Chiang Mai, the capital of Northern Thailand, is a rare jewel that brings together culture, arts, innovative cafes, wildlife and adventure. But with so much going on, you want to make sure that you choose comfortable accommodation where you can catch your breath between exploring.
So the question is, exactly where to stay in Chiang Mai? Fortunately – there is a vast amount of accommodation options ranging from basic to luxury to one of a kind. To help you plan your trip, my list of the 15 best Airbnbs in Chiang Mai should have something perfect for you. Let’s get started, shall we?
If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai, make sure to take a look at my 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary as well, which was specifically written for first time visitors!
*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
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Table of Contents
Best Airbnbs in Chiang Mai
1. Sweet Dreams Beneath the Mango Tree
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 3 nights
Named for the solo mango tree in the heart of the living quarters, this is a chic apartment right in the center of Chiang Mai’s Old Town. It’s immaculately decorated and has cozy touches like rugs, ambient lighting and scatter cushions that will make you feel right at home.
If you love books then you’ll love this place – it comes with what I would call a library! The apartment also comes with a deluxe free-standing tub where you can flick through your chosen tome. The apartment is attractively spread out which makes it ideal for couples seeking a long-term stay in Chiang Mai. It also has full kitchen facilities.
Guest review: “Super nice, warm, cozy, well designed place in central location. Take it right now while reading! Yada can recommend all the good places in town, thank you for the hospitality.”– Stephan, January 2021
2. Funky Suite near Nimman Road with Pool & Views
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
Nimmanhaemin ‘Nimman’ Road is one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai if you want to have plenty of delicious eateries, hip bars and cool coffee shops on your doorstep. And let’s face it, who doesn’t?
This light, airy apartment features a queen-size bed plus a sofa bed in the lounge which can accommodate a third guest. The space is decorated in a tasteful yet homely style which also lends itself to a long-stay in Chiang Mai. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly options on my list.
You can enjoy taking a dip in the communal pool. Additionally – if you book a stay of one week or more then you also receive free gym access. Located to the northwest of the Walled City, Nimman Road is a 10-minutes drive to the airport and the Old Town.
Guest review: “If there is 6 stars option I will give this place that! Highly recommend. You will be surprised how great it is. From open door to the view and how fast response and caring the host is. So great! Topping my trip to the best trip this time.”– Pissara, August 2020
3. Traditional Wooden House with Mountain Views
Price range: $$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 7 nights
Located in the southwest of the Old Town, this house is tucked away from the bustle of the nearby streets and promises a peaceful stay.
This unique property is one of the best Chiang Mai Airbnbs for traditional architecture. It’s technically two buildings; a two-storey main house plus an adjacent rice barn. This means that in addition to the bedroom, you get extra living space including a gorgeous verandah with a hammock.
From the barn you can gaze across at the mountains of Northern Thailand. With friendly hosts around to help you – this is a dreamy place to spend a week (or two) in Chiang Mai.
Guest review: “We loved your home! It was absolutely beautiful. The location was excellent, literally steps away from great restaurants, bars, and shops! Thank you again for letting us stay in your beautiful home!”– Johanna, March 2020
4. ‘Bann Nai Wieng’ – Family-friendly Villa
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 12 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
If you’re a large group wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai, then this huge house has you covered. With its four bedrooms, this spacious property is ideal for families and groups of friends. ‘Bann Nai Wieng’ literally means ‘house in the city’ – which is exactly what you have with this house. It’s close to everything you could possibly want to see – or eat!
There is a huge fenced-in garden with foliage and flowers where you are welcome to enjoy a barbecue dinner. This is also awesome for kids to run around in and make use of the provided games. If you fancy trying Tai Chi one morning during your stay, the host’s parents invite you to join them in the park.
Guest review: “Perfect stay! Excellent location, quiet with two entrances. Lots of space and even a play area for kids. Netflix in the living room was great as well. Plenty of bars and restaurants in the neighborhood, too! We loved it.”– Constantin, January 2021
5. Tiny House in Authentic Thai Neighborhood
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
The house is located in a quiet residential neighborhood just south of the Old Town where you can get a glimpse of local life. There is a market within walking distance where you can stock up on tasty Thai veggies and whip up your own dishes.
