Top neighborhoods to explore in Chiang Mai

Known as Thailand’s “Capital in the North,” the mountainside city of Chiang Mai is a charming destination with plenty to offer across its diverse neighborhoods.

The vibrant green landscapes and historic architecture enchant visitors, alongside a myriad of activities—whether it’s a forested waterfall, an ancient temple, or a lively jazz club, adventure is always nearby.

This low-rise city features a lively center, and the best neighborhoods are just a short distance from each other. Getting around is a breeze with songthaew minivans or ride-hailing apps, making it convenient to stay in one area as nothing is too far away.

Here are the top neighborhoods to discover in Chiang Mai.

Old City

Top neighborhood for history enthusiasts

At the heart of Chiang Mai lies its ancient core. Encircled by a broad, impressive moat, the walled Old City is alive with energy and activity. Iconic Buddhist temples such as the red-brick Wat Chedi Luang, the beautifully teak-constructed Wat Phan Tao, and the stunning gold-leafed Wat Phra Singh line the main roads. Significant museums like the Lanna Folklife Museum and the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center also keep history enthusiasts engaged.

Measuring just 1.5km (1 mile) across, the Old City is perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides, allowing you to pause whenever something piques your interest. It's not only for culture enthusiasts; this neighborhood is filled with charming cafes and some of the city's most vibrant nightlife venues, ranging from the sophisticated North Gate Jazz Co-op to the lively Zoe in Yellow. If you enjoy being in the heart of the action, it’s an ideal base for your first visit.

The Old City's temples rank among the best free activities in Chiang Mai

Nimman

Top neighborhood for dining

A relatively new area located to the west of the Old City, Nimman (short for Nimmanhaemin) is brimming with boutique hotels and modern condominiums. As more residents moved in, the dining and drinking scene flourished, turning it into a vibrant evening hotspot filled with bars and restaurants.

This neighborhood offers a diverse array of cuisines expertly prepared. Savor Northern Thai noodle dishes at Kao Soy Nimman and Ginger Farm Kitchen, or explore international options ranging from Chinese and Indian to Italian and Korean—plus plenty of burger joints. Nimman also features renowned coffee roasters like Roast8ry Lab and Ristr8to Original, along with the fantastic vegan community hub Free Bird Cafe.

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Santitham

Top neighborhood for local nightlife

Just north of Nimman lies Santitham, a lively local area with fewer tourists. During the day, you'll find bustling cafes, schools, gyms, and camera repair shops, but the real excitement comes from its bars and clubs, which keep the vibe going into the early hours.

For sports fans and beer lovers, Yawk Bar is the go-to place, while Santitham Plaza features several large open-air venues buzzing with energy on weekends, with Chang Hi Bar being a standout. EDM enthusiasts will enjoy BLU CNX. Alternatively, explore the streets and find a seat at one of the many small roadside bars, many of which are off the grid and not listed on Google Maps.

Jed Yot

Ideal neighborhood for tranquility

As you drive into Jed Yot from the main road, it feels like stepping away from the hustle of the city. The winding route takes you through lush fields and serene back streets, all framed by the stunning Suthep mountain range. This calm neighborhood is a 10- to 15-minute drive from the Old City, offering more affordable and quieter accommodations away from the nightlife of Nimman.

However, Jed Yot is far from boring; it hosts one of the city's oldest temples, Wat Chet Yot, known for its distinctive Indian-inspired architectural style. Additionally, you'll find several fascinating museums here, including the Chiang Mai National Museum, Sbunnga Textile Museum, and the Highland People Discovery Museum, which provides an insightful look into the lives of the diverse hill tribes in northern Thailand.

Chinatown and Night Bazaar

Top neighborhood for street food

West of the Ping River lies Chiang Mai’s bustling Chinatown, a thriving 19th-century trading hub. The highlight here is Warorot Market (also called Kad Luang), a massive indoor marketplace that spans two blocks. It's packed with shops selling clothing, home goods, and, most importantly, an abundance of food stalls offering both Thai and Chinese cuisine. This lively area is perfect for those who enjoy a strong community atmosphere and delicious, affordable eats, just 1km (0.6 miles) from Pratu Tha Phae, the eastern entrance gate of the Old City.

Located right beneath Chinatown is the Night Bazaar area. This vibrant bazaar serves as a souvenir market, surrounded by excellent restaurants. It's also home to two of the most LGBTQI+ friendly venues, Ram Bar and 6ixcret, where talented drag performers entertain with pop hits late into the night.

Wat Ket

Top neighborhood for riverside relaxation

Nestled along the eastern side of the Ping River, the Wat Ket neighborhood is adorned with charming old wooden houses and warehouses reminiscent of the past—one could almost imagine being in the 1950s. The riverbank features laid-back bars, restaurants, and cafes like Good View and The Riverside, perfect for leisurely days. Return in the evening to experience the lively nightlife, especially on weekends when locals and visitors flock to enjoy live music and dance.

Wat Ket is an excellent area to stay, rich in character and typically more affordable as it’s slightly removed from the Old City.

Continue planning your Chiang Mai adventure:

Get around like a local with these navigational tips. Looking for more amazing experiences? Check out our top recommendations in Chiang Mai. Discover exciting day trips beyond Chiang Mai.