For many, Chiang Mai is the ideal city to settle in Thailand—especially if you love mountains and are seeking peace and natural beauty. That’s why it has captivated millions of travelers who visit regularly and want to know where to stay in Chiang Mai.
In our case, we arrived looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and found a home. Its relaxed atmosphere, its temples, its food, and its people completely won us over. So much so, in fact, that we ended up staying for almost a year.
The northern capital of Thailand has something truly special. Food stalls, night markets, cozy cafés, and an exceptional natural backdrop. But choosing the right area in the city is important, which is why knowing where to stay in Chiang Mai is key.
We’ll be honest from the start: there’s no single “best” place to stay. Chiang Mai suits many different lifestyles, and your ideal area will depend on what you’re looking for. Accommodation options range from simple hostels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts with pools. Here are our recommendations to help you find the perfect place to stay in Chiang Mai!
This is the historic heart of Chiang Mai—a place of stunning beauty, surrounded by a square wall and a moat that encloses temples, markets, and plenty of local life. It’s ideal for getting around on foot and soaking up the city’s traditional charm.
That said, it’s also the most tourist-heavy area. It’s definitely a great spot for a first visit to the city, but a long stay here might feel a bit tedious with the constant flow of tourists. Still, its charm is undeniable.
The best: Peaceful atmosphere, temples everywhere, and plenty of good accommodation.
The worst: Crowds of tourists and higher prices.
This is the trendy neighborhood among young Thais. Nimman in Chiang Mai is a modern, creative district full of stylish cafés. You’ll find bookstores, art centers, designer boutiques, and, of course, trendy bars and the occasional nightclub.
You could call it Chiang Mai’s most hipster neighborhood. It’s also ideal for a longer stay if you’re hoping to meet interesting people. The area is filled with coworking spaces, and the nightlife is multicultural. Perfect if you’re looking for something vibrant and stylish.
The best: Young, modern, and very international vibe.
The worst: Limited transport connections, especially to the city center.
Looking for the heart of international tourism? This is it. Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar area is ideal for those who can’t imagine a night without wandering among the lights, food stalls, and souvenir stands.
Everything here is designed for tourists to enjoy, and English is widely spoken. The Night Bazaar is the quintessential tourist hub—very lively at night and well connected.
The best: Great nightlife, central location, and a wide variety of restaurants.
The worst: It can be noisy, overly touristy, and somewhat lacking in authenticity.
Located along the banks of the Ping River, this area is perfect for those seeking peace and charming accommodation. It’s an especially great choice for honeymooners or anyone looking for calm and scenic strolls.
Boutique hotels here are beautiful—some you might never want to leave. Plus, there are excellent restaurants nearby, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.
The best: Peaceful atmosphere, river views, and beautiful boutique hotels.
The worst: Slightly farther from the city center.
If you’re looking for the most local experience to sleep in Chiang Mai, look no further than the Santitham neighborhood. Affordable, bohemian, youthful, and quiet, this district offers a much more authentic and local atmosphere. It’s where you can experience how Thai people truly live.
Santitham has also become something of a hidden gem for travelers seeking to avoid the tourist trail. It’s charming and has great spots to eat and drink, though it’s not the best location if you want quick access to the downtown area.
The best: Authentic, local vibe in a beautiful and less touristy area.
The worst: Located further north than Nimman, it feels a bit out of the way.
