2026 Thapae Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

If you're a fan of select shops featuring chic designs, Rivers & Roads is a must-visit spot when exploring the Tha Phae area. This boutique curates a wonderful collection of products from local designers and brands, offering everything from clothing and accessories to home decor, kitchenware, postcards, and an array of adorable knick-knacks. The store exudes a warm and inviting vibe, making it so enjoyable to browse that you might just find yourself taking home more than a few things! Most of the items lean towards minimalist, vintage, and Korean-inspired aesthetics—perfect for treating yourself or finding a unique gift. On top of that, the staff is incredibly helpful and goes the extra mile to beautifully package your purchases with impressive attention to detail. Conveniently located right next to Maadae Slow Fish, it's the perfect place to pop in and shop for cute items after grabbing a bite to eat. Whether you're a cat lover or a craft enthusiast, you're guaranteed to leave with a new treasure in hand. 📍 Rivers & Roads, Tha Phae Road, Chang Moi, Chiang Mai 🕧 Open daily 12:30 PM – 7:30 PM

forest and friends is a cozy little multi-brand store in the Tha Phae area, offering a curated selection of clothing, bags, accessories, and home decor with a truly unique style. The focus is on craftsmanship, intricate embroidery, and designs that evoke a warm, vintage vibe—perfect for those who love one-of-a-kind items. Most of the products in the store are carefully selected designer pieces and handmade goods. While the prices might be slightly higher than your average shop, it's totally worth it for the quality, attention to detail, and exceptional craftsmanship of each piece. Many people drop by to look for special gifts or unique everyday items. The store itself is beautifully decorated and exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Browsing through feels like hunting for hidden little treasures. If you're into fashion, handicrafts, or beautifully designed home goods, you definitely need to check out this spot when exploring the Chang Moi neighborhood. 📍 forest and friends, Tha Phae Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Chiang Mai

📍💦 Bathing of Phra Buddha Sihing, a sacred ceremony · Date: April 1-30, 2025 · Location: Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn · Phra Buddha Sihing is a sacred Buddha image of Chiang Mai 📍📸 Phra Buddha Sihing Procession and New Year Procession · Date: April 13, 2025 · Route: From Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn to Tha Phae Gate · Traditional Lanna procession and beautiful cultural performances 📍💦 Songkran Water Splashing Activities around Chiang Mai Moat · Date: April 12-16, 2025 · Location: Around Chiang Mai Moat, Old City 📍🎼 Music and Entertainment Festival MY WATER WORLD SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2025 · Date: April 12-16, 2025 · Location: Rin Kham Intersection, in front of MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center

The traditional architecture of Chiang Mai is a profound expression of Lanna identity, fundamentally shaped by Theravada Buddhism. This influence is most visible in the iconic *wats* (temples), where architectural elements—such as sweeping multi-tiered roofs, protective Naga staircases, and ornate wooden carvings—serve as physical representations of Buddhist cosmology and merit-making. The layout of these complexes, centered around sacred *chedis* that house relics, is designed to facilitate a spiritual journey, reflecting the core Buddhist values of impermanence, devotion, and enlightenment. Ultimately, these structures function as living sanctuaries that blend local Lanna craftsmanship with regional artistic influences to provide a permanent, visual manifestation of Buddhist teachings and community faith.

