The 20 best youth hostels in Chiang Mai for every type of traveller
How to find the best hostels in Chiang Mai
Whether you’re a backpacker in training or a seasoned globetrotter, Chiang Mai is probably at the top of your bucket list. This northern Thai city is a favourite in our backpacker community, and we can’t deny that it steals our hearts a little more every time we return. But why has Chiang Mai become one of the world’s favourite backpacking destinations?
Anyone who has been here knows that this city is something special. It’s creative, spiritual and tranquil, the perfect place to unwind after a day in Bangkok. Here, mornings are spent at a different pace. You can sit in one of the quirky cafes and observe life and understand why it is this coffee culture that has made Chiang Mai one of the most visited places for digital nomads. The nightlife is also of a different calibre: forget the posturing and dress code discos, Chiang Mai is more about live reggae and casual bars.
But this laid-back atmosphere doesn’t mean the city is boring. On the contrary, there is plenty to do in Chiang Mai! From a stroll through the old town, where you can learn about the city’s history and discover its incredible architecture (including some of Thailand’s most impressive must-see temples), to haggling at one of the city’s markets, such as the Sunday Walking Street Market, where you can buy unique clothing and handmade jewellery. Chiang Mai is also a good place to see elephants up close (just make sure the sanctuaries you visit are 100% ethical and respectful of the animals).
oh, and one more thing. It’s no secret that the food in Thailand is fantastic, but the food in Chiang Mai is on another level. The best street food can be found in the city’s markets, where we recommend you try the famous Khao Soi noodle soup, a typical Chiang Mai speciality. You probably won’t be able to bear the thought of leaving it behind, so sign up for a cookery class and take your knowledge home with you!
Here are 20 of the best hostels in Chiang Mai for every type of traveller – pick yours and set off on an adventure!
Go directly to:
- The best hostels in Chiang Mai for solo travellers
- The best hostels in Chiang Mai for couples travelling alone
- The best hostels in Chiang Mai for party travellers
- The best hostels in Chiang Mai with private rooms
- The best hostels in Chiang Mai Old Town
- More of the best: other hostels in Chiang Mai
The best hostels in Chiang Mai for solo travellers
are you worried about visiting Chiang Mai alone? Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t. Firstly, because it’s one of the world’s most popular destinations for solo travellers, so you’ll have plenty of great company here. It’s a safe city where the locals are very friendly, so don’t be afraid to travel alone. Plus, there are great hostels that have such a sociable atmosphere that it’s impossible NOT to make friends…. here are some of them!
Lullaby Hostel
The fact that our guests voted Lullaby Hostel one of the 10 best hostels in the world for solo travellers in our 2019 HOSCARs leaves us with little more to add… but we can’t keep quiet about this place! It’s a rather laid-back hostel with free yoga sessions and Thai cooking classes, and it offers plenty of alternatives to socialise with other travellers without the need for alcohol. The hostel knows that food is key to our backpacker hearts, so they offer a fantastic free breakfast every morning, which includes everything from pancakes to barbecued pork and rice. And if safety is one of your biggest concerns when travelling alone, this hostel offers 24-hour security and a prime location in the heart of the Old Town.
Hostel highlights:
- Free bike hire
- Cosy atmosphere and common rooms to relax in
- endless snacks all day long!
🏠 Address: 24 Prapokklao Lane 7, Tambon Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Thailand Wow Hostel
The word “wow” pretty much sums up what we think of this fantastic hostel and its star host: Khai. Our guests say that he is “incredibly friendly” and that he “welcomes his guests as if they were his friends”. Khai always has plans to ensure that no traveller is left alone for too long, such as family dinners, late-night escapades, movie marathons and market tours. Plus, you can always meet other guests in the common areas, where there’s usually a card game or someone playing guitar so you can join in. Don’t worry, if you don’t want to bring out your inner Beyoncé, a few cold cocktails from the bar will definitely help!
