If you are planning a family trip to Chiang Mai and are looking for a well-crafted plan to make the most of your time—you are in luck! Here’s a tried and tested itinerary to spend 3 days in Chiang Mai with family.
With 3 days in Chiang Mai with your family, you can wander through the Old Town & explore its beautiful temples, take a day trip to a national park located on the highest peak of the city, Doi Inthanon, and visit the colorful temples of Chiang Rai.
Chiang Mai is a beautiful & quiet city in Northern Thailand. Also known as the Rose of the North, it’s where culture & history make friends with nature.
It’s a lavish mix of relaxing and adventurous experiences, or really, whatever you make it out to be.
This stunning city ensures that each family member, from the youngest to the oldest, has a memorable and rewarding time!
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How to Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai: A Perfect Itinerary
We caught a morning flight from Don Mueang International Airport to Chiang Mai so we could maximize our day. After all, with only two weeks in Thailand, every moment counted.
A Grab ride from the airport quickly delivered us to Buri Gallery House Resort.
After a brief stop to drop off our luggage and grab some snacks at the hotel’s cafe, Baan Buri Cafe and Restaurant, we set out to explore the Old City.
Just so you know, many hotels in Thailand typically don’t offer early check-in, even with advance requests.
We began exploring close to noon, which was quite hot and hectic due to our time constraints.
Ideally, arriving in Chiang Mai the night before and starting fresh the next day would be more comfortable.
Unfortunately, we missed out on booking a late-night flight due to late reservations, but I recommend securing your flights early to avoid this situation. It’s beneficial to use tools like Skyscanner to track and book early, ensuring a smoother start to your trip.
Consequently, I won’t be detailing our exact itinerary since we started late and missed a few things. Instead, I’ll provide an ideal itinerary assuming you have a full first day in the city to make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Explore Chiang Mai Old Town & Its Temples
Morning
Assuming that you’ve had your breakfast in the hotel, I suggest you start your exploration in the historic Old Town of Chiang Mai, a charming area enshrined by ancient walls and moats.
Like old towns around the world, this part narrates the storied heritage of the city. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you’ll witness the traditional Thai houses, ancient temples, hyper-local markets, and historical landmarks, each playing its role in shaping the city’s history.
First off, visit Wat Phra Singh, a beautiful temple with intricate Lanna architecture and stunning statues of Buddha. It’s particularly famous for its Phra Buddha Sihing or the Lion Buddha statue inside the ornate gilded main hall, Viharn Lai Kham.
The temple frequently hosts festive ceremonies & cultural celebrations. It’s particularly lively during Songkaran (Thai New Year) when locals gather to perform a revered ritual of pouring water over Buddha statues for blessings and good fortune.
Next, stroll to Wat Chedi Luang, another breathtaking temple featuring a massive chedi (pagoda) partially destroyed by an earthquake centuries ago but still standing proudly.
You know, the iconic Emerald Buddha, now a highlight in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, was originally housed here before being relocated.
Wat Chedi Luang is also one of the most preferred to join the Monk Chat where you can sit and talk with monks to learn more about Buddhism and daily life in a monastery. I found it a great opportunity for cultural exchange.
Also, located within the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang is the City Pillar of Chiang Mai, known as Sao Inthakin. It holds a special place in the hearts of the local community as they believe it protects the city & ensures their well-being.
For lunch, head to a quaint cafe or a restaurant in the Old Town. What I loved the most about Chiang Mai is the abundance of vegan and vegetarian cafes and restaurants. We tried Cafe De Thaan Aoan, Goodsouls Kitchen, Its Good Kitchen, and Asa Vegan Kitchen and Studio—loved them all!
What to try? Tom Kha, Tam Khanun, Pad Thai, Som Tam (tangy papaya salad), and Khao Soi (creamy coconut curry noodle soup).
Afternoon
After lunch, take a leisurely walk or a short tuk-tuk ride to the Three Kings Monument, the revered symbol of the city.
The monument celebrates the three kings, Mengrai, Ramkhamhaeng, and Ngam Muang, who are considered to be the founders of Chiang Mai.
Then, visit the nearby Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center where you can learn about the region’s history and culture through interactive displays—perfect for keeping the kids engaged.
