Where to Stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand

In the northern reaches of Thailand rests Chiang Mai, the fourth largest city in the country. It’s a great place to visit in Thailand if you want to avoid the rammed streets of Bangkok and enjoy a slower pace of life in an idyllic natural setting. But choosing where to stay for any vacation can be a stressful decision.

In this article, we will highlight where to stay in Chiang Mai for a variety of travellers. We discuss the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for first-timers, travellers seeking nightlife and some areas that are more affordable for budget travellers as well as the most luxurious places to stay. So if you’re eager to explore the charming streets of Chiang Mai but aren’t sure where to stay, this is the article for you.

Chiang Mai is a very inviting city. In fact, the whole of Thailand is! Known as the Land of Smiles, you are sure to receive a warm welcome no matter where you visit. 

If it’s your first time in Chiang Mai you may be overwhelmed by the variety of accommodation options available and unsure which would be the best place to stay on your visit. However, for first-timers visiting Chiang Mai, we recommend the Old City. 

Old City

Surrounded by ancient walls and dripping with historical architecture, Old City is the best area in Chiang Mai for first-time visitors. The district is the cultural heart of the city and is the best place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and get a glimpse into Chiang Mai’s past. The Old City’s narrow streets and peaceful atmosphere create a sense of security, making it a comfortable place to stay, especially for solo travellers.

Staying in the Old City means you’re close to vibrant local markets like the Chiang Mai Gate Market and the Sunday Walking Street Market. These markets offer a chance to indulge in local cuisine, shop for handicrafts and interact with the lively locals. 

Old City is also where many of the major temples and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are located. Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang can be found within the historic walls and being so close to them allows you to explore them at your own leisure. 

The Old City offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels. You can find everything from basic backpacker hostels to 5-star hotels within walking distance of Chiang Mai’s main attractions.

For an immersive experience, consider staying in Chiang Mai guesthouse. Many traditional Thai guest houses offer a cultural experience, with wooden architecture, lush gardens and a serene ambience. Some even provide cooking classes and cultural activities for guests, which is a great way to absorb some of the local heritage.

While Bangkok may be the nightlife hub of Thailand and Phuket may have the best beach parties, Chiang Mai’s evening scene is still just as thrilling and vibrant. If the nightlife in Chiang Mai is an important factor in choosing where to stay then there is no better choice than Nimmanhaemin. 

Nimmanhaemin 

Nimmanhaemin, or Nimman as locals call it, is a trendy neighbourhood filled with boutique hotels, art galleries and fashionable cafes. The upscale district is the centre of nightlife in Chiang Mai, offering an energetic experience with a wide array of bars, clubs and restaurants. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant, modern atmosphere. 

Nimman is dotted with stylish bars, many of which have unique themes, creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere. You can find everything from chic wine bars to speakeasy-style establishments. You can also visit one of the many rooftop bars that offer breathtaking views of the city, creating a perfect atmosphere for sipping cocktails under the stars. 

Nimman boasts the most vibrant nightclubs in Chiang Mai, where you can dance the night away to both international and Thai music. If you enjoy live music, Nimman has venues featuring talented local and international artists. You can find genres ranging from jazz and blues to indie and electronic music, so there’s something for everyone.

Alongside the trendy venues, you can also find street food stalls offering delicious local snacks and delicacies. Trying local treats while exploring the nightlife and spirited night markets adds to the overall experience.

Nimman is not just all about nightlife though. It’s one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for travellers who enjoy hipster coffee shops, independent art galleries and stylish boutiques. As you wander the streets, you may even see an impromptu performance of traditional Thai dances and music, making Nimman the most apt place to stay in Chiang Mai for hip travellers. 

There are luxurious hotels and resorts in Nimman, offering top-notch amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent service. These accommodations often come with features such as rooftop pools, spa facilities, fine dining restaurants and stylish bars. However, Nimman also features cosy guesthouses and homestays that provide a more intimate and local experience.

Visiting Thailand on a budget is often the best way to experience the country. While there are plenty of luxury hotels in Chiang Mai, you can still enjoy the city on an affordable trip that won’t break the bank. 

There are a few areas where you can find cheap hostels and hotels in Chiang Mai, but the best place for inexpensive accommodation is certainly Chiang Moi. 

Chiang Moi

This is one of the lesser-known areas of Chiang Mai, situated north of the Old City. It’s a great place to stay in Chiang Mai on a budget and offers an authentic local experience as it is where many locals live. It will still keep you close to the main attractions of the city whilst providing a more quiet setting than the lively streets of Nimman. 

