Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is only 10–15 minutes from the Old City, with frequent flights from both Bangkok airports and direct services from Phuket, Krabi and several Asian cities. Fixed-fare taxis and ride-hailing cars wait outside arrivals.
The train from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat terminal takes 10–13 hours; second-class sleeper berths on the newer overnight trains are comfortable and should be reserved well ahead in high season. Long-distance buses from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal take around 9–10 hours and arrive at the Arcade bus station, which also serves Chiang Rai, Pai and Mae Hong Son.
Routes at a glance
| From | Best route | Time | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | Direct flight to CNX | About 1 h 15 min | Fares vary widely by date |
| Bangkok | Overnight sleeper train | 10–13 hours | Roughly 800–1,500 THB for a berth |
| Bangkok | VIP night bus from Mo Chit | About 9–10 hours | Around 600–900 THB |
| Chiang Rai | Greenbus from Arcade bus station | About 3–3.5 hours | Around 200–350 THB |
| Pai | Minivan over Route 1095 | About 3 hours | Around 200–250 THB |
| Phuket or Krabi | Direct flight | About 2 hours | Fares vary widely by date |
Getting around Chiang Mai
The Old City is small enough to walk or cycle. For longer hops, flag down a red songthaew — a shared pick-up truck that follows no fixed route: tell the driver where you are going and pay a small flat fare if it is on the way. Ride-hailing apps work well. Scooters are widely rented, but police check for motorcycle licences and most travel insurance excludes unlicensed riders.
