This research study aimed to explore and analyze the potential of ancient cities in the Chiang Mai-Lamphun basin, to develop a geospatial database system of the ancient cities, and to propose guidelines for the development of spatial tourism in the ancient city groups in the Chiang Mai-Lamphun basin. The study was conducted by using research methods of content analysis, area surveys, observations, development of a geospatial database system, and overlay analysis. Based on the content analysis, the ancient cities could be classified into 4 periods, namely, Hariphunchai Period during the Buddhist centuries 13-19, Lanna Kingdom Establishment Period during the Buddhist centuries 19–21 which was the peak of its development, Burma-Governed Lanna Period during the Buddhist centuries 21–23, and Lanna Restoration Period starting from B.E. 2317 onwards. Based on location factors, transport routes, ancient city elements, and factors that support the tourism such as attractions, ease of accessibility to tourist attractions, amenities, accommodations, and activities on the GIS of the traveling period between the ancient city areas, the spatial potential of the ancient cities for tourism could be classified as follows:
1) The ancient city group in the context of Chiang Mai was a group of ancient cities during the time of the Lanna Empire and its highest development. The urban group has potential and development linked to the current Chiang Mai tourism, such as Wiang Suan Dok, Wiang Chet Lin, Wiang Bua, Wiang Kum Kam, Wiang Pa Ngae, and Wiang Dong.
2) Ancient cities in the context of Lamphun and Chiang Mai suburbs were Hariphunchai, Wiang Manoe, Wiang Tha Kan, Wieng Thao, Wiang Mae, Maung Khan, Mueang Quok, Wiang, Pa Sang, and Wiang Nong Pham. This is a group of ancient cities during the Hariphunchai Period during the establishment of the Lanna Kingdom and its highest development. Besides, it was during the restoration of Lanna country. It has potential and development linked to the main city of Chiang Mai and the second city of Lamphun.
3) Ancient city groups on marginal areas in the local context are consistent with potential and development under local context and resources, such as sub-urban groups, namely, Wiang Nong Long, Wiang Sakaeng, Wiang Wai, and Maung Klang. As for single cities, they are Maung Kaen, Maung Kut, Wiang Kaen, Maung On, and Wiang Hod. Most of them were cities during the time of the establishment of the Lanna Kingdom and its highest development, except Wiang Hod which was a city during the Hariphunchai Period.
However, the development of the potential of all ancient cities needs to consider the interconnection of the urban system in the Chiang Mai-Lamphun basin integratively with tourism development that meets the needs of all parties. It should take into account the viewing and preservation of cultural heritage and ecology in the ancient city areas in the Chiang Mai-Lamphun basin for further sustainability.