Getting Around Chiang Mai
Getting Around Chiang Mai
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
Getting around in Chiang Mai can be a bit of a maze at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's surprisingly efficient. The city is compact, so through walking, public transport, and the occasional tuk-tuk, you're usually never far from your destination.There are a few main types of public transport available here. You’ve got songthaews (red pickup trucks that double as taxis), tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. The songthaews are probably your best bet for longer distances across the city; they operate from around 6 AM to 10 PM. I find that for short trips, especially when I’m solo, taking a motorbike taxi can be a fun adventure. Just be prepared to negotiate your fare; it typically ranges from 20 to 50 Baht depending on the distance, which is super affordable compared to taxis or rideshares.
Oh, before I forget, many visitors think they can hop onto a songthaew without knowing the route or destination. Trust me, I made this mistake the first time I came here. Not only did I end up going in the opposite direction, but I also didn’t get my money’s worth. Speaking of songthaews, a great tip is to look for the ones with a red flag at the back — they're usually running a set route, making it easier for you to jump on.
One of my frustrations is rush hour; it can get pretty chaotic around Nimmanhaemin and the Old City, especially at 5 PM. I once spent nearly an hour crammed in a songthaew with the heat cranking up — not fun! But here’s a pleasant surprise: late-night food runs are easy with motorbike taxis. You can grab some amazing street food from the Night Bazaar and have a ride home in a matter of minutes, usually for about 40 Baht.
Don’t forget that during the rainy season, the roads can get slippery. Keep an eye out for puddles when hailing a motorbike taxi! If you’re traveling with a group, co-share a songthaew to save money; it makes it a more social experience too.
In terms of pricing, a regular songthaew ticket is much cheaper than a taxi. A typical trip could cost you between 20 to 30 Baht, while a taxi might set you back at least 100-150 Baht. Just be mindful of peak hours when fares can increase slightly due to the demand.
For getting to popular spots like the Chiang Mai Night Safari or Doi Suthep, take the local bus number 10. And safety-wise, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas.
All in all, whether you're heading to a temple or simply exploring, embracing the local transport quirks can be half the adventure!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The moto service in Chiang Mai is widely available and is an excellent way to navigate the city's narrow streets and busy markets. Typical fares start at around 20 to 50 baht for short distances, and it's common to pay the driver directly in cash at the end of your ride. For tourists, it's advisable to negotiate a fare before getting on, especially for longer distances to areas like Doi Suthep or the Night Bazaar. A great tip is to ask your hotel or local shops for recommendations on reliable moto drivers who are accustomed to working with tourists—certainly a way to ensure you're not overcharged. Remember to always wear a helmet, as safety is a priority while riding; helmets are usually provided by the driver.
popular with tourists
Walking in Chiang Mai is an excellent way to explore the city’s rich culture and historic sites, especially in the Old City where many attractions are within walking distance. It’s completely free to stroll around, but consider carrying cash for small purchases at local markets or street food vendors as many places do not accept cards. Key routes include the moat surrounding the Old City and the vibrant streets like Ratchadamnoen, which hosts numerous temples and bustling night markets. To save time, start early in the day to avoid the heat and enjoy fewer crowds at popular sites like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Lastly, be cautious when walking near busy roads; always use crosswalks and watch for motorbikes and tuk-tuks, especially in high-traffic areas.
The bus system in Chiang Mai primarily consists of local buses, known as "songthaews," which are red pick-up trucks that operate on designated routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. Fares typically range from 20 to 50 baht depending on the distance, and you can pay in cash when you board; make sure to have small denominations on hand as change may not be available. One key route to consider is the one that travels to Nimmanhaemin, where you'll find trendy shops and cafés, while the Central Festival area is another popular destination accessed by public transport. To save time, be aware of the bus schedules, which can vary, and try to travel outside of peak hours to avoid crowds. Lastly, always confirm your destination with the driver before boarding to ensure you are on the correct route, as stops may not be clearly marked.
Taxis in Chiang Mai are widely available and can easily be hailed on the street, especially in tourist areas like the Night Bazaar, Nimmanhaemin, and Chiang Mai Old City. Fares are typically metered starting at around 35 THB, with additional charges for distance, so expect a ride from the airport to the Old City to cost approximately 150-200 THB, plus any possible tolls. When using a taxi, it's wise to have your destination written in Thai or use a mobile app like Grab for easier communication and to ensure accurate pricing. Always confirm that the driver uses the meter before starting your ride, and remember to check the vehicle's condition while paying attention to personal safety by opting for reputable taxis with visible identification. If you're planning a day of sightseeing, consider booking a taxi for a half-day or full-day, which can save you time and be more economical.
The auto services in Chiang Mai, primarily taxi and tuk-tuk taxis, are widely available and can take you to popular tourist destinations such as the Old City, Doi Suthep, and the Night Bazaar. Most drivers do not use meters, so it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand— a typical short ride within the city costs around 40-100 THB. For convenience, always carry small denominations of cash since many drivers may not have change for larger bills. It’s also wise to download a local navigation app like Google Maps to help communicate your destination clearly in case of a language barrier. Lastly, prioritize safety by choosing well-reviewed taxis or tuk-tuks, preferably with a visible sign, and avoid accepting rides from unlicensed vehicles.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Chiang Mai. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.