Chiang Mai‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, the Old City, is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting the city, known for its well-preserved ancient temples, bustling night markets, and delicious street food, all surrounded by the city’s ancient walls, the Old City offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern convenience.
Morning: Exploring Ancient Temples
The Old City is home to some of Chiang Mai’s most famous and important temples, and a great way to start your day is by visiting a few of them. Some of the must-see temples in the Old City include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chiang Man. Wat Chedi Luang, located in the heart of the Old City, is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples and is known for its impressive pagoda, which was built in the 14th century. Wat Phra Singh, another famous temple in the Old City, is known for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture and is a great place to learn about the history of Chiang Mai’s monarchy. Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, is a great place to learn about the city’s history and is also home to several important Buddhist artifacts.
Mid-day: Street Food and Shopping
After exploring the temples, it’s time to grab a bite to eat and do some shopping. The Old City is home to some of the best street food in Chiang Mai, with vendors selling everything from traditional Thai dishes to international favorites. Some popular street food options include Khao Soi, a curry-based noodle dish, and Sai Oua, a spicy sausage. The Old City is also home to many night markets, including the famous Night Bazaar, which is the perfect place to find souvenirs and traditional Thai handicrafts.
Afternoon: Relaxing in a Traditional Thai Spa
After a busy morning and afternoon, it’s time to relax and rejuvenate. Chiang Mai is known for its traditional Thai massage, and the Old City is home to many great spa and massage centers. A traditional Thai massage is a great way to relieve stress and tension, and many spas in the Old City also offer other treatments such as herbal compresses and aromatherapy.
Evening: Enjoying the Nightlife
The Old City comes alive at night, with many bars and restaurants open late into the night. Some popular nightlife options in the Old City include the rooftop bars at the Raming Lodge Hotel and the Chedi Hotel, both of which offer great views of the city. There are also many traditional Thai bars in the Old City, such as the Bamboo Bar, which is a great place to try traditional Thai drinks and listen to live music.
Conclusion
Chiang Mai’s Old City is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting the city. With its well-preserved ancient temples, bustling night markets, delicious street food, and traditional Thai culture, the Old City offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a good time, the Old City has it all. And of course, the best way to explore this neighborhood is by walking around, getting lost in the small alleys and let yourself be surprised by what you’ll discover.
