Chiang Mai, Thailand-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chiang Mai

  • Morning: Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport. Take a taxi or ride-hailing service to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check-in at [Your Hotel] (see below for recommendations). Freshen up and head out to explore the old city walls and moat.
  • 2 PM: Visit Wat Phra Singh, a stunning temple with beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Take a stroll around the nearby Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
  • Evening: Try some traditional Khantoke dinner at [Khantoke Restaurant] (see below for recommendations). Enjoy local folk music and dance performances.

Day 2: Explore Chiang Mai’s Temples

  • Morning: Visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple perched on top of a mountain with stunning views of the city. Explore the nearby Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
  • 12 PM: Take a break for lunch at [Suan Dok Cafe] (see below for recommendations). Try some delicious Khao Soi, a Chiang Mai specialty.
  • Afternoon: Visit Wat Chedi Luang, a temple with an impressive golden chedi. Explore the nearby Tha Phae Gate and Museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at [The Riverside Bar & Restaurant] (see below for recommendations).

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary and Hiking

  • Morning: Visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates elephants. Learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.
  • Afternoon: Take a hike in the surrounding hills and forests of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Enjoy stunning views of Chiang Mai City.
  • Evening: Relax at [The Good View] (see below for recommendations), a rooftop bar with great views of the city.

Day 4: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Chiang Mai Folk Museum, which showcases traditional Thai culture and way of life. Learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class at [The Cooking School] (see below for recommendations). Learn how to make authentic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at [Nimman Restaurant] (see below for recommendations).

Day 5: Explore Chiang Mai’s Markets

  • Morning: Visit the famous Chiang Mai Walking Street Market, which takes place on certain days of the week. Browse local stalls selling everything from food to handicrafts.
  • Afternoon: Take a visit to the Talat Warorot Market, a bustling marketplace with a wide range of goods and services.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at [The Barso] (see below for recommendations).

Day 6: Adventure Activities

  • Morning: Go rafting or kayaking in the nearby hills and forests. Take on some thrilling rapids and enjoy stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Chiang Mai Adventure Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities like zip-lining and rock climbing.
  • Evening: Relax at [The 3 Kings] (see below for recommendations), a rooftop bar with great views of the city.

Day 7: Last Day in Chiang Mai

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions. Take a stroll around the old city walls and moat.
  • Afternoon: Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for departure.

Accommodations:

  • [Your Hotel] (approx. $20-30 per night)
    • A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and good location.
  • [The Riverside Bar & Restaurant] (approx. $50-70 per night)
    • A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, great views of the river, and a delicious restaurant.
  • [The Good View] (approx. $100-150 per night)
    • A luxury hotel with stunning views of the city, clean rooms, and great service.

Restaurants:

  • [Khantoke Restaurant]
    • Traditional Khantoke dinner with local folk music and dance performances ( approx. $10-15 per person).
  • [Suan Dok Cafe]
    • Delicious Khao Soi and other Chiang Mai specialties (approx. $5-10 per meal).
  • [The Riverside Bar & Restaurant]
    • Great views of the river, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere (approx. $20-30 per meal).

Tips:

  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try some traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup.
  • Visit the Elephant Nature Park for an unforgettable experience.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: approximately 100-200 THB ($3-6 USD) from Chiang Mai International Airport to your hotel.
  • Ride-hailing service: approximately 150-250 THB ($5-8 USD) from Chiang Mai International Airport to your hotel.
  • Songthaew (red trucks): a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, approximately 20-50 THB ($0.60-1.50 USD) per ride.

Other things of interest:

  • Visit the famous Doi Suthep-Pui National Park for stunning views and hiking trails.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over Chiang Mai City (approximately $150-200 USD per person).
  • Enjoy a relaxing massage at [The Spa] (approx. $10-20 per session).

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the time of year, location, and other factors.