Cinemas in Chiang Mai

As a total movie buff, I never want to miss the next big, Hollywood blockbuster. Luckily, there are many English language screenings of the latest movies available in Thailand and even Thai movies often come with English subtitles.

Prices for movie tickets range between 100-250 Baht ($2.50-$6.50), which makes going to the cinema in Chiang Mai an affordable entertainment option especially during the rainy season.

The cheap prices compared to Europe or the USA don’t mean a bad movie experience though. Movie theaters in Thailand are often brand new and come with the latest projection equipment.

This list of cinemas in Chiang Mai will help you choose the best theatre for your next trip to the movies!

Good to know: All cinemas in Thailand play the Thai Royal Anthem before the movie begins. While the clip is being played, you are supposed to stand up to pay your respect to the King of Thailand.

SFX Cinema at Maya Mall

Convenience is what makes the SFX cinema my go-to-cinema for smaller or less anticipated films. It is located in Maya Mall at the intersection of Huay Kaew and Nimmanahaeminda Road. Thus it’s easily and quickly reachable from almost everywhere inside the city.

It’s probably the most popular cinema in Chiang Mai and therefore often crowded. If you really, really want to make sure to get a seat, check availability online before you go – especially on weekends.

SFX Cinema also takes part in the annual EU Film Festival that takes place around July. During this time you can watch a variety of European movies for around 80 Baht per screening.

Deluxe Seats: ~140 Baht
Premium Seats: ~160 Baht
Couch (2 Seats): ~430 Baht
First Class Seats: ~390 Baht (incl. popcorn and drink)

Major Cineplex at CentralFestival

Major Cineplex is simply the best cinema in Chiang Mai. Sadly, it’s also located outside the city centre at the CentralFestival mall.

Since it comes equipped with an IMAX theatre, it is my first choice for big hollywood blockbusters like “Guardians of the Galaxy” or “Star Wars”. Action- and effect-packed movies really shine on the huge screen at Major Cineplex.

Another reason to visit is the 4DX cinema that will make your movie experience a wild rollercoaster ride (literally!). While I think it’s a little bit over the top, it’s definitely worth checking out once.

Normal Seats: ~190 Baht
Honeymoon Seats: ~210 Baht

Major Cineplex at Central Airport Plaza

This branch of the Major Cinemas is comparable in size and quality to the SFX Cinema at Maya Mall and a more easily and quicker reachable alternative for people who live in the south of Chiang Mai.

Normal Seats: ~190 Baht
Honeymoon Seats: ~210 Baht

SF Cinema City at Promenada Mall

Promenada Mall has gotten a little bit more attention since Chiang Mai Immigration has moved its offices there. Roughly at the same time SF Cinema City has appeared on my radar.

It’s a brand new cinema with an IMAX and the regular digital projection cinemas. It’s almost never crowded which makes it perfect for a stressless movie night.

Deluxe Seats: ~140 Baht
Premium Seats: ~160 Baht
Couch (2 Seats): ~430 Baht
First Class Seats: ~390 Baht (incl. popcorn and drink)

Vista Cinema at Kad Suan Kaew

I mention the cinema at Kad Suan Kaew just to complete the list. It cannot really be recommended to watch a movie here if you want to have a great experience.

Like with most of what’s found inside the oldest mall in Chiang Mai, time has also taken its toll on the cinema.

Since the prices aren’t that much cheaper, you’re better off visiting one of the newer cinemas in town.

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 90 Baht
Public holidays, weekends, new movies: 110 Baht

Other places to watch a movie in Chiang Mai

Documentary Arts Asia

Documentary Arts Asia is a non-profit organization that is usually known for supporting documentary artists mostly with photography/videography courses and exhibitions of their work.

However twice a week at 7PM, their new headquarters are transformed into a makeshift cinema with Asia-themed cinematic movies on Mondays and documentaries on Thursdays.

The cinema at Documentary Arts Asia is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in Asian cinema (Mondays) or important political and environmental topics (Thursdays). The movie schedule always offers an interesting film for everyone. Be sure to also check their Facebook Page for news about the movie screenings.

Price: Donation of min. 60 Baht (incl. free popcorn)