Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Your guide to the best areas and accommodation types
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Best Areas to Stay
Each neighborhood has its own character. Find the one that matches your travel style.
The historic heart of Chiang Mai, enclosed by ancient walls and a moat. This square-shaped area is packed with temples, traditional markets, and guesthouses ranging from budget to boutique. Most streets are walkable, and you're never far from a temple, massage shop, or local restaurant.
- Walking distance to major temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
- Authentic local atmosphere with Sunday Walking Street market
- Wide range of accommodation from $10 hostels to $100 boutiques
- Central location makes it easy to reach other neighborhoods
- Can feel touristy around main temple areas
- Traffic and scooter noise on major roads like Ratchadamnoen
The trendy, modern neighborhood west of the Old City, popular with digital nomads, students, and younger travelers. The area centers around Nimmanhaemin Road and its side sois (alleys), filled with hipster cafes, coworking spaces, boutique shopping, and international restaurants. Maya Shopping Mall anchors the northern end.
- Dozens of specialty coffee shops and Instagram-worthy cafes
- Strong wifi and coworking spaces throughout the area
- Modern, well-maintained hotels and serviced apartments
- Vibrant nightlife with rooftop bars and craft beer pubs
- Walking distance to Chiang Mai University and Maya Mall
- Less traditional Thai atmosphere compared to Old City
- Higher prices for food and accommodation than other areas
The area along the Ping River east of the Old City offers a more relaxed, quieter atmosphere. This neighborhood includes both the immediate riverside and the streets leading toward it, with a mix of guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and a few luxury properties. The Warorot Market and Chinatown are nearby.
- Peaceful riverside setting with jogging and cycling paths
- Good value accommodation with fewer tourists than Old City
- Close to Warorot Market for authentic local shopping and food
- Riverside restaurants and bars with scenic views
- Requires transport (songthaew, grab, or bike) to reach Nimman and some attractions
- Limited dining options compared to Old City or Nimman
A residential neighborhood north of the Old City that has become increasingly popular with long-term visitors and expats. This local area offers authentic Thai living with growing numbers of cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses. Less developed for tourism but that's precisely its charm.
- Significantly cheaper than Nimman or Old City for similar quality
- Authentic local neighborhood feel with traditional markets
- Growing cafe and restaurant scene catering to expats and locals
- Easy access to Old City via 10-minute walk or 5-minute ride
- Fewer tourist facilities and English-speaking services
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
The areas south (Hang Dong) and north (Mae Rim) of central Chiang Mai offer countryside settings with resorts, wellness retreats, and nature-focused accommodation. These areas require private transport but provide mountain views, rice paddy settings, and peaceful environments typically 20-40 minutes from the city center.
- Stunning natural settings with mountain and rice field views
- High-end resorts and wellness centers with extensive facilities
- Peaceful environment away from city noise and traffic
- Access to elephant sanctuaries, adventure parks, and nature attractions
- Requires scooter, car rental, or expensive Grab rides to reach city
- Limited restaurant options outside your resort
- Not suitable for those wanting to explore the city on foot
Accommodation Types
From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, here's what's available.
Chiang Mai excels in boutique properties, often converted from traditional Lanna-style houses or modern design hotels. These typically have 10-30 rooms with personalized service, unique decor, and swimming pools. Concentrated in Old City and Nimman areas.
Best for: Couples, design enthusiasts, travelers wanting character with comfort
Chiang Mai has an excellent hostel scene with both party-oriented and quiet options. Most offer private rooms alongside dorms, with facilities like pools, coworking spaces, and organized activities. Quality is generally high even at budget prices.
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, digital nomads on a budget, social travelers
Family-run guesthouses offering basic but clean rooms, often in traditional wooden houses. These provide the most authentic local experience with owners who can offer personal recommendations. Common in Old City and Santitham.
Best for: Budget travelers wanting local interaction, long-term stayers, culture seekers
Monthly rental apartments with hotel-like services including cleaning, reception, and sometimes pools and gyms. Popular with digital nomads and long-term visitors. Most concentrated in Nimman and near Chiang Mai University.
Best for: Digital nomads, monthly stays, families, those wanting kitchen facilities
High-end properties offering extensive facilities including spas, multiple restaurants, large pools, and mountain or river views. Most are located outside the city center in Mae Rim, Hang Dong, or along the Ping River.
Best for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, wellness retreat guests, special occasions
Booking Tips
Insider advice to help you find the best accommodation.
November through February is peak season, with accommodation prices doubling and availability limited. The Yi Peng Lantern Festival (usually November) and Songkran (April 13-15) see hotels book out 2-3 months in advance. If visiting during these times, book at least 6-8 weeks ahead for good selection.
If staying 3+ weeks, negotiate monthly rates directly with hotels, guesthouses, or serviced apartments. Many properties offer 30-50% discounts for monthly bookings, especially during low season. Nimman and Santitham have the most monthly rental options catering to digital nomads.
Many Chiang Mai properties, especially boutique hotels and guesthouses, have strict cancellation policies requiring 7-14 days notice. During peak season, some require full prepayment with no refunds. Always purchase travel insurance if booking non-refundable rates.
During low season (May-October), you can often find better rates by walking in, especially at guesthouses and smaller hotels. This works best in Old City and Santitham where accommodation is concentrated. However, don't rely on this during November-February.
Not all budget and mid-range properties have effective air conditioning, which matters during hot season (March-May when temperatures exceed 35°C). Check recent reviews specifically mentioning AC performance, especially for properties built in traditional wooden structures.
While most accommodation advertises wifi, speeds vary dramatically. Digital nomads should check recent reviews mentioning specific speeds or ask the property for a speed test screenshot. Nimman generally has the most reliable high-speed internet, while rural resorts may have limited connectivity.
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When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability.
Book 6-8 weeks in advance for November-February stays. Prices are 50-100% higher than low season. For Yi Peng Lantern Festival and Songkran, book 2-3 months ahead as properties sell out completely.
October and March offer good availability with moderate prices. Book 2-4 weeks ahead for best selection. Prices are 20-30% lower than peak season but weather is less predictable (October is rainy, March is hot and smoky).
April-September sees lowest prices and best availability. You can book just days in advance or even walk in for deals. Expect rates 40-60% lower than high season. Note that burning season (March-April) affects air quality significantly.
Chiang Mai has excellent year-round availability except during major festivals. Budget travelers should target May-September for maximum value, while those prioritizing weather should book early for November-February despite higher costs.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information.