City Guide: Top 5 hotels for families in Chiang Mai 2023

Chiang Mai is one of the best cities to visit in northern Thailand, and it’s no wonder why. From the beautiful nature landscapes and a cooler climate with bountiful outdoor activities, to a small town vibe full of culture (and cafes), Chiang Mai never fails to tick off all the boxes for rest, relaxation and recreation.

But with so many accommodations to choose from, finding the right hotel can be difficult, especially if you’re traveling with the little ones. That’s why we’ve created a list of the Top 5 hotels to stay with family in Chiang Mai 2023.

Read more about why you should visit Chiang Mai here.

Centara Khum Phaya Resort & Spa

Location: 137 Tambon Nong Pa Khrang, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Click here to book on Agoda now

Located smack-dab in Chiang Mai’s rich heritage centre once known as the Lanna kingdom, this delightful retreat serves up a slice of tranquility while simultaneously hitting you with an essential history lesson on the side. You see, the entire place is practically drenched in local history, right from the ornate carvings to the 80-year-old teak beam roofs.

Trust us, you’re going to breathe in, eye up, and touch nothing but history here. Of course, the interior doesn’t disappoint either. It’s decked out in natural fabrics and teak, transforming every inch of this resort into a calming, plush haven. You’ve got 85 gorgeous rooms and villas to pick from. Choose between direct pool access (fabulous) or a private plunge pool (delectable). And as a cherry on top, each comes complete with its own Jacuzzi. You know, just in case you weren’t quite relaxed enough.

It doesn’t stop indoors though. Venture outside your private crash pad and submerge in the lagoon-shaped pool, bordered by century-old trees and meandering canals. Plus, the kids can enjoy the water slide and while you work on your tan on the sundeck. Aside from a designated playground for children, the resort also provides babysitting services on request.

Hunger pangs aren’t given room in this tranquil sanctuary. From tantalising Thai treats to robust international flavours, your tastebuds will be doing a merry jig. All food is authentically prepared and served with that famous Thai smile. Don’t forget to pamper yourself at the Spa Cenvaree, scooting you on a one-way trip to sheer relaxation.

Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa

Location: 36 Rat Uthit Rd, Amphur, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Click here to book on Agoda now

Nestled right in the heart of a charming natural habitat, Siripanna offers service that feels like a warm hug from your favourite aunt. All wrapped up in the typical Lanna style, sure to enchant and beguile. During your stay, you’ll have the chance to drink in the fascinating history and unique culture of the Lanna heritage, all the while basking in an environment of serenity and harmony.

This treasure of a resort has always been a firm favourite among the family crowd, and for good reason too. It boasts of a grand outdoor pool, a jogging track for your morning routine Instagram posts, and a genuinely beautiful playground. Take a gander at the scenic rice paddy, and the vegetable and fruit garden – all nestled within its premises.

No, we aren’t forgetting the little moppets. The Kids’ Club houses books and toys catering to junior guests ranging from 1 to 10 years old. It’s practically child nirvana.

Now let’s brag a bit about the resort facilities. The Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa pulls out all the stops with some truly outstanding leisure facilities. Want to unlock the mystery of authentic Thai and Chiang Mai cuisine? Sign up for their cooking class! Or, fancy lounging about like royalty? Dip into the outdoor pool or lose yourself in the decadence of the Siripanna Spa.

Four Seasons Resort

Location: 502 MOO 1, MAE RIM-SAMOENG OLD ROAD อำเภอสะเมิง Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Click here to book on Agoda now

Coming up next, prepare for your jaws to drop, because it’s the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. Admit it, you’re excited! This luxurious residence has long been a recurrent favourite amongst families, and with its buffet of activities on offer, there’s no prizes for guessing why.

Perched in the breathtaking Mae Rim Valley and a comfortable half-hour sojourn west of downtown Chiang Mai, the Four Seasons Chiang Mai continues its formidable reputation for delivering luxury with a capital ‘L’. You’re looking at villas available with one to four bedrooms, each as spacious and swanky as the next.

Now, welcome to a haven of well-being nestled within mother nature’s radiant green sash, the emerald rice fields of Northern Thailand. This is the place where you’ll find your batteries recharged, spirits unwinding, and a smorgasbord of tailor-made experiences to find your personal nirvana. Enjoy your journey on the road to well-being, whether from the private pavilion with a view that’ll make your heart sing or within the plush and decadent interiors of an exclusive residence.

Now, let’s promise kiddos a treat. The Four Seasons Resort hosts a fantastic ‘Kids for All Seasons’ programme. Here, your little ones will be kept entertained throughout their stay with not just any activities, but activities designed for fun learning. In essence, it gives a whole new meaning to not just seeing, but truly experiencing Thailand.

Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai

Location: 89/8 Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Click here to book on Agoda now

Situated in the heart of the city, surrounded by the jaw-dropping vistas of Northern Thailand’s mountain ranges, this resort will have you pinching yourself at every turn.

Oh, did we mention location? Slap-bang in the middle of the action, it’s mere hopping distance from the famed Night Bazaar and other eyebrow-raising attractions. In fact, the Chiang Mai International Airport is a brisk, breezy 10-minute walk away. Precision-peeps might like to factor in the time taken to duck into ice cream shops en route.

Now, for the star of the show – the water park, a veritable siren call for every kiddie in town. With splash parks for the tots and giant slides for the older, more daring brood, it’s pure aqua bliss. In-between the splashing and sliding, you’ll find a dedicated children’s room at your beck and call, equipped with activities and toys galore. Not in the mood for parent duties? No worries, the Shangri-La dots the ‘i’ on their service with professional babysitting and childcare services.

‘Child’s Play’ could well be the motto here at Shangri-La Chiang Mai. Seriously, this place rolls out the red carpet for your little ones. Moreover, you can schedule some downtime while the children partake in the Shangri-La’s fun and captivating activities, tailor-made just for them. Finally, keep an eye on the clock. The unique splash zone, waterslide and kids’ pool, offer hours of fun. Together with the hotel’s playground and the Kids Club, you’ve got a surefire recipe for an unforgettable journey filled with giggles and joy.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa

Location: 123, 1 Charoen Prathet Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Click here to book on Agoda now

Standing tall right next to the buzzing Night Bazaar and the resplendent Ping River, this luxurious haven will make you forget home in an instant. Boasting a contemporary design that’ll impress even the most seasoned of travellers, it promises comfort and panoramas that are borderline outrageous. Picture this – spacious rooms oozing chic decor, floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies offering an uninterrupted view of the river. Some might call it ‘room with a view’. We prefer ‘room that IS the view’.

Take a break and soak in the serenity that surrounds you. Fancy a lazy day? Your balcony-daybed awaits or, simply stretch out by the pool. For the adventurous, gear up for a deep dive into local culture. Try the Muay Thai boxing, perhaps? Or indulge in some healing spa therapies, and execute your own version of a Master Chef with their cooking classes.

While they don’t have a Kids Club, fear not, because the Anantara ensures your tiny tots aren’t left out. They offer child-friendly activities that’ll keep the young ones amused and excited.

And make no mistake, the Anantara isn’t all about adventures – it’s a place to pause, rewind and luxuriate. Why not bring your kiddos over to the spa for some tender pampering? If they’re above 12, they can enjoy the spa free birds. If not, let’s call it a family spa day under your watchful supervision.

And there you have it

These 5 hotels aren’t just for sleeping. They’re for grand, pool-side breakfasts with panoramic views, for pampering spa sessions after a long day of exploration, for little feet splashing in warm pools, and, above all, for creating family memories that are worth their weight in gold.