Where to stay in Chiang Mai? — Top 3 best places to stay in Chiang Mai for first timers
Chiang Mai is a hilly city in northern Thailand that has become a must-see destination for visitors due to its unique history and culture. What are the finest neighborhoods to stay in Chiang Mai? Let’s look at the three places where visitors from all over the globe stay the most when they visit Chiang Mai. Whether you travel to Chiang Mai on a world tour, with your family, or just for a holiday in Thailand, choosing the perfect hotel may make or break your trip. Focus Asia Travel has produced a list of these popular locales, noting the benefits and drawbacks of each of the following specific locations for you. If you’re wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai, look no further. Let’s have a look at places to stay in Chiang Mai. — See below for the top three best locations to stay in Chiang Mai for first-time visitors.
1. Where to stay in Chiang Mai? Should you book a hotel near Chiang Mai Old City?
Chiang Mai’s Old City is teeming with historic temples, citadels, and notable tourist attractions.
Simply looking at a map will reveal the Old City of Chiang Mai. In the center of the city, there is a 700-year-old bastion wall and a magnificent trench that makes a perfect square. So, should you spend the night in Chiang Mai Old City?
This historical area has many of the things that most visitors come here to see: old temples, bustling marketplaces, inexpensive guest rooms, beautiful stores, and an endless “supply” of Thai spa and massage establishments. The most well-known location is at ThaePae Gate on the city’s western outskirts. You may very simply access the highway from here.
Who is this place for?
- Tourists who on a small budget and backpackers
- Families
- Those who want to be in the heart of Chiang Mai and close to many places of interests.
Pro:
- A wide range of cheap guest houses, hotels, restaurants, bars, markets, spas. You can easily to get anywhere.
- Easy access to most of other areas of the city
- Many temples, museums, and galleries
Con:
- The roads around the moat are often jammed at rush hour
- The most commercialized area in the city
- There are almost no big resort
Fundee hostel
Address: 172/1 rachamanka Rd, Old City, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50200
The Arak Bed Bar and Hostel
Address: 21/1 Singharat Road Soi 3, T.Sri Phoom, A.Muang, Old City, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50200
2. Where best areas to stay in Chiang Mai? How about booking a hotel in the Riverside area?
Quiet and gentle, Riverside is a paradise for those who want a true relaxation in northern Thailand.
Riverside is undoubtedly the spot to stay if you want a great view and a peaceful hotel. The Ping River, located just outside of the city center (approximately a 10-minute drive), proudly offers a peaceful and tranquil ambiance in comparison to the Old City and Night Bazaar.
Although the Riverside neighborhood is pleasant and peaceful, you may still have a good time at the riverside restaurants, pubs, and cafés. Although there are a few budget hotels in the neighborhood, the majority of Riverside hotels are luxury. But keep in mind that in Thailand’s paradise, elegance does not always imply expensive prices.
Who is this place for?
- Families looking for spacious and comfortable resorts
- Older travelers with the higher demand and can afford to pay for a superior room
- Anyone who finds a relaxing and picturesque holiday
Pro:
- There are a selection of resorts and luxury hotels at affordable prices
- Nice view of Ping River
- Easy to travel, can go to the highway leading to the airport, the bus station and the train as well
- Many of the riverside restaurants offer a picturesque view
Con:
- Feel like you are missing the bustling atmosphere as well as the main activities in the city
- Shopping and nightlife are limited
- Few budget options
Zensala Riverpark Resort
Address: 168 Patan Road, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Glur Chiangmai
Address: 75 Chiang Mai – Lamphun Road, Wat Ket, Muang, Wat Ket, 50000 Chiang Mai, Thailand
3. What is special about staying in the Night Bazaar area?
Located just outside of Old City, the Night Bazaar is a place for those who love shopping.
This location is home to Chiang Mai’s largest night market, which is open every day of the year. The nightlife scene in this region, while not as vibrant as in Niman, continues to draw a constant stream of tourists.
There are numerous foreigner-friendly pubs, as well as some “disruptive” late-night concerts and go-go in the LoiKhroh area. There are several alternatives for lodging, as well as souvenirs, in this region. There are several places to stay, ranging from inexpensive guesthouses to upscale resorts such as skyscrapers rising in the northern city’s skyline.
Busy and full of shopping activities – the Night Bazaar is truly a paradise for shoppers
Who is this place for?
- Those like shopping
- Those who want to stay in the middle of Riverside and Old City
- Families or groups of friends
Pro:
- The night market is something that can not be missed in Chiang Mai
- Easy access to Riverside and Old City
- Many bars are full of fun
- Some disco and club nights for “night owls”
Con:
- There are not many cultural attractions
- Quite crowded
Le Meridien Chiang Mai
Address: 108 Chang Klan Road, Tambol Chang Klan, Amphur Muang, Chang Khlan, 50100 Chiang Mai, Thailand
Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai
Address: 89/8 Chang Klan Road, Muang, Chang Khlan, 50100 Chiang Mai, Thailand
Although there are hundreds of wonderful locations to stay outside of the city, in the countryside, each locale has its own distinct vibe. However, with the aforementioned places, we have selected the finest neighborhood to stay in Chiang Mai when visiting Thailand for the first time. I hope these locations assist you in determining where to stay in Chiang Mai. Choose your favorite location and leave us a comment with your thoughts. I wish you a pleasant vacation to Chiang Mai!