Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's largest city and the former capital of the Lanna kingdom. Its historic heart is a square old city surrounded by a moat and fragments of brick wall, home to hundreds of temples, from the grand Wat Chedi Luang to Wat Chiang Man, the oldest in the city.

The city is a base for trips to Doi Suthep, hill-tribe villages, elephant sanctuaries and the mountain road to Pai. The places we list are all inside or right beside the old city walls, the most convenient area for first-time visitors.

Airport
Chiang Mai International, about 4 km south-west of the old city
From Bangkok
About 1 hour by air, or an overnight train
Getting around
On foot in the old city; songthaews, tuk-tuks and ride-hailing
Markets
Sunday Walking Street, Saturday Walking Street and the Night Bazaar

Places to stay in Chiang Mai

4 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Chiang Mai, area by area

Chiang Mai is compact around its moat. The old city has the temples; west of it lies the trendy Nimman area, and to the east, towards the river, the Night Bazaar.

The old city

Best for temples and first visits

The old city is enclosed by a square moat about 1.5 km on each side. Inside are the city's most important temples, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man, along with quiet lanes full of guesthouses, cafes and massage shops.

On Sunday evenings, Ratchadamnoen Road becomes the Sunday Walking Street, a huge market of crafts and street food running from Tha Phae Gate to Wat Phra Singh. The north-eastern quarter, around Chang Puak Gate and Wat Chiang Man, is a little quieter, while the area near Tha Phae Gate is busier, with more bars.

Nimman

Best for cafes and nightlife

West of the old city near Chiang Mai University, Nimmanhaemin Road and its numbered sois are packed with independent cafes, restaurants, bars and co-working spaces. It's modern and popular with younger travellers and remote workers, and the road up to Doi Suthep starts nearby.

Night Bazaar and the riverside

Best for shopping and evening markets

Between the old city's Tha Phae Gate and the Ping River, the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road sells souvenirs every evening. The riverside beyond has restaurants and larger hotels, and Warorot Market is a short walk north.

This area suits travellers who want shopping, river views and larger hotels, and it's convenient for the railway and bus stations. The old city's temples are a 10 to 20-minute walk west through Tha Phae Gate.

Questions about staying in Chiang Mai

Where is the best area to stay in Chiang Mai for first-timers?

The old city, which puts the main temples, the Sunday Walking Street and plenty of restaurants within walking distance.

How far is Chiang Mai airport from the old city?

About 4 km, typically 15 minutes by car depending on traffic.

When is the Sunday Walking Street?

Every Sunday from late afternoon into the evening along Ratchadamnoen Road in the old city. A Saturday Walking Street runs on Wualai Road, just south of the old city.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

November to February is cool and dry. March and April are hot and often hazy from seasonal burning, and the rainy season runs roughly from June to October.

Is the old city walkable?

Yes. It's about 1.5 km across, so most temples, cafes and markets inside the moat are within a 20-minute walk. Songthaews and ride-hailing cars are cheap for longer trips.

Can I visit Doi Suthep from the old city?

Yes. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is on the mountain west of the city, about 30 to 40 minutes by songthaew or car.

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