Chiang Mai is a paradise for food lovers. Its layered flavors, regional specialties, and bustling markets make it a perfect city for exploring through food tours. Unlike many tourist spots that serve up standard dishes, Chiang Mai’s cuisine offers a unique blend of northern herbs, Burmese influences, and traditional cooking techniques. Whether you’re craving a street-food crawl, a private tasting experience, or learning to cook authentic dishes, this city has it all. We especially love the Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings, which offers a deep dive into local ingredients and history with a personalized group size — perfect for those who want to taste their way through Chiang Mai’s less touristy spots.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the top 15 food tours in Chiang Mai—from quick street market bites to immersive cooking classes and even motorbike rides through the city. Each offers a different window into the city’s culinary soul, designed to satisfy various interests, budgets, and schedules. Whether you want a short evening snack tour or a full-day culinary adventure, you’ll find options that will expand your palate and deepen your understanding of Thai food.
1. Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 from 383 reviews) is a standout for its comprehensive tasting experience. Over four hours, you’ll visit 15 tucked-away restaurants and street stalls (many off the usual tourist trail), sampling spices, curries, noodles, and jungle greens. The tour is limited to just eight people, ensuring a personalized experience. Traveling in a rod daeng truck adds to the charm, giving you a local ride while exploring Chiang Mai’s diverse food scene. The tour also highlights the Burmese influences shaping northern Thai cuisine, a feature that sets it apart. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide, Tree, for his humor and insights, noting it’s a fantastic way to truly taste Chiang Mai. Best suited for those who want variety and depth in their food adventure.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for serious foodies who want to experience the breadth of local flavors with a small group and a knowledgeable guide.
2. Chiang Mai: Evening Local Street Food Market Tour
At number 2 on our list, this 2.5-hour tour (4.8/5 from 442 reviews) offers a quick yet flavorful dive into Chiang Mai’s vibrant night markets. You’ll visit at least two markets, learning how to order and enjoy popular street foods like Kanom Jeen, stewed pork leg, and coconut dumplings. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making logistics simple. Participants rave about the friendly guide and the variety of dishes, with many emphasizing the value for money—sampling around 8 dishes in just a few hours. It’s a great option for those with limited time or for travelers who want an energetic, on-foot exploration of Chiang Mai’s nocturnal food scene.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a short, lively introduction to local street eats with the convenience of hotel pickup.
3. The 10 Tastings of Chiang Mai With Locals: Private Street Food Tour
For around $75, this private tour (5.0/5 from 205 reviews) offers the most flexibility, allowing you to tailor your experience. You’ll visit local markets and restaurants, sampling 10 foods, both sweet and savory, with a local host providing in-depth commentary. The tour can be scheduled in the morning or afternoon, and it’s perfect for those who want a personalized touch—from selecting dishes to customizing the route. Past travelers highlight the friendly guide and the variety of dishes, including surprises like traditional Thai ice cream and papaya salad. The focus on local favorites makes it perfect for travelers eager to see Chiang Mai through the eyes of locals.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prefer a customized, intimate experience with in-depth food insights.
4. Small-Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour
This tour (4.5/5 from 767 reviews) is a popular choice for small groups, lasting about 2.5 hours. Exploring two night markets on foot and by songthaew, you’ll taste at least eight dishes including Thai street snacks and local specialties. The guide is praised for being informative and attentive, making it perfect for those who like to learn while they eat. The tour’s affordability ($37.77) offers excellent value, as you’ll sample multiple dishes in a lively setting. Reviewers mention that even with rain, the food and experience remain engaging, making it a reliable choice.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a fun, relaxed, small-group night market experience with plenty of tastings.
5. Go where the locals go, Eat what the locals eat! Food Tour with Local Foodies
This half-day tour (5.0/5 from 126 reviews) lets you see Chiang Mai through local eyes. It includes a visit to one of the city’s oldest open-air markets, and you’ll try local dishes like mango sticky rice and tapioca dumplings. With a private driver and small group size, the experience feels personal and relaxed. The guide shares stories behind each dish, giving you a deeper understanding of Northern Thai cuisine. The tour is flexible enough to start in the morning or late afternoon, making it adaptable to your plans.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a cultural and culinary overview with authentic local flavors.
6. Chiang Mai: Food Tour by Songtheaw Truck with 15+ Tastings
At position six, this tour (4.9/5 from 120 reviews) stands out for its unique journey in a traditional songtheaw truck. Over the course of a few hours, you’ll enjoy more than 15 northern Thai dishes and snacks. The tour offers an educational component, sharing the history and culture behind each dish while visiting hidden street joints. It’s ideal for travelers who want a combination of transport, cultural insight, and a broad tasting menu in one package.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting an interactive, mobile tasting tour with a cultural twist.
7. Taste of Chiang Mai: Michelin Guide Street Food Tour
This tour (4.9/5 from 97 reviews) offers a focused experience on Michelin-recommended dishes. You’ll try three top-rated dishes like Thana Ocha’s pink noodle, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand favorite. The tour includes visits to Warorot Market, blending history and gastronomy. For just $25, it’s an excellent value for those wanting to sample award-winning street food curated by experts. Past participants enjoy discovering where the locals go for Michelin-worthy bites without the hefty price tag.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies eager to taste Chiang Mai’s best Michelin dishes without extensive fuss.
