Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai? Chiang Mai is a city in northern Thailand, located in the mountainous, jungle-covered region of the country known as the Golden Triangle. Home to more than one million residents, it is known as the culture capital of Thailand.
The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine. There is lots to do in this lovable city including exploring the city’s many temples, wondering various markets and taking day trips to the countryside.
It’s no surprise that Chiang Mai is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand and one of the most popular cities in Southeast Asia for digital nomads. There are plenty of incredible places to stay in Chiang Mai. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, that finding an accommodation in Chiang Mai won’t be a problem.
In this article we’ll go over where to stay in Chiang Mai, the best area to stay in Chiang Mai depending on your travel preference and list accommodation options for every type of budget. But first, are you in a hurry? If you are trying to book a room tonight or don’t have time to read the whole article, below I listed a quick list of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for easy booking.
📍 Plan your Trip to Chiang Mai:
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- Top Pick of Where to Stay in Chiang Mai – Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
- Where to Stay in Chiang on a Budget – Inn Oon ChiangMai Home
- The Most Unique Place to Stay in Chiang Mai – 137 Pillars House
- Where to Stay in Chiang Mai for Luxury – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort
- Best Place to Stay in Chiang Mai for the Solo Adventurist – Mhonsa Hotel
Best Area to Stay in Chiang Mai
When deciding where to stay in Chiang Mai, there are a few neighborhoods in Chiang that are better for tourists to stay – Old City, Night Bazaar, Riverside, Himmanhemin & Santitham.
The Old City is the historic city center of Chiang Mai. The heart of the area is marked by four crumbling walls of an old fortress. Old town is full of ancient temples, vibrant markets, tasty restaurants, boutique shops and plenty of guesthouse. Walkable to all the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai, you can find any type of accommodation here.
Things to do in the Old City:
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Wat Phra Sing
- Chiang Mai Arts & Cultural Center
- Wat Chiang Man
- Lanna Folklife Museum
- Somboon Market
- The Phae Gate and old city walls
- Sunday Walking Street
The Night Bazaar can be found next to the Old City on the East. It’s named for, you guessed it the Night market. The night market runs every night and is the largest in the city. Just like the Old City, this neighborhood in Chiang Mai is centrally located and full of accommodation options. If you came to Chiang Mai to party, this area puts you in the center of the action.
Things to do in the Night Bazaar Area:
- Shopping at the Night Bazaar
- Loi Khroh Road for Nightlife
- Play Pool
- Get a Massage
- Eat delicious Street Food
Next up is the Riverside area, located to the east of the Night Bazaar. This area is also conveniently located close to many of the city’s popular attractions, so you’ll still be able to walk to most places you want within 25-30 minutes. This is a great area to stay for a more relaxed vibe perfect for families and couples who are not on a backpacker budget.
Things do do in the Riverside Area:
- Ton Lamyai Flower Market
- Wat Ket Karam
- Get Pampered at the Spa
- Elephant Parade House
- Views of the Mae Ping River
For those looking for a more relaxed and tranquil stay, the Nimmanhemin area is a great choice. This is an up-and-coming neighborhood and home to a variety of boutique hotels, guesthouses and Airbnbs, as well as being in close proximity to the university.
The area also has a range of stylish cafes, restaurants and bars. This is one of the best spots for digital nomads who want a stylish place to work from their laptop for an extended amount of time.
Things to do in Nimmanhemin:
- Boutique Shopping
- Trendy Cafes
- Rooftop Bars
Santitham is one of the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai for digital nomads who want something more affordable than Nimmanhemin. This area is located close to the airport and takes about 20 minutes or so to walk to Old Town.
Things to do in Santitham:
- Eat Local Thai Food
- Enjoy a ‘Workcation’
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai on a Budget
Kittawan Home & Gallery
- Location: Riverside
- Highlights: Price & Owners
A bit further from the center of town like most of the hotels on this list but with a 10-15 walk you can be in the city center. The Kittawan Home&Gallery is a great option if you want something price friendly, clean and spacious.
The outside area is cozy and comfortable. To save even more on your budget enjoy the continental breakfast every morning.
Mhonsa Hotel
- Location: Old City
- Highlights: Price & Location
The Mhonsa Hotel is all about location. Walking distance to the Saturday Market, the Sunday walking street and the Wat Chedi Luang.
All rooms are equipped with comfortable beds and have a great price point. Bikes available for hire at the budget Chiang Mai hotel which is a great way to explore the city.
Inn Oon ChiangMai Home
- Location: Old City
- Highlights: Price & Location
If you love lush, tropical landscapes then you’ll adore the garden area. The Inn Oon ChiangMai Home is clean, quiet and has a great location within the old city walls.
There is no breakfast but everything you need is right outside the hotel doors. If you are always looking for great value for the price then this is the place for you.
Best Places to Stay in Chiang Mai | Mid Range Budget
BED Nimman
- Location:Nimmanhemin
- Highlights: Adults Only
This hotel gives you the most bang for your buck. Every single detail is well thought out. From the trendy decor to the delicious breakfast that can be eaten pool side every morning.
The clean and modern BED Nimman is located walking distance to the center of Chiang Mai old town and walkable to restaurants, sights and shops. And did I mention ADULTS ONLY!
