Chiang Mai Hotels, Guesthouses and Homestays

Chiang Mai’s Old City is enchanting so it’s no surprise that within the four walls you’ll find every kind of accommodation from budget dorms and party hostels, to traditional but stylish mid-range and super luxe hotels, all within walking distance of ancient temples and delicious restaurants.

There are also other alternative accommodations located just outside the moat, near the river, should you wish a more authentic feel among the local residents.

Thanks to Chiang Mai’s popularity, you will always be able to find a room – even at the last minute, but take note of seasonal room prices, as some might increase during the busier months and festival periods.

Budget

Backpackers love Chiang Mai and there’s good reason to with plenty of budget accommodation to suit tight purse strings. You don’t need to scrimp on comfort or character either, with many new and modern ‘urban style’ hostels popping up everywhere.

Bunk Boutique Hostel is a new ‘loft style’ hostel with dorms available from THB260, found on 8/7 Ratchaphruek Road, a stone’s throw from the busy bars and cultural sights. Haus Hostel is another of the newer additions to the city with chic large spaces, a real urban-hipster feel, and breakfast included for just THB345.

If you want to really watch the pennies, just outside the Old City, Pao Come Guesthouse (3 Changmoi Khao Road) is another favourite of ours offering rooms for THB100 cheaper should you want to be a little further out of the ‘tourist’ hub.

Mid-Range

A great guesthouse with a boutique style right around the corner from Tha Pae Gate and Night Bazaar is Chiang Mai Thai House. It’s a great option for those with a bit more cash to spare, but one that certainly won’t break the bank with air con ensuite rooms at THB950 in high season.

We also really love the vibe at Green Tiger House, tucked away down a quiet street on 1/4 Soi 7, Sri Poom Road. The open plan reception area and (vegetarian) restaurant is light, bright and airy, with authentic Thai-style décor. It also has a beautiful outdoor pool and rooftop terrace to watch the sun go down. Private double rooms start at THB1650.

Just outside the city walls, across the River Ping, Rimping Village is another highly rated mid-range option for those on the furthest end of the spectrum. You’ll be won over by the beautiful décor, huge rooms, and delicious breakfast, as well as bike hire to get around the city. Rooms from THB2800.

Top End

If money is no object, then we recommend Bodhi Serene, an uber-opulent hotel on 110 Ratchaphakhinai Road, in the south west corner of the Old City. Stunning Lanna style architecture, manicured gardens to dine in, and immaculate rooms tastefully decorated: it’s no surprise the price tag starts around THB5000.

A similar version is Tamarind Village Hotel in the northeast corner of the Old City walls, right on the popular Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Road 50/1). It’s a quaint hotel with whitewashed buildings set around a tamarind tree dating back over 300 years. Rooms start from around THB4000.

If it’s a room with a view you’re after, ask for the Heritage Balcony Room with the Wat Pra Singh view (THB6000) at 99 The Heritage Hotel on 2 Samlan Road, promising not only an exclusive vantage point overlooking one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, but exquisite décor, and wonderful staff.