Looking for the best hostels in Chiang Mai? Well, I have compared the price, facilities, amenities, and location.
So come find out the top backpackers for all types of travelers in this ultimate guide and have the perfect stay!
If I could live long-term in any city, it would be Chiang Mai in Thailand. I think I leave a piece of my heart behind each time I visit.
It’s an interesting mix of a chill town and a lively city. The food is cheap, the people are friendly and there seem to be endless things to do.
Throughout the years I have visited Chiang Mai multiple times and stayed in numerous hostels.
From the cheapest online (regrets) to some of the more luxurious options, I like to think of myself as a bit of an expert when it comes to the best hostels in Chiang Mai.
When traveling it is important to find a good place to rest your head. I mean no one wants a hostel where the toilets are always blocked or that is notorious for hosting bed bugs!
Whether you want to spend all night partying or find a quiet spot I will explain where exactly you should stay in Chiang Mai.
The largest city in Northern Thailand is a must on your Thailand itinerary. As you can imagine Chiang Mai is actually a rather vast area, though the majority of tourists stay in the Old Town.
As a result, the majority of hostels in this guide will be in the Old Town. This keeps you close to the Sunday Night Market, the best food, and some great things to do. It is easy to full 3 days in Chiang Mai with plenty of activities.
However, when it comes to hostels in Chiang Mai it can be a bit more of a difficult decision, as I will explain below.
That is why I created this guide on the best hostels in Chiang Mai!
With the help of this list, you’ll be able to see what to look for when booking a hostel in Chiang Mai! Make sure you can book a bed confidently, in a decent location, and for a good price.
List Of The 23 Best Hostels In Chiang Mai
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
How To Choose The Best Hostels In Chiang Mai
There is absolutely a huge array of bests to choose from in Chiang Mai. Sometimes when faced with so many options it can be hard to decide which one would be best for you.
Generally, I travel in more of a glampacker style and I am spoilt for choices in Chiang Mai. I mean you can’t go wrong with sturdy wooden bunk beds that have pullover curtains.
Though in saying that I have also stayed in the cheapest hostel available during one time I visited this city. That was certainly a stay I wouldn’t recommend unless you’re a fan of a mattress with broken springs and no air conditioning.
Nonetheless, there are still cheaper options available that have a great social atmosphere, comfortable beds, and clean bathrooms. So you don’t need to worry too much, nor do you have to look far.
So when choosing the best hostels in Chiang Mai, some things I took into account are:
Price
Prices for hostels in Chiang Mai can be super cheap! However, if you’re looking for something a bit more glampacker stay you will be paying for it.
A bed in a hostel dorm room can cost anywhere from $3.00 for the most basic, to $20.00 for a podstyle with all the bells and whistles.
You may think you can sleep anywhere for $3.00 as long as you have a mattress. Trust me, I have been there and found out the hard way that isn’t always true.
For a private room, you can pay anywhere from $8.00 to hundreds depending on the level of comfort you desire.
Location
If you are traveling in Chiang Mai for a short period you will want to stay in the Old Town. This is a square-shaped area surrounded by brick walls and a moat.
When you stay here you will be amongst all the action and never far from a delicious meal and a cheap beer. There are plenty of night markets both within the old city and on the outskirts near the gates.
If you are a digital nomad or simply are staying in Chiang Mai for a longer period as you enjoy the slower pace you will want to stay in the Nimman area. Here is where you will find the majority of long-term travelers living in Chiang Mai.
There are some amazing coworking spaces here as well as plenty more hostels to choose from.
Amenities
There is such a wide variety of hostels in Chiang Mai, that it’ll be pretty hard to find one that doesn’t fit all your needs.
Booking a hostel with free breakfast and water will help save a little bit extra each day. Some hostels even include free coffee and tea!
Quite a few of the hostels on this list organize events and have an excellent social scene. Perfect if you want to meet other travelers! One thing to be aware of is often cheaper hostels’ dorm rooms won’t have air conditioning.
Rather they will have a fan, I have stayed in both a fan does a decent job of cooling you down. This is especially so if each bed has its own fan, it’ll be too hot to share.
The last thing I think is important to note is quite a few hostels around Chiang Mai turn off the air conditioning during the day. I guess this forces you to go out and explore, though I will leave it up to you whether you book one of these hostels.
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
Overall Best Hostel In Chiang Mai – The Common Hostel
The clean and comfortable Common Hostel is the best hostel to stay in Chiang Mai.
Located in the Old Town you will be amongst all the action. They have some awesome dorm rooms here that are pod-style with pullover curtains.
