The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Thailand: Chiang Mai Edition
Chiang Mai, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern charm nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, gave us a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
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After a fun-filled adventure in this beautiful city with our toddler Jere and infant Kay, we're delighted to narrow down the best accommodation options— from popular hotels with amenities like room service and nice pool to budget-friendly hotels in Chiang Mai, in hopes of helping you have a memorable trip of your own.
From serene riverside retreats to vibrant cultural hubs, we've got the inside scoop on where to nest with your family in this enchanting northern Thai city.
Best Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Chiang Mai
Suthep
For our Chiang Mai adventure, we stayed in a vacation rental in Suthep, a district on the western side of Chiang Mai offering a peaceful retreat with a strong connection to nature.
The neighbourhood has a mix of affordable housing options, including guesthouses and boutique hotels, catering to those who value a serene environment with stunning mountain views.
Staying here gave us the respite we needed after experiencing Bangkok's vibrant burst of energy— it was tranquil and decently distant from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
This area's lush landscapes, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to outdoor activities gave us the perfect opportunity to relax, slow down, and enjoy quality family time.
✔ Best For: Outdoor adventure seekers, tourists prioritising a relaxed environment
✖ Downside: Quite distant from the city centre, limited pedestrian infrastructure
Nearby Attractions: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Bhubing Palace, Chiang Mai Zoo, Wat Pha Lat
Riverside
Riverside offers a serene escape along the Ping River, combining traditional charm with modern amenities.
The area boasts family-friendly accommodations, picturesque views, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the city's hustle and bustle.
With its laid-back vibe, diverse dining options, and central location, Riverside provides an ideal base for families seeking a relaxing yet convenient stay in Chiang Mai.
✔ Best For: Tourists seeking luxury accommodations, natural scenery enthusiasts
✖ Downside: Limited budget-friendly accommodations, less walkable, quite far from the city's main attractions
Nearby Attractions: Wat Ket Karam, Elephant Parade House, Woo Cafe & Art Gallery
Old City
Old City is a historic enclave surrounded by ancient walls and a moat, offering a charming atmosphere with narrow streets and a rich cultural heritage.
This neighbourhood is an ideal base for families, providing easy access to numerous temples, markets, and family-friendly accommodations ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
The area's walkable layout, diverse dining options, and peaceful ambience make it a convenient and immersive experience, allowing you to explore Thai culture and history right at your doorstep.
✔ Best For: First-time visitors, families seeking a walkable neighbourhood, history buffs
✖ Downside: Heavily frequented by tourists, more expensive, often congested streets
Nearby Attractions: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Nong Kwai
This family-friendly neighbourhood is known for its peaceful atmosphere and community-oriented environment, easily appealing to tourists with children.
The area boasts a variety of modern amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, ensuring convenience for families.
With its lush greenery and spacious living options, Nong Kwai provides a safe and nurturing space for kids to play and explore.
✔ Best For: Nature lovers, cultural explorers
✖ Downside: Fewer tourist amenities, potential language barriers
Nearby Attractions: Chiang Mai Night Safari, Royal Park Rajapruek, Patara Elephant Farm, Grand Canyon Water Park
Mae Hia
This vibrant neighbourhood in southwest Chiang Mai offers a perfect blend of city conveniences and provincial charm.
Mae Hia boasts a welcoming community with a mix of locals, students, and expats, creating a diverse and friendly atmosphere for tourists with kids.
The area provides affordable accommodations, authentic Thai cuisine, and a relaxed ambiance, allowing you to experience genuine Thai culture while enjoying modern amenities and easy access to the heart of the city.
✔ Best For: Budget-conscious travellers, foodies, tourists prioritising proximity to Chiang Mai Airport
✖ Downside: Less dining options, limited transportation system
Nearby Attractions: Wat Phrathat Doi Kham, Ob Khan National Park, Huay Tung Tao Reservoir, Wat Ton Kwen
Why We Chose a Vacation Rental
We chose to stay in Cayla Private Residence during our Chiang Mai holiday because it offered spacious accommodations and had everything we needed as a family of four.
The excellent reviews highlighting comfort and hospitality made this vacation rental a no-brainer choice.
The property features a private pool and a garden, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for our children to play.
We appreciate the fully equipped kitchen that made it easy for us to prepare home-cooked meals, enhancing the home-like experience.
Cayla Private Residence's convenient location near local attractions, such as Old City and Tha Phae Gate, makes it easy to explore the rich culture and activities Chiang Mai has to offer.
