The cool caress of a winter breeze lingers in Northern Thailand, offering a rare and fleeting chance to savour the crisp air. Chiang Mai, with its eclectic charm, presents an array of accommodations to suit every traveller’s whim—from cosy, unassuming Airbnbs perfect for immersing oneself in the artisanal delights of Nimmanhaemin, to opulent luxury hotels hidden amidst lush jungle landscapes.
For those drawn to the allure of Northern Thailand’s tranquil beauty, we’ve handpicked the finest places to stay in Chiang Mai—proud recipients of the nation’s inaugural MICHELIN Key distinctions.
(© Tamarind Village)
Tamarind Village
One MICHELIN Key – a very special stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Lively
Tamarind Village offers the charm of a countryside boutique resort right in the heart of charming Chiang Mai. A bamboo archway leads to a tranquil retreat centred around a 200-year-old tamarind tree. The rooms reflect the region’s tribal heritage, blending bold fabrics and lacquered accents with modern comforts like Wi-Fi and bespoke amenities. The spa suite features a private terrace, outdoor shower, and exclusive access. Beyond the serene setting, the hotel is minutes from riverside dining and Chiang Mai’s iconic night bazaar. The spa combines traditional regional practices with contemporary wellness treatments, making it a perfect balance of urban convenience and peaceful seclusion.
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(© 137 Pillars House)
137 Pillars House
One MICHELIN Key – a very special stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Lively
Thai boutique hotels often embrace themes like beachside villas or ultramodern design, but 137 Pillars House in Chiang Mai opts for timeless elegance. This luxury boutique hotel blends traditional charm with contemporary comforts, rooted in its history as the East Borneo Company’s headquarters. While its classic style evokes a 19th-century atmosphere, much of the structure is a meticulous modern reconstruction, complete with updated amenities like climate control and advanced plumbing. Guests can unwind in genteel spaces, from the Library Bar to the romantic Dining Room, or take part in cooking classes at the casual show kitchen. With a gym, spa, and pool on-site, and Old Chiang Mai’s cultural treasures nearby, 137 Pillars offers a wonderful retreat.
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(© Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai)
Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai
One MICHELIN Key – a very special stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Lively
Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai manages to feel like a hidden sanctuary, even while resting within the city’s bounds. Tucked at the base of Doi Suthep Mountain, its verdant surroundings and compound-style design evoke the serenity of a rural resort. Here, luxury finds its balance with charm: the polished ease of a high-end Thai retreat meets the personalised warmth of a thoughtfully crafted boutique hotel. Central to the experience is the spa, an oasis in its own right, set in a pavilion by the pool where calm reigns supreme. The Garden restaurant celebrates health-conscious dining with hyper-fresh, locally inspired dishes, while the open-air 1892 Bar invites guests to linger, cocktail in hand, over the soulful rhythms of Northern Thailand.
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(© Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai)
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Three MICHELIN Keys – an extraordinary stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Quiet
The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, the first and only hotel in Chiang Mai to receive three MICHELIN Keys in 2024, offers the epitome of Northern Thai luxury, nestled amidst rice paddies and lush jungle. Its pavilions and villas blend classical Thai architecture with contemporary elegance, each lavishly appointed and brimming with comforts. The resort boasts an expansive spa, a breathtaking infinity pool, and three exceptional restaurants. Yet, in true Four Seasons fashion, it is the impeccable service that truly defines the experience, elevating every moment spent within its tranquil embrace. With its seamless fusion of luxury and natural beauty, the resort remains an undisputed sanctuary in the heart of northern Thailand. Plus, if you're hungry, you can always grab a bite at Khao, a MICHELIN-listed Thai restaurant situated within the hotel for an extra Thai culinary touch.
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(© Raya Heritage)
Raya Heritage
One MICHELIN Key – a very special stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Quiet
Raya Heritage, located just outside Chiang Mai, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Set amid lush gardens along the Ping River, it stands as Thailand’s first “artisanal” resort, blending imaginative design with local craftsmanship. Architect Boonlert Hemvijitraphan and designer Vichada Sitakalin created a unique experience, working with local artisans to craft a one-of-a-kind resort rather than a standard international design. The signature restaurant, Khu Khao, serves Northern Thai dishes alongside flavours from Myanmar, Laos, and Yunnan, China. The Laan Cha Tea Terrace, Baan Ta Lounge, and Ai Waan Spa—offering Northern-style Thai massages—complete the experience. Raya Heritage evokes a nostalgic sense of travel as an event, not just a commodity.
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(© Rachamankha)
Rachamankha
Two MICHELIN Keys – an exceptional stayStyle: Contemporary classic
Atmosphere: Quiet
Located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, this 2024 2 MICHELIN Key establishment offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with a policy that restricts guests under 12. Inspired by the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple, the hotel features Lanna-style architecture that blends ornate and minimalist design. Interiors boast plush furnishings, exotic orchids, hand-carved doors, and Chinese antiques. Guest rooms overlook a tranquil courtyard garden filled with bougainvillaea, while deluxe suites offer four-poster beds and spacious baths. The hotel’s restaurant serves Thai fusion cuisine on Chinese plates, and guests can enjoy cocktails by the pool or at the bar. Many attractions are easily accessible by taxi, and a nearby night market adds to the local charm.
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You already trust the MICHELIN Guide for restaurants. Now you can trust it for hotels.
Book the best hotels you can imagine — for every style and budget.
Book the best hotels you can imagine — for every style and budget.
READ MORE: Why MICHELIN Guide Is Where You Should Book Hotels
Illustration image: © Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Illustration image: © Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
