Monday, January 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town
Welcome to Chiang Mai! Start your honeymoon adventure by immersing yourselves in the charming atmosphere of the Old Town. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the historic city walls, admiring the ancient temples and traditional architecture. Head to Wat Phra Singh, a stunning Buddhist temple known for its intricate craftsmanship. In the afternoon, visit the Lanna Folklife Museum to learn about the local culture and traditions. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant Night Bazaar, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and indulge in delicious street food.
City Walls: No cost, 2 hours
Wat Phra Singh: No cost, 1-2 hours
Lanna Folklife Museum: 100 THB per person, 2-3 hours
Night Bazaar: No cost, flexible time
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Clay Studio Coffee in the Old Town. This charming café offers a cozy atmosphere and serves delicious freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. A breakfast meal here costs around 100-150 baht per person.
For lunch, head to The Riverside Bar and Restaurant located along the Ping River. This riverside eatery offers breathtaking views and serves a variety of Thai and international dishes. Indulge in their flavorful Pad Thai or savor their succulent grilled river prawns. A lunch meal here costs around 200-300 baht per person.
In the evening, dine at The Gallery Restaurant, situated in an idyllic garden setting. This restaurant specializes in traditional Northern Thai cuisine with a modern twist. Try their signature dish, Khao Soi, a flavorful curry noodle soup, or sample their tender and aromatic Green Curry. A dinner meal here costs around 300-500 baht per person.
Tuesday, January 2: Temple Exploration and Thai Cooking Class
On your second day, delve deeper into Chiang Mai's spiritual side and experience its culinary delights. Start your morning with a visit to Wat Chedi Luang, an ancient temple with a towering pagoda. Next, explore the tranquil gardens of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain with breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, embark on a Thai cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes together. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as a romantic dinner. In the evening, take a stroll along the serene Ping River.
Wat Chedi Luang: No cost, 1-2 hours
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: 50 THB per person (excluding transportation), 3-4 hours
Thai Cooking Class: 1,500-2,500 THB per person, 4-5 hours
Ping River: No cost, flexible time
Restaurants
Breakfast at The Larder Cafe & Bar: Enjoy a delightful morning at The Larder Cafe & Bar, known for their delicious breakfast options. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes and creamy scrambled eggs. Average cost for a meal is about 200 THB per person.
Lunch at Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant: For a healthy and flavorful lunch, head to Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant. They serve a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Don't miss their famous papaya salad. Average cost for a meal is about 150 THB per person.
Dinner at Ginger & Kafe: Experience a romantic dinner at Ginger & Kafe, a charming restaurant serving a fusion of Thai and European cuisine. The elegant ambiance and delectable dishes like their signature pad Thai or grilled sea bass are sure to impress. Average cost for a meal is about 400 THB per person.
Wednesday, January 3: Nature Retreat and Elephant Sanctuary
Escape the city and immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of Chiang Mai. Begin your day with a visit to Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand. Explore its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and mystical pagodas. Enjoy a romantic picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, where you can interact with these gentle giants in a responsible and compassionate way. Learn about their conservation and participate in activities like feeding and bathing them. Wrap up the day with a candlelit dinner under the starry sky.
Doi Inthanon National Park: 300 THB per person (excluding transportation), full day
Elephant Sanctuary: 2,000-3,000 THB per person, 4-5 hours
Breakfast: Start your day at Rustic & Blue, a cozy café nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai. Indulge in their mouthwatering pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 baht per person.
Lunch: For a delightful lunch, head to Dash! Restaurant & Bar, known for its fusion of Thai and Western cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful Pad Thai or savor their juicy burgers. Average cost for a meal is about 300 baht per person.
Dinner: Experience a romantic candlelit dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, situated along the picturesque Ping River. Delight in their delectable grilled seafood and sip on a refreshing cocktail. Average cost for a meal is about 600 baht per person.
Thursday, January 4: Cultural Immersion and Spa Retreat
On your final day, indulge in cultural experiences and pampering relaxation. Start the morning with a visit to the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution Massage Center, where female inmates offer traditional Thai massages. Support their rehabilitation efforts while enjoying a rejuvenating spa treatment. In the afternoon, explore the art and handicraft galleries in the Nimmanhaemin area, known for its trendy vibe. In the evening, savor a romantic dinner at a riverside restaurant, accompanied by traditional Thai music and dance performances.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Rustic and Blue, a charming café known for its homemade pastries and specialty coffees. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with an average cost of about 150 Baht per person.
For lunch, head to SS1254372 Café, a hidden gem offering a variety of healthy and flavorful dishes. The menu showcases organic ingredients and the average cost for a meal is approximately 300 Baht per person.
End your day with a romantic dinner at The Riverside, a riverside restaurant offering breathtaking views and a menu featuring authentic Thai cuisine. Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance while enjoying a meal that costs around 800 Baht per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, venture beyond the usual attractions. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the serene gardens of Wat Umong, a 700-year-old temple nestled in the forest. Explore the quaint village of Baan Kang Wat, where local artisans showcase their crafts and organic cafes offer delightful treats. Lastly, witness a stunning sunrise from the hilltop viewpoint at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for a truly enchanting moment with your loved one.