Chiang Mai Markets & Food
Last updated: February 2026
Chiang Mai has incredible markets and unique Northern Thai cuisine you won't find elsewhere in Thailand.
Sunday Walking Street
Chiang Mai's most famous market, stretching from Tha Phae Gate through the Old City.
When: Sundays, 4:00 PM - 10:30 PM Where: Ratchadamnoen Road, Old City Length: Over 1km of vendors What to Find:
- Handmade crafts and art
- Hill tribe textiles
- Street food galore
- Live music and performances
Tips:
- Arrive before 5 PM to avoid biggest crowds
- Walk the whole length before buying
- Bargaining expected (but be reasonable)
Saturday Walking Street (Wualai)
Smaller but equally charming market south of Old City.
When: Saturdays, 4:00 PM - 10:30 PM Where: Wualai Road Known for: Silverwork, handicrafts Vibe: Slightly less crowded than Sunday market
Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Chiang Mai's main day market - the real local experience.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily Location: Near Ping River What to Find:
- Fresh produce and meat
- Northern Thai ingredients
- Flowers
- Clothing and fabrics
- Food stalls
Tips: Morning is best, very local feel
Night Bazaar
Nightly market for tourists near the river.
Hours: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM daily Location: Chang Klan Road What to Find:
- Souvenirs and handicrafts
- Clothing and accessories
- Food court (Anusarn Market)
Note: More touristy, prices higher than walking streets
Must-Try Northern Thai Food
Khao Soi
Chiang Mai's signature dish - coconut curry noodles. Where: Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Mae Sai Price: ฿40-80
Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)
Herb-packed pork sausage. Where: Any market, SP Chicken Price: ฿30-60
Khao Kha Moo (Pork Leg Rice)
Braised pork leg over rice. Where: Cowboy Hat Lady (Chang Phueak Gate) Price: ฿30-50
Nam Prik Ong
Tomato and pork chili dip with vegetables. Part of: Khantoke dinner sets
Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao
Rice noodles in tomato-pork broth. Where: Local markets, morning only Price: ฿30-50
Best Food Streets
Chang Phueak Gate (North)
Famous for nighttime street food. Stars: Cowboy Hat Lady's pork leg rice Hours: 6:00 PM - midnight
Nimman Road (Soi 9, 11, 13)
Trendy cafes, international food, desserts. Best for: Coffee, brunch, fusion food
Near Tha Phae Gate
Tourist-friendly restaurants, varied cuisines.
Coffee Culture
Chiang Mai has Thailand's best coffee scene.
Notable Cafes:
- Ristr8to (award-winning)
- Akha Ama (hill tribe coffee)
- Graph Cafe (specialty roaster)
- Roast8ry Lab
Last updated: January 2026
