Lonely PlanetJul 16, 2026
17 things to know before visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand
Get more from Chiang Mai with these tips on eating, transport, shopping, etiquette, safety and more.
18 things in this story
- SongkranRestaurantThai New Year celebration in April with parades and water fights
- Loi KrathongFestivalcelebrated in November with parades and illuminated lanterns
- Yee PengFestivalnorthern holiday with illuminated paper lanterns released into the sky
- Talat WororotMarketChiang Mai’s longest-running market, sells home goods and street food
- Kad LuangMarketalso known as Talat Wororot
- Talat Muang MaiMarketwholesale produce market, busy late at night
- Chiangmai RamGuest housego-to private hospital for foreigners and locals
- Chang Phuak Gate Night MarketMarkethome to the Cowboy Hat Lady
- Chiang Mai Gate MarketMarketconveniently located night market
- Lang Mor Night MarketMarketloved-by-students night market
- Kalare Night BazaarMarketboisterous place to recharge after shopping
- Nimmanhaemin neighborhoodNeighborhoodgreat for hip places to eat and drink
- RiversideNeighborhood
- Night BazaarAttraction
- Saturday Walking StreetMarket
- Sunday Walking StreetMarket
- Tong Tem TohRestaurant
- Huen PhenRestaurant