The Ultimate Family-Friendly Travel Guide To Chiang Mai: Explore, Eat, And Enjoy!

How To Get There: Travel Guide To Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the main gateway to the city, located just 4 kilometers southwest of the city center. It handles both domestic and international flights, making it accessible from various locations.

From the airport, you have several transportation options. Airport taxis are available 24/7, with a surcharge for airport pick-ups. The popular app, Grab, is often cheaper than taxis and widely used in Chiang Mai. Budget-conscious travelers can also opt for shared minivan services.

Where To Stay: Travel Guide To Chiang Mai

1. Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel

Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is a luxury hotel in the city's heart, close to the Night Bazaar. It's an excellent choice for families, offering amenities such as a pool, kids' club, and large rooms. The hotel's central location makes exploring Chiang Mai's attractions easy while providing a comfortable retreat after sightseeing.

Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel, 108 Chang Klan Road, Tambol Chang Klan, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50100 Thailand, +6653253666, www.marriott.com

2. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

For those seeking a blend of luxury and local culture, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort has a riverside retreat with a mix of contemporary and traditional Thai design. The resort provides family suites, a spa, and various cultural activities for all ages. Its location along the Mae Ping River offers a serene setting while still being close to the city's attractions.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, 123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Road, Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai 50100 Thailand, +6653253333, chiangmai@anantara.com, www.anantara.com

3. Shangri-La Chiang Mai

Shangri-La Chiang Mai is an upscale hotel with extensive facilities, including a large pool and a well-equipped kids' club. It offers easy access to Chiang Mai's main attractions near the Old City and Night Bazaar. The hotel's blend of modern luxury and traditional Thai hospitality makes it a favorite among families and couples alike.

Shangri-La Chiang Mai, 89/8 Chang Klan Road, Muang, Chiang Mai 50100 Thailand, +6653253888, chiangmai@shangri-la.com, www.shangri-la.com

4. Tamarind Village

For those seeking a more intimate, culturally rich experience, Tamarind Village offers a boutique hotel experience in the heart of the Old City. With its traditional Lanna-style architecture and tranquil courtyard, this hotel provides a uniquely Chiang Mai atmosphere. Its location within the old city walls makes it perfect for exploring the area's numerous temples and attractions on foot.

Tamarind Village, 50/1 Rajdamnoen Road, Sri Phum, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand, +66 53 418 896-9, reservation@tamarindvillage.com, www.tamarindvillage.com

Other Hotels To Stay In:

• Lotus Pang Suan Kaew Hotel
• The Empress Chiang Mai Hotel
• Na Nirand Resort

Where To Eat: Travel Guide To Chiang Mai

1. Khao Soi Khun Yai

Khao Soi Khun Yai is a small, local eatery famous for its Khao Soi, a Northern Thai curry noodle soup. This humble restaurant offers authentic flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. The rich, creamy coconut curry broth, tender chicken, and crispy noodles make for a satisfying and quintessentially Chiang Mai meal.

Khao Soi Khun Yai, Sri Poom 8 Alley, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +66906517088, www.google.com/maps

2. Huen Phen

Huen Phen offers traditional Northern Thai cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. Known for dishes like larb (spicy minced meat salad) and sai oua (Northern Thai sausage), this restaurant authenticates Lanna cuisine. The atmospheric dining room, decorated with antiques and old photographs, adds to the cultural experience of dining here.

Huen Phen, 112 Ratchamanka Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +66869112882, www.google.com/maps

3. Ginger Farm Kitchen

Ginger Farm Kitchen offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant serves a mix of Northern Thai and fusion dishes in a beautifully designed space inspired by traditional Lanna architecture. The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh produce from the restaurant's own farm and local suppliers. It's an excellent choice for those seeking healthy, sustainable dining options.

Ginger Farm Kitchen, One Nimman, Room B1-1A, 1 Nimmanhemin Road, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +6652080928, www.gingerfarmkitchen.com

4. Dash! Restaurant and Bar

Dash! Restaurant and Bar offers Thai and international dishes. Its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu cater to various preferences, from local specialties to comfort food favorites. The restaurant's location makes it a convenient choice for hungry travelers exploring the old city.

Dash! Restaurant and Bar, 38/2 Moon Muang Soi 2, Tambon Phra Singh, Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +6653279230, www.dashchiangmai.com

Places Of Interest: Travel Guide To Chiang Mai

1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai. As one of the most sacred temples in Northern Thailand, it attracts both pilgrims and tourists. The temple's golden chedi, intricate murals, and the challenging 306-step staircase guarded by naga serpents make for a memorable visit. The cool mountain air and breathtaking vistas make it a refreshing escape from the city below.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Sriwichai Alley, Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, www.tourismthailand.org

2. Old City Temples

The Old City of Chiang Mai is home to numerous ancient temples, each with its own unique history and architectural style. Wat Chedi Luang, with its partially ruined 15th-century chedi, and Wat Phra Singh, known for its classic Lanna architecture, are must-visit sites. Walking or cycling tours of the old city allow visitors to explore these temples leisurely, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and intricate details of Lanna art and architecture.

3. Sunday Walking Street

The Sunday Walking Street is a weekly market that transforms Ratchadamnoen Road into a bustling bazaar every Sunday evening. Here, visitors can find various local crafts, street food, and live performances. The market offers a perfect opportunity to experience local culture, shop for souvenirs, and sample Northern Thai delicacies. The lively atmosphere and the chance to interact with local artisans make it a highlight of any Chiang Mai visit.

Sunday Walking Street, Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, www.visitchiangmai.com.au

4. Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand's highest peak, offers diverse natural attractions. About a two-hour drive from Chiang Mai City, the park features beautiful nature trails, waterfalls, and hill tribe villages. It's great for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for birdwatching and photographing rare plant species. The cool climate at the summit provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of Chiang Mai city.

Doi Inthanon National Park, 119 Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand, +66053286729, www.thainationalparks.com

Family-Friendly Attractions: Travel Guide To Chiang Mai

1. Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is an elephant sanctuary where families can observe and interact responsibly with rescued elephants. The park offers day trips and overnight stays, allowing visitors to feed, bathe, and learn about these gentle giants. Educational programs focus on elephant conservation and welfare, making it entertaining and enlightening for children and adults alike.

Elephant Nature Park, 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +6653 272855, info@elephantnaturepark.org, www.elephantnaturepark.org

2. Chiang Mai Night Safari

The Chiang Mai Night Safari offers wildlife experiences that are especially exciting for kids. This nocturnal zoo features night-time safari tours, where visitors can observe various animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitat. The park also includes walking trails, a dancing fountain show, and a laser light presentation, providing entertainment throughout the evening.

Chiang Mai Night Safari, 33 Moo 12, Nongkwai Sub-district, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand, +6653999000, pda_saraban@pinkanakorn.or.th, www.chiangmainightsafari.com

3. Art in Paradise

Art in Paradise is a 3D art museum where visitors can interact with optical illusions, creating fun and memorable photo opportunities. The museum features themed zones with large-scale paintings that appear three-dimensional when photographed from specific angles. It's a great place for family fun, allowing visitors to get creative and capture unique holiday photos.

Art in Paradise, 199/9 Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, +6653274100, www.google.com/maps

4. Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium

Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 400 species of animals, including giant pandas, making it a favorite among families. The zoo's spacious grounds include an aquarium with underwater tunnels and a snow dome, offering diverse experiences. Educational shows and feeding sessions allow children to learn about wildlife conservation engagingly.

Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium, 100 Huay Kaew Road, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, +6652081 775, www.chiangmaiaquarium.com