The Perfect 3 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary for First-Timers
While it doesn’t have those golden beaches found in Southern Thailand, Chiang Mai more than makes up for it with its mountains, waterfalls, ancient architecture, and mouth-watering eateries.
With hundreds of Buddhist temples, immersive (and ethical!) elephant sanctuaries, and breathtaking nature, there is much to fill your Chiang Mai itinerary.
Although Chiang Mai is a pretty large city, you can absolutely see the most spectacular parts of the area in a couple of days. And this is where my Chiang Mai 3 day itinerary comes into the equation.
I’ve pulled together a little bit of everything the region has to offer so that you can have an unforgettable experience. Read on to find out exactly what to do in Chiang Mai in 3 days!
*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
Overview of Your 3 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary
Breakdown of what to do in Chiang Mai in 3 days
- Day 1: Temple-hopping in Old Town, cafes in Chiang Mai, museum visit, Thai cooking class
- Day 2: Chiang Mai Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Sticky Waterfalls, Nimmanhaemin Road
- Day 3: Doi Suthep Temple, Huay Kaew Waterfall, Night Market
Map for your 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary
Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Chiang Mai itinerary.
I marked your 3 days in Chiang Mai with different colors – I used blue for the first day, green for the second day, and red for the third day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.
How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.
Day 1
Chiang Mai’s historic Old Town is located within the ancient walls of the city which are in turn surrounded by a moat. For your first morning, you’ll get to explore this fascinating downtown area.
Discover the temples of Chiang Mai
If you’re wondering what to do in Chiang Mai in 3 days then the answer is easy. With over 500 temples in Chiang Mai, it’s time to slip on your sarong, cover your shoulders and go temple-hopping!
Because there are so many temples to choose from, I’ve pooled together my favorites that you simply must visit. You can easily walk to all of these over the course of the morning if you start early.
Wat Chedi Luang
This temple isn’t quite as grand as some of the other temples you’ll see on your Chiang Mai itinerary but it’s just as atmospheric.
Built during the 14th and 15th centuries, the Emerald Buddha that you can now see in Bangkok’s Grand Palace used to be housed in this temple! The stupa (chedi) used to be much taller but an earthquake caused major damage to it.
You will see four nagas (mythical sea serpents) guarding the stairways in each of the cardinal directions, plus five elephant sculptures on the southern side.
Wat Chiang Man
As construction started in 1306, this is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. However, it was developed over several centuries so you will see that the styles vary significantly.
You will see a standing Buddha statue that is believed to bring the rain that the local farmers require to grow their rice. The crystal Buddha is considered to have special healing powers.
Wat Phra Singh
The 14th-century Wat Phra Singh features the most spectacular mosaic artwork you’ll see during your temple tour! Its grand Lai Kam assembly hall also features murals that portray local life.
The main entrance to the sanctuary is guarded by lions, which explains the nickname, the Temple of the Lion Buddha. It’s also known as the Golden Temple for its blinding stupa.
Wat Sri Suphan
Located just outside the walls, the Silver Temple is shrouded entirely with silver. Even the Buddha sculptures are silver, which is quite startling to see in place of the typical gold.
It was built around 1500 to serve as the temple for a local silversmith village. Around the temple, you will see workshops with craftspeople at work – and in fact, you can commission your own item.
Sadly, women are unable to enter the temple. However, the exteriors are a real sight to behold so it’s still worth adding this one to your Chiang Mai itinerary.
Sip an iced coffee or have lunch
When exploring all these magnificent temples, it’s important to stay hydrated! Which in Chiang Mai is super easy thanks to all the wonderful cafes you’ll find on every street.
If you’re finishing at Wat Sri Suphan, I recommend visiting Artisan Cafe which is just south of the walls. They have a vintage vibe inside and serve some of the tastiest coffee in Chiang Mai. You can also make this your lunch stop!
Visit a museum in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of Thailand so you simply must squeeze in at least one museum in your 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary.
The Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre is located next to the Three Kings Monument. The collection spans art and artifacts from prehistoric times so it’s a great opportunity to learn how the culture and lifestyle have evolved over centuries in the region.
The Chiang Mai National Museum is an alternative, however, it is not in the Old City so you will need to drive there or hail a songthaew. The museum has a phenomenal number of Buddha statues and relics that glean insight into the ancient Lanna kingdom.
For either museum, plan to stay for at least 1 hour.
Thai cooking class
Thai food is utterly delicious so what could be a better keepsake from your 3 days in Chiang Mai than learning the secrets behind your favorite dish?
