Chiang Mai Itinerary For 3 Days

Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, has a special way of captivating you from the moment you step onto its ancient streets. Three days might seem brief for a city so rich in history and natural beauty, yet in my experience, it’s the perfect amount of time to get acquainted with its iconic temples, lush mountains, and buzzing night markets — all without feeling rushed. Picture yourself weaving through hidden alleyways lined with golden stupas, sipping a perfectly brewed latte in a trendy café, then cruising up winding mountain roads to panoramic vistas. That’s Chiang Mai in three days — compact, but endlessly rewarding.

DAY 1: OLD CITY & TEMPLES

Morning: Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang

I like to start my first day early to catch the morning light on the temple roofs. Around 8 AM, the Old City is still waking up, and the quiet charm makes it feel like you have this historic enclave to yourself.

Wat Phra Singh: This 14th-century temple boasts some of the most exquisite Lanna-style architecture. Stroll barefoot across cool tiled floors and admire the hand-painted murals that illustrate scenes of traditional Thai life. If you’re lucky, you may hear the soft chanting of monks echoing through the corridors.

Wat Chedi Luang: A short walk away stands the majestic Wat Chedi Luang, home to the ruins of a towering chedi once considered the tallest structure in the Lanna Kingdom. I love pausing here, imagining the centuries of pilgrims who have passed through. Be sure to walk around the entire chedi — each side reveals different statues and intricate naga (serpent) railings.

Lunch in the Old City

By midday, treat yourself to a refreshing fruit shake and the northern Thai specialty, khao soi, at a cozy café tucked among the Old City’s narrow streets. Many places offer variations of this rich coconut curry soup with crunchy noodles on top, but I’m especially fond of the small family-run joints where grandma’s secret recipe has been perfected over generations.

Afternoon: Wandering the Old City & Visiting Wat Chiang Man

After lunch, continue your temple-hopping spree or simply wander through the labyrinthine lanes. Each turn can reveal charming guesthouses, tiny art galleries, and hidden shrines.

Wat Chiang Man: Believed to be the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man features an elephant-adorned chedi and important Buddha images. I always find the lush garden courtyard to be an ideal spot for taking a moment to journal or reflect.

Evening: Sunday Walking Street

If you’re lucky enough to be here on a Sunday, don’t miss the Sunday Walking Street (also known as the Sunday Night Market). Starting near Tha Pae Gate, this vibrant market stretches along Ratchadamnoen Road. It’s packed with local artisans selling handcrafted souvenirs, hill-tribe textiles, and more street-food stalls than you could possibly sample in one visit.

Dinner Recommendations: Try pad Thai or grilled meats on skewers from the street vendors. If you prefer sit-down dining, the Old City has numerous restaurants serving everything from traditional Thai to Western comfort food.

DAY 2: NATURE & MOUNTAINS

Morning: Doi Suthep Adventure

For your second day, venture into the lush hills surrounding Chiang Mai. I’ve found that an early start is best, especially if you plan on climbing the steps to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep before the crowds roll in.

Journey Up: Some travelers love the mini-trek up the Monk’s Trail, which leads from the base of the mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. However, if you prefer a smoother ascent, grab a songthaew (the red truck taxis) or hop on a scooter (more on transport below).

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Perched high above the city, this temple is more than just a religious site — it’s a symbol of Chiang Mai itself. The ornate golden chedi gleams in the sunlight, and you can ring rows of bells around the terrace for good fortune. Don’t forget to pause at the lookout platform for a sweeping panorama of the city. On a clear day, you can see the entire expanse of Chiang Mai below, and it’s a view that never fails to take my breath away.

Afternoon: Doi Suthep–Pui National Park & Hmong Village

Extend your adventure by exploring Doi Suthep–Pui National Park. If you’re feeling energetic, the park offers forested trails dotted with waterfalls and abundant birdlife. Hike amid towering trees, or simply stroll through well-marked paths.

Hmong Village: Continue further up to one of the local Hmong communities. The villagers often sell handicrafts, freshly picked produce, and homemade tea. It’s a fascinating look into hill-tribe culture — you might catch a glimpse of traditional embroidered clothing and children playing simple bamboo instruments.

Evening: Dinner with a View

After descending the mountain, treat yourself to a serene dinner with a view of Chiang Mai’s twinkling lights. A few restaurants and cafés near the road to Doi Suthep offer terraces overlooking the city. Try a plate of stir-fried vegetables with fragrant jasmine rice, and don’t forget to sample a fresh fruit smoothie made from locally grown produce. Watching the sunset cast golden hues across the cityscape is pure magic.

DAY 3: CULTURE, CAFÉS & SHOPPING

Morning: Nimmanhaemin Exploration

Today is all about modern Chiang Mai culture, starting in the chic neighborhood of Nimmanhaemin (often shortened to “Nimman”). This area brims with trendy cafés, international restaurants, and boutique shops.

Café-Hopping: Fuel your morning with a specialty coffee at one of the third-wave coffee shops. I remember being dazzled by the latte art in a snug café adorned with local artwork. Many spots also double as galleries showcasing talented Thai artists.

Boutique Shopping: Wander along Nimmanhaemin Road and its side sois (lanes) to discover indie clothing stores, handmade jewelry, and quirky souvenir shops. It’s a completely different vibe from the Old City, offering a window into Chiang Mai’s modern, creative spirit.

Afternoon: Café with a View

One of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy an afternoon is to head out of the city for a scenic café perched in the hills. Many such cafés around Mae Rim or Mae Kampong offer sprawling views of lush valleys.

Example: The Giant Tree House Café in Mae Kampong is an enchanting place where you can sip a cappuccino while perched on a huge tree platform. The fresh mountain air and gentle breeze heighten the experience. Keep your camera ready — the vista is postcard-perfect.

Evening: Night Bazaar

Return to the city in the late afternoon, and prepare to dive into the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar along Chang Klan Road. While the Sunday Walking Street focuses more on crafts and artisanal items, the Night Bazaar has a broader range of souvenirs, clothing, and electronics. It’s also a great place to try street food or duck into a small restaurant for northern Thai sausage (sai ua) and sticky rice.

TRANSPORTATION TIPS

Chiang Mai is compact, but having flexible transportation significantly enhances your trip. Here are some of my tried-and-true methods for getting around:
Songthaew (Red Truck): Inexpensive shared taxis. Just hail one on the street, tell the driver your destination, and hop on board. Fares are usually negotiable, so confirm before you ride.

Tuk-Tuks: Zippy and fun, but can be pricier than songthaews. Always agree on a price beforehand.

Scooter or Motorbike Rental: My personal favorite way to explore. Navigating between temples or riding up mountainous roads is pure freedom on two wheels. Below is a quick map of recommended rental shops across Chiang Mai. Click on each pin to see details about the shop and rental rates.

MAP: Recommended Chiang Mai Motorbike Rentals