Chiang Mai has a lot to offer – from ancient temples to modern cafes and impressive nature. Whether you want to explore the green hills, the waterfalls or the cultural highlights, you’ll find something for everyone here. In this article, we’ll take you to the most beautiful places and sights in Chiang Mai that you absolutely must discover – from the most famous highlights to quiet oases that invite you to relax. Enjoy browsing!

  • General information about Chiang Mai
  • The most beautiful sights in Chiang Mai
  • Tours & Excursions from Chiang Mai
  • Beautiful accommodations in Chiang Mai
  • Arriving in Chiang Mai
  • Entering Chiang Mai
  • Best time to visit Chiang Mai
  • Food in Chiang Mai
  • Internet and SIM card
  • Local transport
  • Withdrawing money in Chiang Mai
  • Chiang Mai travel guide
  • Our conclusion about Chiang Mai

General information about Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand and has long since ceased to be an insider tip among travelers. Around 116,000 people live here – in the entire province, the number is even higher than 1.7 million. Many of them still work in agriculture, which is noticeable: everything around them is green, pristine, and truly beautiful.

The region lies on the Ping River and is characterized by mountains, hills, and a diverse landscape – perfect for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Chiang Mai itself offers not only nature, but also a wealth of culture: ancient temples, markets, the old town, street food, coffee houses, night markets, cooking classes, and fantastic national parks in the area.

Quick Facts Chiang Mai

  • Location: Northern Thailand, 700 km north of Bangkok
  • Population: approx. 116,000 (province approx. 1.7 million)
  • Climate: Tropical, rainy season from May to October
  • Best time to visit: November to February
  • Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
  • Languages: Thai (official language), Lanna dialect, English (widely spoken)
  • Time zone: ICT (UTC+7)
  • Sights: Old town, temples, night markets, waterfalls, viewpoints

Wat Chiang Man

The most beautiful sights in Chiang Mai

In the next section, we’ll show you some of the most beautiful sights in Chiang Mai. The city has an incredible amount to offer – from temples in the old town to excursions into nature. Here are our highlights and the best activities you shouldn’t miss.

It’s best to take at least three full days to explore the most important highlights at a relaxed pace. We were there for almost twelve days, but also worked in between – otherwise we could have easily discovered something new every day.

  • Historic Old Town 4-hour guided bike tour*
  • Explore the Old Town by private tuk-tuk*
  • Culinary Adventure: Cooking Class, Market and Thai Herb Garden Tour*
  • 3-hour city tour through the Old Town and the temples*

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Temples in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a true temple city – there are over 300 Temples are spread throughout the region. No wonder, since Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in northern Thailand for almost 500 years. This long history is reflected in the many temples you can discover here.

In the old town of Chiang Mai, there are several temples you absolutely must experience. We find Wat Lok Mo Li particularly charming with its super-tranquil atmosphere. Wat Phra Singh impresses with its golden chedi and the famous Buddha that gives this temple its name.

You should also check out Wat Suan Dok. Particularly noteworthy is the large, golden chedi, which serves as the center of the temple and supposedly houses a relic of the Buddha. Surrounding it are over 100 smaller white chedis containing the ashes of royal family members.

Just outside the city lies Wat Phra That Doi Kham. This temple sits atop a hill and offers spectacular views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding mountains. Particularly striking is the huge, golden Buddha statue, which is the symbol of the temple.

Other fascinating temples in the city

  • Wat Chedi Luang
  • Wat Umong Suan Putthatham
  • Wat Chiang Man
  • Wat Chai Mongkhon
  • Wat Lok Molee
  • Wat Chet Yot

Wat Buppharam Chiang Mai Wat Suan Dok Chiang Mai Wat Buppharam Chiang Mai

Temple complex Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A very special temple in Chiang Mai is definitely Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This temple simply has to be on your list. Located about 15 km west of the city center, on Doi Suthep Mountain, it lies at an altitude of 1,056 meters and offers not only impressive architecture but also breathtaking views of the city.

The ascent to the temple is quite straightforward by scooter. The first highlight on the way up is the 306-step Naga Staircase. If you don’t want to make the climb, you can use the electric vehicle service for 50 baht.