The Best Chiang Mai Hotels and Resorts for Families
To help you pick the best accommodation for your Chiang Mai family trip, we've curated a list of the best hotels in each neighbourhood.
Suthep Hotels
Horizon Village & Resort: Expansive resort offering a variety of activities for children, including kayaking, fishing, and cycling.
Villa San Pee-Seua: Promises exceptional value with kayaking, fishing, bicycles, board games, and DVDs included in the rates.
North Hill City Resort: Luxury resort providing plenty of kid-friendly activities and mouthwatering food.
Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa Chiang Mai: Allows you to immerse yourself in Thai culture through activities like rice planting and traditional Lanna crafts.
Karina Resort Chiang Mai: Set amidst beautiful rice fields and features cottage-style accommodations.
Riverside Hotels
Shangri-La Chiang Mai: Luxurious resort with a waterpark, kids' club, and babysitting services.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort: Features elegant rooms, refined dining options, and a posh spa.
RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort: Boasts a unique experience with its infinity pool and Brazilian BBQ.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort: Known for its rooftop wine bar and elegant riverside restaurant.
Cross Chiang Mai Riverside: Offers stylish accommodations, a spa, and a rooftop lounge.
Old City Hotels
Tamarind Village: Has spacious family rooms, a beautiful swimming pool, and engaging cultural activities for children.
Phra Singh Village: Features spacious family suites, free bike rentals, and an excellent location near temples and restaurants.
The Inside House: Offers luxurious family accommodations.
A Day Villa Chiangmai: Boasts a large outdoor pool, spacious family suites, and even a kids' playroom.
Parasol Inn Chiang Mai Old City Hotel: Take advantage of its personalised service for families.
Nong Kwai Hotels
Chandra Residence: Popular hotel offering spacious accommodations and a range of amenities that cater to families.
Ratchapruek Lanna Boutique: Known for its charming Thai-style architecture and serene atmosphere.
Prat Rajapruek Resort and Spa: Resort combining luxury with family-friendly features, including a spa for parents and activities for children.
Foresta Villa, Chiang Mai: Promises a homey atmosphere in a quiet neighbourhood with its big rooms and kitchen for guest use.
R1 Resort Rajapruek Chiangmai: Provides a blend of modern comfort and traditional Thai hospitality.
Mae Hia Hotels
Mountain Creek Wellness Resort Chiangmai: Perfectly blends wellness activities and family-friendly amenities.
The Lilly Hotel: Boasts impressive ratings, and a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Mae Hia.
Pool Suite Chiang Mai: Has luxurious suites with private hot tubs, kitchenettes, and a range of family-friendly facilities.
Oasis Baan Saen Doi Spa Resort: Provides a tranquil oasis for families with its spa facilities and serene atmosphere.
Vdara Resort and Spa: Features various amenities, including a pool with sun loungers and car rental services.
Things to Consider When Choosing Accommodation in Chiang Mai
Proximity to Old City
The walled Old City is the heart of Chiang Mai, packed with temples and cultural attractions. Staying within or near Chiang Mai old town walls provides easy access to key sights and the famous Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Seasonal Pricing
Chiang Mai's accommodation prices can fluctuate significantly between high and low seasons. Be prepared for higher rates during the cool season from November to February and local festivals like Songkran in April, while you can find great deals during the rainy season from June to October.
Air Conditioning
Chiang Mai's tropical climate can be intense, especially during the hot season from March to May. Ensure your accommodation has reliable air conditioning to stay comfortable, as temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F).
Amenities
Opt for accommodations that offer a taste of local culture and hospitality. Boutique hotels or guesthouses in Chiang Mai often provide a more authentic Thai experience with personalised service and traditional decor.
Reviews
Read recent reviews from fellow travellers to get insights into the real guest experience. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, staff friendliness, and how well the accommodation matches its description.
Wrapping Up
Whether you prefer staying by the river or in the midst of cultural hubs, in luxury hotels or cosy homestays, Chiang Mai has the perfect neighbourhood for you.
We carefully curated this guide to help you uncover hidden gems in each district, helping you plan an exciting Chiang Mai adventure without compromising comfort.
If you've already been to Chiang Mai, what other insider tips or local insights can you share about accommodations and places to stay? Don't hesitate to leave a comment below to help our fellow travellers!
If you have questions about our recent Chiang Mai trip, feel free to reach out to us!
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