Top Areas to Stay in Chiang Mai: Complete Neighborhood Guide

Bangkok may be the capital of Thailand; however, Chiang Mai, a magnificent city in the northern part of Thailand, is often regarded as the “traditional capital.” This former capital of the Lan Na kingdom is replete with numerous important Thai temples, known as Wats, and is situated among the highest mountains in the country.

Established in 1296 by King Manrai, the inaugural Lanna king, Chiang Mai is a haven for travelers. Whether it is the mist-laden mountains that envelop the city, the colorful hill tribes, the impressive Wats, the plethora of street food, or the various weekend flea markets, visitors are certain to be captivated by the diversity and vibrancy of Chiang Mai. Although considerably smaller than Bangkok and Nonthaburi, this city offers an abundance of experiences and much more.

With an extensive range of hotels and guesthouses, choosing the ideal accommodation can be challenging. Therefore, let us examine some prominent neighborhoods and their attractions to assist you in determining where to stay in Chiang Mai during your visit.

Old City/Tha Pae Gate

Often recognized as the primary attraction in Chiang Mai, the Old City serves as the cultural heart of the region. Encircled by ancient, partially-dilapidated moat walls, this neighborhood is filled with numerous cafes, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs. A tour of the area usually commences at Tha Pae Gate and encompasses major landmarks, including Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, and the popular Sunday Walking Street. The Old City also features the Chiang Mai National Museum, which, over 700 years old, is dedicated to the city’s history, nature, and culture. Wat Chiang Man, esteemed as the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, was established in 1296, concurrently with the city’s founding and served as the residence of King Mengrai. Visitors should undoubtedly experience the local transportation via the colored songthaews. However, if you prefer to explore on foot, obtain a complimentary map from your hotel reception and navigate the area at your leisure.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Lanna Folklife Museum, Three Kings Monument, Chiang Mai City Art and Cultural Centre, Saturday Market, Wat Chedi Luang, and Sompet Market.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Thai Akara – Lanna Boutique Hotel – Situated within a short distance of Wat Chedi Luang, this exquisite boutique hotel is among the finest in the area. Spacious guest rooms equipped with modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay, while the outdoor pool and fitness center offer guests the opportunity to maintain their fitness routines. A delightful complimentary breakfast is provided, along with an enticing lunch and dinner menu at the on-site restaurant. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Pingviman Hotel – Showcasing beautiful traditional Thai décor and wooden furnishings throughout, Pingviman Hotel features luxurious guest rooms with 48-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms equipped with spacious bathtubs. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the outdoor pool complete with lounge chairs or utilize the complimentary shuttle to Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Fitness aficionados can maintain their regimen at the on-site fitness center, while business travelers may access business facilities. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Ideally suited for all types of visitors.
• Tamarind Village – Decidedly enhanced by its remarkable wooden décor and surrounding Tamarind trees, staying at Tamarind Village provides an unparalleled experience. Rooms adorned with tribal patterns and wooden furnishings include tea/coffee makers, minibars, and premium amenities. Guests may indulge in a soothing massage at the on-site spa or enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. Thai and International dishes are available at the in-house restaurant. Adventure seekers can consult the hotel’s tour desk to organize jungle trips, temple tours, and rock climbing activities. Suitable for solo travelers and couples.

Nimmanhaemin Road

Nimmanhaemin Road, commonly known as Nimman Road, represents the upscale shopping district of Chiang Mai and is perceived as the city’s most fashionable area. Originally housing noodle shops and modest residences, this neighborhood has transformed into a bustling hub of chic bars, restaurants, art galleries, and some of the best coffee shops in the country. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center, the most significant attraction in the locality, is a large shopping mall that competes with prominent malls in Bangkok and Singapore. Housing a multitude of Thai and International brands, food outlets, gaming arcades, and a multi-screen digital cinema, the mall offers a day full of entertainment. Furthermore, Nimman Road features the esteemed Chiang Mai University, a significant attraction in its own right. While this neighborhood may not have an abundance of temples and cultural traditions, it compensates with green spaces and a vibrant atmosphere.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Umong, Huay Kaew Arboretum, Monkchat Meditation Retreat, Ang Kaew Reservoir, and Minimal Gallery.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Kantary Hills Hotel, Chiang Mai – Featuring modern, self-serviced suites and apartments, Kantary Hills Hotel is recognized for its exemplary service and luxurious amenities, which include a sizable outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and a Jacuzzi. The on-site Bar and Grill offers a diverse menu and beverages throughout the day. A hearty complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• De Chai the Oriental – This delightful boutique hotel, located a short drive from Chiang Mai International Airport, showcases elegantly designed modern guest rooms in an Oriental style, an outdoor pool, an in-house restaurant, and complimentary parking. The standout feature of this exquisite property is its fully-equipped fitness center with panoramic views of the enchanting Doi Suthep—undeniably appealing even to non-enthusiasts. A lavish complimentary American breakfast is served daily. Perfect for all types of travelers.
• Akyra Manor Chiang Mai – Featuring a rooftop infinity pool overlooking stunning mountains, Akyra Manor Chiang Mai is an extravagant all-suite hotel recognized for its opulent services. The top-tier suites include immensely comfortable beds, LCD TVs, iPod docks with Bluetooth speakers, and expansive music libraries, along with outdoor spa baths on the balcony. Guests may commence their day with an impressive complimentary American breakfast and later savor Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner. Concluding the day with a refreshing cocktail at the rooftop bar while taking in the night sky offers the perfect finale. Suitable for solo travelers and couples.