Although the temple is often visited by tourists, you should definitely put it on your list. The atmosphere is simply unique – the golden chedi and the view of the city make it a great highlight in our eyes.

  • Address: Suthep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai
  • Opening hours: daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Admission: 30 baht per person
  • Highlights: White Elephant, Naga Staircase, Golden Chedi, Viharn, Walkway
  • Tour: Evening tour* or day tour*

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

The Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is a great destination for a day trip and is located practically right on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. The park covers an area of around 260 square kilometers and is a true paradise for nature lovers. Here you can observe over 300 species of birds, colorful butterflies and, with a bit of luck, even monkeys.

The park not only offers great viewpoints such as the Wang Bua Ban Pond, but also beautiful waterfalls, including the Huay Kaew Waterfall, Mok Fa Waterfall and Mon Tha Than Waterfall, as well as numerous hiking trails that lead you through untouched nature. And right at the top of the park awaits the imposing Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which you already know.

Popular hiking trails: Buddha’s Footprint Trail (13 km), Monk’s Trail (approx. 1.5 hours) and Huay Tung Tao Circular Trail (7 km).

  • Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour*
  • 7-hour summit hike in Doi Suthep National Park*
  • E-bike ride through the countryside with a guide and lunch*
  • Doi Inthanon National Park and Pha Dok Siew Trek*

Mon Tha Than Waterfall in Doi Suthep Pui National Park

Chiang Mai Night Markets

The night markets of Chiang Mai are a real highlight and should not be missed on any visit. The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar takes place daily on Chang Klan Road. Here you can find everything from clothing and jewelry to handicrafts and souvenirs. The atmosphere is particularly unique in the evening when the lights illuminate the market.

The Saturday Night Market is particularly popular with locals and tourists and stretches through the old town, especially along Wua Lai Road. Here you will find handmade products, local art, and many stalls selling Thai specialties. The market starts in the late afternoon and continues into the night.

The Sunday Walking Street Market is one of the largest and most popular markets in Chiang Mai. It stretches along Ratchadamnoen Road and offers everything your heart desires—from handmade jewelry to traditional Thai clothing and local handicrafts. The market begins in the late afternoon and continues into the evening.

The Warorot Market is a more traditional market that takes place during the day but is also open in the evening and offers a great atmosphere. Here you can buy fresh produce, spices, snacks, and souvenirs. The food stalls and small stands, in particular, offer authentic, delicious food. Attention: The Ploen Ruedee Night Market is unfortunately permanently closed!

  • Chiang Mai: Evening Food Tour through the Local Street Market*
  • Chiang Mai Pub Crawl: The Best Nightlife in Town!*

chiang-mai-walking-street-night-market night-market-chiang-mai-highlights chiang-mai-walking-street-Ploen-Ruedee-Night-Market

Nimmanhaemin Road

Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman Road for short) in Chiang Mai has become a real hotspot in recent years. It was a particular highlight for us because of the many cool cafés and co-working spaces. You can work really well here, be creative, and enjoy some of the best coffee in the city. The street is known for its hip cafés and other cozy spots, perfect for a break or a quick work break.

There’s also plenty to discover for shopping enthusiasts. Small boutiques with local design and the Nimman Promenade shopping center offer a diverse selection of products. There’s also a great mix of art, culture, and nightlife. In the evenings, the street comes alive with cool bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

Hot spots along Nimmanhaemin Road

  • Ristr8to Coffee Lab
  • Roast8ry Coffee Flagship
  • Restaurant at akyra Manor Hotel
  • Rock Me Burger
  • Tong Tem Toh Northern Thai Restaurant
  • Stewed Beef Akkara Noodle Shop
  • Ginger Farm Kitchen
  • Rise Rooftop Bar

Nimmanhaemin Road

Lights festival Loy Krathong in Chiang May

The Loy Krathong Festival is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and important festivals and is celebrated in Chiang Mai with a particularly impressive atmosphere. It takes place every year in November and is known for the sky lanterns (Khom Loi) that rise into the night sky, as well as for the floating krathongs that float on the rivers and lakes.

