Chiang Mai is regularly featured as one of the top recommendations for a trip to Thailand. The jewel in the Northern Thailand crown, this city and its slower pace of life will draw you in, as well as providing a friendly home base for further adventures around the region.
Get To Chiang Mai
As Thailand’s second city, Chiang Mai is easily accessible by plane, train and bus. Travelling from Bangkok, flying is of course the quickest option, and direct flights can be found from other cities in Asia too. However, taking a bus from Bangkok is a good option for budget-conscious travellers (approx. £15-22) and is often quicker than the train.
That said, I recommend trying the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, especially in a first class cabin where possible. Sitting in the middle-ground in terms of price (approx. £30 per person), the journey takes around 12 hours but passes quickly when enjoying the comfort of your own private cabin. As a bonus, you save on accommodation costs by travelling overnight, arriving in Chiang Mai in the morning, ready for the day ahead! Coffee is supplied on board for a small fee in the evening and the morning. Remember to pack your own snacks, toilet paper and hand sanitiser though as these aren’t usually provided.
You can buy tickets for the bus and train from 12go here.
Get Around Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a compact and very walkable city, particularly in the central, walled city area. However, when the sightseeing becomes too much for your feet or if you are going further afield, there are plenty of tuk tuks and songthaews available to take you where you need to go.
Songthaews are a common sight in the city and are easily identified by their red colour. These taxis can carry several passengers at once, kind of like a bus. Similar to a tuk tuk, you’ll need to agree a price with the driver before climbing aboard and waiting for your stop.
Transport options can become few and far between later into the evening. In this case, Grab would be your best option. Just like Uber, Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia and I recommend downloading the app before your trip for times when you can’t find a tuk tuk or songthaew.
Get Stuck Into Chiang Mai
Now you’re in Chiang Mai and know how to get around – where do you go first? There is so much to do in this beautiful city. Below are a few recommendations on where to stay, eat and visit to get you started!
Where to Eat: Nun’s Restaurant
My number one restaurant in Chiang Mai! Nun’s Restaurant is a local gem serving authentic, fresh Northern Thai dishes. A must visit!
What to See: Temples
With over 300 temples and Wats packed into Chiang Mai and its surrounding province, there is no shortage of beautiful buildings and complexes to explore. One of my favourites is Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, in the old city. Be sure to remain respectful during your visits, covering shoulders and knees and removing shoes before entering buildings.
Where to Stay: Pingviman Hotel
Chiang Mai is a popular destination and has a host of different hotels and hostels on offer, but if you’re looking for guaranteed comfort, a great breakfast and a relaxing oasis in the heart of the city, Pingviman is the ideal spot.
Looking for more ideas? You can find a list of great things to do in Chiang Mai here and the best places to eat and drink here.
