Food Tours in Chiang Mai

Thailand is famous across the world for its fiery cuisine, bursting with bold and aromatic flavors. Each corner of the country has its own regional dishes and the northern Chiang Mai territory is no exception.

From fragrant curry noodle soup to tapioca dumplings, there are plenty of delicacies for you to sample around the city. Take to the streets on a food tour in Chiang Mai and allow your taste buds to explore every nook of Thailand's second-largest city.

Here's all you need to know about food tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Chiang Mai.

What are the best food tours in Chiang Mai?

Local food tour in Chiang Mai

If you want to experience the very best of Thai cuisine, dine where the locals do on this Chiang Mai walking food tour.

Itinerary

Begin your authentic Thai experience in the heart of the Old City where you’ll sample kao man gai, which combines chicken fat and rice for a rich, and decadent treat.

On the way to your next food spot, you’ll pass by the oldest temple in Chiang Mai — Wat Chiang Man — which was built in the 13th century. Try the Thai twist on the Burmese classic — khao soi, a fragrant curry noodle soup.

Moving on, you’ll have the opportunity to taste glutinous tapioca dumplings, before crossing the Ping River to get swept up in the magic of a street market.

Here, you’ll try several more local delicacies, such as Thai sticky rice and iced tea as you listen to the sizzle of dozens of woks furiously stir-frying in harmony.

Street food market tour in Chiang Mai

Sampling the delights of street food is a must on any Thai vacation. Ensure you don’t miss out on any of the most flavorful treats with a guide to show you around.

Itinerary

As the sun sets over Chiang Mai, you’ll witness the city come to life as hundreds of food stalls pop up and a myriad of aromas wafts through the air. This is the time when you’ll meet up with your guide to discover Thailand’s street food scene.

You’ll be part of a small group, which allows for an intimate tour, as you explore two of Chiang Mai’s most celebrated markets.

Alongside Thai classics, you’ll also sample regional dishes, such as coconut dumplings and stewed pork leg, as well as other Asian specialties.

Converse with your guide about the dishes and ingredients you see on offer, and learn how to order your favorite dishes in Thai.

More than just tasting the cuisine, you’ll also discover the importance of certain dishes in Thai culture and the history of food in the country.

Chiang Mai Lanna food tour by Songthaew

Weave through the streets in a songthaew seeking out the best cuisine on this food tour in Chiang Mai.

Itinerary

On this excursion, you’ll experience up to 15 regional dishes that originated in the north of Thailand.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll learn all about the history of food in this corner of the country and how ingredients differ from those used further south.

Feast on tangy yet sweet papaya salad and khao soi noodles, as well as meats stuffed with fragrant spices.

Switch between sweet and savory by sampling Thailand’s most beloved dessert — mango sticky rice.

Work your way across the city to one of Chiang Mai’s most thriving districts — Nimmanhaemin — where you can enjoy shopping and sightseeing once your stomach is full.

How much do food tours in Chiang Mai cost?

The majority of food tours in Chiang Mai cost between US$30 and US$40 per person, while those that take place on a bike cost around US$50 each.

If you opt for a food tour that transports you through Chiang Mai via songthaew, you'll pay approximately US$60 each.

What is included?

Food tours in Chiang Mai include a guide who knows all the best spots in the city. They will lead you through the streets and stop at different establishments where you’ll sample the most delicious Thai fare.

All food tastings are included in the price of your tour. While each excursion differs in the number and variation of dishes they provide, you’ll usually have the opportunity to try between 10, and 15 different dishes.

Where does it start?

Chiang Mai food excursions usually begin at an easy-to-reach landmark in the city. This may be a renowned temple or another significant monument.

Guides are usually easy to identify, and you’ll be informed of the starting destination before booking. This will enable you to plan your route and make any necessary transportation arrangements ahead of time.

Occasionally, these tours include a convenient hotel pickup from accommodations in the city center.

How long does it last?

The majority of guided food tours in Chiang Mai last between 3 and 4 hours. This gives you plenty of time to traverse the city, indulging in its most delicious dishes.

If you have a limited itinerary, you can opt for an excursion that lasts just two hours. While these tours are not usually as comprehensive, they are a good introduction to the cuisine of northern Thailand.

When is the best time for a food tour in Chiang Mai?

You should take a Chiang Mai food tasting tour whenever you’re hungry as these excursions are available throughout the day. However, if you are selecting a street food tour, you’ll find that these usually occur at nighttime.

One of the best ways to get acquainted with a new city is through its cuisine, so book a food tour for your first or second day in Chiang Mai.

Are there any combos available with food tours in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai bicycle and food tour

Hop on a bicycle and explore the best eateries of Chiang Mai via bicycle on this tour.

Cycle through the different neighborhoods of the city, hopping off to try several mouthwatering dishes. From restaurants to street food stalls, you'll discover the local's favorite eateries as you go.

As you meander along the city's historic streets, you'll discover a plethora of enticing landmarks and monuments to admire.

Which other gastronomic experiences can be done in Chiang Mai?

• Cooking Classes
• Dinners
• Chocolate tastings

Travel tips

• If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, inform your tour provider upon booking.
• Most food tours in Chiang Mai take place on foot. Because of this, you should ensure you wear comfortable footwear on your excursion.
• Book your tasting tour for a few hours after your last meal so that you can fully enjoy the flavors of Thailand.