Set in the very northernmost part of Thailand, Chiang Rai is a city that runs deep with art, culture, and history. Temples and historic monuments abound in this place, with several that are world renowned – such as the White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun. With all this and more to expect in this city, bordered by winding rivers and very close to the boundaries of neighboring countries Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Rai is a fascinating, relaxing place to visit.
Nothing is ever too far away in this city, and you can rent a motorbike to get around easily. That means being able to grab a bite to eat at the night market, exploring the countryside – or you could simply walk and find yourself a local restaurant to eat at. Staying in Chiang Rai is easy too; from budget-friendly to mid-range, from cute and contemporary to luxe and traditional, there’s something for everyone.
8. Maryo Resort
The rooms at Maryo Resort are bright, with pops of color like yellow doors, modern art adorning the walls, and whitewashed walls and bed linen. Some even come with balconies. There are also beautiful tropical gardens here, plus a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. The perks at Maryo Resort are worth a mention, too.
Not only is there complimentary parking and breakfast for guests, but there’s also a free shuttle service. Within walking distance, you’ll find the Oub Kham Museum to learn about the history of the area, though it’s a little far from buzzing attractions like the Chiang Rai Night Market – which is why that shuttle service is handy!
7. Grandma Kaew House
With a location that puts you practically in the center of all the action of Chiang Rai, including its fantastic night markets, Grandma Kaew House is an excellent option if you’re looking to be amid all the excitement this city has to offer.
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants on the doorstep to choose from, plus it’s just 700 meters from Chiang Rai’s Clock Tower. The rooms here are simple but clean and cozy and come with the all-important air-conditioning.
For peace of mind, there are safety deposit boxes, as well as a tour desk to help you explore the surrounding area.
6. Wiang Inn Hotel
Within short walking distance of a number of amenities and attractions – including the city’s Clock Tower and convenience stores – the exciting Chiang Rai Night Market is practically just a stone’s throw away.
But Wiang Inn Hotel is still set on a laid-back street, making for a chilled stay in the city. The rooms here are stylish and warmly decorated, and boast flat-screen TVs. For more space, upgrade, and you get a living room.
Amenities at the hotel range include a restaurant serving up Chinese and European food and an outdoor pool – complete with sun deck. There’s even a piano lounge and karaoke club.
5. Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai
With its outdoor pool, gym, relaxing lobby lounge, and Thai fusion restaurant, La Patta Hotel Chiang Rai already has a lot to offer before you consider the breakfast buffet, bicycle rental, and airport shuttle services.
The rooms here are chic and simple, with wooden floors and contemporary furnishings that make it feel like a cool place to stay. In terms of location, this hotel is just over a ten-minute walk to the beautiful Wat Phra Sing temple, as well as a host of shopping opportunities, dining options, and cafes. It’s also just a short stroll to the iconic Clock Tower and the Night Market.
4. Homestay Chiang Rai
It may be called a homestay, but this 4-star offering boasts simply furnished but traditional and classic rooms set in villas spread amongst lush tropical gardens. And all of this with a backdrop of mountains near the banks of the Kok River.
It may not exactly be the center of Chiang Rai, but this is still reachable in a ten-minute drive; the airport is just 15 minutes away, too. The hotel itself features a small outdoor pool for refreshing dips, a restaurant featuring a menu of imported wine, and massage services. To see the surrounding area, the hotel also offers bike tours.
3. Na-Rak-O Resort
The Na-Rak-O Resort is a great, social option in Chiang Ria. There’s a complimentary breakfast, air-conditioned rooms boasting flat-screen TVs and spacious bathrooms, a shared kitchen, and a general communal atmosphere.
The location is also great; it’s very near the central plaza of Chiang Rai, with the Clock Tower a stone’s throw away, Wat Jed Yod and 14th century Wat Phra Kaew within walking distance, and the Old Bus Station just 200 meters from the hotel.
As for other amenities at this friendly hotel, it also offers a dry cleaning service and a free parking service for motorbikes.
2. Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
For a spot of sizeable luxury in Chiang Rai, you might want to opt for this hotel. Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort boasts simple but elegant rooms, with a neutral monochrome color palette and sleek furnishings for a decidedly stylish stay.
Elements of swooping traditional Thai details in wood run throughout the property, which also features an infinity pool with river vistas, a buffet restaurant, pool bar, and – of course – massage services.
In terms of location, this hotel is set along the banks of the Kok River, and within four hectares of beautiful gardens. It’s two kilometers away from the stunning Blue Temple, amongst other sights.
1. Nak Nakara Hotel
Located just over a ten-minute drive from the jewel in Chiang Mai’s crown – the utterly breathtaking white temple of Wat Rong Khun – Nak Nakara Hotel is a beautiful and chilled place to base yourself.
The rooms here are a mix of modern, whitewashed aesthetic and traditional northern Thai (Lanna) style, with design details and wooden furniture, as well as spacious, stylish bathrooms. This boutique-style hotel also features a swimming pool, massage services, and a breakfast buffet.
For foodies, there’s always the option of exploring the surrounding area of Nak Nakara Hotel, where you’ll find delicious local eateries within a five-minute walk.
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