Walk about 500 meters from here to witness Chiang Mai’s oldest temple, Wat Chiang Man. The temple complex is home to two chedis (stupas), and two important statues of Buddha—Phra Kaeo Khao and Phra Sila Buddha.
Afterward, visit Wat Srisuphan, a unique temple known for its exquisite silver decoration representing the region’s rich silver-making heritage. It’s a bit out of the old city like a 10-minute drive so plan accordingly.
There are artisan workshops around the temple where you can buy local crafts such as colorful lanterns, handcrafted jewelry, or bags for souvenirs.
Evening
Catch a songthaew to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in the evening. If time allows, you can also stop at Wat Umong.
We spent about 15 to 20 minutes at Wat Umong on the way and got a bit late to catch a sunset from Doi Suthep.
Framed by woodland, Wat Umong is a peaceful place, perfect for walking and reflection. Its system of ancient tunnels (used as a meditation center), Asok Pillar, and beautiful stupa are worth a look.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous attraction in the city, a must-not-miss kind.
One of the most sacred pilgrimages in the country, the temple houses the holy relic of Buddha inside a golden chedi.
You can enjoy the panoramic views over Chiang Mai from the temple grounds, more stunning during sunrise and sunset.
You can choose to climb the 309 steps to reach the temple terrace or opt for a tram service that costs 30 THB per person one way.
We decided to take the funicular to the temple since we were tired and walked down the steps to enjoy both experiences.
As the sun sets and the day cools, the temple grounds take on a peaceful, almost mystical quality.
The soft glow of lanterns and the gentle sound of chanting fill the air, enhancing the sense of spirituality and calm.
Visitors seeking deeper spiritual connections engage in conversations with resident monks. It’s a time when the temple’s sacredness is palpable, perfect if you want to experience profound peace.
PS: If you have an extra day to dedicate to Chiang Mai, you can club hiking at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Winding through dense forests and Hmong tribal villages and past waterfalls, there are many trails in the park, Doi Pui Peak Nature Trail being travelers’ favorite.
End your day at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It’s a lively marketplace where you can shop for local handicrafts, artworks, and other souvenirs and gorge on local street food. Make sure to arrive hungry!
If it’s Saturday, you might want to explore the Wua Lai Walking Street Night Market. The market is huge and the shopping and dining opportunities are endless. Keep the cash and your haggling skills handy! And if it’s Sunday, you have a night market on Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street.
BEST TOURS IN CHIANG MAI
👉 Historic Old City Bike Tour: This 4-hour bike tour with a local guide takes you to the famous temples, landmarks, and markets in Chiang Mai. It’s a perfect introduction to the city for the first-timers!
👉 Temples & Culture Tour of Chiang Mai: This 4-hour tour covers 3 iconic temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man) along with Chiang Mai Arts & Cultural Centre. You can customize it to be a small group or private.
👉 Chiang Mai City Tour with Doi Suthep and View Point: This one’s perfect for culture enthusiasts! In 4 hours, it takes you to the most famous temples in Chiang Mai (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and Wat Pha Lat) and also lets you see the historic gate of Chiang Mai, Tha Phae Gate.
👉 Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: Limited to only eight persons, it’s one of the most tasteful food tours in the city. On this tour, you’ll ride a red truck with the local guide to 15 different incognito restaurants and street stalls to experience the food scene in Chiang Mai.
Day 2: Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park
Morning
Set off early for Doi Inthanon National Park to catch the breathtaking sunrise—it’s known as the roof of Thailand because it’s home to the country’s highest peak.
The drive itself, through rolling hills and lush forests, is beautiful.
Once you’re there, explore stunning waterfalls like Wachirathan, Mae Klang, and Mae Ya, and walk the Ang Ka Nature Trail (easy 30-minute boardwalk) or Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail (2 to 3-hour circular hiking trail with a local guide) or Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail (2-hour beginner-friendly trail), and see the majestic twin pagodas that afford amazing mountain views.
You can enjoy a local meal for lunch at one of the park’s restaurants. Mae Chaem Gate Restaurant comes highly recommended.
BEST DOI INTHANON TOURS
👉 Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project: This full-day all-inclusive tour from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park is a dream come true for outdoor lovers. On this tour, you will witness the famous twin pagodas, enjoy a scenic hike, meet the local hill tribe, and relish authentic Thai food.
