Things to Do in Chiang Mai: Best Places to Eat, Explore & Stay
Planning a trip to Chiang Mai? Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for another round of weekend markets and mountain views, this guide brings together all my favourite things to do in Chiang Mai — from local eats and cool cafés to charming markets, scenic day trips, and relaxing places to stay.
I’ve visited Chiang Mai a couple of times now (both with family!), and each trip offered something new to fall in love with — be it a peaceful garden café, an unexpectedly fun art workshop, or a quiet foot massage after a long day of exploring. This guide is built from those experiences, with tips to help you skip the guesswork and soak in the city at your own pace.
Whether you’re looking for the best restaurants in Nimman, wondering which weekend market is worth your time, or planning a short nature escape from the city — I’ve got you covered.
How to Use This Guide
This guide is designed to help you plan a fun, fuss-free Chiang Mai trip. Here’s how it’s organised:
Where to Eat – From affordable Thai favourites to charming garden restaurants
Best Cafés – Great coffee, matcha, and dessert spots worth lingering at
Weekend Markets & Shopping – My favourite weekend markets and what to expect
Day Trips & Activities – Nature escapes, cultural tours, and easy booking links
Where to Stay – Hotels I’ve stayed at (and loved!) in the Nimman area
Travel Logistics – Getting around, data plans, currency tips and more
FAQs – Quick answers to common travel questions like when to go and what Chiang Mai is known for
Feel free to scroll through or jump to the section you need most — and don’t forget to bookmark for easy access while you travel.
Where to Eat in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has no shortage of delicious eats. Here are some of my favourite restaurants that balance affordability, taste, and a great setting:
JEAB Cafe & Thai Food
📍 Address: 3 Soi 11, Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Affordable, fuss-free Thai food in an air-conditioned space right in Nimman. We came here for a quick lunch and loved how flavourful the dishes were without breaking the bank. Great for casual meals.
GINGER FARM Kitchen (One Nimman)
📍 Address: One Nimman, 1 Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Located conveniently in One Nimman, this spot is value for money considering it’s in a mall. Everything we ordered was yummy. Just be sure to go early for dinner—the queue builds up fast. If you want something more affordable, head to JEAB instead.
Jia Tong Heng Restaurant (One Nimman)
📍 Address: One Nimman, 1 Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Perfect for when you’re craving Chinese food after days of Thai cuisine. It passed our parents' high standards for Chinese food, so you know it’s legit! A good option if you're dining with older family members.
THE HOUSE by Ginger
📍 Address: 199 Moonmuang Rd, Sriphum, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
A more upscale, beautifully designed sister restaurant of Ginger Farm. Their steamed seabass with spicy chilli and lime sauce is a must-try. A lovely spot for a nicer dinner.
Maadae Slow Fish Kitchen
📍 Address: 29 Ratchamanka Soi 5, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
A cosy seafood-focused restaurant. You must order the stir-fried squid and ink with krill paste and butter beans—it’s rich, savoury, and unforgettable. Slightly hidden, but worth seeking out.
Chom Cafe and Restaurant
📍 Address: 2/13 Moo 2, Mae Hia, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Come here for the dreamy, Instagrammable garden. Request Zone 1 or 2 when you make your booking for the best view. The menu leans more toward traditional Thai than typical cafe fare, so it’s ideal if you want a beautiful setting with hearty food.
Best Cafes in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has an incredible café scene, especially around the Nimman area. Whether you’re after specialty coffee, matcha in a serene setting, or indulgent chocolate treats, these spots are worth checking out.
Roast8ry Coffee Flagship Store
📍 Address: 18 Nimmanhaemin Soi 3, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Just a 2-minute walk from G Nimman Hotel, this café is a solid choice for anyone serious about their coffee. The interior is stylish yet relaxed, making it a great spot to kick off your morning or recharge between activities. We popped by before heading out for the day and really appreciated the quality of the brew and the calm ambience.