8. Lanna Kingdom Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
This four-hour tour (5.0/5 from 64 reviews) takes you into Thanin Market, where you’ll try 20+ tastings of Northern Thai dishes. Traveling in a private rod deang truck, you’ll explore food shops and restaurants often missed by visitors. The tour emphasizes small group intimacy and expert commentary on each dish. Reviewers love the variety of flavors and the insight into regional cuisine. Highlights include khao soi, traditional Thai ice cream, and papaya salad. It’s perfect for serious food explorers wanting a comprehensive taste journey.
Bottom line: Excellent for deep dives into Northern Thai cuisine with local guides and authentic flavors.
9. Motorbike Food Tour in Chiang Mai
At number nine, this 4.5-hour motorbike tour (5.0/5 from 47 reviews) combines sightseeing with eating. Riding with an experienced driver, you’ll visit different parts of Chiang Mai to try multiple Thai dishes. All food and drinks are included, making it easy and streamlined. Reviewers mention it’s great fun to ride around the city and sample local specialties like some you might not find on your own. It’s suited for adventure-loving foodies comfortable with motorbikes, or those seeking a more personalized, active experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore Chiang Mai in style while eating well.
10. Chiang Mai: Local Food and Markets Guided Walking Tour
This short, budget-friendly tour (2.5 hours, $13) takes you through warorot Market and nearby markets, sampling local street foods like Hakka-style noodles. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about Chiang Mai’s food scene and history, while enjoying fresh flowers and herbs. The tour is highly rated for its authenticity and value. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a quick introduction to local flavors and enjoy walking through Chiang Mai’s markets.
Bottom line: Best for curious travelers on a budget who want a taste-focused walk.
11. Taste of Chiang Mai: Michelin Guide Street Food Small Group Tour
This small group tour (17 reviews, $36) offers a focused 2-hour exploration of Michelin Bib Gourmand dishes. Guided by experts, you’ll visit top-rated spots and enjoy tastings included. It’s perfect for short trips or those wanting a culinary snapshot of Chiang Mai’s best-rated street food. Travelers enjoy the insider tips and convenience of seeing hidden gems recommended by Michelin.
Bottom line: Suitable for busy travelers wanting a high-quality, quick taste of Chiang Mai’s Michelin scene.
12. Authentic Chiang Mai 4-Hour Bicycle Tour with Northern Food
For the active, this 4-hour cycling tour (5.0/5 from 14 reviews) combines exercise with eating. You’ll ride through local communities, visiting markets and restaurants where locals shop and dine. The tour includes traditional techniques like lighting a charcoal grill and milling flour. Past travelers praise its unique approach and authentic stops. It’s excellent for adventure-minded foodies eager to see everyday life in Chiang Mai while tasting regional specialties.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a hands-on culinary experience.
13. Chiang Mai: Walking Food Tour
This 3-hour tour (12 reviews, $53) takes you into Chiang Mai’s Old Town, visiting multiple restaurants and food stalls. Led by an engaging foodie, you’ll taste local dishes and learn about the history and traditions behind each. It’s a relaxed yet informative walk, perfect for those who want a taste of everything and easy pacing. Many reviewers mention how it opened their eyes to hidden local favorites.
Bottom line: Great for culture and cuisine lovers who enjoy a leisurely walk with lots of tastings.
14. Cook Local Northern Thai Food in Traditional House
This full-day cooking experience (7 hours, $56) immerses you in Northern Thai cooking techniques. You’ll visit a local market, pick ingredients, and then cook five dishes in a traditional setting. Highlights include lighting a charcoal grill, making coconut milk, and handcrafting traditional recipes. Travelers praise its hands-on approach and authentic atmosphere. It’s best for foodies wanting a comprehensive culinary lesson.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want to learn to cook authentic Northern Thai dishes yourself.
15. Doi Suthep Temple and Street Food Tour
This 4-hour tour combines a temple visit with street food sampling. You’ll explore the Doi Suthep temple, taking in panoramic views at sunset, then visit two markets for around 6-8 dishes. The tour offers a cultural and culinary combination that appeals to first-timers and regular visitors alike. Reviewers mention how Sunny guides them effortlessly from spiritual sites to flavorful markets. It’s great for those who like a bit of everything—culture, views, and food.
Bottom line: Suitable for culture and foodies wanting a balanced experience.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Chiang Mai
When choosing from these top options, think about your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want the most variety, the Northern Flavours tour offers over 15 tastings in a small group. For those seeking authentic local flavors, Go where the locals go provides a deeper cultural experience. Budget travelers may prefer the Street Food Market Tour or the Michelin Guide Tour, which combine quality with affordability.
For active travelers, the Bicycle Tour and Motorbike Tour offer dynamic ways to see the city while tasting. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Chiang Mai’s best, the 2-hour Michelin tour or the evening street food tours are excellent options.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist season (November to February). Many tours fill quickly, and some have limited group sizes that enhance the experience.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai offers a diverse range of food tours that cater to various tastes and schedules. For serious foodies, the Northern Flavours Tour and Lanna Kingdom Tour stand out for their extensive tastings and local insights. If you prefer shorter, lively experiences, the Street Market Tours and Michelin Guide Tour are excellent picks. For those wanting to get hands-on, the Cooking Class provides a full culinary immersion.
No matter which you choose, booking early guarantees you’ll secure a spot in these delicious adventures. Chiang Mai’s food scene is a feast for the senses—so pick your tour, come hungry, and prepare to taste a city that truly knows how to satisfy your appetite.