Lola P
Google
We spent a lot of time debating where to stay in Chiang Mai, and in the end we chose Villa Mahabhirom because of its history and the beautiful pool. It turned out to be a great choice and set the tone for how much we ended up loving Chiang Mai overall. Even before booking, the staff were incredibly kind and thoughtful in answering our questions, which immediately made us feel comfortable and excited about the stay.
From the moment you arrive, the property feels calm, intentional, and truly boutique. It’s beautiful in a quiet, understated way, and the pool quickly became one of our favorite places to spend time. It’s especially picturesque and relaxing, and despite there being only four loungers, we never once had trouble getting one. Breakfast was consistently delicious, and the service throughout the stay was really exceptional, with thoughtful surprise touches that made everything feel personal. Every interaction with the staff felt warm, genuine, and caring.
Our room was very comfortable, with cozy beds and plenty of space. It’s not modern in a sleek or contemporary way, but that’s part of what gives the property its charm. The old style and character feel intentional and well cared for, not dated.
One thing to flag, which other reviewers mention as well, is that plane noise is definitely noticeable. It didn’t affect our sleep, but it can be a little annoying at times, especially when you’re relaxing by the pool or spending time outside.
The other main downside is the location. The hotel is fairly far outside the main Old Town area (10-20min), which means relying on tuk-tuks or Grab taxis to get around. Those rides add up quickly, and it can feel tiring when you can’t easily pop out for food or wander nearby. We often wished the hotel offered an easy drop-off service into Old Town, or that we had rented a motorbike instead, which would have been more cost effective and given us more freedom.
That said, we truly loved Chiang Mai and felt Villa Mahabhirom was a beautiful, peaceful place to come back to at the end of each day. If you’re looking for atmosphere, history, and a slower pace, it’s a special place to stay. Just plan transportation thoughtfully if you want to spend a lot of time in the city center.