That means you will only pay dorm prices for a bit of privacy. The shared bathrooms here also have hairdryers and free toiletries, not something you find often in a hostel.
There are laundry facilities for you to use and they also have an excellent common area. There you will find a mixture of tables and chairs as well as bean bags to relax on. You can even meet some new friends over a round of table tennis!
- $$$
- 24-hour front desk
- Free breakfast
- Free coffee and water
- 550 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Honorable Mention Best Hostel In Chiang Mai – Hostel One & Art Gallery
If you are looking for a cozy, comfortable, and creative place to stay in Chiang Mai, you might want to check out Hostel One & Art Gallery.
This hostel is not only a place to sleep but also a place to enjoy local art.
Hostel One & Art Gallery offers a variety of rooms to suit your needs and budget, from dorms to private rooms with balconies.
The hostel also has a garden, a shared lounge, and a shared kitchen for guests to relax and socialize. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, and free private parking is available on-site.
The hostel is decorated with local paintings and plants, creating a cozy and artistic atmosphere. They also host art exhibitions and workshops, where you can learn about the local art scene and meet talented artists.
- $
- Family Atmosphere
- Communal Kitchen
- 1000 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Best Hostel in Chiang Mai for Solo Travelers – Big & O’s House 2
Our best hostel in Chiang Mai for solo travelers looking to make friends and discover Chiang Mai alongside others is Big&O’s House 2.
This hostel is more than just a place to sleep, get to know other travelers, learn about Thai culture, and have fun!
Big&O’s House 2 is located in the heart of Chiang Mai, close to many attractions, restaurants, and markets. You can easily walk to the lively Thapae Gate, the beautiful temples, or the famous Saturday walking market.
The hostel itself is a Lanna-style house that has been renovated with modern facilities and amenities. The dorms are spacious and comfortable, with fans, individual sockets, and lockers.
The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained. The hostel also has a relaxing outdoor seating area, where you can chill out with other travelers, and enjoy a BBQ party.
- $
- Daily Activities
- Friendly Staff
- 1200 meters from Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Hostel Lullaby
Welcome to Hostel Lullaby, one of the best hostels in Chiang Mai for solo travelers.
With plenty of events on it provides the perfect opportunities to mingle with new people. Partaking in yoga and complimentary cooking classes to meet like-minded travelers.
Be aware though this isn’t a party hostel. So if that’s your scene this is not the stay for you.
They put on a free delicious buffet breakfast for hungry travelers. The team there is also super friendly and will be more than willing to answer any questions.
They also have some excellent recommendations on what to do and can book you on various tours.
Some of the dorm rooms can be on the smaller side. However, you will have a privacy curtain, power socket, and personal reading light.
- $$$
- Breakfast Included
- Garden To Relax In
- 600 meters from Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai
For a fun, social, and affordable place to stay in Chiang Mai, you might want to check out Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai.
This hostel is located on a quiet street just a minute’s walk from the popular Saturday market and a short walk from Tha Pae gate.
Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai offers a variety of dorm rooms, with air conditioning, reading lights, and lockers. You can choose from mixed or female-only dorms, with four or six beds.
The hostel also has a garden, a shared lounge, a bar, and free WiFi throughout the property. You can play pool, throw some darts, drink some beers and cocktails, or just chill out with fresh coffee and a book on the outside patio.
- $
- Daily Activities
- Onsite Bar
- 1100 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Best Cheap Hostel in Chiang Mai– Thai Thai Hostel
Cheap and in a nearby location to all the action are not things that always go hand in hand. Unfortunately, this is also the case with Thai Thai Hostel.
Though certainly don’t let that put you off! Ubers around here make it super cheap to get around, it also isn’t really that far from the Old Town being just 1 kilometer to the nearest gate to cross over the moat.
In the dorm rooms, you will find lockers, privacy curtains on the bed as well as a personal reading light and socket. They also offer dry cleaning facilities as well as a tour desk where the team will be more than happy to help you out.
There is also a coworking space. Perfect if you are a digital nomad or perhaps just want to update your social media online and need some fast WiFi.
- $
- Free Coffe, Water & Fruit
- TV With Netflix
- Privacy Curtain
- 2000 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
The Cabin Backpackers Hostel & Bar
The Cabin Backpackers Hostel is a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy the best of Chiang Mai on a budget. It is in a great location, near the Thapae Gate, making the highlights of the city extremely accessible.
The staff here are helpful, always willing to assist. The dorm beds are cozy and spacious, with fans, lights, and power sockets.
The bathrooms here are modern and have hot water and hairdryers. Overall, the hostel has a rustic and charming design, with wooden furniture and decor. The walls are covered with artworks and murals by local artists.
