Travelers to Thailand typically plan a trip for nine to 12 days when combining Chiang Mai with Bangkok and Phuket. If you're only headed to Chiang Mai, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in five to seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Chiang Mai and beyond.

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?

  • Most travelers spend 5-7 days in Chiang Mai
  • With 8 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
  • The most common extensions are Bangkok and Phuket

How Many Days to Spend in Thailand

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Recommended Itineraries for Chiang Mai?

Recommended Itinerary for 5 Days

The temple of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai
Visit the temple of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Chiang Mai, Self-Guided Exploration Chiang Mai
Day 2 Chiang Mai City & Temple Tour Chiang Mai
Day 3 Merit Making at Doi Suthep Chiang Mai
Day 4 Baan Hui Parai Hill Tribe Village, Visit an Orchid Farm Chiang Mai
Day 5 Depart Chiang Mai  


Escape to the cool mountains of northern Thailand on this five-day introduction to Chiang Mai. Tour historic temples to discover some of the country's most important and sacred sites, then head to the market to sample the flavorful local cuisine. You'll also have time to venture out of the city, where you'll meet local hill tribes as you explore lush rice fields, traditional villages, and orchid farms. Read more

Extended Itineraries

8-Day Itinerary Including Bangkok & Phuket

Take a dinner cruise in Bangkok on your last evening
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Bangkok, Self-Guided Exploration Bangkok
Day 2 Visit the Grand Palace & Wat Pho, Evening River Dinner Cruise Bangkok
Day 3 Fly to Chiang Mai, Explore Chiang Mai
Day 4 Full-Day Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
Day 5 Fly to Phuket, Explore Phuket
Day 6 Kayaking Trip to Phang Nga Bay Phuket
Day 7 Phuket Beach Relaxation Phuket
Day 8 Depart Phuket  


If you've ever dreamed of Thailand, this 8-day adventure covers the highlights with a perfect mix of guided tours and free time. Start off in vibrant Bangkok for iconic Buddhist sites and a gourmet dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Then, fly north to Chiang Mai to explore the Old Town on foot and spend a day with elephants. Finish off in Phuket, where you'll kayak, island-hop, and relax on gorgeous white sand beaches. Read more

Map

Map of Chiang Mai: Best Itinerary Ideas
Map of Chiang Mai: Best Itinerary Ideas