6-Day Northern Thailand Adventure: Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Temples

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rustic and Blue

Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast at Rustic and Blue, famous for its fresh, organic ingredients and great coffee. Opens at 7:30am.
THB250, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wat Phra Singh

Explore this iconic 14th-century temple known for its classic Lanna architecture and the revered Phra Singh Buddha image. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
THB20, 1h

11:00am

Explore Wat Chedi Luang

Visit the ruins of this ancient temple with its massive chedi, a key historical landmark in the Old City. Open 6:00am-5:00pm.
THB40, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Enjoy the famous Northern Thai dish Khao Soi, a rich and creamy curry noodle soup, at this popular local eatery.
THB60, 1h

2:00pm

Half-day City Temple Tour

Join a half-day guided tour visiting less-visited gems of Chiang Mai including Wat Phan Tao and Wat Suan Dok. Tour runs weekdays and lasts about 4 hours.
THB1200, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dash! Restaurant and Bar

Experience traditional Northern Thai cuisine in a beautiful teak house setting. Recommended dishes include Sai Ua (Northern sausage).
THB400, 1.5h
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Day 2: Culture and Markets

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Barn: Eatery Design

Enjoy coffee and freshly baked pastries in this trendy café with a creative vibe. Opens at 8:00am.
THB200, 1h

10:00am

Visit Lanna Folklife Museum

Discover the history and culture of Northern Thailand through fascinating exhibits of traditional crafts, costumes, and lifestyle. Open 9:00am-5:00pm. Closed Mondays.
THB100, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at SP Chicken

Try their signature roast chicken served with rice, a beloved local dish that’s simple yet flavorful.
THB70, 1h

1:30pm

Half-day Art and Handicrafts Tour

Visit artisan workshops specializing in silverware, umbrellas, and textile weaving. This half-day tour operates on weekdays and lasts about 4 hours.
THB1300, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tong Tem Toh

Famous for authentic Northern Thai food with lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the Nam Prik Noom (green chili dip).
THB400, 1.5h
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Day 3: Nature and Old City

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ristr8to Lab

Indulge in specialty coffee crafted by award-winning baristas, paired with light breakfast options. Opens at 7:00am.
THB180, 1h

9:00am

Doi Suthep Temple Visit

Take a half-day trip to this sacred mountain temple offering stunning panoramic views over Chiang Mai. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
THB50, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Huen Phen

Savor authentic Northern Thai recipes in a traditional setting, perfect after a morning excursion.
THB250, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Chiang Mai Old City Walls and Moat

Walk around the ancient city walls and moat to appreciate Chiang Mai’s rich history and architecture.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy riverside dining with a mix of Thai and international dishes, plus live music in the evening.
THB400, 1.5h
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Day 4: Chiang Rai Excursion

Chiang Rai, Thailand on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Depart for Chiang Rai

Embark on a full-day guided tour heading north to Chiang Rai, approximately 3 hours from Chiang Mai by car or minivan.
THB1500 (tour inclusive), 6h (including travel)

10:00am

Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Explore the stunning contemporary Buddhist temple unique for its striking white color and intricate artwork. Open daily 8:00am-5:00pm.
THB100, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local Chiang Rai restaurant

Taste Northern Thai specialties or Burmese-influenced dishes in the city center.
THB150, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Admire the vibrant blue hues and modern Lanna style architecture of this remarkable temple. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 1h

2:45pm

Stop at Baan Dam Museum (Black House)

Experience the unique art museum of black structures and eclectic art pieces by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
THB80, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Chiang Mai

Travel back to your accommodation in Chiang Mai.
Included in tour, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Free Bird Café

Enjoy a relaxed meal with a good mix of Thai and Western vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting.
THB350, 1.5h
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Day 5: Local Experiences

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Woo Café

Stop by Woo Café for a beautiful garden atmosphere and a selection of Thai and Western breakfast options. Opens at 7:30am.
THB250, 1h

9:30am

Half-day Cooking Class and Market Visit

Join a weekday half-day cooking class where you'll explore a local market to select ingredients and learn to cook authentic Northern Thai dishes. Lasts about 4 hours.
THB1800, 4h

2:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Spa

Take some down time to relax with a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment at your hotel or a reputable spa in the city.
THB1000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ginger & Kafe

Dine in a stylish heritage home restaurant offering beautifully prepared Thai fusion dishes.
THB450, 1.5h
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Day 6: Markets and Departure

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dada Kafe

Famous for healthy, vegetarian-friendly breakfasts and fresh smoothies; perfect to energize your final day. Opens at 8:00am.
THB220, 1h

9:30am

Visit Warorot Market

Explore one of Chiang Mai’s oldest and busiest local markets offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Great for last-minute gifts. Opens 6:00am-6:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Lert Ros

Enjoy the local favorite grilled pork neck or other Northern Thai specialities at this highly regarded street food spot near the market.
THB80, 1h

2:00pm

Return to hotel and prepare for departure

Pack and check out, making sure you have all your new treasures and memories.
Free, 1h
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