Driving or walking the streets, you will see much of the walls, gates, and moat that surround the old city. In the Lanna period, major cities in this region were fortified with large ditches. As a consequence of digging the fortifications, there was typically a mound of earth next to the ditch, and pools of water formed.
In more modern times, decorative walls and widening of the ‘canals’ has added to the aesthetics of the original fortifications.
Today the walls and moat form the backdrop to all the major festivals in Chiang Mai.
While you do not have the nightly market stalls of the night bazaar, there are plenty of restaurants and specialty shops throughout the old city. If you are staying over a weekend there is a weekly market / walking street on Sunday evening. This has everything you will see at the night bazaar (that area is a little quieter on Sundays), plus you will see more original and artistic wares for sale at the Sunday markets.
Old City Attractions
There are many temples to visit in the old city, our top recommendations are to visit Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Both of these temple compounds charge a small entrance fee, but they are welcoming towards visitors and are definitely worth visiting.
Chiang Mai City Markets
Supermarkets first appeared in Chiang Mai right at the end of the 20th century, but traditional markets remain the popular choice for local people. The local market offer the freshest produce at the lowest prices and also offer highly affordable cooked meals.
See our article on street food tours if you would like a private tour, out feel free to check out our itinerary as a guide to making your own way through the markets.
Warorot Market
Warorot markets are in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Chinatown. This is a genuine local market and a popular shopping destination for Thai people from outlying towns when they come to the city.
In the markets and nearby streets you can find a wide range of fresh vegetables, meat, shoes, clothing, dried fruit, freshly cut flowers and much more.
Muang Mai Markets
Muang Mai is Markets are the main point of wholesale for fresh produce arriving in the city from Chiang Mai’s farming districts. Some farmers will even sell produce from the tailgate of their trucks.
Street Food Markets
Street food is to be found all over the city and is generally open until late. Popular locations for vendors include the Night Bazaar, Chang Phuak Gate (northern gate).
Old City Hotels
Rachamankha Hotel
Chiang Mai City Tours
If you would like to take a private tour with us, there are several options.
