As someone who calls Chiang Mai home, I know how magical this place can be when you hit the right spots. If you’ve only got two days here, don’t worry. I’ve packed in temples, views, street food, and local culture to give you an unforgettable taste of northern Thailand.
Day 1: Old Town Vibes & Doi Suthep Sunset
08:00 – Start with Khao Soi Breakfast
Head to Khao Soi Mae Sai or Khao Soi Khun Yai and kick things off with Chiang Mai’s signature dish. Northern Thai curry noodles to fuel your day.
09:00 – Old Town Temple Walk
Wander through Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phan Tao. All walking distance, all beautiful.
11:30 – Coffee Break in Nimman
Grab a ride or scoot over to Nimmanhaemin Road. Pop into Ristr8to or Graph One Nimman for some world-class coffee.
13:00 – Local Lunch
Eat at Tong Tem Toh – Northern Thai food, always buzzing.
15:00 – Doi Suthep & Sunset
Scooter or hire a ride to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Climb the naga staircase, soak up the views, and catch golden hour over Chiang Mai.
18:30 – Dinner & Drinks in the Old Town
Head to Dash! Restaurant and Bar or Ginger & Kafe. Chill rooftop drink at The Roof or live music at Zoe in Yellow if you’re up for it.
Day 2: Nature, Markets & Night Bites
07:00 – Monk Offering & Morning Stroll
Catch the early morning monk alms on Tha Phae Road, then take a peaceful walk along the old city moat.
08:30 – Breakfast at Fern Forest Café
Beautiful garden setting, great coffee, and hearty breakfast.
10:00 – Elephant Sanctuary or Sticky Waterfall
Pick one depending on your vibe:
- Elephant Nature Park (book ahead)
- Or head to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall (rent a scooter or private driver)
15:00 – Massage & Relax
Return to town for a Thai massage at Fah Lanna Spa or Lila Thai Massage (ethical, supports ex-inmates).
17:00 – Explore Chiang Mai Gate Market
Pre-dinner snacks? Yes please. Try fried banana, grilled meat skewers, and fresh fruit.
18:30 – Night Bazaar or Sunday Night Market
- Saturday: Go to the Wua Lai Walking Street
- Sunday: The iconic Sunday Night Market on Ratchadamnoen Rd
- Any other night: Check out the Night Bazaar near Anusarn Market
20:00 – Street Food Dinner
Pick from dozens of stalls: pad Thai, mango sticky rice, or even deep-fried insects if you’re feeling brave.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai is one of those cities that balances soul, spice, and serenity. With just 48 hours, you can still scratch the surface of everything that makes it special. Rent a scooter (I recommend CityGlide), stay central, eat everything, and don’t rush.
See you on the road,
Johnny Ward
Chiang Mai local, travel blogger, eternal wanderer
