Traveling to a foreign country can sometimes feel confusing, especially when you’re unsure how to move around. If you’re heading to Chiang Mai, a city in northern Thailand, knowing the available transportation options can make your journey much easier. Although they might be concerned about finding the best restaurants, planning day trips, or figuring out the next destination after Chiang Mai, transportation happens to be an afterthought.
However, understanding how to get around Thailand with buses, trains, and private transfers is key to having a smooth, stress-free experience. In this guide, we’ll share with you the best ways to travel around Chiang Mai, from affordable buses to comfortable private transfers.
Night Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
To have a unique journey, you can choose the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which lasts approximately 15 hours. Trains leave from the recently inaugurated Bang Sue Grand Station, which can be reached by taking the MRT Subway that goes all the way to the station’s final stop. If it’s easier for you, you have the option to also catch a taxi. Night trains usually depart from Bangkok in the evening, enabling you to reach Chiang Mai early the following morning. One benefit of this trip is that the seats you use in the daytime are converted into sleeping arrangements by a train employee at night, resulting in a rather cozy journey. Nevertheless, it is crucial to mention that not all trains provide equal comfort, with some containing sleeper berths and others only offering seats. Some have air conditioning, others only have fans.
Booking in advance is essential when navigating Thailand using buses, trains, and private transfers, particularly during peak travel times when tickets tend to sell out fast. We recommend booking through a service like Bookaway or buying tickets directly at the station.
Bus to Chiang Mai
Taking the bus to Chiang Mai is by far the most economical option, though it might not offer the highest comfort level. But if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind the longer travel time, the bus is a solid choice. The trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costs less than $15, and the journey lasts around 11 hours, depending on the driver. Buses depart from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal, which is located near the BTS Skytrain’s Mochit Station, close to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. It’s about a ฿50 taxi ride to the bus terminal from the train station.
The bus is a great option to kick off your Chiang Mai adventure for budget travelers or backpackers, even if it may seem a bit intimidating when you first arrive in a new place.
Here’s what you need to know: there are three main bus routes that all head towards central Chiang Mai. These buses circle parts of the moat surrounding the old town, and you can find them just outside the arrivals hall at the white bus stop sign.
- 24A Yellow Bus: This route takes you to Nimman Road before heading to Saun Dok Gate.
- 24B Red Bus: This bus travels in the opposite direction, first stopping at Chiang Mai Gate and Tha Pae Gate, then heading toward the old town and finally reaching Chang Puak Gate.
- 24C Green Bus: This route also goes to Chiang Mai Gate and Tha Pae Gate, but then continues further out to the flower market and train station.
The fare for the bus is only 20 THB (about $0.50), and they run every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM until 11:30 PM.
Chiang Mai Airport Transfer
Booking a private transfer is the most convenient option for traveling from Chiang Mai Airport to the Old City. While this choice may be the most straightforward, it may not always be the most economical.
Bookaway offers private airport transfers to Chiang Mai hotels, starting at $12 for a car that can accommodate four people or $16 for a van that can fit nine passengers. If you are going on a trip with a big group and prefer a convenient option, this might be the top pick. Numerous hotels and hostels provide the option to organize private transfers for you, with payment occurring upon your arrival.
An advantage of reserving a private transfer is the comfort of knowing that the driver will be at the airport and holding a sign with your name.
Helpful Phrases for Chiang Mai Transportation
Knowing some simple Thai phrases can greatly simplify transportation while traveling in Chiang Mai. Below are several key terms and phrases that can assist you in interacting with the driver:
- Airport: Sanam bin
- Plane: Krueng bin
- Taxi: Teksi
- Bicycle: Jakgrayaan
- Motorcycle: Moodteesai
- Bus Station: Satani rote may
- Ticket: Tua
- Subway: Rodfai dtaaidin
- To go: Bpai
- How far is it to __?: Pai tao rai __?
If You Don’t Want to Drive: Get Around Thailand with Convenient Transportation
If driving is not for you, don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to get around Thailand. Chiang Mai offers three main modes of transportation: walking, public transportation (like buses and tuk-tuks), and taxis/ride-hailing services such as Grab or Bolt.
Walking
Walking is a great way to explore Chiang Mai, especially if you’re staying in the Old City, where many attractions are within walking distance. Just make sure to use Google Maps, as Apple Maps can be unreliable in Thailand. However, keep in mind that the heat can be intense, so walking is best for shorter distances.
Also, watch out for uneven sidewalks and low-hanging wires—these are common in Thailand. While walking is an ideal way to experience the city’s charm, it’s best to stay on busy roads where the sidewalks are better maintained.
Public Transportation
Buses are a cost-effective way to get around Chiang Mai. Although information online can sometimes be unreliable, it’s best to visit bus stations in person to confirm schedules and destinations. You can use websites like 12Go Asia or Rome2Rio to get an idea of routes, but purchasing your ticket at the station is often the most reliable option.
Tuk-tuks are another popular mode of transportation in Chiang Mai. These three-wheeled vehicles are not the fastest way to get around, but they’re a fun and affordable experience. Depending on your destination, a tuk-tuk ride can cost as little as 10 THB. Just be prepared for some language barriers when communicating with drivers—Google Translate is your friend in these situations!
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Grab and Bolt are Thailand’s most common ride-hailing services, similar to Uber or Lyft in the United States. Both offer affordable options for getting around the city, and you can choose between a car or a motorbike ride. Motorbikes are often faster, especially in heavy traffic, as drivers can weave through vehicles and cut their travel time.
When using these services, remember to be flexible and understanding. In Thailand, it’s not uncommon for drivers to have their children in the car or make a quick stop to pick up a family member. Just go with the flow, and your trip will be much more enjoyable.
Chiang Mai offers a variety of transportation options to accommodate all types of travelers, whether they prefer taking a bus, train, or private transfer. Although buses and public transportation are cost-effective options, private transfers provide convenience that may justify the additional expense.
Online travel agencies like Bookaway offer you a free way to book your transfers in advance. A bit of planning goes a long way in making your travel around Chiang Mai smooth and enjoyable.