Where to Stay in Chiang Mai (2026): Best Areas & Hotel Guide with Map

Wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai?

The best area depends on your travel style — whether you want to stay inside the Old City, enjoy cafes in Nimmanhaemin, relax by the river, or be close to night markets.

This 2026 guide explains the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai, with a map, hotel recommendations, travel times, and pros & cons — so you can easily choose the perfect location for your trip.

Chiang Mai Accommodation Map – Find Your Area

Chiang Mai is a compact city, and most popular areas are within a 10–20 minute drive of each other. The Old Town sits in the center, with Nimmanhaemin to the west, the Night Bazaar area to the east, and Riverside along the Ping River.

Use the map below to understand each area’s location before choosing where to stay.

Chiang Mai Accommodation Comparison Table

Area	Atmosphere	Best For	Price Range	Highlights
Old City	Historic & central	Sightseeing	Budget – Mid	Temples, landmarks
Night Bazaar	Lively & convenient	Shopping & night markets	Budget – Mid	Markets, entertainment
Riverside	Relaxing & luxurious	Couples & family	Mid – Luxury	River views, boutique resorts
Nimmanhaemin	Trendy & vibrant	Digital nomads	Mid – Luxury	Cafes, nightlife
Santitham	Local & affordable	Budget travelers	Budget	Local vibe, eateries

Best Areas to Stay in Chiang Mai

Old Town – Central & Cultural

Best for: First-time visitors, temple lovers, short stays
Atmosphere: Historic, walkable, calm during the day

The Old Town is Chiang Mai’s cultural heart, surrounded by ancient walls and filled with temples, cafes, and small boutique hotels. It’s the most convenient area for sightseeing and walking around.

• Airport: ~15 minutes by taxi
• Night Bazaar: ~10 minutes by Grab
• Walkable: Temples, cafes, Sunday Walking Street

Recommended Hotels – Budget, mid-range, luxury options

Tamarind Village

Step into a secret garden at Tamarind Village, a boutique gem set around a majestic 200-year-old tamarind tree. This hotel captures the soulful essence of the Old City, offering elegant rooms inspired by local hill tribe patterns and a deeply serene atmosphere.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Siri Village Chiangmai

Immerse yourself in serene luxury at Siri Village Chiang Mai, a boutique sanctuary that beautifully blends traditional Lanna architecture with modern elegance. Located in the quiet heart of the Old City, it offers a peaceful escape with a stunning pool and lush garden surroundings.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Moondragon Hotel Chiang Mai

Stay in the heart of the action at Moondragon Hotel Chiang Mai, located directly on the famous Sunday Walking Street. This charming boutique hotel offers unmatched convenience for exploring ancient temples and vibrant local markets right at your doorstep.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Night Bazaar Area – Shopping & Entertainment

Best for: Shopping lovers, night market fans
Atmosphere: Busy, lively, tourist-friendly

Located east of the Old Town, this area is famous for its night markets, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It’s ideal if you enjoy evening activities and easy access to dining.

• Airport: ~15 minutes
• Old Town: ~10 minutes
• Walkable: Markets, restaurants

Recommended Hotels – Close to the action

Melia Chiang Mai

Elevate your stay at Melia Chiang Mai, a stunning 5-star retreat featuring the city’s highest rooftop bar with panoramic mountain views. Its contemporary Spanish flair and luxurious spa offer the perfect blend of relaxation and high-end style.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Dusit Princess Chiang Mai Hotel

Experience the ultimate convenience at Dusit Princess Chiang Mai, located right in the heart of the famous Night Bazaar. This hotel blends traditional Thai charm with modern amenities, making it the perfect choice for shoppers and food lovers alike.

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POR Daowadung

Experience minimalist elegance at POR Daowadung, a stylish boutique hotel known for its bright, modern rooms and exceptional hospitality. Enjoy the refreshing outdoor pool and complimentary treats, all just a short walk from the historic Chiang Mai Gate.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Riverside – Relaxing & Luxurious

Best for: Couples, slow travel, luxury stays
Atmosphere: Quiet, scenic, romantic

The Riverside area offers peaceful views of the Ping River and some of Chiang Mai’s most luxurious resorts. It’s perfect if you want a calm retreat away from the city center.

• Airport: ~20 minutes
• Old Town: ~15 minutes
• Walkable: Limited (mostly hotel areas)

Recommended Hotels – Boutique riverside resorts

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

Experience unparalleled riverside luxury at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, a masterpiece of modern design and historic charm. Relax by the stunning infinity pool or dine at the iconic former British Consulate, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mae Ping River.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Cross Chiang Mai Riverside

Discover a masterpiece of modern design at Cross Chiang Mai Riverside, where bold red-brick architecture meets serene river views. With its stunning rooftop infinity pool and glass-walled library, every corner offers a perfect photo opportunity for the stylish traveler.