The common area/bar is a lively and a social place to relax and meet other travelers. They have games, movies, drinks, and live music every night. The hostel also offers events and activities for the guests, such as pub crawls, cooking classes, yoga sessions, and bike tours.
The breakfast is simple but delicious, with toast, jam, butter, coffee, and tea.
- $
- Onsite Bar
- Affordable & Social
- 1200 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
The August Hostel Chiang Mai
The August Hostel in Chiang Mai is one of the best places to stay if you are looking for stylish, comfortable, and convenient accommodation in the heart of the old town.
The hostel is fully air-conditioned and equipped with free WiFi throughout the property.They offer a variety of room types, from dorms to private rooms with balconies.
The rooms are clean, and spacious, and have modern amenities. The shared bathrooms are also clean and have slippers and free toiletries.
The staff at the hostel are friendly and helpful. They speak decent English and can assist you with information and travel arrangements to other destinations in Thailand. August hostel has a cozy and trendy vibe.
The common areas are decorated with colorful paintings and plants. There is a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals or socialize with other travelers.
- $
- Communal Kitchen
- Privacy Curtains In Dorms
- 700 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Best Hostel for Females in Chiang Mai – Muan Hostel
The beautifully designed Muan Hostel is the perfect stay for backpackers in Chiang Mai. It is literally across the river from the Old Town providing you with the perfect location to be amongst the action.
Though if you don’t feel like going out you don’t have to. Onsite is a local Thai restaurant and a hammock cafe. What more could you want?
Sometimes as a female traveler, you would rather eat in than venture out in the dark (even though Chiang Mai is a rather safe city).
They have pod-style dormitories providing you with some privacy. There are also light and power sockets inside each one.
In the bathrooms, you will find free shampoo, soap, and hairdryers to use. They also have a comfortable social area with board games and books where you can meet other travelers.
- $$
- Free Water
- Female Only Dorms
- Restaurant & Cafe Onsite
- 700 meters from the Sunday Night Market
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
About A Bed Hostel Chiang Mai
Located where I usually stay, About A Bed Hostel is the perfect hostel in Chiang Mai for female travelers. You will never be far from a good restaurant, or a delicious cafe.
They provide clean, modern, and spacious hostel dorm rooms. Inside are pod-style beds with each having its own privacy curtain, light, power socket, and small shelf.
They provide electronic key access into the rooms, and into the entire building overnight so you can feel safe and secure.
Just be aware this isn’t a party hostel and is usually a place travelers come to have a relaxing and more peaceful stay.
- $$$
- Free Breakfast
- 1200 meters from the Sunday Night Market
Green Sleep Hostel
Green Sleep Hostel is another great choice for female travelers in Chiang Mai. They have a cozy and stylish common area where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy free coffee, tea, and snacks.
You can also play ping pong, board games, or watch Netflix on the big screen. The hostel alsohasfree WiFi so you can stay connected with your friends and family.
Green Sleep has female-only dorm rooms with bunk beds, lockers, curtains, reading lights, and power sockets. The rooms are spacious, clean, and air-conditioned.
The shared bathrooms are also well-maintained and equipped with showers and hairdryers. You can enjoy some privacy and security while sharing the room with other female travelers.
Green Sleep also offers free bicycles for you to explore the city. If you need any help with booking tours or transportation, the staff at the hostel are very friendly and helpful.
They are a sustainable and eco-friendly hostel that aims to reduce its environmental impact. Think solar panels to generate electricity, recycle water for gardening, and composting organic waste. The hostel also supports local communities by buying products from local farmers and artisans.
- $$
- Free Water
- Free Bicycles
- 200 meters from the Sunday Night Market
CHECK BEST PRICES
Best Cheap Private Room in Chiang Mai – Baan Ploy In
If you want a place in Chiang Mai, but perhaps maybe a hostel isn’t your thing then Baan Ploy In has some cheap private rooms. They have modern and clean rooms which are very spacious.
They are also in an awesome location right in the heart of the Old Town. Nearby are some great street food spots as well as some yummy lowkey eateries featured on my cheap eats in Chiang Mai list.
- $
- Basic Breakfast Included
- Clean And Modern Design
- 850 meters from the Sunday Night Market
De Lanna Hotel
If you want a private room that is a little more luxurious, but now paying hundreds, De Lanna Hotel is the one for you. They have an amazing pool on site which is the perfect way to cool down after a day in the hot Thailand sun. There is quite a beautiful garden which has been well maintained by the staff.
