Chiang Mai Guides
Chiang Mai is compact and easy to find your feet in. Here's how the city fits together — starting with the Old City, where you'll be staying with us.
The historic heart of Chiang Mai, ringed by a square moat and crumbling ancient walls. Inside you'll find the city's oldest temples, the Sunday Walking Street, quiet lanes of cafés and guesthouses, and a genuinely walkable pace. Both Aspaya homes sit right here — so the markets, temples and our favourite breakfast spots are all a few minutes on foot.
Chiang Mai’s design-and-coffee district, next to the university. Think specialty cafés, boutiques, cocktail bars, the MAYA mall and the One Nimman plaza. It’s where the city feels most modern — great for an afternoon of browsing or a night out.
The leafy banks of the Ping River, dotted with galleries, riverside restaurants and the characterful Wat Ket lanes. Warorot Market and Chinatown are right here too. Lovely for a slow lunch or a sunset drink by the water.
An unpretentious, mostly-local neighbourhood just northwest of the moat — affordable street food, neighbourhood massage shops and a more lived-in feel. Good for a glimpse of everyday Chiang Mai away from the tourist track.
The hotel-and-market strip east of the Old City, home to the nightly Night Bazaar and plenty of dining. Convenient and lively, if a little touristy — handy to know for an evening wander.
Getting between them: Nowhere on this list is more than about 15 minutes apart by songthaew (the red shared trucks) or Grab. See our getting around guide for how to hop around like a local.
Your home base in Chiang Mai
Two warm, beautifully designed homes a short stroll from the Old City — with free airport pickup and hosts who treat you like family.