Best thing about the hostel:
- Central location
- Delicious Thai cuisine
- Fun group excursions
address: 21/1 Samlan Road, Soi 7, Tambon Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now with Thailand Wow Hostel
Stamps Backpackers
All our nomads love this hostel, but especially our female guests! It was voted the second best hostel in the world for solo female travellers in the 2019 HOSCARs. The hostel offers the perfect balance between party and relaxation, a very affordable bar and group activities every night that make guests feel like part of the family. If you value your personal space, you’ll love the shared dormitory as each bed has its own compartment (you can enjoy the fun and games on the ground floor and then retreat to your own bed when you need more privacy).
The best thing about the youth hostel:
- Cheap drinks
- Restaurant in the youth hostel itself
- Perfect atmosphere
address: 1/11 Chaiyapoom Road, Soi 1, Chiang Mai 50300
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old City
🚍 Nearest bus stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now with Stamps Backpackers
The Entaneer Poshtel
The Entaneer may have only recently entered the hostel world, but the feedback from our individual guests has been overwhelming. They say they love the “modern warehouse style”, the “great location”, the “lovely events” and most of all the “great staff”. It’s run by a local family who love to take their guests out for meals or group activities. You’ll feel the warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk through the door (trust us, you won’t want to leave!) and you can mingle with other travellers in the games area, on the outdoor terrace or in the stylish bar – you’re sure to make magical connections and memories of your trip (perhaps with the help of a few beers).
The best of the hostel:
- Outdoor communal area
- Motorbike hire
- Warm and familiar atmosphere
address: 93/1 Nantaram Road, Tambon Hai Ya, Chiang Mai 50100
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (directly opposite the wall)
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at The Entaneer Poshtel
The best hostels in Chiang Mai for couples
Golden temples glistening in the sun, fiery sunsets, world-famous cuisine… As you can see, Chiang Mai has all the ingredients of a romantic city. If you’re travelling with your partner but don’t want to miss out on the fun that hostels offer, we have a few perfect options for couples where you can still enjoy the warmth of hostels and also have some extra amenities to score points with your better half.
Baan Heart Thai
If you and your partner want to relax Chiang Mai style, the tranquil Baan Heart Thai is the place for you. This family-run property has its own library, yoga and meditation room and free bicycles for you to explore the old town, which is just a stone’s throw from the hostel. The rooms are beautiful, with traditional Thai design and chic ambience. The superior shared rooms even have bunk beds with double beds in individual compartments, and thanks to their central location, you’ll feel like you have a private retreat in the middle of the action – it doesn’t get any better than that!
The highlights of the hostel:
- Free breakfast
- Super luxurious shared dormitories
- The evenings organised by the hostel
address: 1/8 – 1/9 Chaiyapoom Soi 1, Si phum, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (just outside the city wall)
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
S* Trips the Poshtel
If you have an eye for design, you’ll love this super stylish hostel in the heart of Chiang Mai, close to the night bazaar, several temples and countless restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a romantic date. The bathrooms are modern and sparkling clean, the shared dorms are super cool, and if you want to really let it rip, the private rooms offer top-notch luxury (but don’t think they’re too expensive, prices start at 30 euros). The hostel also offers a fantastic free breakfast of waffles, eggs and fruit to start the day with energy. Then head to reception, hire a scooter… and set off to conquer Chiang Mai!
The highlights of the hostel:
- Fantastic food
- Quiet atmosphere
- First class facilities
address: 84/2 Sridonchai Road, Tambon Chang Khlan, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: City centre
Book now at S* Trips the Poshtel
Lana Beds and Spaces
Our travelling couples love this boutique hostel, housed in a colonial-style building with modern and contemporary touches. It offers relaxed co-working spaces, perfect for digital nomads or anyone looking to stay in Chiang Mai for a while. No wonder when you see the luxurious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, individual workspaces and even a private terrace where you can enjoy your morning coffee in the Chiang Mai sun in peace and quiet. Don’t miss out on the hostel’s fun and creative activities, such as the traditional lantern-making workshop. Then toss them into the sky and watch them rise – it sounds romantic!
