Top activities to enjoy in Chiang Mai, from night markets to nature hikes

Set against the backdrop of northern Thailand's mountains, the relaxed city of Chiang Mai radiates charm. As one of the country's most popular destinations, it boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant art and crafts, and historical sites that reflect its legacy as the ancient capital of the Lanna kingdom.

Chiang Mai invites travelers to embrace a leisurely lifestyle, immerse themselves in local culture, and embark on unique adventures off the typical tourist track. With its diverse offerings, this tranquil destination may feel a bit daunting for first-time visitors.

Here are the top experiences to have in Chiang Mai.

1. Find something stunning at Chiang Mai’s markets

The Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai stretches over two blocks, serving as the city's primary shopping hub. With countless stalls, it offers everything from Thai silk and silver to antiques, art, clothing, and footwear. The Night Bazaar operates daily from 6 to 10 PM.

On Saturday evenings, Wualai Walking Street comes alive just outside the ancient city walls. This market is perfect for sampling delicious snacks and purchasing unique handicrafts and locally crafted goods.

A must-visit attraction, the Sunday Walking Street Market begins at Tha Pae Gate and stretches nearly one kilometer (0.6 miles). Here, you'll discover an abundance of handmade gifts, along with live performances from local musicians and artists.

Local tip: Thais appreciate a good haggler, but it’s best to keep the negotiations light and friendly. Only start bargaining if you genuinely intend to purchase the item.

2. Master the art of cooking these delicious Thai dishes

At any hour, you can quell your hunger in Chiang Mai by indulging in the local flavors. The city is brimming with street vendors offering delightful appetizers, snacks, and hearty one-plate meals.

No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without tasting khao soi, a beloved yellow curry and coconut milk soup featuring both crispy and soft noodles, paired with chicken or pork, and topped with shallots, mustard greens, and lime juice. For an enhanced experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare it yourself. Other traditional dishes worth exploring include sai oua, a delicious pork sausage flavored with chilies, garlic, herbs, and spices. For a lighter bite, try nam prik ong, a distinctive tomato chili dip native to the area, served with a variety of fresh vegetables.

Local tip: For a sit-down experience, make your way to SP Chicken. This cozy café is famous for its juicy grilled chicken and offers a selection of classic Thai soups and salads.

3. Explore the iconic temples of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is home to around 200 stunning Buddhist temples, each a masterpiece of architecture. One of the sacred sites just outside the city, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, was originally constructed in the early 19th century and features a long staircase adorned with seven-headed serpent statues. The breathtaking views from the top are truly a reward for the climb.

At Wat Chedi Luang, located in the heart of Chiang Mai, visitors are captivated by its elephant statues and grand pagoda. Another notable temple, Wat Sri Suphan, showcases traditional Lanna architecture and is often called the “Silver Temple” due to its exquisite silver decorations. Initially built for a silversmith community, small silver studios can still be found around the temple grounds. After a moment of prayer in the sanctuary, you can watch the artisans at work and purchase silver pieces to take home.

Local tip: In temple buildings (and private homes), shoes must be removed as a sign of respect and for cleanliness. Thais often remove their shoes smoothly in one motion, and many lace-up shoes are designed to function as slip-ons.

4. Unleash your creativity at Baan Kang Wat

Nestled at the base of Doi Suthep, Baan Kang Wat is a delightful escape from the bustling city that you won't want to miss. This vibrant artist village features a variety of charming independent shops run by local artisans who create wooden crafts, home decor, and other unique items infused with Thai culture. Many artisans offer workshops or classes in their studios, inviting visitors to participate.

This enchanting village harmoniously merges traditional Thai architecture with modern touches such as white stucco walls and ribbon windows. If you're feeling peckish, take a moment to relax at a quaint cafe or indulge in some delightful homemade ice cream. A true treasure of Chiang Mai, Baan Kang Wat is an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate local artistry.

5. Immerse yourself in Chiang Mai's coffee culture

Finding a steaming cup of coffee in Chiang Mai is a breeze. The region is dotted with Arabica coffee farms, leading to an abundance of traditional coffee shops, slow bars, and specialty roasters on nearly every corner. The vibrant cafe scene here is not only stylish but also filled with healthy competition, making coffee bar hopping a delightful experience.

Established in 2010, the renowned Akha Ama Coffee has become a beloved fixture in the city. This popular cafe also serves as a social enterprise, ensuring that farmers receive fair wages and that profits are reinvested into the community where the coffee beans are sourced.

Local tip: Other excellent coffee spots include Graph, known for its nitro brews, and Ristr8to, an Australian-inspired cafe that features drinks with a caffeine rating and stunning latte art.

6. Discover the local countryside

With easy access to surrounding mountains and waterfalls, exploring the breathtaking countryside around Chiang Mai is a breeze. Numerous day trips offer spectacular views and lush scenery just outside the city, allowing you to return to town each night.

We suggest visiting the Pa Pong Piang rice terraces, located near serene Karen villages in the mountains of Doi Inthanon National Park, about a two-hour drive from the city. Local guides are available to lead you through the picturesque fields and villages by bicycle.

Planning tip: Chiang Mai's yearly smoky season, due to crop burning and vehicle emissions, has become longer and more hazardous. This season typically spans from March to April but may extend into mid-May. It's best to avoid traveling to the northeast during this period.

7. Discover the nightlife in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's nightlife is as varied as the city itself, with numerous bars and pubs where you can unwind with a drink after a long day. There are also many live music venues and dance clubs to keep the festivities going.

One of Chiang Mai's favorite live music spots, North Gate Jazz Co-op, features a consistent lineup of jazz musicians in a welcoming setting. Expect a lively atmosphere, as crowds often spill out onto the street.