Chiang Mai is an amazing city that you should definitely visit when you’re going to Thailand. Whether you’re a culture seeker, luxury traveler, or backpacker, knowing the best areas and where to stay can make all the difference in your trip. In this guide, we’ll share the top four must-stay areas in Chiang Mai plus we’ll give you a hotel recommendations for each area. Let’s dive in and help you travel smarter, not harder!
About Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the second-largest city in Thailand and offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and laid-back charm. Its name means “New City” and it was founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. This northern city is known for its temples, bustling night markets, and incredible regional food (looking at you Khao Soi Gai). We love this city and Chiang Mai should be high on your list if you’re planning a trip to Thailand.
Pro tip: beware of the burning season that happens generally from the end of January up until April. During this time the air is more heavily polluted and is best to be avoided.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve broken down the city into four key areas:
- Old City: The cultural heart of Chiang Mai
- Night Bazaar Area: A lively hub of nightlife and shopping
- Riverside Area: Relaxing and scenic by the Ping River
- Nimman Area: Trendy and hip, perfect for young travelers
Let’s explore these areas in detail, including where to stay for the best experience or check-out the video we made about this article below:
1. Old City: The Cultural Heart of Chiang Mai
The Old City is a square-shaped area surrounded by ancient walls and a moat, making it a great starting point for first-time visitors. Here, you’ll find an array of temples, museums, and the famous Sunday Night Market.
Highlights:
Wat Chedi Luang, known for its giant brick pagoda
Wat Phra Singh, a must-see temple
Sunday Night Walking Street, with handmade crafts, foot massages, and endless street food
For history lovers and those looking for a stay in the most central and best walkable area, the Old City is ideal.
Hotel Recommendation
- Be Phrasingh Hotel
Located in a quiet part of the Old City, this hotel opened in December 2022 and offers spacious rooms, a rooftop sunset view, and easy access to restaurants and a 7/11.
Expect to pay: 1,255 THB per night (€35 / $38).
2. Night Bazaar Area: A Lively Hub of Activity
Located east of the Old City, this area comes alive every evening with the famous Night Bazaar, where you can shop for Thai souvenirs, enjoy live performances, and indulge in delicious street food. It’s also home to Muay Thai fights, drag queen shows, and a bustling bar scene.
- Highlights:
- Night Bazaar, open every night
- China Town day market with Chinese cuisine and clothing stalls
- Food courts with live music
Hotel Recommendations:
- The Locals Hotel
A boutique hotel off Loy Kroh Road, offering stylish design, a snack buffet, and spacious, comfortable rooms.
- The Locals Hotel
Expect to pay: 1,435 THB per night (€40 / $43).
- Sleep Mai Hotel
Situated between the Old City and the Night Bazaar, this hotel features a pool, gym, and breakfast buffet.
- Sleep Mai Hotel
Expect to pay: 1,435 THB per night (€40 / $43).
3. Riverside Area: Quiet and Scenic
For a more laid-back and scenic stay, head to the Riverside Area. Perfect for families or couples, this area offers upscale accommodations and beautiful views of the Ping River. While it’s quieter than other parts of the city, you’ll rely more on taxi transportation to explore beyond the area.
- Highlights:
- Relaxing area with delicious riverside restaurants nearby
- Scenic views of the Ping River
- Cross one of the many bridges into the Night Bazaar area for a lively atmosphere
Hotel Recommendation:
- Sala Lanna Chiang Mai
A stylish 4-star hotel with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine.
Expect to pay: 4000 THB per night (€110 / $118).
4. Nimman Area: Trendy and Vibrant
Located west of the Old City, Nimman is the hippest area of Chiang Mai, filled with trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and boutique shops. It’s a favorite among young travelers and digital nomads, especially in the evenings when the nightlife buzz begins.
- Highlights:
- One Nimman Square and Maya Mall
- Rooftop bars and live music venues
- Trendy restaurants and boutique stores
Hotel Recommendation:
- ibis Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub
A modern and affordable hotel in a quiet area, just a five-minute walk from Maya Mall and central Nimmanhaemin. It features a rooftop pool, gym, and breakfast buffet.
Expect to pay: 1,620 THB per night (€45 / $48).
Book Chiang Mai Nimman here
Final Tips for Your Chiang Mai Stay
To make the most of your visit, consider staying in at least two different areas to experience both the cultural charm and vibrant energy of Chiang Mai. Plan for at least four to five days, so you can:
- Take day trips to nearby attractions like Doi Suthep
- Join a Thai cooking class or a countryside bicycle tour
- Spend time wandering through the city, discovering hidden gems
Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, Chiang Mai offers something for every traveler.
Now you know where to stay for your visit to Chiang Mai!
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to our Youtube Channel: @yesandexplore for more travel tips, destination guides, and insider advice to help you travel smarter, not harder!
We want to thank you so much for reading and enjoy Chiang Mai, byeeeee!
p.s. looking for best places to stay in Bangkok check-out our Bangkok Best Areas and Hotel Recommendations here