👉 Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail: It’s a 6-hour tour where you’ll spend time with gentle giants at Living Green Elephant Sanctuary, soak up views from Doi Inthanon, see the two famous pagodas, walk past waterfalls and rice terraces at the Phak Dok Seaw trail, meet the hill tribe, and sample locally-grown coffee. Lunch and the national park fee are included!
Afternoon
Chiang Mai is quite a hype when it comes to elephant sanctuaries. Every Chiang Mai itinerary (written by a solo or a family traveler) includes a visit to the elephant sanctuary.
There are many in Chiang Mai, however, Elephant Nature Park (ENP) is the most recommended. It rescues and rehabilitates elephants who have had tough lives. I’ve heard ENP educates its visitors about the elephants & their needs.
There’s one in the national park itself—Doi Inthanon Elephant Sanctuary. It’s managed by locals from the Karen tribe. Here, you can feed, bathe, or swim with these gentle giants, and they also allow you to take them for a walk in the forest.
However, my previous experience at an elephant park in Sri Lanka left me skeptical about the ethical claims of some sanctuaries. Because of this, I chose not to visit one this time.
If you’re considering a visit, especially with kids who might be eager to see these magnificent animals, you must research thoroughly beforehand. Sadly, most places prioritize profit over the elephants’ well-being.
If you, like us, decide to let these majestic creatures remain undisturbed in their natural habitat, consider visiting Bo Sang Umbrella Village instead to experience local culture and craftsmanship. This charming village is famous for its traditional paper umbrella-making. You can join a workshop to learn how to make these umbrellas or buy a colorful one as a souvenir.
Or if you and your tribe love food and enjoy cooking, consider joining one of the many fantastic cooking classes in the city.
Here, you can all learn about Thai cuisine and culture together. Plus, you’ll get to cook traditional dishes and then enjoy tasting them as well.
Kids, ideally aged 7 or above can cook with some help from the host, making it a hands-on, educational experience for them.
A list of the top cooking classes in Chiang Mai includes Smile Organic Farm Cooking School, Thai Akha Cooking School, Thai Farm Cooking School, Mama Noi Thai Cookery School, and A Lot of Thai Home Cooking Class.
THE BEST COOKING CLASSES IN CHIANG MAI
👉 Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai: This hands-on half-day tour takes you to an organic farm (Smile Organic Farm Cooking School) where you learn about local herbs, spices, and vegetables, and cook authentic Thai dishes with the help of a local expert. You can choose to make non-vegetarian, vegetarian, or vegan dishes.
👉 Cooking Class with Organic Farm in Chiang Mai at Mama Noi: With this 4-hour tour, you travel to a local market to shop for the ingredients and then visit the organic kitchen garden (Mama Noi Thai Cookery School) to cook classic Thai dishes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available.
👉 Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai: With this 6-hour tour, you will discover the culture and cuisine of the local minority of Akha, visit the local morning market to buy ingredients, and learn to prepare around 10 different dishes, both Thai and Akha at Thai Akha Cooking School.
Evening
After returning to Chiang Mai, consider taking a leisurely walk along Nimmanhaeminda Road or Nimman. With trendy cafes & bars, cool boutiques, spas, and numerous art galleries & craft studios, it’s the hippest street in the city.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick cup of coffee with snacks, dining, some shopping, photography, or just a nice walk, Nimman is perfect for an evening out.
We visited the cheerful Durianism Cafe and absolutely loved it! Alongside durian dishes, the cafe also has a variety of other foods and drinks, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy, even if you don’t like durian.
If you’re traveling with young kids, they’ll be delighted to find a play area (a thoughtful touch) at the cafe, complete with a coloring station.
For a complete dining experience, try Blackitch Artisan Kitchen, Ginger Farm Kitchen, or Accha (if you crave Indian food).
After dinner, treat yourself to homemade ice cream at Janie Scoop. My favorite flavor there is salted caramel—it’s a must-try!
Day 3: Day Trip to Chiang Rai
Located about 200 km (125 miles) northeast of Chiang Mai, the sleepy little town of Chiang Rai is often overshadowed by its larger neighbor but, it’s a cultural gem in its own right.
Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Mangrai as the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (now Northern Thailand).