📍 Chiang Mai Cafe Review: Tha Phae Area ☕️ ✨ Calling all hip cafe hoppers! If you're visiting Chiang Mai and looking for a cafe with great vibes, featuring both cool spots + chic photo ops, I highly recommend this place. 👉 McARTHUR Bloc It's a minimalist cafe with a raw, edgy aesthetic right in the heart of the city on Tha Phae Road. Super easy to drop by while exploring!✨ The atmosphere here is absolutely fantastic. During the day, it's a chill cafe where you can sit back, sip some coffee, and snap photos in gorgeous natural light. Come evening, the vibe shifts into a semi-bar, making the atmosphere even better! 🖤 📸 Photo Spots · The storefront is their absolute signature. Catch a red truck (songthaew) or tuk-tuk passing by = ultimate Chiang Mai vibes! · The interior features a cool, minimalist design—every corner is totally photogenic. · Cafe hoppers will absolutely love it. ☕️ What I Tried · Orange Americano: Super refreshing! · Dirty Coffee: Rich, intense, and smells amazing. 💰 Price Around 60–120 THB / cup (Such a steal!) 🕘 Hours Around 9:00 AM – Midnight (Turns into a bar at night) 🚗 Parking · Street parking near the cafe or nearby parking lots. 🐶 Pet-friendly · Outdoor seating is available (but I'd recommend double-checking with the cafe just in case). 💬 Bottom Line This cafe checks all the boxes: great coffee, stunning photo spots, and a prime location. If you're in Chiang Mai and don't want to miss out on a cool spot, you definitely have to drop by! 🖤 ⸻

This cozy little cafe in the Tha Pae area feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Chiang Mai. The shop is simple, stylish, and homey all at once. Stepping inside, you immediately feel a sense of calm. It's a charming place that doesn't need to try too hard ✨ The atmosphere is amazing. The natural light is beautiful, and the various corners are minimalist yet warm. There are cozy spots for chilling, working, and perfect for taking photos that turn out beautifully nuanced 📸. Especially in the late afternoon, the light is stunning, giving it a subtle, international cafe feel. The coffee exceeded expectations. The beans have a distinct aroma, a smooth and easy-to-drink taste, yet still retain all the character. Specialty coffee lovers will especially enjoy it ☕️. The pastries and other menu items are also well-made and pair perfectly with the coffee. Another thing I loved is the chill vibe of the shop. Even though it's near Tha Pae, once you step inside, it feels like you're cut off from the hustle and bustle outside. You can sit there for hours without realizing the time has changed 🌿. If you're looking for a great cafe in Chiang Mai with delicious coffee, a warm atmosphere, and beautiful photo opportunities, McArthur Bloc is definitely worth checking out 🤎 #GetDiscountWithoutLuck #ChiangMaiCafe #ChiangMaiTravel

One Day in Tha Phae, Chiang Mai… a rainy day that feels warmer than expected ☔️💛 Starting the day slow by paying respects at Wat Dok Kham 🙏 The gentle pitter-patter of the rain creates an incredibly peaceful vibe, hitting the reset button on your soul before a stroll through the city 🌿 From there, taking a leisurely walk to the iconic landmark, Tha Phae Gate 📸 Even in the rain, the photos capture a completely different mood—the wet streets reflecting the old city and the ever-lively flocks of pigeons 🐦 It’s an effortlessly charming and simple moment ✨ Once the hunger kicks in, it's time to fuel up with a steaming bowl of Kanom Jeen Nam Ngeow at Kanom Jeen Chang Moi 🍜 Rich flavors and fragrant curry spices, paired with fresh veggies 🥬, are absolute perfection in this crisp weather. Truly satisfying for both the stomach and the soul 💕 Wrapping up the day with a touch of sweetness at Millilit Cafe 🍦☕️ Enjoying some refreshing ice cream in a cozy, homey atmosphere. The rain is still drizzling, but everything feels perfectly in place with no need to rush 🪴 Chiang Mai on a rainy day might not be as vibrant as it is under the sun, but it’s packed with little details that make you want to freeze time just a little bit longer.

Single Origin Store Thapea ☕️ A perfectly located coffee shop with a view of Tha Phae Gate. The interior is open, airy, and comfortable, decorated in black and white tones with large glass windows that provide a crystal-clear view of the historic Tha Phae Gate. It's a great spot where you can easily sit back and chill all day long. Plus, the drinks are delicious, the coffee is top-notch, and there's a great selection of baked goods, too. Check in here and you're guaranteed to snap some gorgeous, stunning photos. Without a doubt, this is a must-visit cafe for content creators!