The rooms themselves have quite a relaxed vibe with small ponds around. They are designed in the authentic Lanna style which is often seen in Thailand. There is also a restaurant on-site if you are feeling peckish and don’t feel like venturing out onto the streets.
- $$$
- Pool
- Buffet Breakfast Included
- 300 Meters from the Sunday Night Market
I do a little room tour in this YouTube video at the begining:
More Best Hostels In Chiang Mai
Sherloft Home & Hostel
Sherloft Home & Hostel offers both dormitory and private rooms, with air-conditioning, key card access, and personal lockers. The beds are very comfy and each one has its own locker and reading light.
The shared bathrooms are clean and modern, with hot rainhead showers. You can also relax in the common areas, such as the living room, the kitchen, or the garden.
Sherloft Home & Hostel is more than just a place to sleep. It is also a place to meet fellow travelers, make new friends, and have fun. The staff are friendly and helpful and can assist you with anything you need, such as booking tours, renting bikes, or arranging transportation.
They also organize activities and events for guests, such as cooking classes, yoga sessions, or movie nights.
- $$$
- Large Common Areas
- Breakfast Included
- 500 Meters from the Sunday Night Market
The Entaneer Poshtel
The Entaneer Poshtel offers a variety of rooms and amenities for travelers who want to explore the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Whether you are looking for a private room, a dormitory bed, or a female-only dorm, you will find a comfortable and affordable option at The Entaneer Poshtel.
The Entaneer Poshtel is located in a convenient location, just 400 meters from the old town of Chiang Mai and 300 meters from the Saturday Walking Street.
The hostel has a spacious and stylish common area where you can relax, socialize, and meet other travelers. There is also a bar where you can enjoy a drink or two and join the fun events that the hostel organizes.
One of the best features of The Entaneer Poshtel is the breakfast that they serve every morning. The breakfast is delicious and filling, and it will give you the energy you need to start your day. The hostel also has a shared kitchen that is equipped with a microwave, a refrigerator, and an oven.
- $$$
- No Bunk Beds In Dorms
- Onsite Cooking Classes
- 1100 meters from the Sunday Night Market
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
1948 Hostel
1948 Hostel is located in the heart of the old town, near the Tha Phae Gate, which is the main entrance to the historic city center.
The owner of the hostel, Nic, is one of the nicest and most helpful people in Chiang Mai. He is known for his warm smile and gives guests a lot of useful tips about the city.
The 1948 hostel has 20 individual bunk beds built into the walls for complete privacy. Each bed has a blackout curtain, a pillow, a blanket, a towel, a charging station, and a reading light.
There is also a storage space behind the bed for bags and extra lockers in the hallway.
The hostel has shared bathrooms that are clean and well-maintained. There is also a large and inviting common area where guests can relax, socialize, or work on their laptops.
Hang on the sofas, tables, and chairs, and check out the books, board games, PlayStation, Wii, and a flat-screen TV. There is also a fridge, a microwave, a kettle, and utensils that guests can use.
The common area is decorated with colorful paintings and posters that give it a lively vibe.
- $
- Female Only Dorms
- Pod Style Beds
- 850 meters from the Sunday Night Market
Pakping Hostel
Pakping Hostel is located in the Si Phum area, within walking distance of many attractions, such as the Chiang Mai Gate, the Chedi Luang Temple, and Wat Phra Singh.
They offer a variety of rooms to suit your needs and budget. You can choose from a double room with a private bathroom, a bed in a 10-bed mixed dorm room, or a bed in a 6-bed female dorm room.
The hostel also provides free breakfast, daily housekeeping, bicycle and motorbike rental, and a shared kitchen and lounge area. The staff are friendly and helpful and can help you organize tours and activities around the city.
The hostel is clean and cozy, and the beds are very comfortable. They even have a terrace, where you can relax and chat with other travelers. The hostel also has a fun and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for making some new friends.
- $$
- Free Breakfast
- Pod Style Dorms
- 750 meters from the Sunday Night Market
Bodega Social Hostel Chiang Mai
If you love a good party scene but also appreciate a good night’s sleep this is the place for you. Even though there is a pool onsight the majority of the parting is done at their sister property Bodega Chiang Mai Party Hostel which is a short walk away.
They also organize a pub crawl to take you to some of the best bars in the city.
They offer a mixture of private and dorm rooms. That way if you want the privacy of a private room you can still join in with the hostel events. The beds here are super comfortable, providing the perfect place to recover after a big night out!
- $$
- Motorbike Rental
- Onsite Bar
- 1600 meters from the Sunday Night Market
Eco Resort Chiang Mai
If you’re looking for something a bit more resort-like check out Eco Resort Chiang Mai. Located a bit further away from the city you can relax in peace next to the pool or in one of the gardens. They have an assortment of dorm rooms on site. If you have a scooter this could be your perfect place to stay in Chiang Mai.
