Chiang Mai in 4 days
Chiang Mai means temples in the old city, Doi Suthep above the rooftops and time with elephants at an ethical sanctuary. Northern Thailand is calmer and greener than the south, and made for trekking.
The plan, day by day
Day 1
- Morning
Doi Suthepabout 1 h 30The mountain west of the city, topped by the temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, reached by a long naga-lined staircase with city views.
- Afternoon
The old city and its templesfree · half a dayThe square old city inside its moat holds dozens of temples, among them the ruined great chedi of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.
Day 2
- All day
An elephant sanctuarya full dayChoose a sanctuary where you watch, feed and walk with rescued elephants, with no riding and no shows.
Day 3
- Evening
The night marketfree · an eveningThe Night Bazaar fills the streets east of the old city every evening, and the Sunday Walking Street takes over the old city itself.
Day 4
- All day
Trekking in the mountainsa full dayGuided treks of one to several days through forested hills, staying in hill tribe villages along the way.
Where to sleep in Chiang Mai
- Green Tiger House · €35 a night
- Buri Gallery House · €45 a night
- Rimping Village · €60 a night
- U Nimman Chiang Mai · €95 a night
- Yaang Come Village · €75 a night
- Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai · €600 a night
- Anantara Chiang Mai Resort · €250 a night
- Shangri-La Chiang Mai · €140 a night
Plan this trip
Hotel prices per room per night, checked when written. Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.