A traveller's guide to
Chiang Mai
The north's slow-paced capital: a walled old city of temples and coffee shops, with mountains, waterfalls and villages an easy ride away.
Getting around
- Red songthaew trucks work like shared taxis; agree the fare before getting in, or use an app to avoid the conversation entirely.
- The old city is compact and walkable, though pavements are an adventure.
- Scooters are popular for day trips to Doi Suthep and Mae Rim, but only ride with the right licence and a helmet.
- Grab and Bolt both operate here and are reliable in and around the city.
Connectivity tip
Coverage is strong across the old city, Nimman and the main valley. It thins out on mountain roads and in the national parks, so download offline maps before heading up Doi Suthep or out to the waterfalls.
How coverage works in ThailandWork from Nimman
Chiang Mai is one of Asia's original remote-work hubs. Nimmanhaemin is wall-to-wall cafés with power sockets and fast Wi-Fi.
Sunday Walking Street
Ratchadamnoen closes to traffic on Sunday evenings for the best market in the north. Arrive at dusk, eat as you go.
Ethical elephants only
Choose sanctuaries with no riding and no shows. Book ahead — the credible ones fill up days in advance.
Heading to Chiang Mai?
Get online
Install a Thailand eSIM before you fly and land with maps, rides and messages already working.