Kate and Hasu Boutique Chiangmai
- Location: Night Bazaar
- Highlights: Free Breakfast, Location and Pool.
Kate and Hasu Boutique Chiangmai is a great place to stay in Chiang Mai if you are looking for a luxurious stay in a modern, stylish setting on a mid range budget. This chic boutique hotel offers guests a range of luxurious amenities and services, from comfortable, stylishly appointed rooms to a range of activities and excursions.
Conveniently located in the night bazaar area, you will be bear both the city centre and nightlife. Kate and Hasu Boutique Chiangmai makes the perfect base for exploring the city on foot. Stay here for the free breakfast, location and pool.
VC@Suanpaak Boutique Hotel
- Location: Airport
- Highlights: Great for Large Groups at an affordable Price
VC@Suanpaak Boutique Hotel is a great option especially if you are traveling in a larger group as you can get multiple bedroom suites. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and did I mention the balconies 😍. You will instantly fall in love with the relaxing pool and well maintained grounds.
This hotel is walkable from the Chiang Mai airport and a 15 tuk tuk ride to the center of the old town. Worth the splurge and one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai.
Book Design Hotel
- Location: Santitham
- Highlights: Pool and Chill Vibe
The Book Design Hotel is a great place to stay in the Santitham area. The hotel’s design is inspired by the traditional Lanna architecture of the area, with an eclectic mix of modern and traditional furnishings. The outdoor pool is the perfect way to escape the heat or to relax after a day of adventures.
Best Hotels in Chiang Mai for Luxury
Thai Akara – Lanna Boutique Hotel
- Location: Old City
- Highlights: Pool & Charm
Thai Akara is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of the old city. The elegant and beautiful Thai decor and style only adds to the hotel’s charm.
There is a small pool that is worthy of the gram. You’ll love the spacious rooms and the breakfast serves Thai and Western dishes.
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
- Location: Nimmanhemin
- Highlights: Rooftop Pool & Breakfast
The Akyra Manor is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the Nimmanhemin district of Chiang Mai. The hotel features stunning contemporary design and architecture, with bright and modern decor that creates an inviting and tranquil atmosphere.
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from spacious suites to deluxe rooms, all of which come with private balconies, free wifi and stunning views of the city. Amenities such as a rooftop pool, spa and restaurant make this hotel in Chiang Mai is the perfect spot for a restful and rejuvenating getaway.
Chala Number 6
- Location: Old City
- Highlights: Pool & Old City Location
If a posh pool is always a top priority when picking a Chiang Mai accommodation then opt for Chala Number 6. I always choose hotels based on the pool and if I can get a balcony. This hotel fits the bill for both.
The rooms are big, spacious and clean. Situated in the heart of old town and next to the popular Chedi Luang Temple and the Sunday Market. Ask for a room with a balcony, you won’t regret it.
Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel And Spa
- Location: Riverside
- Highlights: Spa
Located in the Riverside area of Chiang Mai, the Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa is a great place to relax and unwind. This colonial-style building is an oasis from the mid summers heat of Thailand. The luxury Chiang Mai hotel features large rooms with hand-crafted furniture and air conditioning.
Amenties include an outdoor pool, a restaurant and lobby bar. You’ll love all the themed rooms in this boutique hotel and you must take advantage of the spa. This is where to stay in Chiang Mai for pampering and relaxation on the river.
137 Pillars House
- Location: Riverside
- Highlights: Pool 😍
The 137 Pillars House is paradise inside the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai. This exceptional 30 bedroom hotel has air-conditioned suites with parquet floors and a walk-in closet feature contemporary décor, with a balcony, patio and spacious living area.
Bathrooms come furnished with a Victorian bathtub and an open-air shower. If budget isn’t a problem and you’re looking for celebrity treatment on your travels, you can find it at the 137 Pillar House. This is one of the best hotels in Chiang Mai.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort
- Location: Riverside
- Highlights: Luxurious Amenities, Pool & Spa
If you are looking at where to stay in Chiang Mai for a romantic getaway, the Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, the resort offers easy access to the city’s attractions, including markets, temples and restaurants.
The resort itself offers luxurious rooms and suites, each featuring modern amenities and tasteful Thai decor. Every room is air-conditioned and the resort has a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness center.
Spend your days relaxing with a drink in hand at the poolside bar or enjoy a nightcap at the rooftop lounge. This is one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai.
Thailand Travel Guides
📍Plan your Trip: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand
🗺 How long to travel Thailand? 3 Weeks in Thailand
☔️ Best Time to Visit: Thailand is a year round destination. November to February is considered the best season.
💰 Average Daily Budget: Mid Range Budget $50-100
⛺️ Thailand accommodation Guides
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- Where to Stay in the Phi Phi Islands
- Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
- Where to Stay in Khao Sok N.P.
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🪂 Highlights
- Overwater Bungalows in Khao Sok National Park
- The Iconic Phi Phi Islands
- Diving at Koh Tao
- Chaotic Bangkok
- Culture in Chiang Mai
- Erawan Falls
- Full Moon Party
- The Dramatic Railay Beach
🧳 What to Pack: What to Pack for Thailand
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Those are the best places to stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Do you have a favorite hotel in Chiang Mai? Let me know in the comments.
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