Magokoro Teahouse
📍 Address: 191, 1 Sridonchai Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
This was such a unique find! Highly recommend grabbing a seat outdoors (there are only a few) — it honestly feels like you’ve been transported to a quiet garden in Japan. The space is calming and thoughtfully styled, with matcha and traditional teas served in beautiful Japanese ware. A great spot to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Khom Chocolate House
📍 Address: 14 Soi 3, Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
A must-visit for chocolate lovers! Everything in this café revolves around chocolate, from the rich 80% hot chocolate (my personal favourite) to moist, decadent chocolate cake. You can choose your chocolate percentage based on your taste, from 33% to 80%, which makes it a fun and customisable experience. The interior is cosy and inviting — perfect for an afternoon treat or even a casual dessert date.
Chiang Mai Weekend Markets & Local Finds
One of the best parts of a Chiang Mai trip is exploring its local markets—each with its own unique charm.
Baan Kang Wat
📍 Address: 191 Moo 5, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
This artistic village is full of creative shops and slow-living vibes. There are charming cafes, handmade goods, and mini-workshops. We did a papier-mâché painting session for about 160 baht (SGD 6), which took around 40 minutes and was surprisingly meditative.
Why I love it:
Peaceful and inspiring space, perfect for a relaxed morning
Hands-on workshops like jewellery making and leather craft add so much to the experience
Great with friends, or solo if you enjoy browsing mindfully
Tip: Allow 2–3 hours here, especially if you're joining a workshop. I would definitely return to try a different craft next time!
Jing Jai Market
📍 Address: Atsadathon Rd, Chang Phuak, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30 AM to 1 PM, this is one of Chiang Mai's most organised and design-forward weekend markets.
What to expect:
A mix of fashion, crafts, and local design stalls
Well-curated, clean, and spacious layout
Sheltered dining area with delicious local eats (get there by 11 AM for best food options!)
We went around 9:30 AM and found it comfortably busy without being overcrowded. The vibe was lively but chill—perfect for a weekend wander.
One Nimman & White Market
📍 Address: 1 Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
On Fridays to Sundays, this mall transforms into a buzzing mini-market in the evenings. Stalls selling local crafts, accessories, and fashion pop up just outside the mall.
It’s not huge, but it’s a great way to wind down your evening with music, snacks, and shopping. We loved it for its convenience and chill ambience. Great spot to grab dinner and do some browsing after.
Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Walking Street)
📍 Address: Wua Lai Rd, Hai Ya, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
A long stretch filled with a wide range of stalls—from street food and handmade goods to souvenirs. It was much more spacious than the Sunday market and felt easier to walk through.
We had dinner here, hopping from skewer stalls to local snacks. Highly recommend this if you love trying different Thai street food in one go.
Sunday Night Market (Tha Pae Walking Street)
📍 Address: Ratchadamnoen Rd, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
This one is much more crowded and narrower in layout. Some vendors appear at both Saturday and Sunday markets, so if you're short on time, I recommend prioritising Saturday.
Still, it’s a decent option if you're free on Sunday evening and want to people-watch or snack your way through the old town.
Chiang Mai Day Trips & Activities
Chiang Mai is not just about the city — if you have an extra day or two, I highly recommend venturing out to the surrounding areas.
Mon Jam, Doi Suthep & More (Private Full-Day Tour)
🔗 Book via KKday
This private full-day tour takes you through some of Chiang Mai’s most scenic and cultural spots, with a professional driver to make the journey stress-free. It’s a great way to see more of what’s outside the city without having to plan every detail yourself.
My favourite stops:
Tongma Studio & Ironwood Café – A peaceful and beautifully designed art-meets-nature stop.
Mon Jam – Stunning panoramic views and cool air, with fields of flowers and valley lookouts.
Doi Suthep Temple – We arrived just before sunset and it was magical. As the temple lights came on, the atmosphere turned calm and golden — one of my favourite moments of the trip.