Cooking classes in Chiang Mai are fully immersive – you will cook your own dishes under careful supervision from an expert Thai chef. The best thing is that you get to eat your own creations!
While there are lots of cooking schools in Chiang Mai, these classes are very popular so definitely book your place in advance.
One of the top-rated tours is this Authentic Thai Cooking Class and Farm Visit where you can not only choose between a morning (8.30 am) or afternoon class (4 pm), but you can also spend a full day learning how to prepare the best Thai dishes (starting from 9 am).
Moreover, you can visit a local organic farm before the cooking starts and you can also create your very own curry paste.
Day 2
For the second day, you’ll be leaving the Old Town and seeing the wilder side of Chiang Mai! Set your alarm for today, you’ll have an early start.
Chiang Mai Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
One of the most special things to do in Chiang Mai is to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. There are a few options to choose from but the most important thing is to check that no elephant rides are permitted.
I’ll be honest with you, I was very hesitant to go first as I don’t like supporting animal tourism in general. But meeting with the elephants was one of my life-long dreams so after careful research I chose to book a tour at Chiang Mai Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
After my personal experience, I can safely say that they are indeed the best! The elephants are treated with the respect they deserve and the guides are passionate and knowledgeable about the majestic creatures.
The only thing I did not like was the mud bathing with the elephants because it felt a little bit forced. Nevertheless, you can choose not to participate like I did and photograph the elephants instead.
You can book either a morning, afternoon, or full-day visit. We opted for a half-day morning visit and this is what I recommend to you as well.
Even the half-day visit will provide an experience you will never forget! This is another part of your Chiang Mai itinerary that you need to book in advance as group sizes are limited.
The sanctuary is located 1.5 hours out of downtown Chiang Mai and a free transfer is arranged at the cost of your visit. Due to the terrain for the final stretch of the journey, the sanctuary does not permit visitors to drive themselves to the site.
Admission costs 1,900 THB ($55.80 US) per adult and your visit includes the opportunity to meet and feed the elephants. Touching is permitted and you may apply a mud treatment to the elephants but you are not allowed to ride them.
Apart from meeting the elephants, your ticket also includes transport to and from the sanctuary, some scrumptious Thai food, and the hire of traditional Karen clothing.
Sticky Waterfalls
If you follow my suggestion and book a morning at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary then that leaves your afternoon free. Free for visiting a one-of-a-kind waterfall!
The Bua Tong ‘Sticky’ Waterfalls are so-called because the limestone rocks create friction which makes it easy to clamber around without slipping. Definitely take your swimsuit and a towel. They are totally free to visit, which is amazing!
The Sticky Waterfalls are located just over an hour north of Chiang Mai. This gives you a chance to freshen up at your hotel once you return from the elephant sanctuary.
If this is too much driving for today, my alternative suggestion is to hike the Monk’s Trail, which starts a short ride from Old Town. The hour-long hike takes you through the jungle at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain to Wat Pha Lat.
It’s named the Monk’s Trail because the route is marked by the orange robes of monks. The trek is not challenging but if you do this in the afternoon it could be very hot so take plenty of water.
Nimmanhaemin Road
After a busy day, it’s time to let your hair down and experience the best food and nightlife Chiang Mai has to offer. Nimmanhaemin ‘Nimman’ Road is a popular spot for Thais, expats, and tourists alike.
Here is where you can find the best cafes in Chiang Mai, along with many great restaurants and exciting bars.
I’m going to suggest you either choose Khao Soy Nimman for some of the best noodles in town or Anchan Vegetarian for wholesome veggie Thai dishes. If you’re in the mood for a little night out, visit Rise Rooftop Bar for wonderful views and excellent cocktails.
Day 3
For your last day in Chiang Mai, you’ll explore the incredible mountain of Doi Suthep that towers over the city.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
If you thought you’d seen the best of Chiang Mai’s temples already, think again! Perched high into the mountains, you’ll find what is arguably the most stunning of all the temples in town.
Officially called Wat Phra That Doi Suthep but generally referred to as Doi Suthep, is one of the most sacred temples in the whole of Thailand.
King Keu Naone established the monastery in 1383 to enshrine a piece of bone that was believed to come from the shoulder of Buddha. A white elephant carried the bone into the hills, which is how the location was chosen. This is why you’ll see a sculpture in honor of the elephant.