Tha Phae Gate is one of Chiang Mai's iconic landmarks, showcasing the charm of the old city through its distinctive orange brick walls. Originally serving as the eastern city gate, it welcomed visitors and acted as a trade connection with the outside world. Today, Tha Phae Gate is a popular destination that seamlessly blends history with contemporary lifestyle. The area around Tha Phae Gate is bustling with tourists and locals alike. The spacious square in front is perfect for strolling, taking photos, and participating in various activities, especially in the evening when the atmosphere becomes lively. Surrounding the gate are numerous cafes, restaurants, and the Sunday Walking Street, making this area a vibrant hub of tourism that never feels quiet. Despite being in the heart of the city, Tha Phae Gate retains a classic and relaxing vibe. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Chiang Mai's old town, whether on foot, by bicycle, or simply taking a moment to enjoy the surroundings. For those seeking to experience Chiang Mai in a way that is both historic and lively, Tha Phae Gate is a must-visit check-in spot.

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck A relaxing day in Thapae... strolling slowly through old buildings, I stumbled upon a small cafe called Millilit Café, a cafe that feels like a hidden gem in someone's memory box. 🍯 As soon as I opened the door, I was greeted by the aroma of coffee, accompanied by soft vintage music that involuntarily slowed me down. 🎶 The cafe has a warm, retro vibe, filled with cute collectibles, warm lighting, and cozy little corners. The drinks here are fragrant and the homemade desserts are adorable and make you smile. 🍰 But what I love most is the feeling of stopping time, taking a moment to relax and lighten an ordinary day. 💛 📍Millilit Café – Thapae, Chiang Mai Located near the walking street, it's just a short stroll away. If you love small, warm, stylish cafes with big hearts, you have to stop by at least once. 🌿☕ #VisitChiangMai #ChiangMaiFood #millilitcafe #ChiangMaiCafe #MustVisitCafe

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck If you're in the Chang Moi area, you must try this place: "Chang Moi Moo Jum." This simple yet warm atmosphere makes you feel like you're dining at a friend's house. ☁️ The broth is fragrant and flavorful, with tender, melt-in-your-mouth marinated pork and fresh vegetables. It's packed with toppings, and pairs perfectly with the delicious dipping sauce. 🥢✨ And most importantly, the prices are so reasonable! You can eat your fill without worrying about your wallet. 💸 In the evenings, the atmosphere gets livelier, perfect for chilling out and enjoying a long chat with friends or family. 🧡 Delicious and warm, this is another Moo Jum restaurant we highly recommend. If you're in Chiang Mai, don't forget to stop by! 🌿 📍Location: 141 Chang Moi Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300 🕰Open daily from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM #ChiangMaiFood #ChiangMaiTravel #ChangMoiMooJum

An Italian-fusion restaurant with a relaxed, homemade vibe. Freshly made pasta and pizza dough are prepared daily. It's a great spot to stop by in the Weng Lek Daeng area if you're looking for something delicious that's not overly Thai. ✨ Recommended menu and approximate prices: · Lasagna, pasta ~ ฿100-฿250 per person · Charcoal oven pizza / thin crust pizza ~ ฿200-฿250 depending on the toppings · Drinks / fresh fruit juices, smoothies ~ moderately priced, around the mid-range for the area Opening hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily Getting there & parking: · The restaurant is located in the Weng Lek Daeng area (Tha Phae Road), near Rivers & Roads and other trendy spots in the area. · There is no dedicated parking for the restaurant. You will need to find street parking or use nearby public parking and walk into the Weng Lek Daeng alley. 👉 If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy fresh Italian pasta in Chiang Mai, Barefoot is a fantastic choice with a great vibe! ✨

📅 Itinerary Day 1: Travel by private car from Chiang Rai directly to Wachirathan Waterfall and stay for 1 night in Mae Ai. Day 2: Continue to Mae Tia Waterfall and stay for 1 night at Paradise Gate, Chiang Mai. Day 3: Go to Nimman and enjoy delicious brownies at Memories. 🏨 Recommended accommodations: Le Lite Guesthouse and Babel Hotel. 🍴 Recommended restaurants: Mostly order from Grab and eat at rest stops. 📌 Tip: There are many good, affordable accommodations.

