How to Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai, Thailand: A Perfect Itinerary

Chiang Mai is located in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand and is known for its beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and lively atmosphere. The city offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers from all walks of life. Whether you are a foodie, adventure seeker, or someone just looking for a quiet holiday, Chiang Mai has you covered. This comprehensive guide is a detailed itinerary for a three-day stay in the city.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Chiang Mai

The first day of the trip can be all about exploring and enjoying a different culture. After a hearty breakfast from a restaurant of your choice, head out to explore some of Chiang Mai's most iconic temples. 

Wat Phra Singh: 

The first temple on the list is Wat Phra Singh, a 14th-century temple filled with Buddha statues carved in various positions and beautiful architecture. This temple is a must-visit. 

Wat Chedi Luang: 

A short walk from the previous temple, you run into Wat Chedi Luang, another magnificent temple home to a massive, partially restored chedi (stupa) dating back to the 15th century. The temple grounds are peaceful and provide a glimpse into the city’s spiritual heritage. After a busy morning, it is time to indulge in a delicious lunch.

Lunch at a Local Eatery: 

Consider stopping for lunch at a local eatery that serves a variety of traditional Thai-style dishes.
You can continue your afternoon by walking around other interesting areas or heading to one of the hotels in Chiang Mai for some rest and relaxation before the night's fun begins. There are a number of great hotel options to choose from, and Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is one of them. As the afternoon turns to dusk, head out through the lively streets of Chiang Mai for an evening of exploration or decide to spend a quiet evening resting. A great place to explore the night scene would be the Night Bazaar. This sprawling market offers everything from handicrafts and souvenirs to street food and clothing.

Panupong Roopyai, Phra-Singh Temple Chiang Mai., CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 2: Adventure and Nature

The second day of the trip can be focused on nature and visiting other beautiful landscapes. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: 

Chiang Mai boasts a beautiful mountaintop complete with a beautiful temple known as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Climb the 306 steps or take a cable car to reach the temple, and don’t forget to admire the golden chedi and intricate murals.After your visit to the temple, there are many activities you can engage in to get your adrenaline pumping. Zip lining is one such activity, which lets you fly through the jungle on a sturdy wire. The experience is like no other. As the day turns to night, head back to your hotel for respite and a warm meal. 

Day 3: Relaxing and last minute sightseeing

Your final day can be spent lazing by the pool, reading a book, or simply sleeping. Two days of adventure may tire some people out. If you aren’t one of those people, consider checking out some of the other exciting landmarks that Chiang Mai has to offer.

Tha Phae Gate: 

This gate is one of the most important landmarks in Chiang Mai and the entrance to the old city. You can also take a walking tour around the area, as the gate marks the perfect starting point for such an adventure.

Warorot Market: 

The Warorot Market can be your last place of interest for the day. This bustling market is packed with vendors selling fresh produce, materials, clothes, household items, spices, and more. It can also be the place to find a couple of interesting souvenirs for your trip back home. As night starts setting in on your adventure, it is time to bid farewell to Chiang Mai.