Chiang Mai travel guide
Chiang Mai Tourism | Chiang Mai Guide
You're Going to Love Chiang Mai
With a population of 200,952, Chiang Mai is the largest city in Chiang Mai, Thailand by the number of inhabitants. It is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country. We recommend you stay at least 4 days in order to fully appreciate everything Chiang Mai has to offer.
Activities & attractions in Chiang Mai
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Where to Eat in Chiang Mai
If you’re looking for affordable options, Khao by Four Seasons (Four Seasons Resort) and The Vorra Bistro - Old Town (184/1 Ratchamanka Rd) are great picks.
When to visit Chiang Mai
Looking for warm weather? Then head to Chiang Mai in April, when the average temperature is 84.2 °F, and the highest can go up to 96.8 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 57.2 °F, with an average temperature of 69.8 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in September, when precipitation is around 9.8″. In contrast, January is usually the driest month of the year in Chiang Mai, with an average rainfall of 0″.
How to Get to Chiang Mai
Plane
When flying to Chiang Mai, you’ll arrive at Chiang Mai (CNX), which is located 2 miles from the city center. The shortest flight to Chiang Mai from the United States departs from Los Angeles and takes around 19h 25m.
Train
State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is the only carrier operating train routes to Chiang Mai. The train station in Chiang Mai is called Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Railway Station, and is located 1.9 miles from the city center.
Car
Another option to get to Chiang Mai is to pick up a car rental from Chiang Rai, which is about 95 miles from Chiang Mai. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Budget, among others, in Chiang Rai.
Bus
Several bus lines operate bus routes to Chiang Mai, including Bangkok Bus Lines, Sombat Tour and Bus. The most popular bus station is Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2, located 2 miles from downtown Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is also a commonly used station, and is 2 miles from the city center.
Airlines serving Chiang Mai
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
From 5-star hotels such as the Meliá Chiang Mai to great affordable options like the ibis Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub, Chiang Mai offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around $29 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $105 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include OYO 799 Pudsadee Hotel and Dozy House. There are also lots of vacation rental options in Chiang Mai, with prices from $11 to $238 per night. Chang Khlan is the neighborhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, vacation rentals in Chiang Mai are about 2% more expensive than a hotel room in the city.
Where to stay in popular areas of Chiang Mai
Most booked hotels in Chiang Mai
Renting a car in Chiang Mai
Renting a car in Chiang Mai costs $27 per day, on average, or $107 if you want to rent if for 4 days.
It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 11% cheaper than airport locations in Chiang Mai.
Expect to pay $4.96 per gallon in Chiang Mai (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $59.51 and $79.34. Economy (Chevrolet Spark or similar) is the most popular car type to rent in Chiang Mai, while also 52% cheaper than other types, on average.