Chiang Rai is a laid-back city wrapped in mountains, brimming with temples, hiking routes and seriously good food. While Thailand’s tourism has surged over the past decade, Chiang Rai has kept a genuine charm that’s hard to find elsewhere on the classic backpacking trail.
The city has earned its place on the backpacker circuit, largely because it sits on the route to the famous slow boat to Laos. Many travellers find themselves here for a night before an early departure.
As a result, there’s no shortage of hostels. The scene is calm and contemporary, with most places centrally located and offering a peaceful atmosphere rather than a party-heavy one.
Having spent plenty of time in Chiang Rai, I can say that although many treat it as a mere stopover, it has a lot to give. If you can, stay at least a couple of nights to explore properly.
With that in mind, let’s find the right bed for you…
Welcome to Chiang Rai
A closer look at each hostel
Chiang Rai is one of my favourite places to stay in Thailand, and it’s home to several excellent hostels, each suiting a slightly different kind of traveller. Below I’ve gathered my top picks and noted who they’re best for. Let’s dive in.
1. Best Overall Hostel – Backpack Hostel
Price: $ Best for: Solo travellers, budget backpackers, anyone heading to Laos via the slow boat, travellers who want a central base Highlights: 150 m from Bus Station 1, rooftop terrace, free snacks (bananas, biscuits, tea & coffee), helpful staff, tour desk, scooter rental Dorms from: $6 Private rooms from: $15 Location: Central in Wiang. 150 m from Bus Station 1, near the Clock Tower, Night Bazaar, and many temples!
It makes sense that Backpack Hostel is tailored for solo backpackers in Thailand. Right by Bus Station 1, you’re within easy reach of all the best things to do in Chiang Rai. The atmosphere is social without turning into a party spot. A rooftop terrace and a lounge area make it easy to settle in and meet other travellers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central location, near the bus station
- Free snacks, tea and coffee
- Social but not a party vibe
Many guests are following the classic Southeast Asia backpacking route and will catch the slow boat to Luang Prabang from Chiang Rai. The hostel can help you organise transport, visas and tours for the next leg of your trip.
2. Best Hostel for Couples – Mercy Hostel
Price: $$ Best for: Solo travellers, digital nomads, long-term backpackers, couples Highlights: Huge terrace, shallow plunge pool, comfy beds, free snacks & breakfast, billiards, TV room Dorms from: $11 Private rooms from: $38 Location: Central but quiet. It’s 600m from the Clock Tower, 700m from the Old Bus Station, and 800m from Saturday Night Walking Street.
Mercy Hostel is my favourite hostel in Chiang Rai. It’s super central, with most of Chiang Rai’s attractions within walking distance. However, because the hostel is tucked away just off the main road, you get to enjoy some peace during your stay.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Handy, central location near the Clock Tower
- Shallow swimming pool and terrace to chill on
- Not a big social vibe, but perfect to relax
There’s a large terrace with mats for sunbathing, a shallow swimming pool, a billiards table, board games and a TV room for cosy movie nights – plenty to do even if you don’t leave the hostel! There isn’t a big social vibe, but if you just want a comfortable, homely atmosphere, it’s perfect 🙂
3. Best Hostel for Large Groups – BED Friends Poshtel
Price: $ Best for: Solo travellers, couples and digital nomads Highlights: Loft-style, modern design, rooftop bar, free breakfast (toast & coffee) Dorms from: $9 Private rooms from: $15 Location: Central in Wiang. Walking distance to Bus Station 1, Clock Tower, Night Bazaar and Saturday Walking Market.
I had never come across the term ‘poshtel’ before, but I’m all for it! It’s one of the best hostels in Chiang Rai for groups, thanks to flexible room setups: you can book entire dorms, mixed rooms with doubles and bunks, or just a regular dorm bed.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Hotel quality, hostel prices!
- Large family rooms with various set-ups
- Great central location, walking distance to everything!
This hostel has an accessible rooftop with incredible views of Chiang Rai. Use the space to plan your days in the morning or watch the sunsets in the evening. It’s not the most social hostel, but if you’re coming with your own crew or family, you’ll bring the vibes anyway 🙂
4. Best for Local Experiences – Grace Hostel
Price: $ Best for: Solo travellers, budget backpackers and long-term travellers Highlights: Free breakfast (toast, fruit & eggs), friendly owners, motorbike rental, modern, quiet area Dorms from: $8 Location: It’s located in a quiet residential neighbourhood near Oub Kham Museum, about a 20-minute walk or a short ride from the city centre.
If you’re travelling to Thailand for its affordability, Grace Hostel is the accommodation option for you. In the name of transparency, this hostel is a little further out than the main city, but for the price, you really cannot complain.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Family-run hostel – the mum and son duo who host it are amazing!
- Free breakfast, including toast, fruit and eggs
- Outside of the centre, a more “local” experience
You can easily visit the Denha market, Oub Kham Museum and truly embed yourself into the local way of life. A 20-minute walk brings you to the centre. You can also get a Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber) or rent a scooter/push bike.
5. Best Hostel for Digital Nomads – Baan Mai Kradan Hostel
Price: $$ Best for: Design-lovers, solo backpackers, couples, digital nomads Highlights: Beautifully renovated 1960s Thai house, garden, rooftop with yoga mats, free breakfast (salad bar), co-working-friendly spaces, solid wifi, multiple chill areas Dorms from: $10 Private rooms from: $39 Location: In Wiang, Chiang Rai’s downtown district – great central location
Close enough to walk into the main city yet secluded in the suburbs, this hostel in Chiang Rai is great for couples. Originally an old Thai house built in 1964, the property was renovated into one of the best-looking hostels I have seen. It’s ideal for digital nomads, with co-working-friendly spaces and fast wifi.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Co-working friendly spaces and solid wifi
- Surrounded by nature
- Gorgeous interior, modern design
Located in the downtown area, you’ll be minutes away from Saturday Walking Street, where an abundance of authentic cuisine is served. You can even easily access a free city tour by tram, stopping by the most popular temples.
Still not sure where to stay in Chiang Rai?
The hostels in Chiang Rai are affordable, conveniently located and surrounded by nature. None of them have a big social vibe, but if that’s what you’re after, I’d suggest locking in your bed at Backpack Hostel; it’s my favourite place to stay in Chiang Rai. It’s super central, and the hosts can help you organise your slow boat trip (if that’s next on your agenda!).
If you want a more low-key stay, Mercy Hostel is great and has a pool, which is unreal if you’re travelling in the hot season. Or, if you want a more local stay just outside the centre, you can’t beat Grace Hostel.
Wherever you end up staying, I hope you enjoy this sleepy, temple-filled city! It is one of my favourite places and is worth spending a few days to soak in a truly authentic side of Thailand <3
