Travel guide · Thailand
Chiang Mai: what to see and when to go
Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's cultural capital, a laid-back walled city with more than 300 temples, surrounded by misty mountains. It is the place for cooking classes, night markets and ethical elephant sanctuaries.
What to see and do in Chiang Mai
Old City temples
Wat Phra Singh and the ruined chedi of Wat Chedi Luang, inside the moat.
Doi Suthep
The golden temple on the mountain above the city.
Night markets
The Sunday Walking Street and the Night Bazaar.
Cooking class
A market visit, then khao soi, the local curry noodle soup.
Elephants and mountains
Sanctuaries that don't offer rides, and Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Nov – Feb.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 12 hr | ≈ €580 · See flights |
| New York | 17 hr, 45 min | ≈ €710 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 17 hr, 15 min | ≈ €700 · See flights |
| Dubai | 6 hr, 30 min | ≈ €380 · See flights |
| Singapore | 3 hr, 15 min | ≈ €190 · See flights |
| Sydney | 11 hr | ≈ €550 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €720 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Thailand
- Currency
- Thai Baht
- Good for
- food · culture · nature · calm
- How long to stay
- 3–5 days
- Where to stay
- The Old City to walk everywhere; Nimmanhaemin for cafés and restaurants.Find a place to stay in Chiang Mai
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Chiang Mai, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €580 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Chiang Mai (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Chiang Mai and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Nov – Feb. Average highs range from 27° in January to 35° in April.
How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?
3 to 5 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Chiang Mai cost?
Accommodation runs at around €50 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €720 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 12 hr.
Where should you stay in Chiang Mai?
The Old City to walk everywhere; Nimmanhaemin for cafés and restaurants.