#TravelChat 🐐 Hamza Farm @ Yunnan Flea Market Those who love fresh goat, lamb, or beef need to pin this place! Yunnan Flea Market hosts Hamza Farm every week! 🎉 They offer high-quality meat and fresh goat milk 🥛, offering a complete range of options. Customers can choose any part 🥩, including lean meat, rump, ribs, and offal. Prices are listed per kilogram, making it perfect for those looking to take home and cook their own dishes, whether it's curry, stir-fry, grilled, or stew. 🍲 ✨ Highlights of Hamza Farm: · High-quality goat, lamb, and beef meat 🐑🐂 · Hard-to-find fresh goat milk 🥛 · Choose your own cuts, fresh every time. · Clear prices per kilogram, so you won't be scammed. 📍 Location: Yunnan Flea Market 🕘 Opening Hours: Every Friday morning - noon only! If you want to try it, hurry! Because if you're too late, things sell out very quickly. 🚶♂️ Have you ever tried making goat/lamb dishes at home? Which one is the most delicious? 🥘 #HamzaFarm #YunnanFleaMarket #YunnanMarket #GoatMeat #FreshGoatMilk #FridayMorningMarket #MeatLovers #FreshMeatThailand #HalalMeat #GoodMarket

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Wat Upakut, a famous temple in Chiang Mai, a favorite among spiritual devotees. Don't miss it! 🚩📸 Review of the famous temple, Wat Upakut, a famous temple in Chiang Mai over 200 years old, renowned for its business and career opportunities. According to legend, Phra Upakut, meaning "protective god," is depicted in a statue of him with his head tilted upwards, begging for alms, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Currently, Wat Upakut Chiang Mai boasts a famous amulet, Phra Buakhem, a Mon Buddha image in Burmese-Mon-Lanna dialect. It is considered sacred and brings good fortune, prosperity, and protection from danger. ✅️Location: Tha Phae Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province

I don't know how many times I've been to Chiang Mai, but every time I feel drawn back to the same place. 🏡💖 The Signature hotel @Thapae A small, homey hotel. The location is amazing, right in the heart of the city at Tha Pae Gate. 🚶♀️ It's a short walk to Kad Luang, the moat, and even the walking street. 🛍️🍜 There are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants nearby. Whether you're looking for savory or sweet treats, this place has it all. ☕🍰 The hotel's atmosphere is so peaceful. Even though it's in a tourist area, it's like you're getting a good night's sleep. 😌🌿 The room was clean and the bed was soft. Sleep comfortably all night. 🛏️💤 Most importantly, the price is reasonable and not too expensive. 🪙💕 Parking is also available, but limited. Advance booking is recommended. 🚗📌 The entrance may be a small alley, but inside, it's full of charm and comfort. For those who enjoy strolling, eating, and traveling, this is the place to be. 🥰👍 #ChiangMai #ChiangMaiAccommodation #TheSignatureThapae #ChiangMaiHotel #ThaPae #chiangmai #thailandtravel #walkingstreet #kadluang #moat #cutehotel #goodpricechiangmaiaccommodation #thapaegate #thailandtrip #chiangmaitrip #travelchiangmai #thesignaturethapae #accommodationnearwalkingstreet #hotelreview #chiangmaihotel #chiangmaitravel #travelnortherncity #smallbutnicehotel #thailandvacation #chiangmaitrip #accommodationreview

No matter how many times I come here, I always like the atmosphere, which is easily accessible. There is still nature to enjoy. There might be some traffic jams in the moat, but it's not a big deal because I walk a lot. This time, I walked 7 kilometers, walking around the moat to relieve boredom. #VisitChiangMai #ChiangMaiRainySeason

