11 essential tips for visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, known as the Rose of the North, has much more to offer than what appears at first glance.

While Chiang Mai is a well-trodden stop on the Thai tourist trail, it often ranks behind Bangkok and the southern islands for many travelers. However, those who venture north are richly rewarded with a plethora of historic temples, vibrant street stalls, lush jungles, artisan shops, bustling markets, and an abundance of coffee shops, all within the compact area of the Old City, which spans just one square mile.

Spending a few days here can easily turn into a week… or even longer. Having lived in Chiang Mai for nearly ten years, I continue to find it endlessly fascinating. Here’s what you should know before heading to Chiang Mai to make the most of your visit from the moment you arrive.

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1. Chiang Mai serves as both a city and a province

In Thailand, it’s common for the province to share its name with its largest city. (Similar examples include the city of Chiang Rai in Chiang Rai Province and the island of Phuket in Phuket Province.) Keep this in mind when arranging your travel or accommodations.

2. You might find yourself wanting to stay longer than you initially planned

A few days won't suffice to fully experience the allure of Chiang Mai, which often reveals itself in its daily routines. To truly appreciate the city, aim for a stay of at least five nights, or longer if you can. With opportunities to explore the town and squeeze in a few day trips, your itinerary will be filled. Be sure to time your visit to include the weekend, as some of the city's night markets are only open on Saturdays and Sundays.

3. Reserve at least one day for spontaneity

Enjoy a leisurely morning savoring exquisite coffee at a charming café, indulging in a two-hour massage, participating in a cooking or yoga class, or unexpectedly meeting someone from your hometown on the street. The residents and newcomers of Chiang Mai take their commitment to “slow living” seriously, and you should, too. Keep at least one day free of plans to simply roam, relish the easy pace, and remain open to delightful surprises.

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4. Get ready to enjoy some fantastic meals

Food is often considered Thailand’s national hobby, and in Chiang Mai, the abundance of nearby farms providing fresh ingredients, numerous street stalls, and budget-friendly prices (with bowls of noodle soup available for just a dollar or two) elevate the experience to new heights. You’re never too far from a delightful snack, a memorable dish, or a refreshing drink.

5. Sample northern Thai specialties

Characterized by an abundance of herbs, spices, and pork, northern Thai cuisine boasts a distinctive flavor profile that's hard to find elsewhere. You've likely heard of kôw soy, the local favorite featuring egg noodles in a rich curry broth topped with pickled vegetables, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Seek out dishes like kaffir lime leaf-stuffed sai oui sausage, the spicy green chili dip nám prík nùm, the roasted tomato and ground pork dip naam prik ong, and kà·nŏm jeen nám ngée·o, which consists of thin sticky rice noodles in a spicy tomato-based broth.

Start your northern Thai culinary adventure at Tong Tem Toh in the Nimmanhaemin area and Huen Phen in the Old City.

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6. Allocate time for markets

There's always a market, or talat, bustling with activity throughout the day and night. Fresh markets typically open before dawn and wrap up by late morning, while others cater to the after-work crowd in the afternoons and evenings. Additionally, Talat Muang Mai, a wholesale produce market, operates all day and becomes particularly lively at night when farmers bring in their latest harvest from the surrounding hills.

Talat Wororot, also referred to as Kad Luang in the local dialect, is Chiang Mai’s oldest market, situated on the east side of town along the Mae Ping River. It remains a favored spot for locals, offering everything from home goods and flower garlands during the day to clothing and street food in the evenings.

As dusk falls, several night markets spring to life in Chiang Mai. You’ll discover clusters of street food stalls, many of which have been run by the same vendors for over a decade, at Talat Pratu Chiang Mai or Talat Pratu Chang Pheuak. The weekend Saturday Walking Street and Sunday Walking Street are also popular gathering spots for locals, Thai tourists, and international visitors alike.

7. Celebrations in Chiang Mai are truly enchanting

Songkran, Thailand’s New Year festival celebrated every April, and Loi Krathong in November are both major events in Chiang Mai. These occasions feature parades through the Old City, stunning decorations, city-wide festivities, and plenty of photo opportunities. The Loi Krathong festival is especially magical in Chiang Mai, enhanced by the northern tradition of Yee Peng and the breathtaking sight of countless illuminated paper lanterns filling the sky. While the city can feel a bit crowded during these times, the vibrant events and activities make it worth the hustle.

8. Dress (fairly) modestly

Even during the peak of the hot season, Thailand maintains a relatively modest approach to clothing, especially for women. This is particularly true in the north, which is less frequented by tourists compared to Bangkok and the islands. “Polite” attire, which means covering shoulders, chests, and thighs, is necessary when visiting temples and is often expected in everyday life as well. That said, comfort and casualness are the norms. While no one will directly comment on your outfit, dressing modestly will earn you respect and show consideration for local customs.

9. Access to quality doctors and dentists is easy in Chiang Mai

Although you may not need medical attention, if you do become unwell or injured, you can easily walk into any hospital for care. This includes Chiang Mai Ram, the preferred private hospital for both foreigners and locals, conveniently located in the city center. Just head to the check-in desk, and the staff will guide you. Dental clinics are also widely available throughout the city and welcome new patients. If it’s time for a cleaning, this is the ideal spot to go.

10. Be mindful of the 'smoky season'

Thailand experiences three seasons – hot, rainy, and cool – but Chiang Mai is also familiar with what locals refer to as the “smoky season.” This typically begins in February and extends through the hot months until the rains arrive at the end of April or early May, resulting in hazy skies and diminished air quality due to slash-and-burn farming. Each year varies based on weather patterns and government regulations, but if you're visiting Chiang Mai in February, March, or April, expect some level of pollution. Face masks are widely available, and most hotels and indoor restaurants will have air purifiers operating continuously.

11. Traffic is more relaxed in Chiang Mai, but expect to be stopped by police if you’re riding a motorbike

There are numerous options for getting around Chiang Mai, from túk-túks (autorickshaws) to the local rót daang (which translates to 'red trucks' and serve as shared taxis), and the traffic is significantly lighter than in cities like Bangkok.

Navigating the city on a motorbike is arguably the fastest and most convenient option—if you know what you're doing! However, as a foreigner, you will likely encounter police checkpoints. Without a valid Thai motorbike license, you may receive a ticket. Remain polite, stay calm, and pay the fine to continue your journey. Additionally, wearing a helmet is mandatory; although it sometimes feels more like a suggestion than an enforcement, it's still the law.

From túk-túks to taxis, here’s more advice for getting around Chiang Mai