Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, was once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and remained one of the most important cities in the country to this day. Full of Buddhist temples and charming little cafes, Chiang Mai enchants every type of tourist. Famous for its night markets and peaceful atmosphere, it also has a vibrant and active international community.
Although small, it is worthwhile to choose carefully the area where you are going to stay in Chiang Mai because each neighborhood may suit better your travel style, itinerary, and preferences. Check it out!
Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Old Town
The Old Town is the most touristy area of Chiang Mai and is surrounded by the remains of a wall that made the city a fortress while the capital of the Lanna kingdom. In addition to a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, you will find most of Thailand’s oldest Buddhist temples.
Hotels and accommodation in the Old Town
Luxury
Thai Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel
Great location to explore the old city on foot. Thai Akara offers good service, has a pool, gym, the hotel’s decor is beautiful, and has an excellent Thai restaurant.
99 The Heritage Hotel
The 99 The Heritage Hotel is beautifully decorated and well maintained. The good location, customer service, and cleanliness stand out.
Boutique Hotels
Pingviman Hotel
The Pingviman Hotel combines style and refinement in an exclusive way. It is housed in a traditional Thai building with colonial furniture in a luxurious environment.
Glory Boutique Suite
The Glory Boutique Suite combines the best of traditional and modern architecture and decoration while still retaining a local feel. A large terrace with tables and a swimming pool is available.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Old Town
Nimmanhaemin Road, or simply Nimman Road as it is commonly known, is an important neighborhood west of Old Town. This area is known for its trendy shops, design boutiques, bars, restaurants, and cafes. It became an excellent base for digital nomads who look for excellent infrastructure and a routine that’s a bit off the beaten path.
Hotels and accommodation in Nimman Road
Luxury
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
Akyra Manor has a beautifully decorated environment. The building in which it is housed impresses with its architecture that recalls the characteristics of northern Thailand with the glamor of a luxury hotel. Modern rooms and a delicious breakfast.
Cross Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel
The Cross Vibe is acclaimed for its stunning views and décor that is beautiful in every detail. Some rooms have kitchens, and in addition to offering a fitness space, the hotel offers bicycles to guests, among other services.
Boutique HotelsÂ
Syn Boutique
The Syn Boutique brings a minimalist design in light tones and touches of wood, spacious, comfortable and stylish rooms that make the Syn one of the most exclusive settings to stay in Chiang Mai.
The Craft Nimman
Craft Nimman has a charming atmosphere and decor that incorporates Thai elements. The hotel is located in the center of Nimman Road and offers a relaxing environment with a pleasant garden.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Tha Pae Gate
The Tha Pae Gate neighborhood is located between the old town and the shore of the Mae Ping River and is named after the main gateway to Old Town. The restaurants, traditional food stalls, hotels, classic houses, and local commerce make Tha Pae Gate an excellent neighborhood for those who like to be immersed in the local culture without discarding international options.
Hotels and accommodation in Tha Pae Gate
Luxury
Le Meridien Chiang Mai
Le Meridien is a 5-star hotel with super spacious suites. It has two restaurants, one specializing in Italian food and another with an international buffet. It has a spa, gym, bar, and rooftop with a pool perfect for relaxing.
Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort
Away Chiang Mai is a resort housed in an early 20th-century palace. A true retreat for those looking to relax, detox, and include vegetarian and organic meals on the menu. A complete experience for body and mind.
Boutique Hotels
Viang Thapae Resort
This hotel has rooms with balconies and a relaxing outdoor area with a long swimming pool. An excellent value for the money in a good location near the Old Town.
NORN Nimman 13 Boutique
With countryside touches in a modern setting, the elegant NORN has a restaurant and a central courtyard pool that puts you in the middle of nature. Well located, close to restaurants, bars, craft stores, and other attractions.
Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts Hotel
Set in a building with traditional architecture, hotel Phor Liang has many local elements, a delicious breakfast. It is in a great location with easy access to the main tourist attractions.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Riverside (Ping River)
The Ping River (Maenam Ping) is the main river that runs through the city of Chiang Mai and is home to some excellent resorts and accommodations for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Traditionally, the neighborhood is known for boat rides, food markets, and riverside restaurants, perfect for experiencing Thai cuisine while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Hotels and accommodation in Riverside
Luxury
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
The Anantara Chiang Mai Resort stands out for its exclusive room areas with large balconies, tables, and sofas, making them a privileged place to enjoy the beautiful view around the hotel. The hotel’s restaurant and bar focus on Asian cuisine, and every afternoon they perform the famous tea ritual. For guests, it is possible to use the gym, participate in yoga classes, Thai cooking classes, and other services.
Amata Lanna Village
A very nice environment, traditional Thai architecture, everything very well decorated. This and much more is what the Amata Lanna Village delivers, excellent service, comfort, a swimming pool, and a delicious breakfast.
Boutique Hotels
Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel
Ping Nakara has everything a fine hotel needs. In addition to the praised service and good location, it stands out for being in a beautiful colonial mansion, all very well decorated, indeed an elegant stay.
Sridonchai Heritage
A big house that is practically a work of art. The space has many colorful pieces, everything very well designed, from the walls and floors to the furniture. The stay at Sridonchai is also a visual experience. Besides this, all the hotel rooms have a balcony and are very spacious.
Extra! Exclusive hotels around Chiang Mai
In Chiang Mai, as well as many cities in Southeast Asia, you will find very exclusive lodging at reasonable prices. Usually, these hotels are a little away from the tourist buzz, some located in villages near Chiang Mai, offering greater integration with nature in a relaxing and laid-back environment.
Exclusive Hotels around Chiang Mai
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Located in the mountains of the Mae Rim Valley, the Four Seasons is a resort to relax in the midst of nature with bungalows near rice paddies and lots of greens. With refinement to spare, this renowned luxury five-star hotel has elegant decor, bright rooms, countryside views, fitness center, swimming pool, bicycle rental, exclusive rice field tours, tennis court, yoga class, cooking class, and everything you need for a perfect stay.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique
Structured in a village format, the Nirand Hotel presents classic architecture with a lot of charm and tradition. All rooms have balconies facing the internal courtyard, with plenty of greenery and a large swimming pool. With a highly rated service, the hotel is located close to downtown Chiang Mai and the Mae Ping River.
Oriental Siam Resort
Outside the urban center, Oriental Siam Resort is a set of chalets with oriental architecture, lots of vegetation and is located next to a temple overlooking the Doi Suthep mountains. Perfect for those looking for a quiet space in the middle of nature on an excellent cost-benefit.
Singha Montra Lanna Boutique Style Hotel
Located south of the old town, the Singha Montra Lanna has traditional Lanna decor with plenty of wood and huge rooms, a jacuzzi, and a beautiful view. The hotel offers fitness space, a spa, free transfer to the city center, including some popular sights.
