- CountryThailand
- Best forCulture, cooking classes, nature
- Best timeNovember to March
- CurrencyThai baht
Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand, the capital of Chiang Mai province and the second-largest city in Thailand by urban population. It is 700 km north of Bangkok in a mountainous region called the Thai highlands, and has a population of approximately 127,000 within the city municipality and an urban population of about 1.2 million as of 2023. The heart of the city is commonly defined by a square area about 1 mile × 1 mile.Source: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay in Chiang Mai: hotel tips
Choosing the right neighbourhood matters more than the hotel itself. These are the best areas to base yourself in Chiang Mai:
1
Old City
Temples on every corner, inside the moat
2
Nimmanhaemin
Cafés, boutiques and modern condos
3
Riverside
Quieter boutique hotels near the night bazaar
Hotel booking tips
- Book central stays near public transport to save time and taxi fares.
- Choose free-cancellation rates during November to March, the busiest season.
- Check recent reviews for noise, air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Top landmarks in Chiang Mai
Map of Chiang Mai and around
LandmarkCityClick a pin for details
Getting around
Combine walking, public transport and ride-hailing apps for city sightseeing. For day trips and onward travel, compare trains, buses and ferries, or hire a car where roads are quiet.
