Thailand boasts some of the best hotels in Asia, offering friendly service, traditional cuisine, and an authentic taste of local culture.

This guide highlights the most recommended stays in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, catering to hotel aficionados looking for an unforgettable experience.

1. Aleenta Retreat, Chiang Mai

Nestled in the lush Umong district, this boutique resort opened in April 2023 and exudes a tranquil small-town vibe. Its centerpiece features four traditional Thai-style buildings with intricately carved roofs and teak structures. These include villas with private pools, a wellness-focused restaurant serving turmeric-infused beverages and Lanna-style dishes, and a craft boutique.

Guests can relax at the spa offering foot massages and mindfulness therapies or lounge by the bamboo-enclosed pool. The resort's 44 rooms balance traditional Thai aesthetics with modern comforts, showcasing local textiles and wickerwork.

2. Four Seasons, Chiang Mai

Set in a picturesque 31-acre valley of rice fields and gardens, this luxurious resort blends elegance with nature. Guests can enjoy activities like yoga, pottery, and Thai boxing or take a dip in two infinity pools overlooking the fields. The private residences are perfect for families, offering serene privacy with personal pools and outdoor dining spaces. Dining highlights include an international breakfast spread ranging from Chinese dumplings to English classics.

3. Villa Mahabhirom, Chiang Mai

Located just 10 minutes from Chiang Mai’s city center, this retreat offers a serene jungle escape. The resort features 14 restored teak villas, over 120 years old, elevated on stilts with marble bathrooms, private pools, and antique furnishings. The garden feels like an open-air museum, with sculptures, lanterns, and lush greenery.

4. Raya Heritage, Chiang Mai

Situated along the Ping River, this minimalist gem focuses on showcasing Lanna Kingdom culture. With clean lines and artisanal craftsmanship, it departs from typical temple-like designs. Guests can enjoy Burmese-inspired dishes, Shan-style river prawns, and herbal steam baths infused with local remedies.

5. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort, Chiang Rai

A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, this resort includes a non-profit-run elephant sanctuary. Guests can walk alongside gentle giants through bamboo forests or observe them from glass-domed jungle pods. Perched at the tri-border point of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Mekong River and misty forests at dawn.

6. 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai

Located within Chiang Mai’s old city walls, this historic property was once the headquarters of a Borneo trading company. The elegant design features teak pillars, intricate carvings, and lush tropical gardens. Its 30 suites boast colonial-style furnishings, private balconies, and luxurious bathrooms.

7. Phu Chaisai, Chiang Rai

This secluded hilltop retreat is a hidden gem, surrounded by tea plantations, rice fields, and golden temples. The 33 mudbrick cottages are decorated with bamboo and tribal textiles, offering a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance. Breakfast includes Akha tribe coffee and jungle honey, while natural spa treatments and forest trails provide a deep connection to nature.

8. Hotel Des Artists, Ping Silhouette, Chiang Mai

Located in the charming Wat Ket neighborhood, this boutique hotel pays homage to its past as a Chinese trading district. The courtyard features bonsai trees, koi ponds, and antique Chinese décor. Rooms are minimalist with white and blue tones, many with terraces overlooking the serene riverside garden.

With these carefully selected stays, you're sure to find the perfect base for exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, ensuring a memorable and seamless getaway!