Where to stay in Chiang Mai: which area to choose?

In short: for a first visit, stay in the Old City, inside the moat, close to the temples. For cafés and modern restaurants, Nimman. For evenings out and shopping, around the Night Bazaar. Chiang Mai is calmer than Bangkok and easy to get around.

Chiang Mai in two minutes

The Old City is a square surrounded by a moat and remains of the old walls, with gates such as Tha Phae. To the east, between the Old City and the Ping river, the Night Bazaar area. To the west, Nimman, near the university, at the foot of the mountain where Doi Suthep temple stands. Distances are short: walking, songthaews (red shared taxis) and ride-hailing apps.

The right area for your trip

First visit and culture: the Old City

Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and dozens of other temples on foot. Plenty of guesthouses, small boutique hotels with gardens and cafés. The Sunday market fills its streets.

Cafés and modern life: Nimman

A trendy area of cafés, restaurants, shops and malls. Newer hotels and apartments, popular with long-stay travellers. Doi Suthep is close by.

Nightlife and shopping: around the Night Bazaar

Lively in the evening, between the Old City and the Ping river, with large hotels, restaurants and bars. Handy for going out, but noisier.

Guesthouse, boutique hotel or resort?

• Guesthouse: cheap and friendly, ideal for solo travellers.
• Small boutique hotel: often wooden, with a garden and pool, in the Old City.
• Resort outside town: quiet and surrounded by nature, but you need a car or driver.

Getting to Chiang Mai

From Bangkok, allow about an hour by plane or a night on the train. The airport is close to town: taxis, ride-hailing and pre-booked transfers get you to your hotel quickly.

Our booking tips

1. Book early for the dry season (November to February), the busiest time.
2. Check for air conditioning if you travel in the hot season.
3. Check the exact location: some Old City streets are lively until late.
4. Pick a hotel near a main road if you will rely on ride-hailing.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you are there

Visit the Old City temples, ride up to Doi Suthep, browse the Sunday market and head into the northern mountains. For activities with animals, choose places that respect their welfare. All our ideas in Things to do in Chiang Mai, and our tips for the country in Travel in Thailand. Useful services are on our Chiang Mai page.