Chiang Mai seems to get more exciting by the year. There are always new attractions and shops to visit, new cafés, restaurants and bars to explore.
Considering the cultural capital of Northern Thailand is already one of the country’s top travel destinations, that means there is a lot to see, do and experience wherever you stay in the city.
THE OLD CITY
All roads lead to the Old City, home to many of Chiang Mai’s most important heritage sites – and some of its best cafés, vendors and shops.
Start at Wat Chiang Man. The temple—Chiang Mai’s oldest—was built in 1296 by the city’s founder, King Mengrai, and today its gilded spires and stone elephants attract regular crowds.
For another hit of history, visit Wat Chedi Luang. Between cultural sites, stop for a coffee at one of the Old City’s excellent roasters. Akha Ama Phrasingh—located by another landmark temple, Wat Phra Singh—serves coffees brewed with Thai beans harvested by members of the Akha tribes in the lush hills north of Chiang Mai. For a great single-origin.
At night, get a drink at one of Chiang Mai’s coolest cocktail bars, like second-floor hideaway The White Rabbit, near the city’s north gate, or Nophaburi.
Where to stay
Tamarind Village: With its beautiful bamboo corridor and lush grounds, the hotel feels far removed from its location in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Where to eat
The House by Ginger is a chic and unique spot serving MSG-free, authentic Northern Thai classics like Khao Soi and Nam Prik Ong with a creative twist.
WAT KET
The east banks of the Ping River historically were a jumping off point for Western missionaries, Chinese traders and teak merchants. Today, this diversity still pulses through the neighbourhood.
To experience the community’s living history, start at Wat Ket Karam, its leafy namesake temple, built way back in 1428. Nearby you’ll find the At Taqwa Mosque, A Chinese mosque that houses the first Islamic school in Chiang Mai and speaks to Wat Ket’s historic diversity.
Set within a colonial-style house near the bustling riverside, La Luna Gallery displays—and sells—work from artists based across Asia. Nearby non-profit Sop Moei Arts, meanwhile, sells gorgeous textiles, décor and crafts made by Karen artisans in Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai.
At night, get a drink beside the river or retreat to Namton’s House Bar, an eclectic bar with a wide variety of craft beer on tap and in fridges, including new releases from Thai brewers.
Where to stay
137 Pillars House: History lives on in this beautifully restored teakwood mansion. Once the headquarters of the East Borneo Company, this property now ranks among Thailand’s best boutique stays.
Where to eat
For a bougie dinner, visit Oxygen Dining Room, a glass-walled Thai and French fine-dining restaurant that features a well-prepared tasting menu using quality domestic and imported ingredients.
MAE RIM
No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without a soothing dose of nature, and for most that means driving north into Mae Rim. This verdant, hilly district hides loads of hidden gems. The best place to start is at the sprawling Akha Ama Living Factory.
Like its flagship in Chiang Mai’s Old City, this café serves fair-trade, locally harvested Arabica coffee, but it’s set within a striking warehouse surrounded by banana trees, a pond and flower gardens.
After refuelling, venture further into the Doi Suthep foothills and take your pick from a number of nature-based activities. Visit the peaceful Mae Sa Waterfall. Explore the beautiful flowers and plants on display at the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai: Set among rice paddies and lush forests, this five-star resort blends Thai style with contemporary elegance. Additionally, the resort boasts an extensive spa and infinity pool. However, in true Four Seasons fashion, it’s the service that truly shines and sets the experience apart.
Where to eat
Whether you choose to dine indoors or relax with house-made tea on Baan Mon Muan‘s patio, a traditional Lanna mountain residence, you’ll enjoy the refreshing coolness of the 1,200-metre elevation and the breathtaking panoramic view.
