From Chiang Mai Airport to town

There is a licensed airport taxi service available at the taxi kiosk. Buy a ticket and present it to the drivers waiting by the arrivals exit area. The trip will cost approximately 120 bahts and seats 3-4 people depending on luggage size.

Many hotels provide complimentary transportation between the airport, railway station or bus terminals for guests who have made advance reservations. Check with your hotel the arrangement for transportation. Sometimes you will be charged a small fee per person

From Chiang Mai Train and Bus Terminal to town

You can easily get a red taxi (song taew), tuk-tuk or taxi-meter to town. Some drivers want to show you places to stay if you don’t have a reservation yet.

Around Town

1. For short distances you can take a tuk-tuk Fares must be negotiated in advance. Short rides within the city costs between 40 and 80 bahts.

2. Just new in town is the meter-taxi, the same as those running around Bangkok.

3. Song taew (red taxi) is the most common means of transportation. Passengers can hop in and out as they wish. Simply tell the driver the destination and negotiate the price before boarding. The fare depends on the distance and if they drive on their regular route. You can also bargain for sightseeing and make your own trip around town.

4. Motorbike Rental. Some travelers prefer to drive a motorbike around the city. Motorbikes can be rented from shops and certain guesthouses almost everywhere in town. Beware of your own safety. Helmets are not of Western standards and will not help you much in case of an accident. Neither will be the insurance.

5. Car Rental. You will find all major car rental companies such as AVIS, Budget, and Hertz, in Chiang Mai. There are also a lot of Thai car rental companies who offer various luxury car models and Jeeps and can provide suggestions on travel itineraries.

6. Minivan Service. When you travel with your own group and need reliable transporation, just rent a minivan with a driver.