Topolino A corner bar on Thapae Road. Good atmosphere, friendly service, a variety of drinks, cocktails, mocktails, beers, etc. The bartenders are quite experienced, mix well, delicious taste, friendly price. Most of the customers are foreigners who come to chill, enjoy the night atmosphere of Thapae. Next time I visit, I will find a chance to come and sit again. #Get a discount without relying on luck

Breathe in the fresh mountain air and embrace simple happiness. If you're looking for a getaway that doesn't need to be luxurious but is filled with joy, "Chiang Mai's natural mountain retreat" is the perfect answer. Verdant mountains, refreshing forests, crystal-clear streams, and pure air that you can't find in big cities are the charms that make many fall in love. Whether it's waking up early to sip coffee on a wooden balcony while gazing at the mist floating over the mountain peaks, or strolling through tea plantations, coffee farms, and local village farms, you'll connect with nature and the simple lifestyle of the hill tribes. Chiang Mai isn't just about trendy cafes or its old town; it also offers serene mountains waiting for you to explore.

#ChiangmaiTravel For those who visit Chiang Mai and walk around the moat, Thapae Gate area until tired, want to rest your feet and refresh yourself lightly, I would like to recommend Relax Express Massage, a super chill massage shop located not far from Thapae Gate. The shop is decorated in a Japanese minimalist style, focusing on wood and natural light, giving a clean, airy and comfortable feeling. We came to get a neck, shoulder and back massage with a light massage of balm. Let me tell you, it was super comfortable! The staff were very skilled, the weight was just right and they paid great attention to detail. At the end of the massage, they also gave us a small bottle of balm to take home as a souvenir. I was so impressed that I don't need to say much. 🧖🏻♀️ Another thing I like is the quietness and cleanliness of the shop. Everything looks simple but stylish and is really suitable for relaxation. It's like a small resting place after walking around all day. ⸻ 📍 Location: Near Thapae Gate, Ratchadamnoen Road, Chiang Mai 🕘 Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. 💸 The price of a massage starts at around 250-350 baht (depending on the package). ⸻ If anyone comes to Chiang Mai And are you looking for a massage shop with a good atmosphere, clean, simple? I recommend this place, Relax Express Massage. It's suitable for both travelers, working people, or anyone who wants to spend time relaxing in a warm atmosphere. ☁️🪷 #Where to go in Chiang Mai #Chiang Mai #Chiang Mai Massage Shop

#ChiangmaiTravel ⸻ This breakfast restaurant is called "Saneha" and is one of the hottest trends right now. Anyone who comes to Chiang Mai must stop by because the queue is very long. You have to wait since morning. 🌞🍳 We tried it ourselves and ordered classic menus such as fried eggs and American fried rice. The taste is delicious and simple but very chic. Served on a vintage green plate with the word "Chiang Mai" in the middle — just take a picture of the plate and you'll get a picture to post on IG. 📸✨ The iced tea we ordered was not too sweet, fragrant and refreshing. Eating it with breakfast is the best. The shop is decorated in a vintage-retro Thai style. The green tone contrasts with wood and a little antique decoration. It's charmingly chic, just like the name "Saneha". 🪴 Another cool thing is that during the day it's a breakfast restaurant. At night, it changes into a small, minimalist bar with dim lights and soft music. Chillers will love it. 📍 The location is in Chiang Mai city, not far from Wat Phra Singh. You can stop by before your trip. ⏰ Open from morning until night — Early in the morning, we recommend you come early because the tables fill up very quickly! ⸻ For those who love cafes, atmosphere, or those who love to eat good breakfast and take beautiful photos, “Saneha” is one of the restaurants you should definitely pin on your map. 🌿🍽️💚 #ChiangMaiRestaurant #WhereToGoInChiangMai

