Travel Guide
English
Thailand

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Pair an old city walk with a trip to the hillside temple of Doi Suthep. Leave time for a bowl of northern Thai curry noodles.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep · Chiang Mai
Wat Phra That Doi SuthepPhoto: Philip Nalangan · CC BY 4.0 ↗

Before you go

When to go and how long to stay

Give the city two or three days. Save a cool, clear morning for Doi Suthep and adjust outdoor plans to local conditions during the smoky months.

Entry documents

Check the visa or exemption for your passport before booking. If you are entering Thailand with a non-Thai passport, complete the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card when required within the submission window before arrival. Save the confirmation and accommodation address.

Getting to the city

Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) is close to town. Use the signed taxi or pickup area and have your lodging’s Thai address ready.

The train station is east of the Ping River. If taking an overnight train from Bangkok, use the exact departure station shown on your reservation.

Getting around

The Old City is walkable. For outer neighborhoods or the mountain, use a red songthaew or arrange a car. Confirm whether the price is for one person, the vehicle or a round trip.

Payments and mobile data

Carry small baht notes for markets, river boats and small vendors. Set up mobile data before leaving the airport, and save your hotel address in Thai. Bring something that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits.

Where to stay

Inside the moat works for temples and markets. Nimman suits café stops and longer stays; be sure your hotel entrance is easy to identify for pickups.

Things to do in Chiang Mai

What to eat in Chiang Mai

A day in Chiang Mai

Go up to Doi Suthep in the morning, have khao soi for lunch, and explore Wat Chedi Luang and the old city in the afternoon.