In Chiang Mai, Loy Krathong is celebrated for three days, as it coincides with the Yi Peng Festival. The main venues are the Tha Phae Gate and the Night Bazaar, where various stages are set up for events such as beauty pageants. Especially in the evenings, there’s a colorful parade through the city with music, dancers, and people in traditional costumes – a real eye-catcher.

You can find a Loi Krathong all over the city. These floating rafts, decorated with candles and flowers, are lit at nightfall and then floated in the Ping River or other designated areas. However, they are not allowed in the city moat.

The festival symbolizes saying goodbye to misfortune and asking for a better life. In Chiang Mai, it is often celebrated alongside the Yi Peng Festival, which makes the experience even more impressive. It is a magical time when the city is illuminated by lights and colors and an unforgettable experience for everyone who attends.

When does the Loy Krathong Festival take place?

  • November 6, 2025 (Thursday)
  • November 25, 2026 (Wednesday)
  • November 14, 2027 (Sunday)

Loy Krathong Festival of Lights in Chiang Mai

Tours & Excursions from Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai you can take numerous tours both within and outside the city. You can either do it on your own or book one of the many guided tours. The choice is huge – whether you’re looking for sightseeing, a cooking class, action or culture.

The most popular tours in Chiang Mai:

  • Chiang Mai Boxing Stadiums Ticket*
  • Chiang Rai – White Temple and Blue Temple Day Tour*
  • King Kong Smile Zipline with Lunch and Transfers*
  • Chiang Mai: Paramotor with Licensed Flight Instructors*
  • From Chiang Mai: Temples, Sticky Waterfall and Orchid Farm*
  • From Chiang Mai: Chiang Dao Cave & 5 Hill Tribe Villages*

Excursion to Doi Inthanon National Park

A popular excursion destination is Doi Inthanon National Park. The park covers over 480 square kilometers and is home to waterfalls, pagodas, and much more. From Chiang Mai, it is about 60 kilometers via Highway 108 and Route 1009 to the park entrance. You should definitely visit Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Suthep, and take a tour of the national park.

  • Address: 119, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai
  • Opening hours: Open daily from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Admission: Adults 300 baht, children 150 baht
  • Tour: Book a guided tour from Chiang Mai here*

Thailand-Highlights-Doi-Inthanon-Berg-Tempel (1)

Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

During our We rented a scooter in the old town and headed to the so-called Grand Canyon. This is located about 40 minutes south of Chiang Mai’s city center. Originally, the area was used for sand mining. After the sand deposits were exhausted, the resulting pit filled with water during the monsoon season and turned into a lake.

Today, the Grand Canyon is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Popular activities include swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding in the clear water. For those who like sports, there is a large water obstacle course that offers plenty of fun and challenges.

You’ll also find water slides, trampolines, and a 9-meter-high diving platform. A real highlight is the zipline, where you can whizz across the entire water park. For action lovers, there’s even wakeboarding.

  • Address: 202 Nam Phrae, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai
  • Opening hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  • Admission: Adults 950 Baht, Children 750 Baht, Children under 90 cm free
  • Food: There are cafes and restaurants on site
  • Infrastructure: Restrooms, showers & lockers on site
  • Tickets: Book your ticket online in advance* (with transfer here*)

Note: The Grand Canyon used to be a rather inconspicuous place. You could jump into the water and enjoy nature, but there were hardly any facilities or major attractions. We only paid 50 Baht for admission back then. Today it is a huge water park with a variety of activities.

chiang-mai-sehenswuerdigkeiten-highlights-grand-canyon Powered by GetYourGuide

Royal Park Rajapruek

The Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Park in the west of Chiang Mai is a true natural paradise. Here you will find everything a nature lover’s heart desires: green oases, peace, idyll, as well as cafés and restaurants that invite you to relax. The park is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and impresses with a variety of plants, works of art, and beautiful architecture.

  • Address: 334, Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
  • Opening hours: open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Admission: Adults 100 baht, children 50 baht

Royal Park Rajapruek

Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden

The Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden was opened in 1992 in honor of Queen Sirikit and is located about 50 km northwest of Chiang Mai. The garden stretches over 2,265 square kilometers of mountain landscape and is a true paradise for all plant lovers.