It is an open plan layout with a double and a single bed plus a comfy couch. It’s one of the best Airbnbs in Chiang Mai for couples, families, friends or solo travelers alike! The hosts run an embroidery and hand stitch workshop right across the road. It’s open weekly and it is free for guests of Airbnb – you just need to pay a small fee for the equipment.
Guest review: “Everything was easy and accommodating at Patchira’s place. So beautifully decorated and comfortable too. I had everything I needed and felt right at home!”– Richard “Bard”, December 2020
6. Modern & Practical Home Away From Home
Price range: $
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Located right by the moat on the northern side of the Old Town, this second-floor apartment is fabulously convenient with all it’s mod-cons.
The apartment is equipped with a full kitchen including an oven – which is rare in Thailand. That makes this one of the best Chiang Mai Airbnbs if you’d like to cook some of your own meals or stay long-term in town. Don’t want to cook? You’ll find some of Chiang Mai’s finest eateries right outside.
Guest review: “Thanks to Ananya and Brian for a great stay. The location is awesome, they respond quickly, and the place was very nice and clean. Everything either met or exceeded our expectations and it was a great week. I definitely recommend staying with them at Sunny Suites!”– Brodie, October 2020
7. Beautifully Bohemian Dala Ping River House
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 4 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
No, your eyes don’t deceive you – this breathtaking residence could indeed be your home in Chiang Mai! Your hosts are a family of artists and interior designers which explains how they’ve managed to create such a paradise.
With two bedrooms, this property is one of the best Airbnbs in Chiang Mai for traveling friends or families. In addition to that picturesque indoor swimming pool, you have access to the Ping River, where your personal kayak awaits. It’s a real retreat into pristine Thai nature.
The property is located a 15-minute drive away from Old Town and 25 minutes from the airport – the hosts run a free pick-up service.
Guest review: “The place was so nice and private !! You can cooking and chilling there. The location is great, the market could be reached by walking. The decoration is adorable and all rooms are very clean. The owner was so kind. If we have chances to visit Chiang Mai again, we will come back for sure !”– Varisa, November 2020
8. Luxury Apartment with Rooftop Pool
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 4 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
The main draw of this luxury rental is its stunning pool which provides panoramic views across the city and the surrounding mountains. You will also receive complimentary access to the gym, steam room and sauna. Plus – free Netflix! That makes this one of the best Chiang Mai Airbnbs for added value.
This one-bedroom apartment has the added bonus of a private balcony. It’s appropriate for couples or solo travelers. However, the host will supply extra mattresses for up to two additional guests.
Located in the Tambon Chang Khlan neighborhood, the apartment is a 5-minute walk to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and a 10-minute walk to Old Town.
Guest review: “The Astra Condo is in such a great area and easily walkable to the old city. The unit is very clean and has a great city view. Patcharin was a great host and responds very quickly to all of your questions and needs. We would definitely stay here again.”– Rebekah, January 2020
9. ‘Leafy Greens’ Earth House in Organic Garden
Price range: $$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
And now for something completely different – this entire house is made from clay! It’s your own little Hobbit-Hole right here in northern Thailand. Originally the complex was built for a meditation retreat so you should expect to feel the zen wash over you when you check in.
This is a cool Airbnb for couples, friends and solo travelers – but do note that the room contains a bunk bed. Alternatively, I recommend the host’s second Leafy Greens listing for families.
This property is located in a peaceful suburb north of the Old Town – one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for escaping the crowds. However, I definitely recommend you hire a scooter or car if you stay here.
Guest review: “Wonderful place! We loved the garden area and the charming mushrooms houses. Everything was clean and nice. The beds were VERY comfortable! Lovely place to stay!”– Solana, March 2020
10. Boutique Luxury Condo with Pool
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 3 nights
This stylish apartment is located on a quiet side street off Nimman Road – one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for digital nomads. You can enjoy the mountain views from your private balcony or take a dip in the gorgeous shared pool. Note the kooky cubbies around the pool – perfect for unwinding with a book or planning what you’re going to do in Chiang Mai!
The condo is furnished with all your contemporary conveniences and even includes a bathtub, which isn’t always common in Chiang Mai. You’ll also get access to the gym and the roof garden.