The best of the hostel:
- Accessible facilities
- Free breakfast
- Great staff (they give you lots of expert advice!)
address: 2/1 Kaeo Nawarat Soi 3, Wat Ket, Chiang Mai 50000
🏘 Neighbourhood: Wat Ket
🚍 Nearest railway station: Chiang Mai railway station
Book now with Lana Beds and Spaces
House Hostel
Make yourself at home in this rustic hostel, which is spotlessly clean and rustic, with modern facilities and plenty of cosy spots (like the bright conservatory and tucked-away reading nooks). From the rooftop terrace, you have a marvellous view of the mountains, and it’s worth getting up early to catch the sunrise. In the evening, this space becomes a quiet place where you can socialise with other backpackers over a beer and good music. And in the morning you can prepare your own breakfast for free, so make the most of it!
The best thing about the hostel:
- Beautiful design
- Luxurious shared dormitories
- First-class facilities
address: 2/3 Rat Chiang Saen, 1 Kho Alley, Chiang Mai 50100
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (just outside the city wall)
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Chiang Mai’s best hostels for party people
Chiang Mai’s nightlife has nothing to do with the full moon parties or the madness of Khao San Street. It’s more about hanging out, listening to music and having a few beers next to a campervan (if you like the idea, find out more about one of the coolest bars in Chiang Mai). So before you discover all the secrets of the old town, start the night in one of these lively hostels in Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai Thapae Winery
OK, forget what I just said about Chiang Mai’s laid-back atmosphere. This hostel is an exception: the parties in the bodega are really wild! There are plenty of free shots at the bar and games late into the night, such as the beer pong tournaments on Saturday nights or Thirsty Thursdays, where a new drinking challenge is offered every thirty minutes. On Wednesdays, you can join Chiang Mai’s biggest (and most famous) pub crawl and have an unforgettable night out with the entire bodega staff. And if you want to cleanse yourself of your sins the next day, sign up for a tour of Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon or simply relax by the pool when you can’t take it anymore to recharge your batteries and start afresh!
The best thing about the hostel:
- Excellent security
- Great events and nightclubs
- Party staff who go all out
address: 23 Ratchamanka Soi 3, Lane 3/1, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at Chiang Mai Thapae Winery
Deejai Backpackers
At Deejai Backpackers, they know how to party in Chiang Mai. Barbecues with beer and drinks, foosball tournaments and jam sessions around the campfire await you here. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, whether you’re playing volleyball in the pool, swinging in the hammock or retreating to the tree house. The bar’s playlist will keep you in a good mood, as will the frequent drinks on offer (the prices won us over!). Don’t forget to make the most of the group excursions and have a great time with your new hostel mates while hiking through the mountains or zip-lining through the jungle.
The highlight of the hostel:
- Free breakfast
- Exchange of books
- Theme evenings
address: 156 Ratchamanka Road, Tambon Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest bus stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now with Deejai Backpackers
Brick House Hostel
The Brick House Hostel has just reopened after a major refurbishment, so the facilities are brand new and spotless. With 200 beds in total, you can imagine the atmosphere as everyone gathers in the huge bar area or cheers on a volleyball tournament in the pool. It’s definitely a hostel with a party soul, so be prepared to be blown away by the drinks offerings (including the occasional literally flaming cocktail) and have the time of your life. But the Brick House Hostel isn’t all about partying. There are plenty of places to relax too: You can read on the rooftop terrace, savour delicious Thai (or Western) dishes in the café or work up a sweat in the gym.
The highlights of the hostel:
- 24-hour reception
- Billiards
- Individual lighting and sockets in all beds
address: 20 20/1 Chang Moi Kao Road, Chiang Mai 50300
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (outside the wall)
next stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at Brick House Hostel
The best hostels with private rooms in Chiang Mai
When you’re travelling, life can get pretty hectic. So you don’t have to be a glamper to need your own room from time to time! Even seasoned travellers sometimes get tired of sleeping in shared rooms, so it’s important to reserve some time for yourself too. That’s where these hostels come in with their great private rooms – treat yourself!