Here you can discover a huge variety of native and foreign plants, grouped by climate zones and species. So if you fancy some nature and peace, this botanical garden is definitely worth a visit.

  • Address: 100 หมู่ 9 Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai
  • Opening hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
  • Admission: Adults 100 baht, children 50 baht

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

Elephant Camps

In and around Chiang Mai there are many different Elephant sanctuariesdedicated to the welfare and rescue of elephants. Unfortunately, there are also many “black sheep” among the camps who still make money from practices such as elephant rides and trick performances, which causes the animals great stress.

Many elephants are kept in terrible conditions to attract as many tourists as possible. Elephant riding, in particular, is one of the worst forms of exploitation for such an animal. In order to get elephants to remain calm and carry people on their backs, they are forced to resist their natural instincts. And this is often only possible through violence and coercion.

For this reason, we consciously decided against visiting an elephant camp at the time because we do not want to support the cruelties often associated with the keeping and use of elephants for tourism purposes. Many tourists, however, are completely unaware of this because they don’t question the issue itself.

At this point, we would like to encourage you to carefully consider whether a visit to an elephant camp is really necessary. If you absolutely want to visit an elephant camp, make sure you choose very carefully. Do thorough research to ensure that the camp truly operates ethically and offers the animals a respectful life.

  • Can elephant camps be species-appropriate?
  • Elephant camps in Thailand: The pachyderms are no clowns!
  • In this camp, no elephant suffers for tourists

krueger-nationalpark-suedafrika-safari-elefant

Beautiful accommodations in Chiang Mai

During our last stay in Chiang Mai, we stayed in an Airbnb room – really cheap and a great experience. We only paid €150 for 12 nights. Unfortunately, this exact accommodation no longer exists – that’s why we’ve researched the most beautiful hotels and accommodations in Chiang Mai for you.

If you want to travel really cheaply, it’s also worth looking into hostels – many start at around 200 baht (around €5) per night. It’s best to check Booking.com for current offers and be sure to check the reviews on TripAdvisor so you don’t accidentally end up in a nightmare hostel.

Price categories for Chiang Mai

Budget from around €5 per night): For those on a budget, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses in Chiang Mai. Prices start at around €5 per night. Check Booking.com for current deals and be sure to check the reviews on TripAdvisor to avoid ending up in a “nightmare hostel.”

Mid-range (approx. €20–50 per night): If you’re willing to spend a bit more, mid-range hotels offer cool rooms and extras like pools or fitness centers. Prices here are usually around €20–50 per night.

Luxury (from approx. €50 per night): For pure luxury, there are, of course, plenty of options. In upscale hotels, you’ll not only get stylish rooms, but also services that leave nothing to be desired—from spa treatments to exclusive restaurants. Prices start at around €50 per night, but can quickly rise depending on the season and hotel.

1. Antantara Chiang Mai Resort

Stylish, quiet, and right on the river – the Anantara combines modern design with Thai flair. The rooms are super chic, many with a balcony or terrace and views of the water or the garden. There’s a great spa, a large pool, and The Service 1921, a restaurant in an old British consulate villa – truly special.

Antantara Chiang Mai Resort

2. Wannamas Chiangmai Boutique House

This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Chiang Mai and offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. The rooms are comfortably furnished and have a balcony. A shared lounge area and a terrace invite you to relax. Thanks to the central location, attractions such as Wat Phra Singh Temple are within easy walking distance.

Wannamas Chiangmai Boutique House

3. Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts

This stylish hotel impresses with its unique architecture, which incorporates intricately crafted terracotta elements. It offers air-conditioned rooms with private balconies, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for quick access to popular attractions such as the Chiang Mai Gate Market and the Saturday Walking Street Night Market.

Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts

4. Hotel Loy Chiang Mai

The Hotel Loy offers modern comfort with traditional flair. It features a saltwater pool, a fitness center, and a bar. The air-conditioned rooms are stylishly furnished and offer city views. Its proximity to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and other attractions makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the city.

