Getting Around in Chiang Mai
Part of the Chiang Mai travel guide — see every topic in All Chiang Mai Guides.
Chiang Mai is not very large, and there is no metro. People get around by shared red trucks called songthaews, by ride apps, by small buses, by bicycle and by scooter. The airport is close to the old city. Buses and minivans connect the city with Chiang Rai, Pai and other northern towns. This guide explains each option and how to use it.
From the airport
Chiang Mai International Airport is only a few kilometres southwest of the old city. The drive to the old city usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You can use the official taxi counter in the arrivals hall, which has fixed prices. Ride apps such as Grab and Bolt also work at the airport, and are often cheaper. A few RTC Smart Bus routes stop at the airport and are the cheapest option, but they have many stops. Many hotels can arrange a pickup for a fee. Have some small notes ready for the first ride, as not all drivers can change large notes.
Red songthaews
The red songthaew, called rot daeng in Thai, is a pickup truck with two benches in the back. Red trucks drive around the city with no fixed route. Wave one down and tell the driver where you want to go. If it fits their way, they take you and other passengers. Rides inside the old city cost a small fixed amount. For longer trips, agree on the price before you get in. To stop, press the buzzer in the roof. Trucks of other colours leave from Warorot Market and go to nearby towns on fixed routes. Pay the driver in cash when you get out.
Ride apps and buses
Ride apps are the easiest option for most visitors. Grab is the most common, and Bolt and Maxim also work in Chiang Mai. You see the price before you book, so there is no need to bargain. You can choose a car or a motorbike taxi. The RTC Smart Bus is an air-conditioned city bus with a few routes, including the airport. Single tickets are cheap and day passes are sold. Buses do not run often, so check the timetable in the app. Tuk-tuks are also common in tourist areas. Always agree on the price first.
Bicycles and scooters
Bicycles are good for the old city and Nimman, where distances are short. Many shops rent bikes by the day. Scooters are popular for trips to the mountains, but traffic and steep roads make them risky for new riders. Thai law requires a helmet and a valid motorcycle licence for the rider. Police often check riders at road stops around the city. Take photos of the scooter before you ride, to show any old damage. Do not leave your passport as a deposit; offer a copy and a cash deposit instead. Never ride after drinking alcohol.
Buses and minivans to other towns
Long-distance buses leave from the Arcade bus station, northeast of the old city. Green Bus runs comfortable buses to Chiang Rai many times a day, and the trip takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. Minivans to Pai also leave from the Arcade station. The road to Pai has many curves, so take a motion sickness tablet before you go. Buses and minivans also go to Mae Hong Son, Lampang and other towns. Buy tickets at the station or online, and book a day ahead in the busy season. Trains and flights connect Chiang Mai with Bangkok.
Getting Around at a glance
| Getting there | Chiang Mai International Airport is a few km from the old city; Arcade bus station for buses and minivans |
|---|---|
| Hours | Ride apps and red songthaews run day and evening; RTC Smart Bus on a timetable |
| Cost | Songthaews and buses are cheap; agree prices first for tuk-tuks and long songthaew trips |
| Best time | Avoid rush hours on weekday mornings and evenings |
| Apps | Grab, Bolt and Maxim work in Chiang Mai |