What to expect:
Long drives between each stop (at least an hour), so bring snacks and motion sickness meds if needed.
Huay Tung Tao Lake and Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden were pleasant, but may feel skippable unless you're really into quiet nature strolls.
My tip:
If you want to prioritise your time, I’d recommend spending more time at Doi Suthep Temple — especially around sunset.
Tongma Studio & Ironwood Café
Nestled in the rainforest outskirts of Mae Rim, Tongma Studio is part gallery, part café, part immersive art space. Created by Thai artist Chamnian Thongma, the studio showcases life-sized sculptures, raw-material installations, and industrial‑rustic architecture surrounded by tropical gardens.
The café itself leans towards Thai-Western fusion — expect things like pasta, Thai-style salads, and rice bowls. It’s not fine dining, but everything was decent. A peaceful place to pause, especially if you enjoy quiet spaces and quirky art.
Tongma Studio & Ironwood Cafe Exterior
Tongma Studio & Ironwood Cafe Interior
Mon Jam
Perched in the hills of Mae Rim, Mon Jam (sometimes called Mon Cham) feels like a breath of fresh mountain air. It’s part of the Nong Hoi Royal Project, where locals grow strawberries, vegetables, herbs, and even lavender along with the rolling flower fields and farms.
When we visited, the breeze was cool, and patches of lavender added soft purple accents among the green terraces. You’ll stroll through flower gardens, strawberry farms, and café-lined lookout spots. The views are expansive—valleys, mist, and fields that feel made for lingering.
Mon Jam Skywalk Panoramic View
Doi Suthep Temple
One of the most iconic temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits atop a mountain overlooking the city. We managed to arrive just before sunset — and it was honestly one of the most peaceful moments of the trip. As the sun dipped behind the hills, the golden chedi began to glow under the soft temple lights, creating the most magical atmosphere.
The air up there is cooler, the sound of monks chanting drifts gently in the background, and the city lights begin to flicker below. It’s a beautiful blend of spiritual calm and scenic drama.
My tips:
Try to arrive just before golden hour and stay through sunset — the temple slowly lights up as the sky dims, and it’s absolutely beautiful. The golden chedi glows softly, and the entire place takes on a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere.
Skip the stairs and take the cable car (more like a funicular). It’s only 50 THB round trip and the easiest way to reach the top without breaking a sweat.
Do bring a shawl or cover-up if you’re wearing sleeveless tops or shorts — modest dress is required to enter the temple grounds.
Mae Kampong Village Private Day Tour
🔗 Book via KKday
If you love slow travel and mountain villages, this one’s for you. Mae Kampong is a charming village nestled in the hills, with cool weather and lush forest views.
Favourite stops:
Lanna Wild — a thoughtful concept store with tea and handcrafted items
The Giant Chiang Mai — a treehouse cafe with panoramic views
The mountain roads can be quite winding, so bring motion sickness meds if you get carsick. It's a relaxing day overall, great for those who want to escape the city for fresh air and forest views.
Ideal for small groups, nature lovers, or couples.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
I've stayed in the Nimman area twice now and can’t recommend it enough. It’s a vibrant, walkable neighbourhood with plenty of cafes, boutique shops, and easy access to One Nimman—a modern mall that also hosts weekend markets. It's perfect for family trips where everyone wants to do their own thing but stay close together.
Here are two hotels I've personally stayed at and loved:
G Nimman Chiang Mai
📍 Address: 21 Soi 1, Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
We stayed here during our first Chiang Mai trip with Alex’s parents, and it made a great first impression.
Why I loved it:
The entire hotel is beautifully designed—aesthetic from the outside in.
The rooms were clean and well-stocked. The mini-fridge came with free beers and snacks, which was a nice touch.
Spacious bathroom and a quiet neighbourhood made it feel like a calm retreat.
