The beloved highland city of Chiang Mai is rich in cultural, religious, natural, and historical significance, serving as Northern Thailand’s hub of civilization for centuries. Tourists flock here to witness the stunning mountain vistas, the unique Lanna-style temples, and the diverse local cuisine that differs from Central Thailand’s flavors.
While Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's largest and busiest cities, it currently lacks a comprehensive public transportation network connecting all areas. Consequently, your options for getting around are somewhat limited to car rentals, songthaew buses (small city buses repurposed from pickup trucks), familiar tuk tuks like those in Bangkok, motorbike rentals, and bicycles. Each mode of transport offers a distinct experience, allowing you to explore the city like a true local. Let’s delve into these transportation options for your Chiang Mai adventure.
Getting Around in Chiang Mai
SongthaewCar Hire
Book a car through Mytour:
Benefits of hiring a car with Mytour: Chiang Mai is a relatively straightforward city, with most attractions located within the urban area. However, navigating without a car can be challenging, making trip planning and scheduling difficult. Having a car allows you to drive at your convenience using a navigation app, enabling you to explore various attractions and historical sites without relying on shared taxis (songthaew), where you often need to negotiate prices and routes. Communication can be tricky if you're not fluent in Thai, and it’s easy to get disoriented without clear knowledge of the stops.Songthaew
Unique Features/Benefits: Although songthaew has its drawbacks, such as the absence of a set schedule leading to potentially long waits, drivers who may try to negotiate for the entire vehicle, and communication challenges, riding in a songthaew can still be enjoyable. With an open-air vibe, these vehicles often stop at major shopping centers, markets, and hotels. When you reach a landmark, look out for these buses and inquire about their destinations. Your hotel can also provide information on whether songthaew services are available nearby and how to return from attractions.Visual Description: Songthaew mini-buses, also known as “red vehicles,” are typically pickup trucks outfitted with roofs and two long benches in the back for passengers to sit in a row. To board or exit, simply call out or press the buzzer (or push a button, you get the idea). Waving at them as they pass by usually works as well.Pricing:
Routes: There are songthaew that follow fixed routes and those available for hire. The white ones (Northeast) head towards the Sankampaeng area, yellow ones (North) go to Mae Rim and the northern regions, blue ones (South) travel to Sapapee and Lamphun, and green ones service the Mae Jo University vicinity. You don’t need to worry too much about directions; simply ask the driver if they can take you where you want to go, or check with your hotel staff beforehand. The vehicles affiliated with your hotel might cover all the destinations you need. At Warorot Market, you’ll find all the songthaew gathered, allowing you to transfer to other routes. If you spot one while walking along the street, just wave and inquire if they’re headed to your destination.Tuk Tuk
Differences Between Tuk Tuk and Songthaew: Choose a Tuk Tuk for groups of three or fewer if you want a direct, private ride to your destination. Tuk Tuks function similarly to taxis, minus the air conditioning, making them a great option for quick trips where you don’t want to stress about navigation. In contrast, Songthaew stops at various popular spots along the way, requiring you to keep track of your arrival since there are rarely clear announcements at every stop. Like a taxi, Tuk Tuks provide door-to-door service. However, they tend to be pricier than Songthaew, as fares fluctuate depending on your pick-up and drop-off locations.Pricing:
Motorbike Hire
How to Rent a Motorbike in Chiang Mai:
Cost of Rental:
What’s Included When Renting a Motorbike?:
Requirements:
Bicycle Hire
How to Rent a Bicycle:
Cost of Rental:
We hope the information above has shed some light on your vacation plans! In summary: opt for songthaew when visiting popular attractions or shopping centers, as these red buses primarily stop there. Choose tuk tuks for quick, private open-air rides over short distances. If you prefer not to haggle over prices with locals, renting a car or motorcycle is a solid choice. For a leisurely experience, consider bicycles to enjoy the sights, especially around the old city walls. Although the city predominantly relies on cars, songthaew (red buses), and tuk tuks, combining these transportation options will provide you with a fun experience akin to that of a local.