To reach the huge golden chedi at the heart of the complex you need to ascend a 306-step staircase flanked by naga. Once inside the premises, you can see incredible relics, statues, and art, and observe monks and locals praying.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours checking out the complex and the views. Note that you again must cover your knees and shoulders when you visit the monastery. You will also need to leave your shoes at the entrance.
If you’re feeling hungry, I recommend grabbing a bowl of khao soi. This is a coconutty, spicy broth served with meat (usually chicken) and crunchy noodles. It’s a Chiang Mai specialty and there’s no better place to enjoy it than from the top of Doi Suthep!
Namtok Huay Kaew Waterfall
As you head back down the mountain, there is a small waterfall that I recommend stopping off at to cool down. Namtok Huay Kaew Waterfall is located just behind the zoo and is clearly signposted.
The 10-meter falls crash into a pool where you can take a dip and enjoy the tranquility of nature-only moments from downtown Chiang Mai!
You’ll have a bit of free time for the final afternoon of your 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary. Take this as an opportunity to explore more coffee shops, temples, or museums. Or you can treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage!
Night Market
There are several night markets in Chiang Mai and it’s worth exploring at least one during your 3 days in Chiang Mai.
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is held every night between 6 pm and 12 am. It’s located in a trendy neighborhood east of the moat. There is a real mixed bag of things to buy – there are some more authentic souvenirs but there are a lot of fakes too!
However, it’s a cool experience with a lively atmosphere and good food choices. Note that this is the most popular market so it does get very busy.
If your Chiang Mai 3 day itinerary falls over the weekend, then you can check out either the Saturday Night Market or Sunday Night Market.
The Saturday market takes place on Wua Lai Road, just south of the walls. Meanwhile, Sunday’s offering takes place just behind Wat Chedi Luang and is the best option for finding arts and crafts.
Useful Info for Visiting Chiang Mai
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
This popular city is teeming with hotels, hostels, and guest houses for you to choose between. Because Chiang Mai attracts backpackers, honeymooners, and families, there’s loads of variety in terms of accommodation.
For your Chiang Mai 3 day itinerary, I recommend that you stay either within the Old Town or in the popular Nimmanhaemin Road area. This way you’ll be close to all the places on my itinerary.
Below you can find the top-rated places to stay in Chiang Mai based on your budget.
- Luxury: The Inside House
- Mid-range: El Barrio Lanna
- Budget: Hotel De Nara
How to get to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai might feel remote but it’s actually one of the easiest cities in Thailand to reach.
Domestic flights to Chiang Mai depart from Bangkok’s two airports, as well as most other Thai cities (and islands) and other Southeast Asian cities. If you are flying to Chiang Mai from an international destination you’ll most likely have to transfer in Bangkok.
The great thing about Chiang Mai is that the airport is super central so it won’t take you long to transfer to your accommodation. That saves valuable time out of your Chiang Mai itinerary!
Alternatively, you can also take a train or bus to Chiang Mai from Bangkok which is definitely cheaper, but on the other hand, it takes between 11 and 13 hours, and delays aren’t uncommon.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has three main seasons, and understanding them will help you decide the best time to go:
- Hot Season (March–June): Expect temperatures up to 40°C (104°F). Outdoor activities are best done early in the day to avoid the midday heat.
- Rainy Season (June–September): Cooler but humid, with daily rain lasting an hour or two. The lush greenery is a highlight during this time.
- Cool Season (October–February): Ideal weather with daytime temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and cool evenings as low as 13°C (55°F). This is peak tourist season, so expect crowds.
The only time I advise you not to visit Chiang Mai is the period between mid-February and the end of March. This is when the local farmers burn their leftover crops and that is why the period is referred to as ‘burning season.’ The smog and pollution are not pleasant and it’s best to avoid the area during these times.
If you’re interested in festivals, April brings Songkran, Thailand’s New Year, where the streets turn into a giant water fight from April 13–15. For something more serene, plan your trip in November for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, when thousands of paper lanterns illuminate the sky, creating a magical experience you can take part in.
How to get around Chiang Mai
One of the best things about Chiang Mai is how easy it is to get around. Much of the Old Town is walkable but when you want to go further afield you have a bunch of options available.
- Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is the most convenient way to get around. Your hotel or Airbnb can often assist, or you’ll find rentals all over town. Just make sure you have a valid license and an International Driver’s Permit to avoid fines.
- Songthaew: These red, open-backed trucks with two rows of seats are a popular and affordable way to travel. Flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and hop on if it’s on their route.
- Grab Taxi: Use the Grab app, similar to Uber, for quick and easy rides around the city. It’s a faster alternative to songthaews for short distances.
