walkable from most hotels in the old city area)
- Talat Warorot Market (approx. 10-15 minutes by taxi, various shops and stalls available)
- What to do:
- Shop for souvenirs or try some street food at the night bazaar
- Explore the surrounding streets and alleys for unique shops and cafes
- Where to eat: Try The Talat Warorot Market Restaurant for delicious street food-style dishes
- Things to know:
- Be prepared for crowds and chaos at the night bazaar
- Haggle politely when shopping at markets or from vendors
Day 6: Wellness and Relaxation
- Places to go:
- The Spa at The Grand Naga Residence (walkable from most hotels in the old city area)
- Baan Thai Massage (approx. 10-15 minutes by taxi, various massage options available)
- What to do:
- Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment
- Explore the surrounding streets and cafes for relaxation and tranquility
- Where to eat: Try The Grand Naga Residence Restaurant for delicious Thai cuisine in a peaceful setting
- Tips:
- Be mindful of your physical and mental well-being during travel
- Prioritize self-care and relaxation when needed
Day 7: Departure
- Transportation: Take a taxi or ride-share back to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Hotel check-out: Check out of The Grand Naga Residence or similar
- Last-minute shopping: Stop by any last-minute shops or markets for souvenirs or gifts
- Departure: Depart Chiang Mai and head back home