A beautiful country with a turbulent history, Myanmar — formerly Burma — remains an off-the-beaten-track destination rich in heritage landmarks and a well-preserved ancient culture. Although the country enjoyed a tourism resurgence following moves towards democratic government, recent setbacks mean that travel advisories remain in place in 2023, particularly for the Shan State. Many of the best places to stay in Myanmar also offer their own area-specific suggestions. Do look into the latest travel information as you plan your trip; this is a magical destination and one which our Gurus very much look forward to exploring further in future! In the meantime we've discovered a good range of hotels that offers everything from classic luxury stays to boutique properties that are incredible value for money!

Bustling Yangon is Myanmar’s largest city, and a wonderful starting point for adventurers. The city’s glittering Shwedagon Pagoda, with its spire bedecked in gold, dominates the city skyline, amongst white-painted colonial-era buildings and more modern skyscrapers. Bogyoke Aung San Market, brimming with over 2,000 stalls, is a must-visit for everything from silk scarves to regional snacks.

Bagan, a misty plain studded with thousands of ancient temples, is perhaps Myanmar’s most famous destination, and undoubtedly one of our favourites. Cycle between sacred sites or take to the skies for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride. Venture on to see the remains of the Royal Palace on the banks of the Irrawaddy River in Mandalay, or to glide amongst the fishing boats on Inle Lake, near Taunggyi.

A land shrouded in mystery, home to elegant, orange-clad monks of all ages and filled with fascinating fables, Myanmar really is very special. Charming and warm, the best places to stay in Myanmar promise fabulous hospitality across the country.

The Best Places to Stay in Myanmar

For City Style

• Wyndham Grand Yangon is a swish city hotel overlooking Yangon's Kandawgyi Lake. White-on-white interiors feature bold modern art pieces, there's a dazzling rooftop pool and family-friendly rooms as well as a kids club. Event spaces make this a top spot for conferences or city weddings.
• The Lake Garden is a large contemporary hotel with spacious suites featuring elegant textiles, sink-into bathtubs and uninterrupted lake views. Travellers in Myanmar's capital city of Nay Pyi Taw on business will appreciate the well-equipped meeting rooms, whilst the tennis court, swimming pools and cycling tours will appeal to guests of all ages.
• Melià Yangon spans 44 floors on the edge of Inya Lake near the heart of Yangon. A contemporary city stay with fun family rooms and smarter, more grown-up premier options for couples or business travellers.
• Sofitel Inle Lake Myat Min, although far from a city, offers a similar experience on the banks of Inle Lake. Swish contemporary rooms and suites have muslin-draped beds, indulgent bathrooms and attractive private balconies. With two restaurants, event spaces and a fun kids club, this is a seriously impressive property.

FOR A RESTFUL OASIS

• Hotel by the Red Canal is a 26-room boutique hotel in Mandalay, reminiscent of a Burmese monastery in its design. Set within tropical gardens, this romantic property has a refreshing swimming pool and cavern-like spa. Rooms boast marble bathrooms and all the mod-cons. An indulgent city oasis.
• Villa Inle is a hugely romantic boutique eco-lodge, with individual villas overlooking Inle Lake. The superb spa promises rejuvenating treatments using natural ingredients, and elegant rooms have big beds draped with mosquito nets, free-standing tubs and private terraces. A honeymoon favourite.
• Sanctum Resort also boasts views of Inle Lake, this time from atop a small hill. Characterful rooms and suites await couples and families, and the restaurant specialises in Shan cuisine crafted from the organic vegetable garden's ample produce. A soothing spa and swimming pool complete the picture.
• Rupar Mandalar sits in a leafy surburb of Mandalay. A wonderful retreat with two swimming pools and classic interiors featuring hardwood floors, Burmese silks and garden-facing terraces, this is a fabulous choice for guests of all ages. Savour Burmese, Thai and Chinese cuisine in style.
• The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate also has a timeless feel, with high ceilings and polished wooden floors in spacious rooms. The swimming pool and spa are ideal for kicking back after days of cycling and exploring Bagan's multitude of temples. Lovely.

FOR WINE AFICIONADOS

• Monte DiVino Lodge is a wonderful hideaway not far from Taunggyi. Myanmar's very first vineyard, this rural hideaway has a fascinating wine-producing story, and offers tours and tastings for keen food and wine fans. Minimalist teak bungalows sit on stilts, overlooking the lush, mist-bedecked valley beyond. Charming.

FOR CLASSIC LUXURY

• The Strand is an iconic five-star hotel in the heart of Yangon. The imposing white-painted colonnaded façade, built by the same brothers who founded Raffles in Singapore, reveals high-ceilinged rooms with polished teak floors, Burmese lacquerware and antiques. Expect fine dining, a small spa and plenty of character.
• Bagan Thande is situated on the banks of the Irrawady River, and opened in 1922 to welcome King Edward. A local landmark, this riverside gem has characterful rooms with river views and traditional artwork. There's also a restful spa and restaurant serving delicious Burmese fare. A classic choice in the heart of Old Bagan.
• Belmond Governor's Residence is housed in a century-old teak mansion fringed by lotus ponds. Elegant rooms and suites feature wooden furnishings, big beds draped with mosquito nets and sink-into bathtubs. The pool is gorgeous and the food famously fabulous. A romantic & indulgent hideaway in Yangon.

For an Island Escape

• Wa Ale Island Resort is made up of just 14 treetop and tented villas on a tranquil island, surrounded by 9000 acres of leafy jungle. A luxurious eco-resort promising splendid isolation in southern Myanmar, this hideaway also boasts impressive eco-credentials, with no trees cut down during the build, and an ongoing commitment to community initiatives and preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. For nature lovers.

FOR GREAT VALUE

• The Haven is a simple, budget-friendly modern option for stays in Mandalay. Spacious mezzanine rooms are well-equipped for families, with kitchenettes and an additional area for little ones to sleep. The rooftop pool is superb.
• La Maison Birmane Boutique Hotel is a charming and affordable spot near Inle Lake. Chalet-style rooms are made of polished wood, with traditional Burmese interiors and private balconies. The French-Burmese cuisine is a highlight! Book a multi-bedroom Villa Suite for a trip with family and friends.
• Viewpoint Ecolodge offers stilted rooms on the edge of a private lagoon. Rooms have a classic Burmese feel, with handwoven textiles and lots of exposed wood. Enjoy the swimming pool, small spa and great cuisine — as well as the unusual setting. Very reasonably priced.
• Bagan King Hotel, just five minutes from Mandalay's Royal Palace, has a timeless, traditional feel with hardwood floors, carved wooden beds and handwoven textiles. Set across six stories, flexible room options will suit couples and friends as well as families. The romantic restaurant offers striking city views! Also great value.
• The Loft Hotel is a modern, great-value choice for couples, friends or families with just 32 guestrooms in Yangon. Interiors feature exposed brick walls, black steel and floor-to-ceiling windows promising plenty of light. The Franco-Burmese fusion cuisine is a highlight. A friendly boutique base.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly toYangon International Airport, to Mandalay International Airport or to another regional hub. Travel to your destination by road or rail. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• It's brilliant to have the independence of your own transport if you're comfortable driving in Asia. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Temperatures hover around 28-35°C for much of the year, with the heaviest rainfall expected between June and September. Travel between November and January for slightly cooler temperatures.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Yangon.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in neighbouring Thailand.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.