It’s quite a place for culture and history lovers! I’d suggest staying at least one night in the city to soak its unique charms. If that’s unworkable, take a day trip to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai.
Morning
Start your exploration with the most iconic attraction in Chiang Mai, Wat Rong Khun aka White Temple.
It’s not your regular temple. Conceived and designed by a local visual artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, the White Temple is where spirituality meets creativity.
As for me, it’s one of the most beautiful temples in the world. The all-pure white exterior is adorned with intense murals, religious motifs, and pop culture references like superheroes and movie stars (which makes it particularly appealing to kids). Not to mention using glass fragments that sparkle in the sunlight adds a hypnotic effect.
The most striking (and the most photographed, for a reason) feature is the bridge over a lake, lined with hundreds of outstretched hands representing unrestrained desire.
This leads to the main building, creating a powerful visual narrative about the journey towards enlightenment.
There are several buildings on the temple grounds, each more beautiful and vivid. You can easily spend hours discovering each of them, however, as you have just a day to explore Chiang Mai, it’s wise to prioritize the highlights to ensure you experience the best parts without feeling rushed.
After visiting the White Temple, your next stop is Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai. Once the home of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most revered religious artifacts, now housed in Bangkok’s Grand Palace Complex, this temple holds great significance in Thai history & culture.
Next, make your way to Wat Rong Suea Ten aka Blue Temple, a relatively new temple known for its striking blue color and intricate designs. It’s designed on a theme of sky & heaven.
Inside, you’ll find a huge white Buddha contrasting beautifully against vivid blue walls with murals depicting Buddhist teachings.
It’s time for lunch. Chiang Rai is home to so many charming cafes & restaurants that choosing where to go can be a challenge, a delightful one 🙂
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Cat ‘n’ A Cup Cat Cafe, Nangnon Coffee, BaanChivitMai Bakery Cafe, Barrab Restaurant, Ti Amo Cafe House, Lalitta Cafe, and many more.
We decided to visit Lalitta Cafe basically because It’s quite popular on Instagram for its stunning setting. I saw tons of photos of influencers posing among lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, vibrant steps, and beautiful statues.
Although I don’t usually follow Instagram trends, the beauty of this picturesque spot was too tempting to pass up, and I was excited to see it for myself and create my own memories.
It didn’t disappoint. The service, the food, the portions, and of course, the ambiance—everything was A-plus.
Afternoon
Now that you’ve fueled up, zip over to Wat Huay Pla Kang for an eye-full and mind-full of its unique architecture & spiritual ambiance.
The most famous part of Wat Huay Pla Kang is the huge Guanyin statue. You can actually go inside it and take a lift to the top, which has 9 levels.
You can’t imagine the interiors can be so beautiful—the walls are completely covered with intricate white carvings, and then there are those stunning panoramic views from the top.
Wrapping up the itinerary, don’t miss the Baan Dam Museum aka the Black House. A brainchild of Thawan Duchanee, a local artist, the museum is a collection of houses & buildings, all painted in black, thus the name.
It showcases his artworks that explore the themes of life & death reflecting the darker, more eccentric side of Northern Thai art.
Evening
You have two options here: stroll through the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for some shopping and a casual dinner, or enjoy a quiet dinner back in Chiang Mai, possibly at a restaurant by the Ping River for a peaceful end to your day. To suggest a few—Paak Dang and Malao Malao.
If you have an extra day in Chiang Rai, you can plan a trip to Thailand’s Golden Triangle. It’s about 70 km (43 miles) from the center. Chiang Rai boasts lush tea plantations. You can explore one of its renowned tea plantations, Choui Fong Tea Plantation, along the way to the Golden Triangle.
Additionally, you can take a detour to Doi Pha Mi if you want to go a bit off the beaten path. Near the border of Myanmar, it’s part of the larger Doi Pha Mon mountain range and is famed for scenic landscapes, rich wildlife, ethnic hill tribes (Akha, Lisu, and Lahu), and tea plantations.
I didn’t get a chance to visit the tea plantation in Chiang Mai, however, I visited many in Sri Lanka and India and have always enjoyed learning about the local tea production techniques and sipping fresh brews amidst picturesque scenery.
