Last Updated: January 11, 2024
Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand and it’s quite frankly, one of our favorite places in the country. We spent a couple of weeks in Chiang Mai and we had the most amazing time! If we’re being honest, we could spend months in this beautiful city and not get tired of it. 3 days in Chiang Mai is more than enough to experience all that this amazing city has to offer.
From its rich culture and history to its delicious food and stunning natural beauty, there are countless reasons to visit Chiang Mai. Here you’ll experience a mix of traditional and modern Thai culture, as well as a plethora of outdoor activities.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai and only have 3 days to explore, you’re in for a treat!
Chiang Mai is an excellent destination for those looking to experience traditional Thai culture, delicious food, and outdoor activities. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through this charming city and share our quintessential guide on how to make the most of your 3 days in Chiang Mai.
Continue reading to find out how to spend 3 days in Chiang Mai, one of Thailand’s (and ours) most beloved destinations.
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HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS IN CHIANG MAI: YOUR QUINTESSENTIAL GUIDE
Day 1 – Explore the Old City
The first day of your trip should be spent exploring the old city. This is the center of Chiang Mai’s culture and heritage and is home to a variety of Buddhist temples, old markets, and an abundance of charming cafes.
Start your day with a stroll through the tree-lined streets and visit the impressive temples. Chiang Mai’s temples are not only important religious sites but also a must-see if you’re interested in Thai culture and history. They offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region and are a testament to the skill and artistry of Thai craftsmen. It was difficult for us to narrow the list down to just 5, as each temple was more impressive than the last one. However, if you only have one day to explore the Old City, then in our opinion, these are the top 5 temples to not miss out on.
Wat Phra Singh
This ancient temple dates back to the 14th century and It is renowned for its beautiful architecture and ornate decoration. Its magnificent large gold stupa is what stands out the most.
Wat Chiang Man
Built in 1296, it is the oldest temple in the city and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning sculptures.
Three Kings Monument
The monument depicts three seated figures considered by locals to be the founding fathers of the city and stands as a symbol of Chiang Mai’s proud heritage. Built in 1796, the Three Kings Monument is an impressive sight and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Wat Chedi Luang
The temple dates back to the 14th century and it was once home to the largest stupa in the world! Although the stupa was damaged in an earthquake in the 15th century, it is still an impressive sight to behold.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This gorgeous temple is located on the mountain of Doi Suthep a short 25’ drive from Chiang Mai. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful architecture, sculptures, and murals that adorn the temple grounds. Before you leave, take a few moments to marvel at the spectacular views of the city and countryside below. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-see destination if you’re visiting Chiang Mai.
TIP: Every day, Wat Chedi Luang offers monk discussions where visitors are welcome to ask the monks any questions they may have about Buddhism or Thailand. It’s a unique experience worth including in your 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary.
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Next, head to the street markets of Chiang Mai. This is where you can find some of the most delicious and unique street food in the city. From Pad Thai to mango sticky rice, we guarantee that you’ll find something to satisfy your craving. Be sure to haggle for a good price, and don’t forget to take some time to browse for unique souvenirs and trinkets.
Here are 3 of our favorite markets in Chiang Mai.
Somphet Market
Somphet Market is located just outside the old city walls of Chiang Mai. The market is best known for its wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Here, you’ll also find flowers and souvenirs. The prices are reasonable and you can often find great deals if you’re willing to haggle. Don’t forget to stop at one of the many local food stalls serving up delicious Thai dishes.
Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market
We discovered the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market by luck as we left our hotel to grab a bite. This vibrant market is also known as the Chiang Mai Walking Street Market. It happens weekly and it takes place in the Old Town of Chiang Mai. More specifically, the market is located within the walls of the Old Town and spreads along Ratchadamnoen Road and the side streets.
The market generally begins around 4 pm and runs until 10 pm. During this time, the road is closed to traffic. Here, you’ll find a variety of goods, including souvenirs, clothing, and of course, yummy food.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar has been a staple of Chiang Mai nightlife for over two decades and is the perfect place to shop, eat, and experience the city’s unique culture. The Night Bazaar is a treasure trove of goods, from clothing to souvenirs to handmade crafts. There are also plenty of food stalls offering delicious snacks and traditional Thai street food. Our favorite thing about the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (besides the food) was the live music performances. We spent a good portion of the night listening to local musicians play all-time favorites. We absolutely loved this place and we can’t recommend it enough! If you can squeeze only one market during your 3 days in Chiang Mai, then this should be the one.
Day 2 – Explore Chiang Mai’s beautiful nature
On your 2nd day in Chiang Mai, take a day trip to the nearby national park, Doi Inthanon. It’s not every day you get the opportunity to hike to the summit of the highest mountain in Thailand.
This park is a great destination if you love nature and you’re looking for a bit of adventure. From breathtaking waterfalls and lush forests to picturesque rolling hills, Doi Inthanon National Park truly is one of the most beautiful places we’ve been to in Thailand.
The best way to see Doi Inthanon National Park is by booking a tour. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or a car and explore it at your own pace. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with lush greenery and incredible views of the mountain. There are plenty of things to explore in the park, including several temples and cascading waterfalls.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can take a guided tour up to the peak of Doi Inthanon. You’ll get to witness amazing views of the surrounding landscape and enjoy the fresh mountain air. We booked this tour and we really enjoyed it. Our guide was very knowledgeable and engaging.
The tour includes a visit to local hill tribe villages, hiking the scenic Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, exploring the stunning waterfalls, and much more.
For us, the highlight of the tour was when we visited the Two Chedis. These two magnificent stupas are located atop Thailand’s highest mountain and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It was an extraordinary experience and we urge you to include it in your “3 days in Chiang Mai” guide.
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Day 3 – Go on a Day Trip
A visit to Chiang Rai is a must for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. Chiang Rai is a hidden gem in northern Thailand that’s definitely worth your time. This charming city is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and marvelous temples.
The most extraordinary attractions in Chiang Rai are the White Temple and Blue Temple. If you only have 3 days in Chiang Mai, then you can easily visit them by booking a day tour. The drive is roughly 3 hours, so you’ll need a full day to visit Chiang Rai. Bear that in mind and start as early in the morning as possible.
Chiang Rai White Temple
The White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, is a breathtakingly beautiful temple. It’s a modern art exhibit and temple combined, designed by local artist, Chaloemchai Kositpipat. This one-of-a-kind temple is covered in glass and intricate carvings, making it a stunning display of art and architecture. The intricate details, both inside and outside, are truly mesmerizing.
TIP: Note that photography is not allowed inside the temple. However, you can capture its beauty from the outside.
Blue Temple Chiang Rai
The Blue Temple, also known as Wat Rong Suea Ten is a spectacular temple, not to be missed during your 3 days in Chiang Mai. This temple is renowned for its striking blue color and elaborate designs that mix traditional Thai architecture with contemporary elements. The temple’s walls are covered with intricate murals and sculptures, depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and history.
Black House Museum Chiang Rai
This beautiful museum is a collection of traditional northern Thai-style houses and structures, each showcasing intricate wood and bamboo craftsmanship and decorative art. Baan Dum Museum is a unique blend of traditional and contemporary art that provides a unique window into the rich cultural heritage of northern Thailand.
HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS IN CHIANG MAI – FINAL THOUGHTS
We made wonderful memories in Chiang Mai that’ll last us a lifetime. We hope that this guide will help you plan an amazing trip to this beautiful part of Thailand. Spending three days in Chiang Mai is ample time to experience everything the city has to offer. However, you could easily stay longer and still not exhaust all the awesome things to do here.
With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and warm hospitality, you’re sure to fall in love with this incredible city.
