Top 5 Hotels in Chiang Mai's Old City

Those who want to enjoy the rustic beauty of Chiang Mai without missing out on the pampering Thailand is known for will find this resort hotel the perfect balance. The compound is just a few minutes from the busy Tha Pae Gate area but is walled off from the rest of the city, so visitors feel like they are in an oasis of quiet and calm. Rooms are spacious and full of local design details, without forgoing all the modern amenities you’d expect in a luxury hotel. The on-site spa, restaurant and swimming pool make this one of the only full-service resorts inside the moat.

• Address: 50/1 Rajdamnoen Rd., Chiang Mai +66 5341-8896.
• Price: From 4,200 Baht ($125) for a double room.

This small upscale guesthouse embodies everything that’s great about Chiang Mai – comfort, style, friendliness and a relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are simply designed but elegant and comfortable. The on-site restaurant and small spa get consistent high marks. Friendly service, complimentary and organic breakfast and Wi-Fi top off the experience.

• Address: 39/5 Phrapokklao Soi 2, Chiang Mai +66 5381 4733.
• Price: From 1,800 Baht ($50) for a standard double room with private bathroom.

Just a few minutes on foot from some of the city’s most important temples is this gem of a guesthouse. The property, run by three sisters from the region, has recently expanded so you get your choice of the less expensive, older rooms in the back wing or the gorgeous new rooms in the front wing. Either way, you’re getting a great value for the money. The lobby area is airy and elegant and there are plenty of places to relax and plan your next day’s adventures. They offer free Wi-Fi and breakfast at their café, which is stocked with produce from the family farm. On Sundays the Sunday market is just around the corner.

• Address: 7/1 Phrapokklao Soi 8, Chiang Mai +66 5327 3243.
• Price: From 1,300 Baht ($40) for a double room in the old wing.

Just around the corner from the Pan Tao temple is this small, personal hotel. Rooms are clean, bright and simply furnished but have little extras such as in-room refrigerators and televisions. There’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy a cup of local coffee at the adjacent restaurant.

• Address: 105/1 Phrapokklao Rd. at the Klangwiang intersection, Chiang Mai +66 5381 4011.
• Price: From 1,000 Baht ($30) for a double room with breakfast.

Though Julie Guest House is about as cheap as you can get in central Chiang Mai, it offers more than the typical backpacker guesthouse or hostel. Rooms and bathrooms are very simple but always clean and comfortable and common areas have space for lounging and talking to other travelers. Julie’s doesn’t offer air conditioning but you won’t miss it too much anyway during cool season. This guesthouse is very popular so book well in advance and expect lots backpackers when you arrive.

• Address: 7/1 Phrapokklao Soi 5, Chiang Mai +66 5327 4355.
• Price: From 70 Baht ($2) for a dormitory bed with shared bathroom to 350 Baht ($10) for a double room with private bathroom.