Riverside

Beginning at Doi Chiang Dao, Mae Ping River is celebrated as the lifeline of Chiang Mai. The area’s lack of urbanization and gleaming modernity imparts an authentic ambiance, particularly when compared to Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River. Emitting a charming old-world atmosphere, the Riverside neighborhood features vibrant markets and green spaces along with intriguing museums and distinctive landmarks. Warorot Market, also known as Kad Luang, is a must-visit market in the Riverside area for food enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy local snacks, fresh produce, and a variety of ready-to-eat meals while shopping for affordably priced clothes, personal care items, and accessories. Another captivating market in the area, Ton Lamyai Market, is an exquisite flower market that operates 24 hours a day, providing the only option for fresh flowers in central Chiang Mai.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Art in Paradise, Comedara Art Gallery, Elephant Parade House, Iron Bridge (Sapaan Lek), Uncle Jack’s History Museum (Wat Ket Karam Museum), Chiang Mai Philatelic Museum, and Kawila Monument and Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel And Spa – Housed within white-washed walls of a colonial-style building, this luxurious boutique hotel and spa features rooms equipped with satellite TVs, hand-crafted furniture, and ensuite bathrooms with spa toiletries. Guests can enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or arrange for a rejuvenating spa treatment at the world-class spa. An on-site restaurant and bar cater to all dining needs. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
• Anantara Chiang Mai Resort – Positioned along the banks of the picturesque Mae Ping River, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is distinguished as one of the premier five-star accommodations in the city, known for its outstanding facilities and services. Along with well-appointed premium rooms, the resort offers a serene retreat juxtaposed with Doi Suthep. Visitors can utilize a well-equipped fitness center along with yoga sessions and aerobics to maintain their fitness while enjoying a blissful spa experience. Authentic Thai cuisine is served at the on-site restaurant, and guests can even participate in a Thai cooking class. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.
• Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort – With beautifully manicured gardens and a spacious on-site restaurant featuring wooden furnishings overlooking the Mae Ping River, this attractive boutique resort provides modern guest rooms designed in Northern Thai style with bathtubs, premium amenities, and living rooms in select accommodations. The outdoor swimming pool is designed to enhance relaxation. A delicious complimentary breakfast is served daily. Ideal for couples.

Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai is notably recognized for its Night Bazaar—a 1-kilometer-long haven for shoppers famed across the globe for its vast array of stalls and exceptional bargains. Open year-round from dusk until midnight, the Night Bazaar features a variety of Western food outlets, including Burger King, Starbucks, and the city’s inaugural McDonald’s. Nevertheless, visitors should indulge in local dishes from the numerous Thai food stalls; it is a unique opportunity to sample authentic culinary delights. It is worth noting that even if one has no intention of purchasing anything and merely wants to browse, the tempting atmosphere will likely inspire a purchase. Therefore, bringing cash is advisable, as most stalls do not accept credit cards.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Kalare Night Bazaar, Anusarn Market, Hilal Town, Iron Bridge, Wat Sri Don Chai, Pantip Plaza, and Loi Kroh Entertainment Complex (adult-only).

