Ultimate Chiang Mai Guide: Food, Temples, Markets, and Insider Tips

Sep 11

Exploring Chiang Mai Like a Local: Top Hotels, Food & Hidden Gems

Chiang Mai is one of those rare cities that captures your heart the moment you arrive. With its serene temples, bustling markets, stunning street food, and lush surrounding nature, it strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. I first came to Chiang Mai for a winter freelancing stint and ended up making it my permanent home in 2024. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or several months, this guide will help you experience the city like a local.

Traveling abroad means staying connected is essential. From booking tours to navigating markets or posting travel updates, reliable internet can make or break your trip. That’s why I always recommend using a Holafly eSIM to stay online without worrying about roaming fees. And yes—you can save using our Holafly discount code.

Why Chiang Mai is a Must-Visit

Unlike Bangkok’s fast pace, Chiang Mai has a gentler rhythm. Temples coexist with cafés, rice fields are minutes from downtown, and the culinary scene is exceptional. Even wandering without a plan often leads to incredible discoveries, from hidden streets to quiet temples and lively markets.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai offers a variety of accommodations for every taste, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels. Here are my top recommendations:

137 Pillars House: A restored 19th-century teakwood mansion with lush gardens and exceptional service. Perks include daily breakfast and potential room upgrades.
InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping: Elegant, modern Thai hospitality with exclusive resort credits when booked through an advisor.
Raya Heritage: A riverside sanctuary blending Lanna-inspired architecture with modern luxury and attentive local service.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai: Nestled among rice paddies and mountains, offering world-class wellness and dining.
Tamarind Village: Combines traditional Thai charm with contemporary comfort in a peaceful setting.

Booking through a travel advisor can unlock perks such as spa credits, breakfast, and room upgrades. Staying connected is easy here too—don’t forget to activate your Holafly eSIM so you can coordinate bookings and navigate the city seamlessly.

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Culinary Adventures on a Motorbike

Chiang Mai’s street food is everywhere, but the best dishes are often hidden from tourists. Just Love Experience offers guided motorbike tours to secret local spots. From khao soi to mango sticky rice, it’s a culinary journey you won’t forget.

Markets and Shopping

Even if you’re not a typical shopper, Chiang Mai’s markets are captivating. My favorites include:

Warorot Market: Fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local eats.
Jing Jai Market: A mix of farmers’ goods and artisan crafts, including handmade clothing and jewelry.

Temple Hopping

Chiang Mai has over 300 temples. Don’t miss:

Wat Phra Singh: Stunning Lanna architecture.
Wat Chedi Luang: Home to a massive 15th-century chedi.
Wat Chiang Man: The city’s oldest temple with historic Buddha images.

Ethical Elephant Experiences

There are dozens of elephant sanctuaries nearby, but not all are ethical. Research responsible tourism practices and consider operators like Just Love Experience for ethical encounters.

Relaxation

Massage culture in Chiang Mai is vibrant. For $8–10, you can enjoy traditional Thai massages or foot massages in casual lounges. Pair this downtime with Wi-Fi from your Holafly eSIM to catch up on work or travel updates without missing a beat.

Best Places to Eat & Drink

Khao Soi Maesai: Famous for creamy northern Thai curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top.
J-Yay Organic Vegetables: Fresh, locally sourced northern Thai dishes.
Ginger Farm: Northern Thai cuisine with a modern twist, set in a lush garden.
Misora Sushi: Affordable all-you-can-order sushi with fresh sashimi.
Boo Boo Sikdang: Korean BBQ with generous portions and friendly service.
Tong Tem Toh: Classic Northern Thai dishes in Nimmanhaemin.
Madae Slow Fish Kitchen: Contemporary seafood with a focus on sustainability.
And Then: Creative Burmese small plates and Lanna-inspired dishes with natural wines.

Nightlife Highlights

Nophaburi: Expertly crafted cocktails using Thai ingredients.
Noir: Stylish bar with live jazz nightly.
Namton’s House Bar: Laid-back craft beer spot.
Bar Not Found: Speakeasy with inventive cocktails.
Ram Bar: Nightly drag shows.
White Rabbit & Bitter Truth: Cocktail lounges with unique flavors and expert bartenders.

Staying Connected in Chiang Mai

Reliable internet is crucial while exploring, booking tours, or keeping in touch with friends. Using a Holafly eSIM ensures seamless connectivity. Travelers can also take advantage of the latest Holafly discount code to save on data plans, and check out annual plans for long-term travelers here.

Insider Tips

Transport: Motorbikes and songthaews are convenient; Grab is great for safe, quick rides.
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly at temples and remove shoes before entering.
Seasonal Travel: November–February offers cooler weather; April is hot but lively during Songkran.

Chiang Mai blends history, culture, and modern conveniences, making it perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and serenity. For more travel inspiration, check out our Holafly plans and our guide to Hoi An off the beaten path.

Stephanie Hays