City Guide

• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• The Basics
• Contacts
• Attractions
• Excursions
• Events
• Restaurants
• Shopping
• Airports
• Transport
• Climate
• Photos
• Hotels in Chiang Mai
• Flights to Chiang Mai

Activities

• Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Maps

Directory

• Car Hire
• Hostels
• Tour Operators
• Cheap Airfares

Time

Transport

Chiang Mai is tourist-oriented, and it is therefore relatively easy to get around, with several transport options. Three-wheeled tuk tuks, also known as samlors, are usually the quickest means of transport, and fares should be negotiated before travelling. Songthaews are another novel (if slightly hair-raising) way to travel. Songthaews are small, usually red, pickup trucks with benches fitted along the side; they have no fixed route but pick up and drop off passengers like buses and need to be flagged down. Be sure to check the destination with the driver. The Chiang Mai bus service is very limited; catching a metered taxi can be difficult at times as well. Renting a motorbike is a popular option, and car rental agencies are also available, though traffic can be heavy, and it is advised to rather hire a car with a driver. Bicycles are another good way to explore Chiang Mai and can be hired in the old city, though one does have to watch out for drivers.