Hotel Recommendations:

• Le Meridien Chiang Mai – Featuring a splendid fusion of Lanna Thai charm and European design, Le Meridien Chiang Mai is an exquisite hotel located in the vibrant district of Changklan, within a short walk from the iconic Tha Pae Gate. Guests may indulge in a full-service spa and the rejuvenating outdoor pool, as well as dine at one of the four dining establishments on the premises. This five-star accommodation is conveniently located near Chiang Mai Night Market. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Yaang Come Village Hotel – With a contemporary Thai-style décor, an outdoor pool, a fully-equipped spa with a spa bath, and a splendid restaurant, this hotel features comfortable guest rooms with plush beds, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a DVD player, a seating area, a minibar, and ensuite bathrooms stocked with complimentary toiletries. Ideally located in central Chiang Mai, near the famous Sunday Walking Street, guests can enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai – Located within a 10-minute walk from the popular Night Bazaar and 15 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport, this upscale hotel features well-appointed accommodations with complimentary Wi-Fi, tea/coffee makers, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms. Additional amenities include a fully-equipped fitness center, a striking swimming pool with stunning views, and a sauna. An exceptional breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Chang Puak Gate Area

Also referred to as the Elephant Gate, Chang Puak Gate is one of the historic entrances that overlooks the Old City. This less tourist-oriented area features the vibrant Chang Puak food market, which operates every evening just outside the gate, boasting numerous vendors offering authentic Northern Thai street food and other budget-friendly dishes. Options range from noodles and seafood salads to Pad Thai, fresh juices, crepes, and the ever-popular Mango Sticky Rice, often available for an incredible price of just 10 Baht. The area also provides convenient access to the Old Town and its many attractions, along with plenty of opportunities to unwind at one of the several spas and massage establishments.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Siri Wattana Market, Chang Puak Fresh Market, Wat Lok Molee, and Hat Yai Municipal Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Roseate Chiang Mai – Featuring contemporary, comfortable guest rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, a wardrobe, a safety deposit box, a minibar, and a private bathroom, Roseate Chiang Mai is an elegant hotel located a short drive from Tha Pae Gate and Chiang Mai International Airport, only a five-minute walk from Sunday Walking Street. A complimentary breakfast is offered daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• The White Elephant Home – This stylish property is situated near the main bus terminal and Chang Puak Gate, offering lavish guest accommodations with flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, free Wi-Fi, and a seating area featuring outdoor furniture. Most rooms afford impressive views of the city. Guests can socialize in the communal lounge or enjoy tranquility in the garden. A delightful complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Yellow Pillow – Featuring spacious, non-smoking guest rooms equipped with contemporary amenities, Yellow Pillow is conveniently located just 500 meters from the respected Wat Chiang Man. With multiple attractions keeping guests engaged during the day, the carefully landscaped garden allows for relaxation after a day of exploration. Selected accommodations feature balconies that overlook the beautiful gardens. A delectable breakfast is served each morning. Ideal for all types of travelers.

Hang Dong

Hang Dong, a charming village within the Chiang Mai province, is home to a substantial expatriate community and local residents who prefer a quieter lifestyle away from the bustling streets of the Old City and its surrounding areas while maintaining convenient access. Renowned primarily for its exquisite wood carvings, furniture stores, and antique shops, Hang Dong accommodates numerous gated communities (Moo Baan) featuring private swimming pools, tennis courts, and other premium amenities. In addition to its proximity to Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park, the neighborhood encompasses the Grand Canyon Hang Dong, an artificial canyon with a picturesque lake ideal for a refreshing swim on humid days and a local establishment serving delectable Thai cuisine with canyon views. Outdoor enthusiasts can relish ample opportunities for mountain biking, particularly around the canyon.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Hangdong Market, Kad Farang Village, Hongthong Muay Thai, Baan Muang Kung – Pottery Village, Wat Phra Singh, and Dokmai Garden.

Hotel Recommendations:

• North Hill City Resort – Boasting a year-round terrace with an outdoor pool and world-class services/activities, including yoga, golfing, and cooking classes, North Hill City Resort presents beautifully decorated guest rooms with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, seating areas, and ensuite bathrooms. Certain rooms provide exclusive views of the neighboring mountains or the lake. A 24-hour front desk is available to cater to all special needs. A superb complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Corner Spa Resort – Surrounded by picturesque rice paddies and fruit gardens, Corner Spa Resort is nestled in the tranquil Hang Dong area of Chiang Mai. Each luxurious suite features oriental décor, a separate lounge area, a minibar, and a private garden with an outdoor spa. Guests may relax in the outdoor pool, enjoy yoga sessions, Thai cooking classes, or indulge in a romantic movie night at the open-air theater beneath the stars. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• Flora Creek Chiang Mai – Surrounded by mountain landscapes and lush flora, Flora Creek Chiang Mai offers an exclusive experience for all guests. It features an outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and 24-hour front desk service. The property is situated near the Chiang Mai Night Safari, and guests may inquire at the on-site tour desk for arrangements for day tours and shuttle services to the airport. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily. Ideal for all types of travelers.