Chiang Moi is surrounded by local markets and street food stalls where you can find delicious and inexpensive Thai cuisine. This area allows budget travellers to indulge in authentic local dishes without having to spend excessive amounts on food. The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, located nearby, offers a wide variety of affordable goods, souvenirs and street food, making it a great place to shop and experience the local atmosphere without spending much.

Staying in Chiang Moi provides a more authentic experience of local life. You can find budget-friendly workshops and experiences, such as traditional Thai cooking classes or Muay Thai lessons, allowing you to engage in cultural activities without straining your budget.

The Chiang Moi area is also home to several temples, allowing budget travellers to explore the city’s religious and cultural heritage without the crowds often found in more touristy areas. While Chiang Moi is slightly north of the Old City, it’s still within walking distance of many attractions. Budget travellers can save money on transportation by exploring nearby sites on foot.

Chiang Moi offers a range of budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, making it one of the cheapest places to stay in Chiang Mai. These accommodations provide basic amenities such as clean rooms, comfortable beds and sometimes air conditioning or fans, catering to travellers on a budget. 

Accommodation in Chiang Moi tends to be more affordable compared to those in the busier parts of the city. But thanks to good public transportation and a charming local atmosphere, you still get to enjoy the top attractions of Chiang Mai without worrying about cost.

You will find many luxurious hotels and resorts in Chiang Mai that cater to your every need. You may be drawn in by the lavish setting of the Chiang Mai Riverside area, with its idyllic views of the Ping River. But if you want the pinnacle of luxury, you’ll need to stay just outside of the city in the exclusive Mae Rim area. 

Mae Rim

Mae Rim is just north of Chiang Mai and is part of the city’s Urban Area. It is renowned for its natural beauty, lush landscapes and serene ambiance, which make it the best place to stay in Chiang Mai for a luxury trip. 

Many luxury resorts in Mae Rim are strategically situated to provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Guests can wake up to the sight of mist-covered hills and enjoy the serenity of nature, and some resorts even feature infinity pools that seem to merge seamlessly with the distant mountains, creating a picturesque and Instagram-worthy setting.

Mae Rim’s resorts boast fine dining restaurants offering gourmet Thai and international cuisine. Guests can indulge in culinary delights crafted by renowned chefs, often using fresh local ingredients.

Luxury resorts in Mae Rim also feature world-class spas offering a wide range of treatments, including traditional Thai massages, aromatherapy and wellness therapies. Spa sessions are often held in private pavilions surrounded by nature for the most soothing ambience. You will also find activities like yoga and meditation classes, allowing guests to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul in a serene and nurturing environment.

Mae Rim is dotted with secluded, lavish resorts that offer private villas and suites nestled amidst tropical gardens and scenic surroundings. Guests can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere with utmost privacy. Luxury accommodations in Mae Rim often feature spacious living areas, elegantly furnished rooms and private terraces or balconies overlooking lush gardens or the mountains.

While it may not be as central as other areas, Mae Rim is the best place to stay in Chiang Mai if you’re seeking a luxury escape. You won’t need to worry about the thronging tourist crowds and overwhelming city sounds. You can easily arrange private tours to the top attractions in Chiang Mai, so you won’t be missing out.

In this city of smiles, Chiang Mai’s accommodations cater to every traveller’s dream, ensuring that your stay is not just a temporary residence, but an integral part of your unforgettable Thai adventure. Regardless of your travel preferences, Chiang Mai welcomes all, promising an experience as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.

Whether you seek the historic ambience of Old City, the energetic vibe of Nimman, the affordable prices of Chiang Moi or the decadent offering of Mae Rim, Chiang Mai has a range of places to stay that will ensure your accommodation suits your desires.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand and want more travel inspiration, check out our posts on Chiang Mai in December and What to Do for 3 Days in Bangkok.

Is Chiang Mai safe for travellers?

The entirety of Thailand is very safe for travellers and being much less crowded than other cities, Chiang Mai is a great destination if you’re worried about safety. Travel advisories do highlight some risks in travelling to Thailand, but Chiang Mai is not an area of concern. 

That’s not to say you don’t need to take any precautions. Tourists in Chiang Mai are often targeted by petty criminals and pickpockets, so make sure you keep your belongings secured to your person and don’t walk around with any valuables on show. You will find that the locals are very friendly and approachable, so if you need help or directions they are more than happy to offer assistance. 

How many days in Chiang Mai is enough? 

As it is much smaller than other Thai cities, you can easily do Chiang Mai in 3 days. If you want to spend time exploring the mountains and verdant countryside, you may want to add a few more days to your stay as you’ll want to make the most of these stunning natural landscapes. 

Overall, 3 to 5 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Chiang Mai and will give you plenty of time to see the top tourist attractions as well as enjoy some thrilling day trips to national parks.