Oxotel Hostel
Oxotel Hostel is located in the middle of Wualai Road, the street that becomes the busiest street in Chiang Mai every Saturday because of the Walking Market. After falling in love with this place, retreat to your room and watch the chaos from your private balcony. With a huge bed, luxurious pillows and towels and a flat-screen TV (to rave about and not get up!), you’ll feel like you’re in a dream. If you can leave your room for a moment, take the opportunity to discover Chiang Mai’s famous coffee culture by visiting the great artisanal coffee shop on the ground floor, or you can indulge in yoga in the open-air green space. Oxotel Hostel describes itself as “a resort-style hostel where you can relax”, and we think that definition sums it up perfectly.
The highlights of the hostel:
- Free breakfast (and free tea and coffee throughout the day)
- Free hairdryer and toiletries
- Charming design
address: 149-153 Wua Lai Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Chiang Mai 50100
🏘 Neighbourhood: Wualai
🚍 Nearest station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Suneta Hostel Chiang Mai
This beautiful hostel offers a variety of private rooms, so it’s worth checking out even if you’re on a budget. The deluxe private rooms are stylish, with rustic wooden design, large cosy beds and en-suite bathrooms, so you won’t want for anything. But don’t worry, backpacker travellers. If you’d rather save a bit more money, the shared dorms also offer bunk beds in private compartments. They’re like mini rooms, complete with single bed, door and bedside table! And if you haven’t clicked on “Book” yet, maybe the cuddly kittens at reception will help you decide.
The best thing about the hostel:
- Central location next to the Tha Phae Gate bus stop
- Motorbike rental
- Free breakfast
address: 20 20/1 Chang Moi Kao Road, Chiang Mai 50300
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at Suneta Hostel Chiang Mai
248 Street Hostel
The quirky industrial style of the 248 Street Hostel is simply mesmerising. And when we say “quirky”, we mean that the bathroom sinks are made from tyres and there’s an old motorbike in the lobby. But of course, you’re probably more interested in the rooftop pool and outdoor bar (the idea of hanging out in the water with a Chang beer in hand while taking in the views of the mountains and old town actually sounds pretty cool). The private double and single rooms are very affordable, so you can even afford your own room if you’re travelling alone. And with a rooftop party area, a good time is guaranteed!
The best thing about the hostel:
- Perfect location
- Free breakfast
- Incredible view
address: 248/8-9 Maneenopparat Road, Sriphum Muang, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (just outside the city wall)
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
The best hostels in the old town of Chiang Mai
The good news about the hostels in Chiang Mai is that they are all pretty centrally located, but if location is definitely more important to you, then you should stick to these hostels. They are ideally located in the old town, close to the best markets, restaurants, temples and bars, so exploring Chiang Mai has never been easier. What are you waiting for?
Hug Hostel Rooftop
We have another HOSCAR winner: none other than Chiang Mai’s favourite hostel of 2018, but the parties on the extraordinary rooftop bar, the live DJs and the happy hours probably have something to do with it… (three beers for under four euros? Hello?). Inside, there are quieter spaces where you can relax and, if you feel like it, watch Netflix with your mates. As for activities, our guests recommend the daily excursions to the elephant reserves, the cookery classes and jungle walks, which are a unique experience in the company of great people. The hostel even has a restaurant serving Thai classics with many vegan options. The food is excellent, but it’s even better when enjoyed on the rooftop terrace with a view of Doi Suthep mountain!
The best thing about the hostel:
- Reading lamps and individual power sockets in the shared rooms
- Computer room
- Perfect location for foodies: a paradise for street food
address: 51/1-2 Changhuak Road, Chiang Mai 50209
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town (just outside the city wall)
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at Hug Hostel Rooftop
Hobnob Hostel
If you’re a real bookworm (like us), you’ll love the design of this super cosy hostel, which is full of books and reading corners. Hobnob Hostel also tries to reflect Chiang Mai’s coffee culture by offering plenty of green, open spaces where you can hang out with a hot cup of coffee, chat with other backpackers or get your laptop typing. You’ll feel so comfortable in this oasis of calm that you’ll find it hard to step outside! And if you do, Chiang Mai’s coolest attractions are just a stone’s throw away, such as the opulent Wat Phra Singh temple, which is just a few metres away, or the Sunday Wlaking market, which takes place in the same street.
