Ultimate Guide for a 2-Week Stay in Chiang Mai

Plan your perfect 2-week trip to Chiang Mai with this guide to the best accommodations, must-try restaurants, and top activities for long-term travelers.

Best Accommodations for Long-Term Stays



1. Green Tiger House
🌟 Best For: Eco-Friendly and Quiet Stays

A cozy, sustainable guesthouse located in the Old City.
Highlights: Vegetarian café on-site, serene ambiance, and attentive service.

💡 Tip: Perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to temples and local attractions.

2. The Astra Condo
🏨 Best For: Modern Comfort and Amenities

Fully serviced apartments with a rooftop pool, gym, and easy access to the Night Bazaar.
Highlights: Equipped kitchen, washing machine, and proximity to shopping and dining.

💡 Tip: Ideal for digital nomads or families looking for a home-like environment.

3. Stay with Nimman
🏙️ Best For: Trendy and Convenient Stays

Located in the heart of Nimmanhaemin Road, the city’s hip district.
Highlights: Modern design, coworking spaces, and close to cafés and bars.

💡 Tip: Great for young travelers who want to balance work and play.

4. Rustic River Boutique
🌳 Best For: Budget-Friendly and Authentic Atmosphere

A charming boutique hotel by the Ping River.
Highlights: Spacious rooms, friendly staff, and a relaxing riverside vibe.

💡 Tip: Request a balcony room for stunning river views.








Must-Try Restaurants and Cafés



1. Khao Soi Khun Yai
🍜 Dish to Try: Khao Soi (Northern Thai Curry Noodles)

Famous for serving Chiang Mai’s signature dish at affordable prices.
Highlights: Local vibe, quick service, and authentic flavors.

💡 Tip: Arrive early for lunch as it’s a popular spot.

2. Dash! Restaurant and Bar
🍴 Cuisine: Thai and International

A charming wooden house offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes.
Highlights: Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and live music in the evenings.

💡 Tip: Reserve a table for dinner to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

3. Free Bird Café
🌱 Cuisine: Vegan and Vegetarian

A nonprofit café supporting education programs for refugees.
Highlights: Burmese tea leaf salad, smoothie bowls, and cozy decor.

💡 Tip: Shop for unique crafts and second-hand books at their attached store.

4. Ristr8to Coffee
☕ Specialty: Third-Wave Coffee

One of the best coffee spots in Chiang Mai, located in the Nimman area.
Highlights: Expertly crafted latte art, single-origin brews, and a cool vibe.

💡 Tip: Try the signature Satan Latte for a bold flavor experience.

5. Huen Phen
🍛 Cuisine: Traditional Northern Thai

A long-standing local favorite serving authentic Lanna cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes: Gaeng Hang Lay (Northern pork curry) and Sai Ua (Northern sausage).

💡 Tip: Lunch offers a casual setup, while dinner features a more refined ambiance.








Top Activities and Experiences



1. Explore Chiang Mai’s Temples

Wat Phra Singh: Known for its intricate Lanna architecture.
Wat Chedi Luang: A historic temple with a towering ancient stupa.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Perched on a mountain, offering panoramic city views.

💡 Tip: Visit Doi Suthep at sunrise for fewer crowds and breathtaking views.

2. Take a Cooking Class

Learn how to prepare Thai dishes like Khao Soi, Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice.
Recommended Classes: Siam Rice Cooking School or Thai Farm Cooking School.

💡 Tip: Choose a class that includes a market tour for a complete experience.

3. Visit Elephant Nature Park

Spend a day at this ethical elephant sanctuary, where you can feed and bathe rescued elephants.

💡 Tip: Book in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

4. Day Trips

Pai: A scenic mountain town known for its hot springs and waterfalls.
Doi Inthanon National Park: Explore Thailand’s highest peak and stunning natural landscapes.

💡 Tip: Rent a scooter or hire a private driver for flexibility.

5. Explore Local Markets

Sunday Walking Street: Perfect for souvenirs and street food.
Warorot Market: A bustling local market offering textiles, spices, and fresh produce.

💡 Tip: Bargain politely when shopping at markets.








Pro Tips for Long-Term Travelers




Transportation: Rent a motorbike for easy and affordable travel around the city.
Digital Nomads: Check out coworking spaces like Punspace for reliable Wi-Fi and a productive environment.
Local Sim Card: Grab a tourist SIM card (AIS or TrueMove) for cheap data plans.
Health and Wellness: Try yoga classes or Thai massages at Yoga Tree or Lila Thai Massage.
Weather: November to February offers the best weather, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.


Chiang Mai’s laid-back charm and diverse offerings make it an ideal destination for a two-week stay. With comfortable accommodations, incredible food, and plenty of activities, your time in this northern gem will be nothing short of amazing.