Just a 2-3 minute walk from Roast8ry Coffee Flagship Store—a big plus for coffee lovers!
Things to note:
It’s about a 10-12 minute walk to One Nimman. Not far, but worth considering if you have young kids or elderly parents who may want something closer.
Best for: Couples and families who want a stylish stay and don’t mind a bit of walking.
The Craft Nimman Hotel
📍 Address: 10 Soi 13, Nimmanhaemin Rd, Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
This was where I stayed during my second trip, this time with my parents and sisters.
Why I loved it:
The rooms are comfy and clean. We even got a room that fit all three sisters, which was perfect for bonding.
They serve complimentary breakfast every morning—super handy if you’re heading out early for a day trip.
The hotel staff are incredibly warm and hardworking. They were there from early morning until night, and we honestly thought they might be the owners!
Nearby perks:
Only 5 minutes away from One Nimman
My mom raved about the hair wash place right next door (250 baht)
Great foot massage place just a few doors down (350 baht/hour)
Best for: Families, couples, or small groups looking for a practical, homey base.
Getting Around Chiang Mai: Travel Tips
Whether you’re flying in, hopping around the city, or paying for meals, here are my favourite travel hacks that made our trip smoother:
From Chiang Mai Airport to City
For groups of 4 or more, booking a private airport transfer via Klook is super convenient and cost-effective. The driver waits at the arrival gate and the car is usually more spacious than a standard Grab.
For 2–3 pax, using Grab works just fine and is easy to book directly from the app.
Getting Around the City
We used Grab throughout our stay and found it reliable and affordable. Most drivers were friendly, and the rides were prompt.
Staying Connected: eSIM for Data
I always opt for an eSIM when I travel—it's super easy to set up and activates as soon as you land.
I used Airalo and had no issues with coverage in Chiang Mai.
Plans are affordable and easy to top up if needed.
Currency & Spending: YouTrip Multi-Currency Wallet
We paid for most things using our YouTrip cards, which saved us money on foreign exchange fees.
You can withdraw up to SGD400/month from overseas ATMs with no extra fees.
After that, a 2% withdrawal fee applies.
Some ATMs may charge an additional local fee (usually minimal).
🔗 Get SGD5 off when you sign up for YouTrip
Chiang Mai Travel FAQ
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A direct flight from Singapore to Chiang Mai takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. Airlines like Scoot and AirAsia offer direct options. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is well-connected and just 15–20 minutes by car from the city centre.
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The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season from November to February. The weather is cooler (especially in the evenings), skies are clear, and it's a great time for outdoor markets and temple visits. Do note it’s also the most popular time, so book your accommodation early.
If you’re curious about cultural experiences:
Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Lantern Festival: November
Flower Festival: February
Avoid March to April if you're sensitive to air quality—the burning season can cause haze.
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A 4-day trip is a sweet spot:
2 days to explore the city (cafes, markets, temples)
1 day for a full-day nature or cultural tour
1 day to slow down and revisit your favourite spots
If you have more time, you can add visits to Chiang Rai or Pai.
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Chiang Mai has a tropical savannah climate:
Cool season (Nov–Feb): 15–28°C, dry and pleasant
Hot season (Mar–May): 25–38°C, dry but hot
Rainy season (Jun–Oct): 24–32°C, afternoon/evening showers
Pack light, breathable clothes, but bring a cardigan for the evenings if you’re visiting in December or January.
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Chiang Mai is best known for its rich culture, laidback charm, and mountainous surroundings. Some highlights:
Temples: Over 300 in the city, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Markets: From artisan pop-ups to massive weekend street markets
Cafés: One of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant café scenes
Day Trips: Scenic drives to Mon Jam, Mae Kampong, and more
Festivals: Lantern festivals and flower parades make Chiang Mai uniquely magical
It’s a great destination for first-timers, food lovers, families, and anyone seeking a blend of culture and comfort.
