Chiang Mai, in Thailand’s mountainous north, is the country’s laid-back cultural capital — a walled old city dotted with ancient temples, ringed by green hills, and famous for its night markets, food, crafts and cooler climate.
Where to stay
The Old City (inside the moat) puts you among the temples and guesthouses. Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) is the trendy, cafe-and-coworking district popular with nomads. Along the Ping River is more upscale and scenic.
Top things to do
The mountaintop temple of Doi Suthep, the Old City’s temples (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh), the Sunday Walking Street market, a Thai cooking class, and ethical elephant sanctuaries in the surrounding hills. Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, is nearby.
Getting there from Pattaya
Chiang Mai is far north, so fly — frequent domestic flights connect Bangkok to Chiang Mai in about 75 minutes. Overland (train or bus via Bangkok) is scenic but long.
Best time to visit
The cool season (November to February) is glorious — warm days, cool nights. Avoid the burning season (roughly March to April) when air quality drops. The green season (June to October) is lush and quiet.
Food & nightlife
Northern-Thai specialities like khao soi, superb markets, and a huge cafe and craft scene. Nightlife is relaxed — night bazaars, live-music bars and Nimman’s cocktail spots.
Day trips
Doi Inthanon National Park, the temples and nature around Doi Suthep–Pui, and the laid-back town of Pai (a longer trip) are favourites.