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Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa

Step into a colonial-style dream at Ping Nakara, a boutique gem famous for its stunning white gingerbread architecture and delicate wood carvings. This romantic retreat offers a nostalgic escape into Chiang Mai’s elegant past, complete with a serene pool and luxury spa.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Nimmanhaemin – Trendy & Lively

Best for: Cafes, shopping, digital nomads
Atmosphere: Modern, youthful, stylish

Nimmanhaemin is Chiang Mai’s trendiest neighborhood, packed with cafes, boutiques, coworking spaces, and nightlife. It’s popular with younger travelers and remote workers.

• Airport: ~10 minutes
• Old Town: ~10 minutes
• Walkable: Cafes, malls, bars

Recommended Hotels – Boutique hotels and modern stays

CHINO @NIMMAN Luxury Boutique Hotel

Immerse yourself in the unique fusion of heritage and modern luxury at CHINO @NIMMAN, where stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture meets chic, contemporary interiors. Every corner is a designer’s dream, making it the perfect base for travelers seeking a stylish stay in the city’s trendiest neighborhood.

• Check availability on Trip.com
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G Nimman Chiang Mai

Experience a minimalist masterpiece at G Nimman, famous for its iconic circular white courtyard and sleek, futuristic design. Located in the heart of the trendy Nimman area, every corner of this hotel offers a stunning, art-like backdrop for your stay.

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Buri Siri Boutique Hotel

Escape to Buri Siri Boutique Hotel, a charming oasis in the heart of Nimman featuring an elegant colonial-modern design. Relax by the serene swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery, making it the perfect peaceful retreat after exploring the city’s trendy cafes.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Santitham – Local & Budget-Friendly

Best for: Budget travelers, long stays
Atmosphere: Local, simple, authentic

Santitham is a more residential area north of Nimmanhaemin, offering affordable guesthouses and apartments. It’s great for travelers who want to save money and experience local life.

• Airport: ~10 minutes
• Old Town: ~15 minutes
• Walkable: Local food, shops

Recommended Hotels – Budget guesthouses and apartments

Bella Nara Hotel Chiang Mai

Indulge in classic colonial elegance at Bella Nara Hotel Chiang Mai, where sophisticated design meets modern comfort. With its stunning white architecture and refreshing outdoor pool, it offers a luxurious yet serene sanctuary just minutes from the vibrant Nimman area.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Treevana Club Chiangmai

Find your tropical sanctuary at Treevana Club Chiangmai, a boutique gem tucked away in the vibrant Santitham area. With its lush greenery and inviting outdoor pool, this hotel offers a serene and stylish escape from the city’s bustle.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Glory Boutique Suites

Enjoy a stylish urban stay at Glory Boutique Suites, featuring a stunning rooftop pool with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. With its spacious, modern rooms and serene atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind while staying close to the city’s local charm.

• Check availability on Trip.com
• Check availability on Agoda

Chiang Mai Accommodation FAQ

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

The Old Town is the best area for first-time visitors because it is close to major temples, restaurants, cafes, and walking streets. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the city without needing taxis or tours.

Which area is best for cafes, shopping, and nightlife?

Nimmanhaemin is the best area for cafes, shopping, and nightlife. It has many stylish coffee shops, boutique stores, bars, and coworking spaces, and it’s especially popular with younger travelers and digital nomads.

Is it better to stay inside or outside the Old Town?

Staying inside the Old Town is more convenient for sightseeing, especially for short trips. Staying outside the Old Town, such as in Nimmanhaemin or Riverside, is better if you prefer modern facilities, quieter hotels, or a more relaxed atmosphere.

How far is Chiang Mai Airport from the main hotel areas?

Chiang Mai International Airport is very close to the city. It takes about 10–15 minutes by taxi or Grab to reach the Old Town, Nimmanhaemin, or Santitham, and about 20 minutes to reach the Riverside area.

What area is best for budget travelers?

Santitham is the best area for budget travelers, offering affordable guesthouses and apartments, as well as plenty of local restaurants. It’s also within a short ride of Nimmanhaemin and the Old Town.

Summary – Choose the Best Area for Your Stay

• Choose Old Town for sightseeing and first visits.
• Choose Nimmanhaemin for cafes, shopping, and nightlife.
• Choose Riverside for relaxation and luxury.
• Choose Night Bazaar for markets and evening fun.
• Choose Santitham for budget-friendly local stays.