Chiang Mai
About 1 hr 10 min by plane from Bangkok
The old walled capital of the north, with 300 temples, night markets and mountain air.
Why locals go
Cooler weather and northern food, about an hour's flight.
Visiting Bangkok?
At 1 hr 10 min by plane, it's easy to add a night or two here and still be back in Bangkok for your flight home.
What to book
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Sunday Walking Street market
- Ethical elephant sanctuary visit
Where to stay
One or two nights is enough for most people. Compare places to stay:
See hotels in Chiang MaiDate ideas
For two
- Yi Peng lantern festival (November)
- Thai massage at a riverside spa
With friends
- Thai cooking class at a farm
- Ziplining in the jungle canopy
When to go
November to February.