Hotel Loy Chiang Mai

5. Buri Sriping Riverside Resort & Spa

Picturesquely located on the banks of the Ping River, the Buri Sriping Riverside Resort offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With elegant rooms, a saltwater pool, and a full spa, you can relax and enjoy river views. The resort combines modern luxury with traditional Lanna design.

Buri Sriping Riverside Resort & Spa

Getting to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand, is a popular travel destination with a variety of travel options. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) offers both domestic and international flights. Direct flights connect Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul, among others.

For holidaymakers from Europe, flights with a stopover in Bangkok are common, from where numerous domestic flights to Chiang Mai depart. Thai Airways, Air Asia, Nok Air, and Bangkok Airways, for example, offer regular connections for under €20. Book your flight to Chiang Mai here*.

For those who prefer the overland route, there are comfortable bus and train connections. The train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes approximately 10 to 13 hours, depending on the type of train. Night trains with sleeper carriages are particularly popular, as they offer a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel the route. You can book tickets in advance via the platform 12go.com*.

Buses also run regularly between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. There are various bus companies offering different levels of comfort. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak season.

Entry into Chiang Mai

Currently, you do not need a visa if you are traveling to Thailand as a tourist – you will automatically receive a 60-day stamp in your passport upon entry (as of 2025). If you want to stay longer, you can extend your stay once for another 30 days – this can be done at immigration.

Important: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months – otherwise, you will have trouble checking in. And if you want to be on the safe side, check thaievisa.go.th or the Thai Embassy before your trip – they always have the most up-to-date information.

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai? If you like it warm, then the months from December to February are ideal. We were there ourselves in December (over Christmas), and it was super pleasant – really warm, but without rain. During the day, temperatures range from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius, and at night it gets refreshingly cool at around 15 degrees Celsius in the winter months.

From May to October, rainy season, and then it gets quite humid. Most of the rain falls here in August and September. From November onwards, it driers again, and the temperatures are much more pleasant. In short: The best time to visit Chiang Mai is definitely from November to February.

Food in Chiang Mai

Thai cuisine is world-famous for its flavors and spices. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find a huge selection of restaurants, cafés, and food stalls. Here are some of the must-try dishes in the city:

Khao Soi: Khao Soi is a typical Northern Thai dish that you absolutely must try in Chiang Mai. It’s an aromatic curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top, served with chicken or beef. We simply love the mix of spicy, sour, and creamy!

Sai Ua: This Thai sausage is prepared with herbs and spices, including lemongrass, galangal, and curry. It’s perfect for a quick street food experience and a popular snack in Chiang Mai.

Som Tam: This papaya salad is a classic Thai dish and is made with green papaya, chili, garlic, tomatoes, and peanuts. It can be spicy or mild depending on your taste—be sure to try it!

Pad Thai: Probably the most well-known Thai dish that you’ll find everywhere. It’s fried rice noodles served with tofu, chicken, shrimp, or eggs, as well as peanuts and lime. Simple but delicious!

Tom Yum Goong: An aromatic, hot and sour shrimp soup cooked with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. This soup is Refreshing and perfect for warm days.

Moo Ping: Grilled pork skewers coated with a sweet marinade, often sold as a snack at Chiang Mai’s street markets. They are simply irresistible!

Kanom Krok: These small, sweet rice balls are a popular dessert in Chiang Mai. Crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside, they are often served with coconut and various toppings.

Panang Chicken Fried Rice Kung Fu Bar Treehouse Maenam Khao Soi Soup Thailand

Internet and SIM Card

In Thailand, it’s relatively easy to get mobile internet, whether via a SIM card or an eSIM. We’ve recently been using the eSIM from Airalo* and almost always had a super stable connection. We activated it immediately after landing in Thailand – and off we went.

For the SIM card on site, there are many providers such as AIS, TrueMove, or dtac, which offer affordable prepaid cards with data volumes. You can find these in almost every Buy it at a 7-Eleven or directly at the airport. Prices are affordable, and for travelers, they often offer a good amount of data at a fair price.

