Chiang Rai is a fantastic place for those who enjoy exploring authentic local markets, tasting regional flavors, and discovering traditional crafts. Unlike larger Thai cities, Chiang Rai offers a more intimate experience with its colorful night markets and impressive temples. We especially like the Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host, which combines sightseeing with delicious food in a small-group setting. This tour offers a nice balance of cultural sights like Wat Huay Pla Kang and the Clock Tower, along with the chance to sample local delicacies, making it a well-rounded evening activity.
If you’re after a more personal experience, the Night Walking Tour – Local Market & Food Tasting is a perfect choice for exploring Chiang Rai’s lively streets after dark. For those who want a mix of food, culture, and a bit of socializing, the Secret Food & Cultural Market Walking Therapies with Local Host covers all bases with round-trip transfers, local market visits, and food recommendations. Below, we break down each tour to help you pick the best option for your Chiang Rai adventure.
1. Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host
At number one on our list is the Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host. For around $111.36 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a comprehensive evening exploring Chiang Rai’s top sights and food scene. The tour kicks off with a visit to Wat Huay Pla Kang, a massive white temple featuring a 9-floor pagoda and the famous Big Buddha, located about 5 miles north of the city center. This iconic site is a perfect first stop to appreciate Chiang Rai’s spiritual side and grand architecture. Afterward, you’ll head to the Clock Tower, which lights up spectacularly at night with laser shows and colorful projections—an absolute photo opportunity. The guide, Aday, is praised for his excellent English and attentive, personalized approach, making the experience both informative and relaxed.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of cultural landmarks with local market food tasting. You’ll sample regional foods and desserts, with reviews highlighting the deliciousness of Thai delicacies that might otherwise be missed. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and the flexibility to tailor the experience. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and authentic street food.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a well-rounded evening experience with a knowledgeable guide, good value, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and tasty bites.
2. Chiang Rai: Night Walking Tour – Local Market & Food Tasting
Coming in at number two, the Chiang Rai: Night Walking Tour – Local Market & Food Tasting offers a more intimate, private experience for just $62 per person. This tour is perfect if you want to discover Chiang Rai’s vibrant street life and try authentic food in a relaxed setting. The guided walk takes you through bustling night markets, where you’ll see locals shopping for everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Your guide will help you navigate the stalls and recommend dishes to try, giving you a taste of true local life.
The tour also includes visits to stunning temples like the Blue Temple and Wat Huay Pla Kang, both beautifully lit up at night, offering a different perspective than during the day. The private guide makes it an ideal choice for travelers craving a more personalized, flexible experience. Guests rave about how this tour offers a chance to see Chiang Rai’s real, everyday rhythm—away from the typical tourist spots—and taste street foods they might never find on their own.
Bottom Line: For travelers who prefer a private, flexible tour with an emphasis on authentic food and local life, this walk provides a charming evening exploring Chiang Rai’s night scenes and temples.
3. Secret Food & Cultural Market Walking Therapies with Local Host
At position three, the Secret Food & Cultural Market Walking Therapies with Local Host offers a 4-hour small-group adventure for about $58.46 per person. This tour is a blend of food, culture, and local traditions, with a few unique features. It starts with visits to major sights like the Blue Temple, Clock Tower, and Wat Huay Pla Kang, allowing you to appreciate Chiang Rai’s diverse spiritual architecture. Afterward, your guide will take you to the vibrant night market where you’ll sample local foods, guided on what to try to maximize your experience.
One distinctive aspect of this tour is the opportunity to make new friends in a group setting, with recommendations on local foods that you might otherwise overlook. The tour also includes round-trip transfers from the city center, making logistics effortless. Though it doesn’t have reviews yet, the combination of cultural sites and market visits with food insights makes it appealing for travelers interested in a comprehensive, relaxed evening.
Bottom Line: If you want a social, all-in-one tour that combines sightseeing, food, and cultural insights, this option is worth considering, especially if you enjoy group atmospheres.
$58.46 per person
How to Choose the Best Chiang Rai Market & Shopping Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re after a full evening of sightseeing and food in a small-group setting, the Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host offers a fantastic mix of cultural landmarks and authentic bites. For a more personalized experience that focuses on exploring Chiang Rai’s lively streets and sampling street food at your own pace, the private Night Walking Tour – Local Market & Food Tasting provides flexibility.
If you prefer a cultural and food tour combined with opportunities to meet other travelers, the Secret Food & Cultural Market Walking Therapies offers a group experience with guided insights into local food and traditions. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the lower price point of this last option, which still covers all the essentials.
Ultimately, think about how much time you want to dedicate, whether you prefer a private or group dynamic, and what specific sights or foods interest you most. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and tour.
From exploring the impressive temples to sampling authentic street food, Chiang Rai offers a diverse range of shopping and market experiences. For a balanced, guided journey, the Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour stands out for its elegant blend of sightseeing and tasting. If you want a more intimate or flexible experience, the private night walk suits those seeking personal attention. And for a comprehensive cultural and culinary outing combined with social interaction, the Secret Food & Cultural Market Walking Therapies provides all that in a relaxed group setting.
No matter which tour you pick, your evening in Chiang Rai will be filled with memorable sights, flavors, and encounters. Be sure to book early, especially if you want to catch the Blue Temple’s lights or the lively night market, and enjoy discovering this colorful corner of Thailand.