Where to stay in Chiang Mai? The guide to choosing the right neighborhood

The central square (old town)

Why stay in this area of ​​Chiang Mai:

It is within the walls of the old city, inside the moat, that most of the main temples to visit in Chiang Mai are located . Among these, I will mention the oldest, Wat Chiang Man, the temple of the great stupa, Wat Chedi Luang and its neighbor, Wat Phan Tao, made entirely of wood, or even Wat Phra Singh (if you are interested, I discuss all these temples in detail in this article ).

This is the ideal area if you're here for a short stay and enjoy cultural visits . It's also in this part of the city, specifically around Thapae Gate and along Ratchadamnoen Street, that an open-air night market takes place every Sunday evening . It's a great opportunity to buy souvenirs, clothing, and typical Northern Thai food. You can also get a massage and admire the work of the artists exhibiting there – a must-see for any visit to Chiang Mai.

This is a bit of a default area to stay in Chiang Mai because it ticks all the boxes in terms of amenities, the airport is less than 10 minutes away, the train station too, and you will have everything you need to spend your days/evenings there without having to walk too far.

Examples of hotels in this area, tried and tested:

— Cozy Inn Chiang Mai

— I Lanna House

— Gord Chiangmai

— The Rodman Hotel

— The Naview @ Prasingh (the most expensive on this list)

Chang Moi District (Night Bazaar)

Why stay in this area of ​​Chiang Mai:

Probably the most famous district of Chiang Mai outside of the old town, the latter is bisected by the Ping River to the east. Generally very lively in the evening, it includes the night market (Night Bazaar), which is its main attraction. It is a bit like Ali Baba's cave for souvenirs, you will find many objects in the unique style of Northern Thailand but also something to eat (for all tastes because you really can find everything) and even attend traditional dance performances.

You'll find the flower market right on the riverbank a little further north, as well as the Wararot market and a small Chinatown (there's a nice walk to be had in the area I mentioned here ). This district is also home to numerous bars (and Chiang Mai's red-light district, along Loi Kroh Road) and a Thai boxing stadium (CM Entertainment Complex, also on Loi Kroh Road). In short, it's the area to choose if you like a lively atmosphere and are looking for entertainment.

On the other side of the Ping River, this will suit those seeking a bit of peace and quiet during their stay in Chiang Mai while remaining close to all amenities. It's also not far from the train station, making it ideal if you plan to leave Chiang Mai by train or not go far upon arrival.

Examples of hotels in this area that I recommend:

— The Locals Chiang Mai

— Hotel Montha (the only hotel on this list that I personally tested)

— Sridonchai Heritage Night Bazaar

— Melia Chiang Mai (luxury)

Nimmanhaemin and Chang Phuak districts

Why stay in this area of ​​Chiang Mai:

Located west of Chiang Mai . These two districts are situated along Huay Kaew Road, which is the main road leading to Doi Suthep.

Nimmanhaemin has become a trendy, fashionable area in recent years . It's a lively neighborhood, thanks to its proximity to CMU University, a true institution here. It's clearly a student area, so it's frequented by young people and there's always something going on! In fact, you can go into the university park to relax by the lake, go for a run, or simply admire the mountain at the foot of which the university sits.

There are many chic boutiques, a department store, cafes, and restaurants here, enough to keep you occupied during the evenings and days. It's also a neighborhood renowned for its supermarkets offering fresh, organic produce.

An alternative to the Nimmanhaemin district is Chang Phuak, north of the old city. There you'll be closer (though not nearly as close) to the Temple of the Seven Chedis ( Wat Jet Yot ), the Chiang Mai National Museum, and the newly renovated Hilltribe Museum , located in a park surrounded by an artificial lake and lined with local restaurants.

You'll also find a local market and a more "typical" atmosphere while remaining close to the city center. One point I want to emphasize is that the area is under the flight path due to its proximity to the airport, but this isn't a problem at night since there are no planes.

Examples of hotels in this area that I recommend:

— The Core Gallery Hotel (personally tested)

— BED Nimman – Adult Only (personally tested)

— iRoom

— Nimano Suites

Doi Suthep District

Why stay in this area of ​​Chiang Mai:

The area I call "Doi Suthep" is the one starting right next to Nimmanhaemin, on the other side of the road that serves as a ring road to the west of Chiang Mai. It stretches along the foot of the mountain of the same name, all the way behind the airport.

