Where To Stay In Chiang Mai With Family – 4 Best Options
I’m pretty confident that I can give you an excellent answer to your question about where to stay in Chiang Mai with family.
Why? Because I lived for almost five years in Thailand and visited this city numerous times.
Chiang Mai is one of the ideal destinations in Thailand when traveling with kids. Elephant sanctuaries, beautiful nature, hiking trails, magnificent temples, and Northern Thai gastronomy are a bit more accessible compared to the incredibly spicy Southern or adventurous Isaan cuisine.
But in order to fully enjoy the northern parts of Thailand, it’s important to pick a good base in Chiang Mai for a carefree stay and to make sure you get the best out of your trip.
Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is packed with experiences kids and parents will love, from wandering ancient temples to getting up close to elephants, to feasting on incredible street food.
What makes Chiang Mai such a hit with families?
It’s a mix of affordability, family-friendly accommodations, and endless activities for all ages.
Whether you’re exploring vibrant night markets, enjoying a laid-back bike ride through rice fields, or bonding over a Thai cooking class, this charming city offers a little something for everyone.
Putting Chiang Mai on your itinerary is a must and a great variation after visiting the concrete jungle called Bangkok and before visiting one of the many tropical islands in the south.
Each area comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which will be summarized at the end of the paragraph.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll find a map highlighting all our recommended family-friendly areas to stay in Bangkok, along with the city’s main attractions.
We start with an overview, which allows you to scan quickly which area might be the best option.
Now, let’s dive into our top recommendations!
The best areas in Chiang Mai with family are Chiang Mai’s Old City, Nimmanhaemin (Nimman), Chiang Mai’s Riverside, and Chang Khlan.
While you might think that staying as central as possible is the most expensive option, in Chiang Mai, that is not the case.
As this city relies so much on tourism, the Old City is completely designed to cater to all sorts of travelers.
That means no matter the size of your budget, you can stay in the heart of the city, and from there, easily explore the rest of Chiang Mai.
That also means that it’s an incredibly busy part of Chiang. Luckily, there are a few alternatives that come with their own unique perks.
Below, we’ll break down each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.
Tip: Tap on the name of the area to jump directly to that section of the article for more information!
🚫 I don’t recommend you stay in the following area:
- Loi Khrong Road
This is primarily a nightlife area and bars are open until very late, causing quite the noise.
Old City: If you want to soak up all the history and culture Chiang Mai has to offer, the Old City is where it’s at. With its walkable streets, ancient temples, and endless cafes, it’s perfect for families who love exploring on foot and being in the heart of the action.
Nimmanhaemin (Nimman): Cool, trendy, and full of charm, Nimman is where modern vibes meet family-friendly fun. Think boutique hotels, cozy cafes, and easy access to Maya Mall—it’s great for families who want a little style with their adventure.
Riverside: Looking for a more chilled-out vibe? The Riverside area offers peaceful resorts, stunning river views, and plenty of space for kids to roam around. It’s a dreamy spot to unwind while still being close enough to the city buzz.
Chang Khlan: Chang Khlan is where all the energy’s at, thanks to the famous Night Bazaar and loads of street food stalls. Families will love the lively atmosphere, plus it’s packed with fun things to do, like catching a Muay Thai show or wandering the markets.
The best areas to stay in Bangkok with family are:
1. Old City
When it comes to staying in Chiang Mai with kids, the Old City is hard to beat.
This central neighborhood is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it perfect for families who want to dive into the city’s heritage without straying too far from the action.
The area is incredibly accessible, with most attractions—like the stunning temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang—just a short walk away.
For families, this means less time spent commuting and more time exploring.
Plus, the Old City is lined with affordable guesthouses, boutique hotels, and family-friendly accommodations, making it easy to find something that fits your budget.
One of the best things about staying here is the abundance of food options.
From street vendors serving up delicious khao soi (a northern Thai noodle dish) to cozy cafes and restaurants offering international fare, there’s something for every palate.
Families will love the variety, and kids will appreciate the casual, no-fuss dining options.
Beyond food, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The Old City is home to lively markets, artisan shops, and cultural experiences like Thai cooking classes that are perfect for all ages.
Plus, it’s centrally located, so it’s easy to hop on a tuk-tuk or rent a bike to explore nearby areas like Nimman or the Riverside.
Chiang Mai’s Old City is simply a very convenient area and there are plenty of affordable accommodation options you can find.
For most travelers, it’s perfect.
But it’s also a very busy area, and definitely feels very touristy.
There are several alternatives, though, if you’re not fully convinced yet. But the majority will definitely appreciate staying here.
