Chiang Rai

Travel Guide

A temple complex with intricate architecture and a reflective pond.
A white ornate temple complex with a central pond and surrounding statues.
A mountain landscape with a wooden staircase leading up a steep slope.
A white ornate temple complex with intricate designs, a reflective pond, and a clear blue sky.
A river with boats and a bridge with flags of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand.

Where to stay in Chiang Rai

Find the best Chiang Rai areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Chiang Rai
Learn more about Chiang Rai
A temple complex with intricate architecture and a reflective pond.

Sanuk Residences

Well-liked for its river views and coffeehouses, you might stop by Central Chiang Rai and Chiang Rai Night Bazaar while you're exploring Sanuk Residences and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand

5 out of 5
221 / 2 Moo 20 Kwaewai Road Chiang Rai Chiang Rai
$100 nightly
The price is $108 total per night from Oct 12 to Oct 13
$108 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (903 reviews)
"Staff,room, locations were great."

Reviewed on Oct 8, 2026

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand
The Riverie by Katathani

The Riverie by Katathani

5 out of 5
1129 Kraisorasit Rd. Chiang Rai Chiang Rai
$83 nightly
The price is $90 total per night from Oct 14 to Oct 15
$90 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
The Riverie by Katathani
Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection By Hilton

Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection By Hilton

5 out of 5
6 Moo 4 Maekok Road, Rim Kok Chiang Rai
$83 nightly
The price is $90 total per night from Oct 14 to Oct 15
$90 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Popular attractions Ban Mai Market Chiang Rai and Wat Rong ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (5 reviews)
"Definitely the best hotel I stayed at. Importance in every detail. Breakfast buffet is luxurious and delicious. Staff are delightful."

Reviewed on Oct 5, 2026

Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection By Hilton
See all 411 properties in Chiang Rai
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
X8 สนามกีฬากลาง

X8 สนามกีฬากลาง

5 out of 5
79/2 Moo 22, Rob Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang District Chiang Rai
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Wat Rong Suea Ten and King Meng Rai the ...
X8 สนามกีฬากลาง
The Autumn Creek ChiangRai

The Autumn Creek ChiangRai

3 out of 5
425 Tambon SanSai Chiang Rai Chiang Rai
Stay at this villa in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Lan Mueang Market and White Temple are located ...
The Autumn Creek ChiangRai
1000 Stars

1000 Stars

3.5 out of 5
Moo 5, Ang Kep Nam Huai Sak, 450 Chiang Rai Chiang Rai Province
Stay at this villa in Chiang Rai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private hot tubs. Popular attraction Rai Chern Thawan Meditation Center is located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"Excellent. I will return"

Reviewed on Dec 26, 2023

1000 Stars
See all properties in Chiang Rai
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Chiang Rai attractions

A traditional Thai temple with ornate golden decorations and a white facade, surrounded by well-maintained gardens.

Mae Fah Luang University

8.8/10 (60 reviews)
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Mae Fah Luang University, during your trip to Chiang Rai. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the temples in this relaxing area.
See properties

Things to do

Chiang Rai to Golden Triangle One Day Join Tour

Golden Triangle Thai Myanmar Laos border Khong River Old City

$50
per adult
Golden Triangle Thai Myanmar Laos border Khong River Old City
Chiang Rai: Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour with Thai Lunch

Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour-Free Lunch Buffet

$41
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour-Free Lunch Buffet
Chiang Rai: 7 Highlights Full-Day Tour with Golden Triangle

Chiang Rai: 7 Highlights Full-Day Tour with Golden Triangle

$41
per adult
Chiang Rai: 7 Highlights Full-Day Tour with Golden Triangle
Sightseeing Join Tour Chiang Rai / PICK UP ONLY IN CHIANG RAI

Sightseeing Join Tour Chiang Rai / PICK UP ONLY IN CHIANG RAI

$41
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Sightseeing Join Tour Chiang Rai / PICK UP ONLY IN CHIANG RAI
Chiang Rai: Half Day Tour – 3 Famous Temples & Lalita Cafe’

Chiang Rai: Half Day Tour – 3 Famous Temples & Lalita Cafe’

$46
per adult
Chiang Rai: Half Day Tour – 3 Famous Temples & Lalita Cafe’
Chiang Rai: Golden Triangle & 7 Landmarks Guided Tour

Chiang Rai: Golden Triangle & 7 Landmarks Guided Tour

$45
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Chiang Rai: Golden Triangle & 7 Landmarks Guided Tour
See all activities in Chiang Rai

Frequently asked questions

Is Chiang Rai worth visiting?
Chiang Rai is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including the beautiful Chiang Rai Clock Tower and the lively Chiang Rai Night Bazaar. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining experiences with Asian and European cuisine options. Getting around is practical, with bus transport available for convenience.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
The best time to visit Chiang Rai is from August through December, when the weather is typically pleasant. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of March through June are a good option, offering a warmer season to explore.
What is Chiang Rai known for?
Chiang Rai is known for its iconic Chiang Rai Clock Tower and the lively Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, where travelers can explore local goods. It is also home to Mae Fah Luang University. Travelers can enjoy the city's rich Asian food culture, offering diverse culinary experiences.
What is a good itinerary length for Chiang Rai?
A good itinerary length for Chiang Rai is two to three days to explore highlights like the Chiang Rai Clock Tower and Chiang Rai Night Bazaar. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can enjoy activities such as trekking in the forest or visit Mae Fah Luang University, allowing for a deeper experience. See Chiang Rai Activities.
How do you get around Chiang Rai?
In Chiang Rai, buses are a practical way to get around the city and nearby areas. The main transportation hub is Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, which serves as a central point for local travel. Travelers can use these services to explore different destinations within Chiang Rai.
What are the top things to do in and around Chiang Rai?
Chiang Rai offers a blend of unique cultural sights, local markets, and outdoor adventures:

  • Visit the White Temple, a distinctive contemporary art exhibit and temple.
  • See the Chiang Rai Clock Tower, a unique city landmark.
  • Explore the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for local goods and food.
  • Embark on a trekking tour that includes bamboo cooking.
  • Take a tour to a Lahu Village for a cultural experience.

How do I plan a trip to Chiang Rai?
To plan your trip to Chiang Rai, search for places to stay and book flights early. Consider activities like trekking tours or visiting the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar. Travelers can use buses to get around, with rental cars available for wider exploration. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
What cuisines can you find in Chiang Rai?
In Chiang Rai you can find Chinese cuisine, with dishes like stir-fries, dumplings, and Peking duck. Travelers can also enjoy other Asian options such as Thai, noodle, and Japanese dishes. Additionally, there are European choices like French and Mediterranean, along with seafood, steakhouse, and Halal options.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Chiang Rai?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Chiang Rai by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Chiang Rai with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Chiang Rai trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Chiang Rai?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Chiang Rai can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Chiang Rai trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Chiang Rai trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Chiang Rai trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Chiang Rai trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Chiang Rai?
If it's your first trip to Chiang Rai, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Chiang Rai hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Chiang Rai hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Chiang Rai

A mountainous landscape with a lake surrounded by forested areas.

Mae Suai

Terraced tea plantations, a small pavilion, and a body of water.

Mae Chan

A lush garden with a variety of plants, a small pond, and a wooden bridge.

Mae Fa Luang

A large white statue of a seated figure surrounded by a temple complex and lush greenery.

Ban Du

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