From my years exploring Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai’s guided tours stand out for their authentic experiences and excellent value. The most rewarding options include overnight Hill Tribe visits, where you’ll sleep in traditional villages and share meals with local families. Walking tours through the Old City efficiently cover the main temples while providing historical context you won’t get from guidebooks. The street food tours – some visiting Michelin-recommended stalls – take you straight to the best local eats. For those wanting to venture further, day trips to Chiang Rai’s White Temple and other landmarks are well organized and informative. Independent travelers will appreciate the self-guided audio tours and treasure hunt-style city explorations. Let’s explore the best tours Chiang Mai has to offer.
Good To Know
- For a cultural and historical experience, consider the Old City & Temples Walking Tour or the Chiang Mai Old Town Tour with a private guide.
- Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour to the Chiang Rai temples, including transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.
- Explore Chiang Mai’s nightlife on the eco-friendly EV Tram Night Tour with a professional English-speaking guide.
- Discover Sukhothai at your own pace with a self-guided bike tour, including private transportation and all necessary fees.
- Customize your tour experience with a private car rental and licensed guide, tailoring the itinerary to your preferences.
Chiang Mai Hill Tribes Private Overnight Tour With Local Guide
This private overnight tour offers an authentic immersion into the traditional lifestyles of Chiang Mai’s hill tribe villages.
Rated 4.7/5 stars from 27 reviews, the tour is led by a professional local guide and includes transportation, home stay accommodations, and meals.
Guests can choose optional activities like visiting an elephant camp, going bamboo rafting, or exploring an insect zoo.
The overnight stay in a basic hill tribe home provides a unique opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand.
While the itinerary is flexible, there are no refunds or cancellations allowed.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Hill Tribes Private Overnight Tour With Local Guide Review
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Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour – 2 Hrs
With a duration of 3 hours, the Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of the historic landmarks and sacred sites within the city’s ancient walls.
Priced from $16 per person, the tour includes an English- and Thai-speaking guide, entrance fees to three renowned temples, and insurance.
Highlights include visits to Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Pha Singh.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Positive reviews praise the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling, though some note issues with volume and English proficiency.
Cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience is available for a full refund.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour – 2 Hrs Review
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Full-Day Guided Tour of Chiang Rai Temples From Chiang Mai
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Chiang Rai’s renowned temples can embark on a full-day guided tour from Chiang Mai.
The tour combines visits to Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Sear Tean, and Baan Dam Museum, showcasing the region’s unique architecture.
Convenience is key, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included.
While the tour’s overall rating is 3.7 out of 5, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic vistas.
However, some note the lengthy travel time limits on-site exploration, suggesting an overnight stay for a more relaxed experience.
Nonetheless, this tour offers an efficient way to discover Chiang Rai’s cultural highlights from Chiang Mai.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Tour of Chiang Rai Temples From Chiang Mai Review
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Michelin Guided Street Food Tour in Chiangmai: Thai Food Tour
What better way to experience the vibrant culinary scene of Chiang Mai than through a Michelin-guided street food tour?
The Michelin Guided Street Food Tour in Chiang Mai offers a 5-hour immersion into the city’s food culture. Running from May 2023 to October 2025, the tour runs daily except Sundays. Priced from $74.34 per person, the tour includes lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and bottled water.
Pickup is available from hotels in Chiang Mai’s Old City or within a 2 km radius. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but does provide infant seats.
Highlighted by reviews for its customized experience and historical context, this Michelin-backed tour promises an unforgettable introduction to authentic Thai cuisine.
Read our full review: Michelin Guided Street Food Tour in Chiangmai: Thai Food Tour Review
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Chiang Mai Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
The Chiang Mai Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour offers an engaging way for visitors to explore the historic city’s hidden gems.
Rated 5.0 out of 7 reviews, this private tour allows participants to navigate the city at their own pace using the Explorial app.
Along the way, they’ll uncover puzzles and riddles that bring the city’s temples, museums, and monuments to life.
Priced at €7.69 per person, the tour is accessible Monday through Sunday, 24 hours a day.
It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors, groups, and those seeking to combine learning with fun in Chiang Mai.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour Review
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Chiang Mai Michelin Food Walking Tour With Professional Tour Guide
For travelers seeking a deeper culinary exploration of Chiang Mai, the Chiang Mai Michelin Food Walking Tour with Professional Tour Guide offers an immersive experience.
This 3-hour walking tour takes participants through the city’s vibrant food scene, showcasing Michelin-recommended eateries. Led by English- and Thai-speaking guides, the tour includes food tastings and provides insight into local ingredients and preparation methods.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and doesn’t cater to vegan diets, it’s suitable for most travelers. Reviews are mixed, with some noting limited options and unsatisfactory experiences, while others praise the personal touch and diverse food selection.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Michelin Food Walking Tour With Professional Tour Guide Review
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2-Day Guided Tour in Lanna Thailand
Delving into the rich cultural tapestry of Lanna, the 2-Day Guided Tour in Chiang Mai, Thailand, offers travelers an immersive experience.
