Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Our pick for families
Stay in Riverside
Offers a quieter, more relaxed environment with resorts that often have pools and family-friendly amenities.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Chiang Mai
Riverside
LuxuryA more relaxed and upscale area along the Ping River, known for its fine dining and tranquil atmosphere.
- +Peaceful and scenic riverfront setting
- +Excellent fine dining options
- +Quieter than the Old City
- -Slightly further from the main tourist attractions
- -Public transport options are more limited
🛡️ Extremely safe day and night due to its upscale nature and lower foot traffic. Be mindful of river currents if near the water.
Old City
Mid-rangeA historic heart filled with ancient temples, charming cafes, and bustling markets.
- +Abundance of temples and historical sites
- +Central location with easy access to amenities
- +Vibrant market scene
- -Can be very crowded, especially during peak season
- -Traffic noise can be an issue on main roads
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty theft in crowded markets. At night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Nimmanhaemin
LuxuryA trendy and modern district buzzing with independent boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.
- +Excellent selection of modern cafes and restaurants
- +Vibrant nightlife and social scene
- +Good infrastructure for digital nomads
- -Can be more expensive than other areas
- -Less historical charm compared to the Old City
🛡️ Very safe day and night, with plenty of people around. Standard precautions against pickpocketing apply.
Chang Khlan (Night Bazaar Area)
BudgetA lively commercial hub, dominated by the famous Night Bazaar and its surrounding shops and eateries.
- +Excellent for souvenir shopping and street food
- +Good range of budget-friendly accommodation
- +Central location with easy access to transport
- -Can be very touristy and crowded
- -Street noise is prevalent, especially at night
🛡️ Safe during the day, but be cautious of scams and pickpockets at the busy Night Bazaar. At night, stay on main, well-lit streets.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
THB 2500/day
Hidden Gems in Chiang Mai
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Wat Umong
FREEEscape the city bustle at this ancient forest temple, featuring a tunnel system that's incredibly peaceful and atmospheric. It's a serene spot for meditation and a beautiful example of Lanna architecture surrounded by nature.
Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
FREEExperience the true heart of Chiang Mai at this bustling local market, a vibrant maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing and household goods. It's the perfect place to sample authentic Thai snacks and observe daily life.
Lanna Folklife Museum
Located within the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre, this museum offers a deep dive into the history, traditions, and daily life of the Lanna people. It provides valuable context to the region's rich cultural heritage beyond the temples.
Safety in Chiang Mai
SafeSolo Female Travel
Chiang Mai is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in deserted alleys. Major tourist zones like the Old City and Nimman are generally safe.
Emergency
191
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced tuk-tuk tours or 'gem' scams
- 2Tailor scams (inflated prices for custom suits)
- 3ATM skimming devices
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Chiang Mai