If you prefer to use the eSIM, like us, then Airalo offers several options for Thailand. With our code “NICOLE2629,” you’ll get €3 in credit (and we’ll give you a small contribution). You can activate the eSIM immediately after landing, without having to search for a SIM card.

Local Transportation

Many of the sights in the old town are easily accessible on foot. However, there are many different ways to get around Chiang Mai, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation:

Songthaews (Red Shared Taxis): These red shared taxis serve as shared taxis and are ubiquitous in the city. Routes are flexible; you can simply hail a songthaew and tell the driver your destination. The ride often costs only around 50 baht per person.

Tuk-tuks: The colorful, three-wheeled tuk-tuks are another popular means of transport. They are ideal for short distances, but are often more expensive than songthaews. You should negotiate the price before the trip.

Public buses: A convenient and inexpensive way to get around Chiang Mai is the RTC’s Smart Bus System, which was introduced in 2018. The air-conditioned buses are scheduled and very affordable (30 baht per trip).

Bicycles: The Old Town is extremely compact, making it a great place to explore by bike. Many accommodations and bike rentals offer bikes for around 50 baht per day. Be careful of traffic, especially on the larger roads.

  • Tawan Bike
  • TBR Toon’s Bike Rental & Tours
  • Chiang Mai Cycling Buddy

Scooters (Mopeds): Fancy cruising through Chiang Mai on a scooter? Rental prices start at around 250 to 300 baht per day. Note that a valid international driver’s license is required and helmets are mandatory – at least if you are stopped by the police.

  • Big Dog Scooter Rentals
  • Zippy Motorbike Rentals Chiang Mai
  • KM Motorbike Rentals Chiang Mai

Grab: In Chiang Mai, you can also get from A to B easily with Grab. This way, you can conveniently order rides, pay via the app, and usually get cheaper prices compared to traditional taxis.

Tuk Tuk Thailand

Withdraw money in Chiang Mai

In In Chiang Mai, you pay with the Thai baht, and currently, you get approximately 36 baht for 1 euro. Withdrawing money is easy at the many ATMs in the city. If you use a free travel credit card like the DKB* or the Hanseatic Genial Karte*, you can withdraw cash for free at most ATMs – perfect for travelers!

If you’re still not sure which card is best for you, we’ve compiled a comparison of the best free travel credit cards. Here you’ll find the maps that offer the best travel conditions (Please note: This post is regularly updated).

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

If you’re planning to travel to Thailand, there are some great travel guides that will help you get to know the country better and plan your trip perfectly. Here is a selection of the best travel guides:

Lonely Planet Thailand
order here*

The Lonely Planet is one of the most well-known travel guides and offers a comprehensive overview. It covers all the major cities, regions, and sights and, in addition to practical tips, provides exciting background information on culture, history, and traditions. The detailed maps are particularly useful.

Stefan Loose
order here*

The Stefan Loose travel guides offer detailed insights into Thai culture and landscape. The main volume covers the entire country. The authors combine personal experiences with in-depth research, making the books reliable companions for independent travelers.

DuMont Verlag
Order here*

The DUMONT travel guide offers you comprehensive information on Thailand’s sights, culture, and history. With detailed maps, tour suggestions, and personal recommendations, you can plan your trip individually. The current editions, which also include lesser-known places, are particularly helpful.

Our conclusion on Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai definitely has its charm. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great mix of culture and modern influences. We were particularly impressed by the old town with its temples. The surrounding area is also a highlight – green hills, beautiful waterfalls, and plenty of great cafés and restaurants.

Nevertheless, you can tell that Chiang Mai is heavily geared towards tourism. There are the usual markets and tourist attractions on many corners. But we still felt at home there. The city is definitely worth a visit for a week or longer, especially if you want to explore the surrounding area. Anyone looking for a mix of culture and relaxation will find it here.

  • Wat Chiang Man by wirojsid
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep by Chalabala
  • Mon Tha Than Waterfall by nuwatphoto
  • Loy Krathong Festival of Lights by nuwatphoto
  • Doi Inthanon National Park by Cocos.Bounty
  • Royal Park Rajapruek by anekoho
  • Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden by mazzzur
  • Tuk Tuk Thailand by Neng_loveyou