- $$
- Huge Pool
- Clean & Modern Rooms
- 3300 meters from the Night Market
Suneta Hostel Chiang Mai
Suneta Hostel Chiang Mai is another great hostel located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, a shared kitchen and lounge, and a continental breakfast.
The hostel has different types of rooms to suit different needs and budgets, such as double or twin rooms with private bathrooms, family rooms with bunk beds, single rooms and twin rooms with shared bathrooms, and beds in mixed dorms.
The staff are friendly and helpful and can speak English and Thai. The hostel has a darts board for guests to enjoy and also provides bed linen and towels.
Suneta Hostel Chiang Mai is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the culture and charm of Chiang Mai while staying in clean and affordable accommodations.
- $$
- Clean & Modern Rooms
- 800 meters from the Night Market
Stay With Hug Poshtel
Our last, but definitely not least choice for the best hostels in Chiang Mai is Stay With Hug Poshtel. They have nice and clean dorm rooms. The beds are pod-style and come with a privacy curtain, personal reading light, and power socket.
One of the best things about this hostel is the location. It is smack bang the middle of the Old Town. This will give you easy access to plenty of tour operators, things to do, and delicious restaurants.
- $$
- Clean & Modern Rooms
- 200 meters from the Night Market
FAQs About Staying In Chiang Mai
Which area should I stay in Chiang Mai?
The Old City is one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai! It’s merely 2.5 kilometers long, but this ancient area dates back well over 500 years. It’s completely walkable, and as a touristic destination, fairly safe. Everything that you could want; restaurants, bars and ample opportunities for shopping are right at your fingertips.
How many days in Chiang Mai is enough?
If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai, the number of days you should spend there depends on your interests and the activities you want to do. If you’re looking to explore the city and its surroundings, 3 days will be perfect.
Is Chiang Mai Old Town worth visiting?
Chiang Mai Old Town is worth visiting and is one of the best areas for travelers visiting the City. It is known for its charming lanes, ancient temples, cafes, and restaurants. If you are interested in exploring the local culture and history, as well as trying some delicious foodie options this is a great choice.
Where do expats stay in Chiang Mai?
Nimmanhaemin is a popular area in Chiang Mai among expats who prefer the “big city” life. It is a hipster district full of chic coffee shops, malls, bars, and retail stalls. The area spans over 1 kilometer of quiet backstreets, apartment buildings, and hidden treasures. Nimmanhaemin Road is often referred to as Chiang Mai’s ‘coffee street’ and is refreshingly free of chain coffee shops.
Is Chiang Mai more expensive than Bangkok?
Generally the further North you travel in Thailand the cheaper it gets, and this is the same when comparing if Chiang Mai is more expensive than Bangkok. Even though thecost of living in Chiang Mai versus Bangkok depends heavily on an individual’s lifestyle, it is safe to say Chiang Mai is cheaper.
So Where To Stay in Chiang Mai?
If you are traveling to Thailand heading north to Chiang Mai is a must. It’s a more laidback way of life than Bangkok and it just has a completely different vibe there than elsewhere in the country.
It’s vegetarian and vegan heaven where I would happily move to. There is a little bit of everything here, whether you are looking to party or relax.
So with the help of this list of the best hostels in Chiang Mai, you will know exactly where to stay.
Do you own or work for a hostel and want to be featured? Let us know over at:
info [at] backpackerswanderlust.com
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia
LIKE IT? PIN IT!
Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….
- SLEEPER TRAIN FROM BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI
- BANGKOK TO KOH TAO
- THAILAND TO LAOS BORDER CROSSING
- BEST ELEPHANT SANCTUARIES IN CHIANG MAI
- A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
- BEST HOSTELS ON KHAO SAN ROAD
- DAY TRIP TO AYUTTHAYA FROM BANGKOK
- TRANSPORT GUIDE: KHAO SAN ROAD TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT
- AWESOME BEACHES IN KOH PHANGAN
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.
Related Posts
Koh Phangan To Koh Tao: The Cheapest & Fastest Way To Travel
Find out how exactly to travel from Koh Phangan To Koh Tao. These two islands [...]
1 Comment
Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road Review: Our Luxurious Stay
Check out this Hotel Indigo Bangkok review to ensure you have the perfect stay while [...]
Best 23 Hostels In Chiang Mai For The Ultimate Stay
Looking for the best hostels in Chiang Mai? Well, I have compared the price, facilities, [...]
1 Comment