#ChiangmaiTravel I had the opportunity to chill out at a small but warm cafe in the heart of Chiang Mai called Eleven Pillar Site, located in Soi Thapae Road. The atmosphere of the shop is decorated in a homey style, simple but warm. It is another peaceful corner that is suitable for relaxing on a relaxing day. We ordered a medium roast Americano - a well-rounded taste, fragrant without having to add anything, easy to drink and very refreshing. The more I sipped it while listening to soft music in the shop, the more I felt time slowly flowing by melodiously. For anyone who comes to Chiang Mai and wants to find a cafe that is not chaotic, has some privacy and has very good coffee, I recommend this shop. 🍂 ⸻ #Must-visit cafe #Cafe with a cozy atmosphere #Chiang Mai

🍞 Shu Pan 💕🏠 @shupan.cnx 📍 Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai⏱️ Toast with custard. We like pandan custard. It's fragrant, delicious, and not too sweet. But they also have Thai tea custard. It goes well with the shop's drinks to cut the sourness. Or if you want to order other menus, you can choose. Or you can order toasted Marshmello. Easy to get to, you can park on the side of the road. But watch the traffic light. The shop opens from 17.45-23.15_______________________________________#cafechiangmai #cafereview #chiangmaicafe #chiangmaireview #chiangmaicafereview #reviewchiangmai #cafe #coffee #chiangmai #thaphae #cafereview #cafereview

If you're visiting Chiang Mai and looking for a restaurant that combines authentic Northern Thai flavors with a nostalgic ambiance, "Kiti Panit" is a must-visit spot. Located on Tha Phae Road in the heart of Chiang Mai, "Kiti Panit" is a Lanna-style restaurant housed in a 130-year-old teakwood mansion. The building has been beautifully renovated by the fifth-generation descendants of the family, and it was once the first department store in Chiang Mai. Today, it is even featured in the Michelin Guide, making it a highly recommended dining destination. I ordered Nam Prik Ong (Northern Thai chili dip), Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), steamed egg custard with fish, pork satay, and spicy pork rib soup. The flavors were excellent, and the total cost was 1,300 THB, which I found reasonable. This restaurant is suitable for all ages, so if you're in Chiang Mai, don't forget to stop by and enjoy a meal here. The restaurant is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It's recommended to make a reservation in advance as the restaurant is popular among both locals and international tourists.

SHU PAN Supang Sokupang: A super cool fresh milk bread shop in Tha Pae area. Here, you will find the aroma of freshly baked bread and juicy marshmallows on the grill. With a chill atmosphere in Tha Pae area, the shop has a warm atmosphere with a glass of your favorite drink with delicious bread that everyone who comes will fall in love with. There are also many beautiful photo spots. Stop by to chill at Supang. You can take back this great atmosphere to show off to your friends. 📌📌 The shop is located on the 1st floor of Maple Wood Hotel, Tha Pae Road, Soi 2, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District. ⏰⏰ Opening hours The shop is open every day from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. 🚗🚗 Parking on the side of the road #Chill out shop with a nice atmosphere #Visit Chiang Mai #Go to a chic cafe

We booked two local tours and were very satisfied. Our group of 11 booked a private tour, which included pick-up and drop-off. We stayed at Villa Rajapruek (วิลล่าราชพฤกษ์), which consists of three villas with BBQ facilities, billiards, and a swimming pool. We had a fantastic time!

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#CafeBundle Sip coffee☕️ See handmade works at a cafe in the heart of Chiang Mai Come experience a Chiang Mai cafe. The cafe is located near Waroros Market. The view of the shop overlooks the pagoda of Wat Upakut and Chang Klan Road, including the iconic red trucks. In addition to the various drinks for us to choose from☕️ There are also art works🖼️ Books, home decorations and cute accessories to choose from. (The upper floor is another restaurant.) 📍Location: Tha Pae Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province 📍Coordinates: Issara Coffee Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/wVRvszJKwh7WUJHs8?g_st=ic ⏰ Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. 🚗 No parking available. You can park at the Chiang Mai Buddhist Center. #ISSARACOFFEESPACE #Chiang Mai Cafe #cafechiangmai #cafe review