Hostels & Budgethotels in Chiang Mai

You probably know the way to Agoda and Booking.com. There are about 2,000 accommodations listed on those sites — plenty of choice, but that can also be a bit overwhelming.

You can find nice hotels for around 1,000 THB per room. The places to be are of course the Old City — everything inside the square or along its edges — as well as everything east of the square, between the square and the river. Then all the interesting spots are within walking distance.

If you prefer a hip and modern vibe, the Nimman district northwest of the square is a good place to stay.

If you head more toward the river in the southeast, you’ll also find hotels, but you’ll be a bit farther from the city center.

During peak weeks, the city can fill up early: in Thailand, that’s usually around Loi Krathong in November (2025: November 5-7 / 2026: November 24-26), and around Christmas/New Year. Prices are also higher then.

Below is a small selection of hostels and budget hotels where we’ve heard good things about.

Note: all links to hotels and hostels on this page are sponsored links.