Planning a Chiang Mai trip? This guide covers must-see temples, three night markets, and local experiences—so you can stretch a modest budget across the Old City and beyond.

Where Chiang Mai sits

Chiang Mai is northern Thailand’s main city—cooler than Bangkok and rich in Lanna heritage. It is about 700 km north of Bangkok and a natural base for culture, food, and outdoor day trips.

Five heritage stops

  • Wat Chedi Luang — iconic brick chedi in the Old City; dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Wat Phra Singh — classic Lanna temple; foreigners usually pay to enter the main chapel.
  • Wat Chiang Man — among the oldest temples in town; elephant-base chedi is a highlight.
  • Tha Phae Gate — free landmark and Sunday Walking Street hub; mind hygiene around pigeons.
  • Wat Phan Tao — rare teak viharn beside Chedi Luang; remove shoes indoors.

Three night markets

  • Sunday Walking Street (Tha Phae) — weekly craft and food market (~1 km).
  • Anusarn Night Market — daily; strong for souvenirs and original Thai goods.
  • Chang Phueak Night Market — Wed–Sun; famous for pork-leg rice; skip big luggage.

Experiences worth booking

Elephant sanctuaries, zip-lines / ATV, Thai cooking classes, temple visits, traditional dress photos, crafts, spa, and yoga. Pair sightseeing with a Thailand eSIM so maps and bookings stay online.