Pros
- Central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions.
- Affordable accommodation options for all budgets.
- Rich in culture and history, great for family learning experiences.
Cons
- Does get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Not as quiet as other areas, with some hustle and bustle.
- Feels very touristy.
2. Nimman (Road)
For families who enjoy a mix of modern conveniences and a laid-back vibe, Nimman is a fantastic area to stay in Chiang Mai.
Known for its trendy cafes, boutique hotels, and youthful energy, this neighborhood offers plenty to keep both parents and kids entertained.
Accessibility is a breeze, with the area being close to Chiang Mai University, which means you’re never too far from green spaces like the university’s park.
It’s also a short tuk-tuk or bike ride away from both the Old City and the Riverside, so you’re centrally located to explore the rest of the city while enjoying a slightly quieter, more modern side of Chiang Mai.
Nimman is a food lover’s paradise, especially for families with picky eaters.
Whether you’re craving Thai comfort food or international options like pizza or sushi, you’ll find it here.
The area is also home to numerous ice cream parlors and dessert spots that will surely keep the little ones happy.
For family fun, Nimman has everything from interactive art galleries to kid-friendly indoor play centers and malls like Maya, which has a movie theater and entertainment zones perfect for a rainy day.
The overall vibe here is youthful and vibrant, but without the chaotic nightlife that other parts of the city might have, making it a safe and comfortable choice for families.
It simply feels a bit more classy than Chiang Mai’s Old City and the modern amenities results that your family does not have to get out of their comfort zone that much.
Pros
- Family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of dining options.
- Close to shopping malls and entertainment, including indoor activities for kids.
- Easy access to the Old City and other key attractions.
Cons
- Can be more expensive compared to other areas of Chiang Mai.
- Limited traditional Thai cultural experiences in the immediate area.
- The area does get crowded during weekends and holidays.
3. Riverside
If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back experience while still being close to the action, the Riverside area in Chiang Mai is an ideal choice for families.
The peaceful atmosphere along the Ping River offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a perfect spot for families who want to unwind and enjoy some serenity.
Accessibility is great here, with many accommodations offering spacious grounds, river views, and easy access to the city’s attractions.
A quick tuk-tuk or bike ride can take you to the Old City, Nimman, or the famous Night Bazaar, ensuring you’re never too far from the heart of Chiang Mai.
One of the best things about staying in Riverside is the variety of family-friendly resorts and hotels, many of which offer large pools, beautiful gardens, and plenty of space for kids to roam.
It’s also home to some excellent dining options, with riverside restaurants serving everything from Thai delicacies to international cuisine, so you can enjoy a relaxing meal with scenic views.
Families can also enjoy river cruises, nature walks, and cultural experiences, all of which provide fun, low-key activities perfect for all ages.
If you’re after a slower pace with a side of adventure, Riverside is a wonderful base.
Pros
- Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for families who need downtime.
- Spacious hotels and resorts with family-friendly amenities.
- Close to key attractions but away from the hustle of more tourist-heavy areas.
Cons
- Fewer entertainment options for kids compared to more central areas.
- Limited access to major sights, so you will rely on taxis.
- Can be more expensive due to its riverside views and resort-style accommodations.
4. Chang Khlan
Chang Khlan is an energetic neighborhood that strikes a perfect balance between convenience and fun for families visiting Chiang Mai.
Situated close to the famous Night Bazaar, this area offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Accessibility is excellent, with many attractions—like the Night Bazaar, Anusarn Market, and the Ping River—just a short walk away.
If you want to explore further, it’s easy to hop in a tuk-tuk or rent a bike to visit the Old City or Nimman.
The area is filled with family-friendly restaurants, offering everything from street food to international dishes, so there’s no shortage of delicious options for picky eaters.
The Night Bazaar itself is a great place for families to browse colorful stalls, shop for unique souvenirs, and try local treats.
For some interactive fun, families can enjoy a Muay Thai show or explore the vibrant night scene.
While it’s not as calm as some other areas, the bustle of Chang Khlan can be a big draw for families who want to experience the city’s energy while still being centrally located.
Pros
- Central location with easy access to popular markets and attractions.
- Wide variety of restaurants, street food, and family-friendly activities.
- Lively atmosphere with fun experiences like Muay Thai shows and markets.
Cons
- The Night Bazaar attracts loads of people, which makes it quite a chaotic part of Chiang Mai.
- It’s not the quietest area, which may be a downside for families seeking peace.
- Some parts of the area may feel a bit too commercialized compared to more relaxed neighborhoods.