This tour accommodates up to 20 participants and is priced from $178.42 per person, with meals, drinks, bicycle use, and compulsory insurance included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides infant seats and is suitable for moderately fit individuals, excluding those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
With four 5-star reviews, the tour promises an engaging exploration of Lanna’s heritage.
Additional costs may apply for out-of-town pickup and optional activities like elephant riding.
Read our full review: 2-Day Guided Tour in Lanna Thailand Review
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Private VIP Van Rental With English Speaking Tour Guide 8 Hours in Chiang Mai
Seeking to explore Chiang Mai’s captivating sights at your own pace? Consider the Private VIP Van Rental with English-Speaking Tour Guide for 8 hours.
This personalized experience accommodates up to 9 passengers in a comfortable, air-conditioned van with a local driver. The tour includes gasoline, insurance, bottled water, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
You’ll have the flexibility to visit the destinations of your choice, with the guidance of a knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide.
The tour can be booked with pickup from the AP Good @ Travel office or your Chiang Mai hotel, though additional charges may apply for locations outside the city.
With an impressive 5-star rating from Viator and TripAdvisor, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable exploration of Chiang Mai.
Read our full review: Private VIP Van Rental With English Speaking Tour Guide 8 Hours in Chiang Mai Review
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Chiang Mai Self-Guided Audio Tour
The Chiang Mai Self-Guided Audio Tour provides a flexible and immersive way to explore the city’s captivating sights at your own pace.
With private access links to audio guides for 7 top attractions, travelers can follow the provided tour itinerary map and listen to individual guides as they visit each site.
While entry fees are included, transportation isn’t provided.
The tour allows for flexibility in starting and ending points, though it’s not wheelchair-accessible.
The audio guides, delivered via email, encourage independent exploration, though they may not suit those preferring continuous listening.
Reviews suggest the audio length could be improved, but the host emphasizes the importance of listening to all guides before concluding.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Popular One Day Join Tour With Small Group Guided
This one-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers travelers a chance to explore a range of iconic northern Thai landmarks in a small group setting.
The 7-hour journey includes visits to the serene hot springs, the stunning White Temple, the striking Blue Temple, and the fascinating Black House.
Along the way, participants can enjoy a Thai set or buffet lunch, bottled water, and comfortable air-conditioned transportation.
While the tour received mixed reviews, with some concerns about communication and comfort, it’s still a popular option for those seeking a convenient way to see the highlights of Chiang Rai in a single day.
The friendly, informative guide and scenic views during the travel are cited as positive aspects of the experience.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Popular One Day Join Tour With Small Group Guided Review
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Private Guide: City Walking Tour
For those looking to experience the vibrant heart of Chiang Mai, this private walking tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s captivating Old Town. Priced from $86.16 per person, the tour accommodates up to 12 travelers and includes a private guide, lunch, bottled water, and all necessary fees and taxes.
The tour starts and ends at Old City or Tha Pae Gate, providing convenient access to the city’s historic landmarks. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and easily accessible via public transportation. Infants can join the tour, though they’ll need to sit on laps.
With its comprehensive inclusions and personalized experience, this private walking tour is an excellent way to discover Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Private Guide: City Walking Tour Review
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Private Guide: Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Tour
Explore the serene Doi Suthep mountain and the tranquil Wat Pha Lat on this private guided tour in Chiang Mai. This tour offers personalized attention as you’re accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
The price starts at $48.21 per person, varying based on group size. Included are round-trip transportation, bottled water, all fees and taxes, and even lunch.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but infant seats are available. You’ll need to cover the 50 THB local taxi fare to reach the starting point of Doi Suthep.
This private experience ensures you and your group are the sole participants, making for an intimate and tailored adventure.
Read our full review: Private Guide: Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Tour Review
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Guided Chiang Mai City Night Tour by EV Tram
Embarking on the Guided Chiang Mai City Night Tour by EV Tram allows travelers to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Chiang Mai.
This 6:00 PM tour departs from the Three Kings Monument, taking participants on a journey through the city’s historic landmarks and bustling streets.
Aboard the eco-friendly EV Tram, guests enjoy the guidance of a professional English-speaking guide while indulging in snacks and drinks.
The tour culminates at the original meeting point, providing a rundown of Chiang Mai’s nighttime allure.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this experience offers an intimate and personalized exploration of the city, complete with admission fees, travel insurance, and optional pick-up/drop-off service for a seamless adventure.
Read our full review: Guided Chiang Mai City Night Tour by EV Tram Review
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Sukhothai Self-Guided Bike Tour With Chiang Mai Transfers
Travelers seeking an immersive self-guided adventure can embark on the Sukhothai Self-Guided Bike Tour with Chiang Mai Transfers. This package allows independent exploration of the historic Sukhothai ruins at one’s own pace.
A private driver transports visitors from Chiang Mai to the Sukhothai Historical Park, where they’re provided with bicycles for navigating the ancient palace and temple grounds. Included are an air-conditioned vehicle, drinking water, and all necessary fees and taxes, though personal expenses and lunch are excluded.
