Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family, a backpacker, or anything in between, our guide for where to stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand will shed some light on what each neighbourhood has to offer, and which one might be best for you. With much of the popular focus on two particular areas, many people dont think outside of the box when it comes to considering places to stay in Chiang Mai. Old City has luxury offerings, boutique hotels, and hostels for backpackers. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Doi Saket: Visit the Pa Pong Piang Rice Terraces Get off the beaten path and check out these traditional rice terraces that will remind you of Balis hidden gems. Other amenities include a full kitchen, in-home laundry, wifi, and air conditioning. One of our favorite cities in Thailand, Chiang Mai makes a great place to visit or base yourself as a digital nomad. Each area in Chiang Mai has its own aesthetic and offers something new for visitors. Nine Hotel Chiangmai - From 40-50 Euros per night. The old city is full of temples, museums, restaurants and cafes, markets, and more. In general, a ride within the city limits should cost 30 baht per person, but it can increase the further your ride or depending on the time of day. Many first-time visitors to Chiang Mai tend to focus their attention on the historic Old City and the trendy Nimmanheamin (often shortened to Nimman) area. This one-of-a-kind hotel is outfitted with trendy, modern design guest rooms and a staff that will help you at any moment. If youre looking for the best place to stay during a short visit, wed recommend finding accommodation near Tha Phae Gate in the east part of the Old City, or just outside in the Night Bazaar neighborhood. A favourite amongst tourists and ex-pats, this historic city strikes the delicate balance between stability and chaos with uncanny accuracy. Bag yourself some harem trousers for sure. This place is surrounded by natural beauty and feels like a truly secluded retreat; its a great choice if youre looking for a laidback atmosphere. It is close to a local market, street food, and isnt too far from the major sites. The property also offer express check in and check out service. This two-bedroom Airbnb is set in incredibly lush surroundings and offers a great open living area. Santitham is a beautiful and entertaining area with fresh markets and affordable (and of course, delicious) food. etc. Its possible to go horrifically wrong and end up miles from the action (which is why Ive written this guide), but its difficult to go wrong once youre looking in the right areas. Here are a few of our favorite places to stay in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai: Mala Dhara Yoga Retreat Center & Organic Farm $. There is a breakfast buffet served at the in-house restaurant and outdoor dining in the garden. Discover more about some of the animal kingdoms smallest and most misunderstood creatures at the offbeat Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders. This hostel is especially secure. The 24-hour reception desk will greet you upon arrival and show you to your air-conditioned room. Youll need to leave your passport at the rental shop for collateral. Located in the Old City Centre, Chinda Boutique Hotel has rooms for one or two, each with a private bathroom, a fridge, and a TV. Its proximity to the Old City makes it an overall great spot to walk around or and party all night long. Chiang Mai is 700 km north of Bangkok, set in a verdant valley on the banks of the Ping River. Its merely 2.5 kilometers long, but this ancient area dates back well over 500 years. Youll also love that this guesthouse provides air-conditioned rooms that are perfect for escaping the Chiang Mai humidity and high temperatures. With the abundance of options for accommodation and dining, theres bound to be something for you in the magical city of Chiang Mai. Choose between superior villas or 4-bedroom suites at Sibsan Resort; whichever you decide, you will not be disappointed. Chiang Mai - The Rose of the Northern Thailand. Taxi from the airport: $5. You will also be able to locate a ton of different types of accommodations. Wualai is close to the weekend market. Riding elephants and using them like circus animals is cruel. Rooms are moody and spacious, featuring wooden furnishings and large bathtubs. Try the Thai Thai hostel if youre on a budget (as backpackers tend to be). Have breakfast at this place for free before exploring ancient temples nearby; there are many popular things to do within a short walks distance. Its one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for families. Check out Minimal Gallery and Jojo Kobe Art Gallery for interesting collections of artwork. Gallery Hotel is one of the best places to stay in the city. This rooftop apartment is the right side of the Santitham road, near Ninman and the old town. Check out this guide for the best places to stay in Chiang Mai and find out their pros and cons. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Tip on transportation from the Chiang Mai Airport:When you arrive at the airport in Chiang Mai, there is a taxi queue, but it is overpriced. The Chiang Mai Gate is a busy area with lovely markets. But despite the close proximity, Alexa Nimman hostel is a clean and quiet place to rest your head. Whether youre staying for a few days or a few months, we think youll love this city. He looks forward to his next trip abroad, when he can properly confirm FCDO travel advice for himself, *cough*, for you guys, *cough* he would never travel against FCDO advice. On this property, youll be surrounded by ponds and gardens that will make you feel like youre nestled in the jungles of northern Thailand. Stroll through Chiang Mais red-light district. Best Chiang Mai Airbnb: 70-year-old teak cabin A gorgeous traditional wooden house with all the modern comforts and conveniences, this Chiang Mai Airbnb is located near the moat in the heart of the Old City. Wondering where is the best place to stay in Chiang Mai? Now that Ive gotten that warning over with: Renting a motorbike can be one of the cheapest ways to get around and explore the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Its included with your stay, so this hostel really is a great value option. And with mountains and jungle to explore, as well as cute, air-conditioned cafes to work from, Chiang Mai speaks to all different travelers and nomads. Did you know? The Old Town is the most visited part of Chiang Mai. In my opinion, Chiang Dao is the most exciting district of Chiang Mai and northern Thailand as a whole. Theres an attached co-working area for guests. And in addition, youll see friendly staff members waiting to help you with whatever you need during your stay. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Top Accommodations for Every Traveler Eplore the Doi Inthanon national park by joining a. Take a trip to the nearby Chiang Mai National Museum where you can learn more about Northern Thailands history, heritage, and culture. Stroll through the Princess Mothers Health Garden. If you have more days at your disposal then add a couple of days in Chiang Mai. NORN Boutique Hotel Right in the heart of the Nimman neighborhood, this boutique hotel has top reviews for its location and value. There is a balcony, tv, free wifi, air conditioning, and parking on the premises. Perfect 3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary: The Best Things To Do! Chaing Mai is the perfect destination to visit for temples, street food, interesting cafes and the famous night markets. British student's harrowing balcony plunge leaves him - Thaiger Buy unusual fashions in quirky boutiques. 1. Average hotels and family accommodations typically cost between $30 and $75 per night. See also: Where to stay in Bangkok, where to stay in Phuket, where to stay in Koh Samui, where to stay in Koh Tao. See our disclosure policy for more details. In other words, if youre looking for the best place to stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand, look no further. The real beauty of this spot is that is has all sorts of people mingling in it, so youll never be without something to do or someone to talk to. Are you wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai? For a more upscale resort in Chang Moi, check out Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. Do you have any suggestion on how to organize my days for these three locations, where to stay and whether you think it is feasible (i can stay also more than a week for the whole trip in Thailand), but I would like to stay low on the budget. There is no surprise why. The Perfect 3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary for First Time Visitors Our favourite spots to stay in the Old City are the centrally located Give me 5 Hostel and Pingviman Hotel. The Night Bazaar is Chiang Mais premier tourist attraction. The neighbourhoods around Wat Umong and Wat Pong Noi have a village-like vibe. This makes it one of the favorite areas to stay in Chiang Mai for those without transportation. Our recommendations for your trip to Chiang Mai cater for every type of traveller on every kind of budget. Climb the steps to Doi Suthep Temple, one of the most beautiful temples in Northern Thailand. luxury Rachamankha - Featuring classically Thai interiors, the rooms at Rachamankha boast high wood ceilings, terracotta tiled floors, and dark, solid wood furniture. With so many things to do, itll be hard to fit everything into your schedule. Sibsan Resort & Spa Maetaeng in Chiang Mai, Thailand offers luxurious villas with an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, a fitness room, and a library. Take a break in one of the areas cute cafes. Nimmanhaemin has some pretty spectacular bars too, and the nightlife scene is varied between homey pubs and sophisticated rooftop bars. Shopping in addition to live music and food, there are also many street vendors selling clothes and souvenirs. Although its becoming more and more on the radar for tourists, Chiang Mai is still not as popular as Bangkok or some of the islands. This sleepy hostel, located near the Chiang Mai night bazaar area, is a perfect place to meet other travellers and take part in some wholesome tourism. If youre looking for somewhere that wont disappoint, this is our top choice. The rooftop pool and bar makes an excellent place for happy hour cocktails as you watch the sunset. Be pampered in a spa or have an invigorating traditional Thai massage. This page may contain affiliate links. Unsubscribe at any time. Leaf Hostel Decorated with nature, this hostel offers up affordable accommodations for travelers of all types on a budget. And before you leave your guesthouse for the day, feast on a hearty breakfast served fresh each morning. Signup for our newsletter and we'll send you helpful travel tips! In this guide to where to stay in Chiang Mai, were going to go over the different neighborhoods and what you can expect in each. Your email address will not be published. Spend fun evenings hopping from bar to bar and enjoying the local nightlife. As one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand, its important to consider weather patterns and events before booking your trip. Chiang Mai is famous for its beauty industry, specializing in Tumeric face masks that will leave your skin feeling dewy