CHIANG RAI DAY TRIPS FROM CHIANG MAI
👉 Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai City with Golden Triangle: It’s an exhaustive 14-hour tour where you travel to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai in a minivan. The tour includes a visit to the famous Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and the Golden Triangle region with a short stop at Chiang Saen.
👉 Chiang Rai Temples: This full-day, private tour from Chiang Mai lets you witness some of the most beautiful temples in the city—Wat Sang Kaew Photiyarn, Wat Rong Khun, and Wat Huai Pla Kung, a complete cultural extravaganza!
👉 Chiang Rai White Temple, Blue Temple, and more from Chiang Mai: This one’s a complete package! It’s a 12-hour small-group tour that gives you a chance to visit all the best temples in Chiang Rai—Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Seur Ten, Wat Saeng Kaeo Phothiyan, and the Baan Dam Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
It’s during the cooler months from November to February. You can time your visit around the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November or the Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February for a dash of culture & traditions in your plan.
If you don’t mind the heat, consider planning your visit around Songkran in April, a fun water-splashing festival. The traditional Thai New Year celebrations mark this festive time.
Getting Around
Songthaews (red trucks or rod daeng) are the most common & cheapest way to get around Chiang Mai. They are shared pickup trucks with two benches facing each other in the back. You can flag them down on the street, and they operate somewhat like a bus, taking multiple passengers at once. The fare depends on the distance but is usually very affordable. The ride, of course, is rough!
Tuk-tuks (similar to those you find in Bangkok) are a faster, more private alternative to songthaews but are more expensive. They are best for short distances and can be easily found throughout the city. It’s always important to agree on the fare before starting your ride.
Ride-sharing apps, the most famous being Grab, are also available and can be a convenient way to get around, offering both car and motorbike options.
Metered taxis (blue and yellow cars) are not as common in Chiang Mai as in Bangkok, but they can be booked through hotel concierges or called via local services.
The public buses in the city are inexpensive, though routes are limited for tourists looking to visit popular attractions. However, it can be useful for trips to certain areas like shopping malls or the bus station.
You can rent a motorbike or scooter if you are comfortable driving two-wheelers. The best thing is that it lets you explore at your own pace. Popular with solo travelers and couples, families with older kids or teens might also enjoy this quick and easy way to cover more ground. The rental companies ask for an appropriate driving license and it’s wise to know the local traffic rules before you take on the road.
Cycling is also an affordable and fun way to explore Chiang Mai, especially the Old City, which is more compact and less congested. Many accommodations provide free bicycles for guests to use during their stay.
Walking can be a pleasant way to see the sights for those staying within the Old City or close to other main areas. Plus, it’s also the best way to remain fit during travels.
TM Recommendation: If you need a private car and driver for a day trip from Chiang Mai, you can contact Mr. Wat at +66656298557. He came highly recommended by our hotel in Chiang Mai, and we were very pleased with his service.
Where to Stay
There are so many cool places to stay in Chiang Mai with family. Old Town, Nimmanhaemin Road, Riverside, and Chang Khlan are the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai.
Old Town: It’s the historical and cultural heart of Chiang Mai. Its charming streets are dusted with major temples and museums, bustling markets, cute cafes, and traditional restaurants. It’s incredibly captivating and staying here puts you right in the heart of the action.
Buri Gallery House, Tamarind Village, Pran@Kumuang Boutique House, and the Inside House are some of the best family-friendly hotels in the Old Town.
Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman): It’s the hip and creative hub in the city. You’ll find the chic cafes, bars, boutiques, and art galleries, it’s popular among young travelers & digital nomads. Don’t let that deter you—there are ample accommodation options for families with many things to do in the area.
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai, ARMO Nimman, Art Mai Gallery Nimman Hotel Chiang Mai, and At Niman are the perfect hotels for families in Nimman.
Riverside: Located by the Ping River, it’s a beautiful area for families looking for a laid-back and scenic stay.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, The Chiang Mai Riverside, RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort, and Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort are some of the highly-rated riverside accommodations for families.
Chang Khlan: One of the main thoroughfares in Chiang Mai, Chang Khlan is particularly known for housing the city’s prime attraction, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It’s always alive with locals and tourists who flock here to shop, dine, and dance the night away.
Le Meridien Chiang Mai, Shangri-La Hotel, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, and dusitD2 Chiang Mai are a few well-regarded hotels for families along Chang Khlan Road.
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