Highlights of the hostel:
- Free breakfast
- Great staff
- Information desk for tourists
🏠 Address: 58 Intrawarorot Road, Tambon Si Phum, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old City
🚍 Nearest bus stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Hostel By Bed
With its minimalist, monochrome design, this ultra-modern hostel fulfils every imaginable style wish. The shared dormitories have separate bunk beds in individual compartments with their own reading lamps and power sockets for maximum comfort. The cosy atmosphere and the many co-working spaces make the hostel an attractive option for digital nomads. Other free extras include toiletries, hairdryers, bottled water, barista coffee and a breakfast buffet – and you know, nobody likes free stuff more than a backpacker!
The best thing about the hostel:
- Free breakfast buffet
- Pouf and hammock area
- Long-term guests
🏠 Address: 54/2 54/4 Sri Poom Road, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old Town
🚍 Nearest bus stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
More of the best: other hostels in Chiang Mai
Before we finish, we’d like to thank these other great hostels that we couldn’t forget.
D-Well Hostel
We could go on and on about D-Well’s modern facilities, fun common areas, hospitality and prime location… but we think this review from one of our users (who gave it 10 out of 10, by the way) describes it best:
“I have stayed at the D-Well at least 4 times in the last few months. It has been my base while visiting the different areas of Northern Thailand and every time I return to Chiang Mai to recharge my batteries, I stay at D-Well. It’s spotless, the staff are friendly and helpful, the beds are comfortable. The location is great, close to markets, cafes and the central square, but the main reason I keep coming back is the quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Thank you D-Well, I will be back!”
The best thing about the hostel:
- Free breakfast
- Bicycle hire
- 24-hour reception
address: 202 Thapae Road, Tambon Chang Moi, Chiang Mai 50300
🏘 Area: Old Town (just outside the city wall)
next stop: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Thunder Bird Hostel
thunder Bird Hostel hurts your face because it’s so cool! Imagine a place that’s a mix of chic and industrial, with quirky elements like giant bird heads hanging from the ceiling or painted on the walls (yes, really). Inside is the trendy café and bakery Greedy Beast, which could be from any street in East London. Take the opportunity to watch life go by or get some work done while enjoying an Instagram-worthy cappuccino. There are even ping pong tables to awaken the Forrest Gump in you, and a grand piano if you like to hit the keys.
The best thing about the hostel:
- The location in the old town
- Free breakfast
- Cool bar
address: 181 Soi Mun Mueang 6, Tambon Si Phum, Chiang Mai 50200
🏘 Area: Old City
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
Book now at Thunder Bird Hostel
Muan Hostel
gourmets of the world, you’re in luck! Not only does Muan Hostel have an unbeatable location in the old town in front of Thapae Gate (a true street food paradise), but its restaurant also serves fantastic Thai food and a delicious, 100% free breakfast buffet! There’s a relaxed Chiang Mai vibe to the accommodation, especially in the lantern-lit communal areas and quirky café with hammocks. Don’t leave the hostel without taking part in one of the cultural activities organised by the staff, such as traditional origami workshops to make lotus flowers, and don’t forget to buy some souvenirs from the local handicraft shop!
Hostel highlights:
- Free toiletries and hairdryer
- Reading lamps, power sockets, individual shelves and curtains
- Dormitories for women only
address: 4/5 Chaiyapoom Road, Chiang Mai 50300
🏘 Neighbourhood: Old City
🚍 Nearest railway station: Tha Phae Gate bus stop
we’re off to book a flight to Thailand now! Which of these great hostels will you choose for your adventure in Chiang Mai? Let us know in the comments!
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