While not wheelchair-accessible, this tour is suitable for most travelers. Operated by GoWithJoe, the experience is priced from £152.51 per group of up to 3, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Sukhothai Self-Guided Bike Tour With Chiang Mai Transfers Review
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Half Day Rice Field Visions Guided Tour From Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai’s lush rice fields and picturesque Mae Ping Valley set the stage for a captivating half-day mountain biking tour.
Travelers can expect high-quality bikes, safety gear, and knowledgeable guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The tour includes stops at small Thai villages for culture and food tasting.
Lunch, with vegetarian and vegan options, is provided. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation, add to the tour’s seamlessness.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per group, this tour offers a personalized and authentic exploration of Chiang Mai’s rural landscapes.
The tour’s affordable pricing and flexible cancellation policy make it an attractive option for adventure-seekers in Northern Thailand.
Read our full review: Half Day Rice Field Visions Guided Tour From Chiang Mai Review
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Private Car Rental With English Speaking Tour Guide 8 Hours in Chiang Mai
For those seeking a more personalized exploration of Chiang Mai, the Private Car Rental with English Speaking Tour Guide 8 Hours option provides a convenient and customizable solution.
This all-inclusive tour features a private, air-conditioned SUV, a knowledgeable local driver, and a licensed English-speaking guide. Travelers can expect a comprehensive 8-hour experience, with all entrance fees and bottled water included.
The tour covers the Chiang Mai city area, with additional charges applying for locations outside the city. This private tour ensures that only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored itinerary and personalized attention throughout the day.
Read our full review: Private Car Rental With English Speaking Tour Guide 8 Hours in Chiang Mai Review
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Chiang Mai Customize SUV & Mini Bus With English T.A.T Tour Guide
One popular option for exploring Chiang Mai is the Customize SUV & Mini Bus With English T.A.T Tour Guide.
This private tour service offers a hassle-free way to discover the city, with a licensed English-speaking guide leading the way. Priced from $260 per group (up to 5 travelers), the tour includes bottled water, air-conditioning, private transportation, and accident insurance.
Pickup is available from either the McDonald’s Tha Pae Gate or your hotel lobby. While the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, most visitors can participate.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 15 reviews, this customizable tour is an excellent choice for an immersive Chiang Mai experience.
Read our full review: Chiang Mai Customize SUV & Mini Bus With English T.A.T Tour Guide Review
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One Day Doi Inthanon National Park Small Group Guided Tour
This small group guided tour provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the wonders of Doi Inthanon National Park.
Priced from $42.23 per person, the tour accommodates up to 9 travelers and departs at 7:30 AM with pickup between 7:00-7:45 AM.
Inclusions like lunch, parking fees, and attraction fees ensure a hassle-free experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has some health restrictions, positive reviews highlight the tour’s nature experience, friendly guide, and good food.
Booking confirmations, a lowest price guarantee, and a reserve now/pay later option make planning easy.
With a 4.5/5 rating from 3 reviews, this guided tour offers an engaging Doi Inthanon adventure.
Read our full review: One Day Doi Inthanon National Park Small Group Guided Tour Review
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Full-Day Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lad & Sticky Waterfall Guided Tour
Embarking on this full-day guided tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the captivating Doi Suthep, the sacred Wat Pha Lad, and the mesmerizing Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai.
Priced from $74.34 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and includes a professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious local Thai lunch, and all necessary entrance fees.
However, it’s not recommended for those with physical limitations or medical conditions.
With a confirmed booking and a flexible payment option, travelers can look forward to an unforgettable experience in Chiang Mai’s natural and cultural highlights.
Read our full review: Full-Day Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lad & Sticky Waterfall Guided Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures during this popular tourist period.
Can I Customize My Guided Tour Itinerary?
Yes, many guided tour operators in Chiang Mai offer customizable itineraries. Travelers can often work with the tour provider to design a personalized experience that aligns with their interests and preferences. This flexibility allows for a more tailored and memorable tour.
How Do I Choose the Appropriate Group Size for My Tour?
When choosing the group size for a guided tour, consider your preferences, budget, and the tour operator’s recommendations. Smaller groups offer more personalized attention, while larger groups may be more cost-effective. Discuss your needs with the tour provider to find the best fit.
What Should I Bring on a Guided Tour of Chiang Mai?
When going on a guided tour in Chiang Mai, it’s important to bring essentials like comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and a small backpack or purse to carry your items. Depending on the tour, you may also need a camera, light jacket, or cash for souvenirs.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Take on a Guided Tour?
Travelers should take precautions on guided tours in Chiang Mai by staying with the group, following the guide’s instructions, and keeping valuables secure. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related issues.
The Sum Up
Chiang Mai offers a diverse range of guided tours, from private hill tribe experiences to walking tours of the old city and temples. Visitors can also enjoy Michelin-starred street food, self-guided scavenger hunts, and full-day excursions to Chiang Rai and Doi Inthanon National Park. With a variety of options, travelers can tailor their tour experiences to their interests and explore the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.