Thailand is known for its stunning city life and tropical islands. However, more and more people are discovering the beauty of the mountainous region up north: Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and the second-largest province in the country. It combines a modern urban lifestyle with a serene nature sanctuary, giving you an unparalleled experience you’ll easily fall in love with.
While you may stumble upon tons of local offerings, you can also find luxurious options of premium standards that will make your trip here worthwhile. Here’s a guide that you can follow on where to eat, stay, and play in Chiang Mai.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Upscale Hotels and Luxury Glamping Sites
Burirattana Hotel
Location: Chiang Mai Square
Located in the charming Chiang Mai City Square, Burirattana Hotel pays homage to the ancestral homes in the area, upscaled in the most sophisticated way. The rooms and facilities will give you a sense of Chiang Mai luxury with its traditional and classy decor. We recommend booking the Burirattana Suite.
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai Riverside
Take it up a notch and stay at one of Chiang Mai’s most luxurious resorts. This award-winning boutique hotel with 30 stunning suites showcases its rich, colonial past without compromising modern opulence. Book their villa with a private pool and feel like royalty throughout your stay.
Norden Glamping
Location: Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai
Just one hour away from the main city, you can find yourself nestled amidst nature and settled in a luxurious glamping site. Upon entering the vicinity, you’ll be greeted by a magical sight with exclusive, Nordic-style homes by the stream. Staying there is just immaculate, especially at night, as it comes alive with its well-lit modern architecture softly reflected by the moving waters.
(MORE: Mae Kam Pong Travel Guide: Visiting This Japanese-Like Village In Thailand)
Where to Eat in Chiang Mai: Fine Dining Restaurants & Gourmet Eats
Oxygen Dining Room
Location: X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Hotel
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at Chiang Mai’s Oxygen Dining Room, where modern opulence meets traditional charm. You’ll be greeted by a symphony of crystal chandeliers, panoramic views, and meticulously adorned tables, creating a refined setting for a culinary journey. Making use of locally-sourced ingredients, the menu offers a fusion of flavors from appetizers down to desserts.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen – Chef’s Table Style
Location: Nimman, Chiang Mai
This avant-garde dining establishment seamlessly blends art and cuisine, offering a sensory journey for all its diners. Amidst the sleek and chic decor, guests are treated to a symphony of bold flavors meticulously crafted from locally-sourced, premium ingredients. The food here tastes as good as it looks—trust us!
B Samcook Home 16
Location: Chiang Mai City
This one is a casual fine dining that gives a more local feeling—different from the typical upscale restaurants out there. The head chef has worked with countless Michelin-starred restaurants in Thailand and has opened his own restaurant. The price is very reasonable for a 5-course meal, so you can make the most out of it by ordering their most expensive wine as a pairing.
What to do in Chiang Mai: Wellness & Recreation
Fah Lanna Spa
Location: Chiang Mai Square
Discover serenity at Fah Lanna Spa, an oasis nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai. From the moment you step through the doors, a sense of tranquility envelops you, enhanced by the soothing ambiance and skilled therapists. The spa’s menu boasts a curated selection of treatments from traditional Thai treatments to modern wellness therapies—all designed to pamper and revitalize the body and soul.
Chai Lai Orchid
Location: Mae Wang, Chiang Mai
Beyond the splendid accommodations, Chai Lai Orchid is a beacon of ethical tourism, supporting community initiatives and elephant conservation. Guests can indulge in responsibly curated experiences, from organic farm-to-table dining to immersive cultural encounters. This truly makes every moment at Chai Lai Orchid a celebration of both luxury and responsible travel.
Time to treat yourself. Head up north and experience the best of Thailand with the best view and atmosphere.
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