Doi Suthep is primarily known for its temple, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep , as well as the royal palace and gardens at the summit. However, there are also beautiful forest walks possible, with streams and waterfalls offering views of the valley and the city.

There are also some notable temples , I am thinking especially of Wat Suan Dok and Wat Umong, hidden in the forest and with a unique character (these two temples that I mention among others in this article ).

Examples of hotels in this area that I recommend:

— Paiyannoi Guesthome

— Fullrich Lanna Suite (large family room)

Wua Lai District (near the airport)

Why sleep in this part of Chiang Mai:

For those in a hurry, and even for those who aren't, you can stay near Chiang Mai International Airport. Besides being ready to catch your flight or disembark as quickly as possible, you'll be close to the "Central" department store (Central Airport Plaza) and near immigration services should you need them.

For me, the area encompasses the entire Haiya Sub-district , meaning the whole area just south of the old town. Along Wua Lai Road, from the southern moat (Chiang Mai Gate), there is a night market every Saturday , similar to the one held on Sundays within the old town square.

Nearby, you'll find the Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan), which is well worth a visit. In this area, you can also try a traditional northern dinner called Khantoke at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center. This is a unique meal including several appetizers, sauces, and northern dishes, served on wooden platters (khantokes). The experience is accompanied by a performance of traditional and folk dances in the purest Lanna style ( reservations can be made here ).

Further south, you can enjoy a family outing by visiting the popular Chiang Mai Night Safari , a unique excursion that offers a glimpse into the lives of wild animals at night! It's also not far from a more recent attraction: the redeveloped Mae Kha Canal , which is especially lively in the late afternoon and evening. Finally, you'll also be quite close to the small historical park of Wiang Kum Kam , a collection of ruins representing a kind of proto-Chiang Mai.

Apart from the central square, this is usually my second choice of location in Chiang Mai, as it offers a good compromise between the surrounding amenities and choice of establishments, while still remaining close to the center.

Examples of hotels, all tested, in this area:

— iSilver Hotel

— Goldenbell Hotel Chiangmai

— iWualai Hotel (same vibe and chain as the iSilver)

— Nuan Boutique Hotel

— BED Chiangmai Gate – Adult Only (BEDs are always a safe bet)

Mae Rim area (northern suburbs)

Why stay in this part of Chiang Mai:

We're venturing a bit outside the city itself. Mae Rim is the northern suburb of Chiang Mai. It's convenient if you want to be surrounded by nature while still being close to Chiang Mai.

This area is known for hosting a host of activities typically found on excursions offered by local agencies. These include a river for water sports like bamboo rafting or white rafting, and several elephant camps (be careful with these, as they vary in quality; opt for a reputable one that takes good care of these pachyderms, such as Elephant Nature Park and its "Saddle Off" days).

Alternatively, you can relax at Huay Tueng Thao Lake , visit the rice paddies if it's the right season, or if you're interested in botany, see the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden , created under the patronage of the royal family. Overall, this makes sense if you're staying in Chiang Mai long enough; you can spend the first part of your trip in a more central location to get acquainted with the city, and then spend a few days in the countryside near Mae Rim.

Otherwise, given its distance from the centre, it is not an area I would recommend by default for a first stay in Chiang Mai.

Examples of hotels in this area that I recommend:

— Stay At Lantana Mae Rim

— Ban Tung Lom

— The Willoughby Maerim Hotel

Hang Dong Area (Southern Suburbs)

Why stay in this part of Chiang Mai:

Similar to Mae Rim, moving to the south of the city offers the benefit of a bit of peace and quiet. It's like being in the countryside while remaining close to the city center or even the airport. Some accommodations will be located at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain in a beautiful natural setting.

Hang Dong is an overlooked area because it's not well-known. Admittedly, it's not the ideal neighborhood if you're looking for excitement, but as mentioned in the first sentence, tranquility reigns supreme here, offering the chance to try hotels that provide good value for money, such as the renowned Madame Su or the Bamboo Garden Resort & Restaurant.

Afterwards, due to its location, it is better to have your own means of transport to move around, but either via the services of your hotel, or by using the famous local taxis (songthaew, the red pick-ups), you can always get by.

You'll be close to attractions like the famous Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai , Wat Intharawat ( Wat Ton Kwen ), and the stunning gardens of Rajapruek Royal Park, among others. Like Mae Rim, this location is better suited to a longer stay or those already familiar with Chiang Mai.

Examples of hotels in this area that I recommend:

— Rice Barn and Rooms

— Naraya Homestay

— Foresta Villa