Guest review: “John is an exemplary host. His communication is prompt and he goes the extra mile. This apartment is the perfect pad for Chiang Mai – modern and stylish. It also has a great bathroom and a sunset-facing balcony. I’d stay here again without hesitation.”– John, November 2020
11. Litchi House
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 6 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
This vibrant yellow house is known as the Litchi House due to the impressive litchi (lycee) tree in the garden. The interiors feature high ceilings and lots of windows so that the natural light floods in.
With three bedrooms, this is one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai as a family or group of friends. The hosts have prioritized comfort above all else, with cushy couches and cozy beds. You’ll find this property in a strategic location close to both Nimman Road and the Old City, right next to the MAYA Shopping Mall.
Guest review: “Nice place to stay. Place is very clean, specious, functional and suitable for a group travellers. It’s a lovely place and great location. Owner is very reponsive and helpful. Would definitely recommend this place.”– Blythe, January 2021
12. Elegant Studio with a Retro Touch
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
This delicate condo is decorated with lush house plants and soft fabrics so you can wake up feeling fresh as a daisy. It is populated with a few retro pieces to make your stay even more memorable. Huge windows allow light to pour into the open plan studio and maximize the feeling of space.
This is another of the best Chiang Mai Airbnbs located in the popular neighborhood of Nimman Road. Less than two minutes away you’ll have some of the most exciting restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Guest review: “Jib’s place is very clean, comfortable and well-located with 711 downstairs and many restaurants nearby. Jib is very hospitable and responsive. The check-in is super easy and knowing I took the over-night train to get to Chiang Mai, Jib even managed to help me check in early so that I could settle. Highly recommended!” – Yifan, December 2020
13. Immaculate Suite with Rooftop Pool
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
Chiang Mai may be famous for its coffee shops but if you stay in this apartment, you can even make your own bistro-style espresso with the provided machine! You can sip your morning coffee with a view through the floor-to-ceiling windows and take in a sensational view across the city.
This pristine suite has all the luxury amenities you might expect from a hotel room – and more. You have both a walk-in shower and a soaking tub, air-conditioning, plus a basic kitchen. You are welcome to soak up the views from the communal rooftop pool or even hit the gym during your stay.
Located in the Tambon Chang Khlan district, this is your second option that’s a stone’s throw from the Night Bazaar. Plus – it’s only a 10-minute walk to the Old Town.
Guest review: “This little condo unit was fantastic! Very clean, well decorated, and super comfortable. It felt like we were in a 5-stars hotel with super comfortable bed sheets, nice towels, bathrobes, free coffee and tea, some snacks and juices. Unbeatable deal at this price!”– Julien, December 2020
14. Lanna-style Guest House in the Trees
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 4 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Nestled amongst a garden of trees, this traditional Lanna-style house is a hidden treasure in Chiang Mai. The wooden house is kitted out with woven furniture and authentic Thai art. The living quarters include a verandah and a large patio space complete with your own wood-burner. You might receive the occasional visitor in the form of a curious gecko or friendly dog – this is a truly rustic experience.
This property is slightly further afield – allow a 15/20-minute drive to reach the Old City and Nimman Road. Located in the Baan Tawai handicraft village, this is one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai if you want to go off-grid.
Guest review: “Bob was so kind to pick us up from our other stay and take us to the airport. He is very knowledgable about the surrounding area, and can help you find the best foods, places to visit, and things just a walking distance away. Make sure to check out the night market! It was super fun! The home is very nice and spacious.”– Alexi, January 2020
15. Blue Bungalow for with Outdoor Tub
Price range: $$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
About as central in Chiang Mai as you can possibly be, this compact bungalow is a steal! The tiny house comes complete with all the essentials including speedy Wi-Fi, air conditioning and fresh coffee for the mornings. Your private backyard contains an outdoor tub.
This idyllic bungalow is one of the best Airbnbs in Chiang Mai for couples or solo travelers who want to be as close to the attractions of the Old Town.
Guest review: “I loved staying here. You have a private house with little courtyard. The owners seemed to have thought of everything and communication is great. The location is quiet and central. My only regret is that I didn’t stay longer! It’s awesome–book it!”– Cindy, July 2020
Planning a trip to Thailand?
Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Thailand. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!
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