Chiang Mai 1-day itinerary

Start at Wat Chedi Luang, the 600-year-old partially ruined temple in the heart of the Old City whose massive brick chedi once stood 82 metres tall before an earthquake in 1545 toppled the upper section. The remaining structure is still enormous and deeply atmospheric, surrounded by ancient trees and smaller chapels. Walk five minutes north to Wat Phra Singh, home to the revered Phra Singh Buddha image and exquisite Lanna-style architecture with gilded wooden carvings and murals depicting daily life centuries ago. Both temples are free to enter (donation appreciated) and relatively quiet before 10am.

Head west to the Nimmanhaemin area (locals call it Nimman), Chiang Mai's trendy neighbourhood packed with independent cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. The side streets (sois) are the best part — each one has a different character. Soi 9 has specialty coffee roasters, Soi 11 has concept stores and ceramics, and Soi 17 has vintage clothing. Lunch at one of the dozens of excellent cafes: try khao soi (northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup, ฿60–80) at a local shop before it sells out. The One Nimman complex has restaurants, co-working spaces, and an indoor market.

If you are visiting on a Sunday, the Tha Pae Walking Street is unmissable — the entire Ratchadamnoen Road from Tha Pae Gate to Wat Phra Singh transforms into one of Thailand's best night markets. Hundreds of stalls sell handmade crafts, hill tribe textiles, wood carvings, and paintings alongside food vendors serving sai oua (northern Thai spiced sausage, ฿30), khao kha moo (braised pork leg on rice, ฿50), grilled sticky rice, and mango smoothies. Live music, street performers, and temple courtyards serving food make this a full evening. Other nights, try the Night Bazaar on Chang Khlan Road for shopping and food stalls.