and restored. Even if you opt not to stay in this area, you should really make a point to check it out. This hidden gem of an Airbnb is perfect for those who want to escape the busy city life and chill out in nature. The most entertaining and convenient area to stay in Chiang Mai is the Old City. We have tried to make the guide as easy to follow as possible. El Barrio Lanna is one of the best Chiang Mai hotels for those that want a modern and trendy place to stay, but with a touch of Thai tradition. The old town is the backpackers hub of Chiang Mai, with heaps of street food, and an accumulation of restaurants serving both international and Thai cuisine. The view from this home is breathtaking and looks out over rice terraces where you can unwind in nature. Day trip to the Elephant Nature Park Chiang Dao is just north of the famous Elephant Nature Park, making it a good place to explore during your time in Chiang Mai and take in all the natural wonders. Hello, thanks for the tips! Perched over the valley that divides Thailand and Laos, Phu Chi Fa will give you one of the best sunrise experiences of your life. These are just a few of the many things to do in the Old City of Chiang Mai; above all, theres something for everyone in the Old City, whether youre planning a family vacation or a getaway with friends. The air quality in Chiang Mai plummets during this time and it makes it harder to enjoy a lot of the outdoor activities. And the best part of this hostel? Changmoi House Boutique Hotel. Here are some options to add to your itinerary: Tucked away on the mountainside, this relaxing studio Airbnb is the perfect place to get away from it all. There are plenty of waterside restaurants, bars and cafes here, but the real action in the city center is about a 10-minute drive away. All rooms come with a private bathroom, cable TV, and a fridge. This hotel comes with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Just a few minutes from the Tha Pae gate, the Give Me 5 Hostel gets fantastic review. It really depends on what you are looking for. There are other areas, however, that may be more suited to your preferences and requirements. In this video, we'll show you where to stay in the best areas of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Although most hotels in northern Thailand have exceptional staff, this hotel goes above and beyond for its guests. Anatara Chiang Mai Resort Situated along the bank of the river, this luxury resort features minimalist Asian design leaving you feeling like entire hotel is a spa. Within the city, the streets are flat, and in general, other vehicles will give you plenty of room. For many people, the proximity of accommodation to the bustling fun and live music of the Night Bazaar is a true selling point. Cheers! Friendly staff, super clean spaces, and a nice hangout space make this a very relaxed, comfortable hostel. Instead, order a Grab, or wait in front of the departure doors for a songthaew to come by. But, if youre looking for more unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the area, check out nearby districts like Doi Saket or Chiang Dao. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand | Two Wandering Soles Tha Phae Gate Cozy House This 3 bedroom Airbnb property has Superhost status and is perfect for a family or group traveling together to Chiang Mai. All the guest rooms have been newly renovated. Knowing where to stay can be a little overwhelming, as Chiang Mai is a multi-faceted city. Comment below and let us know! Yaang Come Village This 4 star boutique hotel is located at the south end of the Night Bazaar, between the Old City and the Ping River. Budget Tip:It is worth noting that if you are a backpacker looking for hostels, the area just south of the Old City walls is full of highly rated hostels that are within walking distance of the Old City. The hotel has laundry services and does handy bike rentals too. Play a round of golf at Lanna Golf Course. With limited room, however, if youre looking for luxury hotels with an outdoor swimming pool, youll want to look elsewhere. You dont have to go too far to find the best party, and you can always head right on home afterward. Additionally, you should always respect the rules of the road and dont ride like an idiot to try to impress people. To sum up, you can find really nice hotels in Chiang Mai for $30 or less. In the Old City, you can find amazing food, architecture, and activities. Old City 2. Thats why the Night Bazaar area is considered to be one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai. Its right on the river, so expect some fabulous views and great seafood dining options. Here are a few hostels and hotels to consider: Lemonap Hostel is a wonderful, clean, and well-located hostel that offers great amenities. Travelers can choose between a premier suite or a manor suite at akyra Manor Chiang Mai. Find your own favourite street stallsthere are many! Chiang Mai Old City. Lets just say it wouldnt be wise to miss out on these fun things to do: Go to the Night Bazaar our favorite part of the Night Bazaar is watching live music and eating all of the delicious street food, the real Thai cuisine. And to top it off, the location is fantastic. There are several great hostels in Chiang Mai, and simply turning up and looking around will reveal some excellent results. All Rights Reserved. Sign Me Up! Located in Chiang Dao National Park, far away from Chiang Mais city center, youll be able to explore nearby lakes, mountains, and hiking trails. The best area to stay in Chiang Mai for nightlife and the digital nomad expat scene, youll also find plentiful restaurants and terrific places to shop. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai for a Local Experience - Culture Trip Hostels can cost anywhere from $3 per night to $20 per night, depending on location and amenities. Chiang Mai is a popular destination for travelers, with hotels to suit all budgets. The convenient location makes traveling so much easier. The beautiful rooftop infinity pool overlooks the city, and the views from the fitness center arent too bad either! Laundry services are available and theres a buffet breakfast available from the on-site restaurant. The staff here work hard to accommodate every guests needs, from information on local attractions to scheduling and booking the best tours in the area. Walking: walking is a great way to explore Chiang Mai's Old City. The pool is refreshing and the in-house restaurant specializes in Thai cuisine. Will there be plenty of festivities to see on 27th as well or am I going to miss out on the festival by leaving on 28th? Where to stay in Chiang Mai - Travelling King Some travelers like to stay even closer to the airport when visiting Chiang Mai as many of these hotels have ample free parking; however, the downside of staying near the airport is the noise. Songthaew (local bus) ride in the city: $1. Explore the impressive temples of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. AlsoI was just reading that the Yi Peng is supposed to be on 27th this year and Loy Krathong on 28th and there is supposed to be a parade and festivities on 28th. La Pillow 8 - From 20 Euros per night. A shared kitchen, bathrooms and lounge area are available as well and an American-style breakfast is served up every morning. Your email address will not be published. That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. Image: best area to stay in chiang mai blog. The minimalist decor flows throughout the property which has a mix of single, double and triple rooms with shared bathroom facilities. From the historic city center to the tranquil riverside, We'll show y. Plus, there are many extra amenities that will make your stay worthwhile. As mentioned earlier, one temple in Chiang Mai you absolutely have to visit is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. We decided long ago that we will not knowingly contribute to attractions that exploit people or animals while traveling. You can stay in Nimmanhaemin for a few hundred baht per night, or splurge on a higher-end boutique hotel. If youre in a hurry, lets uncover the best place to stay in Chiang Mai. Forget staying in one of the Chiang Mai hotels, this Thai Airbnb offers so much more! Combination ticket for three museums: $6. You will also find trendy restaurants, shopping boutiques, and a more sophisticated nightlife scene here that includes some rooftop hotspots. Home to ancient temples, bustling markets and a plethora of guesthouses, boutique shops, and restaurants, the Old City is where youll find all the action. For pure magic, take a day trip to Phu Chi Fa from Chiang Mai. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you are wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai -this is the most popular option. There are high-class resorts in scenic settings. We're on a mission to visit the 10 most beautiful islands on every continent within the next 5 years. Check out some of the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai. If you want someplace social that nails the work-hard-play-hard balance, this part of Chiang Mai is definitely a top choice. Jed Yot is mainly a residential area. Plus there are plenty of amenities for adults to enjoy as well such as the signature spa and business center. It is the prime neighborhood for shopping and nightlife in Chiang Mai with beer bars and late-night dance clubs all around Loi Khroh Road. Heres what people usually ask us about where to stay in Chiang Mai. If this appeals to you, definitely check it out! The bathroom is new and theres an open-air kitchen, living room, and dining area. The one bedroom corner unit on the 7th floor has mountain views facing west (perfect for sunsets!). Sleep surrounded by nature in a shaded bungalow with heaps of incredible facilities. Everything about this retreat is awesome, including the free breakfast, caring staff members, and a steam sauna. But, prepare to enjoy the tranquility of small village life. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai (Our Top Insider Picks! This private infinity pool Airbnb villa is located in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai. There is plenty of dining options in Old City, from higher-end restaurants to street stalls. Santitham is an up-and-coming area between the Old City and Nimman Road. There is a very artistic vibe in this part of town, so if youre looking for out of the box shops, organic food, and eclectic music, Nimmanhaemin is where its at. The Old City is often the cheapest place to stay in Chiang Mai, with backpackers hostels aplenty and budget guesthouses, so this is also my pick for where to stay in Chiang Mai on a budget. Best Up-And-Coming Area to Stay in Chiang Mai: Santitham 6. 1. Youll have the most relaxing time at Mala Dhara Yoga Retreat Center and Organic Farm. Its worth the extra 50 baht ($1.66 USD). Above all, if you are looking for more than just a bed to sleep while visiting Chiang Mai, then book a room at Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai | Best Hotels, Hostels, & Resorts Here are a few of the best things to do in the Old City of Chiang Mai: Visit the Saturday and Sunday night markets Wualai Walking Street is home to a popular night market just along the outside of the Old City. With a strong sense of culture, an incredible food scene, vivid history and all the modern comforts you could ask for, Chiang Mai is a beautiful blend of old and new. Wat Ket has plenty of boutique hotels and higher-end options, but theres not much around for backpackers. With a spectacular outdoor pool, Book design hotel is a great place to relax. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai - Neighborhoods & Area Guide There is plenty to do, eat, and see to keep you busy for weeks, andChinda Boutique Hotel in the Old City is our top pick for the best Chiang Mai Old City hotel. Youll be amongst the rolling hills in northern Thailand; the ideal place to practice yoga and meditation for a zen-like experience. Kate & Hasu Boutique Hotel A 5-minute walk from Tha Pae Gate in the Night Bazaar neighborhood, this modern boutique hotel is perfect for couples. Nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has ancient temples, a thriving arts seen, a laid-back vibe, and a climate that's relatively cool and dry. Youll especially appreciate the cleanliness of this hotel; it feels like youre getting 5-star amenities for a 2-star price. There are several quirky attractions and cultural sites too. While most travelers limit their Thailand holiday to the many islands in the south, we recommend spending your time in the north because it is pure magic. Plus an onsite restaurant specializing in western cuisine. Where to Stay In Chiang Mai for Families & Luxury: Riverside 4. A top place for travellers who want to meet other cool folks, socialise, and enjoy a comfortable Chiang Mai base, Alexa Hostel has mixed and female-only dorms and private doubles with shared bathrooms. Where to Stay in Chiang Mai | Best Areas & Hotels for Every Budget The home has Wi-Fi and secure parking. Dont miss the picturesque Ang Kaew Reservoir within the university complex. Wi-Fi is free in what is one of the most stunning of all the Chiang Mai hotels on offer. You can flag down a tuk tuk and negotiate the price. Relax in one of the areas chilled-out cafes. With lots of cafes, coworking spaces, and condos available, it is simply the best place you can stay in Chiang Mai. The accommodation features mixed and all-female dorms with semi-private bunks as well as private rooms. Prices start at $24 a night for a single room with a large double bed. Whether you choose from a double room or a deluxe villa, youll receive incredible service, snacks and treats, and top-tier amenities. Chiang Mai Riverside (Mae Ping River) Mountainside Hotels (Suthep & Chang Phueak) This page contains affiliate links. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. It is centrally located in the Old City but in a quiet neighborhood, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. On your next trip to Thailand, remember to save a little bit of time to head up north and visit this beautiful city. On the edges of the city, Mountainside offers easy access to both nature and the city. The self check-in makes staying here easy and convenient. At Viangbua Mansion, the rooms are spacious and gorgeous with high ceilings. Most hotels here are gear towards the luxury resort crowd. Located between the Old City walls and Nimman Road, it is one of the most easy-access places to stay for tourists, digital nomads, and expats while still being off-the-beaten-path to avoid crowds. Hike the many nature trails in the area if youre an avid hiker, consider hiking Doi Chiang Dao. Chiang Mai hotels, hostels and rentals are spread between quite a few areas. I would like to spend time in Chiang Mai, Bangkog and Phuket. If you plan onliving in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad, wed recommend finding accommodation in the Nimman neighborhood. All rooms are en-suite and have a TV, toiletries and air conditioning. Get involved at a local culture exhibition, while chowing on traditional Thai cuisine. If you have only one week I would visit Bangkok, one day trip to Ayutthaya and Phuket. Riverside is chilled out, higher-end and classic. Visit the scenic remains of Wat Chedi Luang, an ancient temple that dates back to the late 1300s / early 1400s and once housed the revered Emerald Buddha (now located in Bangkok). This bike-sharing program is relatively new to Chiang Mai. If youre after some of the most iconic and delicious Thai food around, head to the Night Bazaar for a steaming bowl of northern curry noodles or some traditional sausage. Abraham writes both subtly and ironically. Whether its a debilitating night out or wholesome culture that floats your boat, this awesome city has got your back. If you're planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai, this guide will go over the different neighborhoods and what you can expect in each, plus recommended stays for every budget. Accommodation here includes a range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, but you tend to see more on the pricier side than in Old City. Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa Set in a beautifully restored colonial style building, this hotel features uniquely designed rooms full of elegance and comfort. The house itself boasts modern amenities like air conditioning, hot water, and a westernized kitchen with all the necessities. This gorgeous attic overlooking a private pool is situated in the centre of the old city, and close to the action. Nimman Road is a popular shopping area in Chiang Mai that draws tourists and locals alike. Wiang Phing Village offers easy access to the airport and the large shopping mall of Central Plaza Chiang Mai. So is Feb definitely a month where u can smell pollution in the air right at the city centre as its the burning of fields at harvest time? BOX Hostel This highly rated hostel on the edge of Nimman and Santitham is made up entirely of shipping containers.