Getting Around Chiang Mai Like a Local: The Ultimate Guide to Songthaews, Grab, and Scooter Rentals

You’ve arrived in Chiang Mai. You’ve stepped off the plane or the train, and the first thing you notice is the air—a little cooler than Bangkok, perhaps—and the mountains looming in the distance. But as you step out onto the curb, you notice something else. The streets are a colorful, chaotic symphony of movement.

There are bright red trucks picking people up on every corner. Motorbikes weave through traffic like water flowing around rocks. Three-wheeled tuk-tuks sputter and zoom past with flashing lights. And then there are the modern cars with their hazard lights on, waiting for passengers.

For a first-time visitor, the question isn't just "Where do I go?" but "How on earth do I get there?"

Navigating a new city in Southeast Asia can be intimidating. The fear of getting scammed, the confusion of language barriers, and the sheer unpredictability of traffic can make you want to retreat to your hotel room. But here is the secret: Getting around Chiang Mai is actually incredibly easy, affordable, and fun—once you know the rules.

In this comprehensive guide, we are going to break down every single mode of transport available in the Rose of the North. We will teach you how to hail a Songthaew like a pro, how to navigate the legalities of renting a scooter, and how to use modern apps to get door-to-door service. By the end of this post, you won't just be a tourist; you’ll be traveling like a local.

1. The Icon of Chiang Mai: The Red Truck (Songthaew)

If London has double-decker buses and Venice has gondolas, Chiang Mai has the Rod Daeng (Red Car), officially known as a Songthaew.

"Songthaew" literally translates to "Two Rows," referring to the two benches in the back of the converted pickup truck where passengers sit facing each other. They are ubiquitous, affordable, and the absolute best way to get around the city for short to medium distances. However, they don't operate like a standard taxi or a standard bus. They are a hybrid.

How to Use a Songthaew:

1. The Hail: Stand on the side of the road (look for a spot where the driver can pull over safely). When you see a red truck coming, simply extend your hand with your palm facing down and wave it slightly. Do not put your thumb up like a hitchhiker.

2. The Negotiation: Walk to the passenger side window. The driver will roll it down. State your destination clearly. Landmarks work best (e.g., "Thapae Gate," "Central Festival," "Nimman Road").

   • Pro Tip: You don't need to ask "How much?" for short trips within the Old City or just outside it. The standard rate is usually 30 Baht per person. If the driver nods or says "Okay," assume it is 30 Baht.

   • If you are going somewhere far, or if the driver quotes you a higher price (e.g., "50 Baht" or "100 Baht"), you can either accept it or wait for the next truck.

3. The Ride: Hop in the back. You might be alone, or you might be squeezed in with monks, students, grandmothers with groceries, or other tourists. This is part of the charm! The driver will pick up and drop off other passengers along the way, so your route might not be direct. Enjoy the breeze and the view.

4. The Stop: When you see your destination approaching (or you check Google Maps and see you are close), look for the buzzer button located on the ceiling or the roof of the cabin. Press it once firmly. The driver will pull over.

5. The Payment: Get out, walk around to the driver's window, and hand him the cash. Try to have small bills (20s, 50s, or 100s). Drivers often don't have change for a 1,000 Baht note. Smile, say "Khop Khun Krub/Ka," and walk away.

The Other Colors of Songthaews: While Red Trucks roam freely around the city, you will see other colors at the Chang Phueak Bus Terminal (North Gate) and Warorot Market. These have fixed routes to other districts:

• Yellow: Mae Rim and northern districts.

• Blue: Sarapee and Lamphun.

• White: Sankamphaeng.

• Green: Mae Jo. Use these if you are planning a specific day trip out of the city center for a very low price.

2. The Modern Solution: Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Bolt, Maxim)

If the idea of negotiating with a driver in Thai makes you nervous, or if you just want the comfort of air conditioning and a guaranteed price, ride-hailing apps are your best friend.

The Big Three:

• Grab: This is the "Uber" of Southeast Asia. It is the most reliable, has the most drivers, and the app is extremely user-friendly (in English). You can book "GrabCar" (private car), "GrabTaxi" (metered taxi), or "GrabBike" (motorbike taxi).

  • Pros: Reliable, credit card payment in-app, tracks your ride for safety.

  • Cons: Usually the most expensive option, especially during rainy weather or rush hour (5 PM - 7 PM).

• Bolt: A major competitor to Grab.

  • Pros: often 20-30% cheaper than Grab.

  • Cons: Fewer drivers, so wait times can be longer. You usually have to pay cash to the driver (though card options are appearing).

• Maxim: The budget option.

  • Pros: Very cheap.

  • Cons: The map interface can be clunky, and drivers sometimes cancel if the location is too far. Mostly cash only.

How to Use Them Like a Local:

1. Download all three. Compare prices before you book. Sometimes Grab is surging, but Bolt is normal.

2. Pin Precisely. Chiang Mai has many small alleys (sois). Make sure your pickup pin is exactly where you are standing, or choose a nearby landmark (like a 7-Eleven or a hotel) to make it easier for the driver to find you.

3. GrabBike for Solo Speed. If you are traveling alone and want to beat the traffic, order a GrabBike. The driver will arrive on a scooter, hand you a helmet (wear it!), and zip you through the traffic jams. It’s cheaper and faster than a car.

3. The Classic Tourist Ride: The Tuk-Tuk

In Bangkok, Tuk-Tuks have a reputation for being aggressive or involved in scams. In Chiang Mai, the vibe is much more chilled, but they are still primarily a transport for tourists or for carrying heavy goods.

Tuk-Tuks in Chiang Mai do not have meters. You must negotiate the price before you get in.

• When to use them: When you have luggage, when you’ve done too much shopping at the Sunday Walking Street, or when you just want a fun, breezy ride for the Instagram experience.

• The Cost: Expect to pay more than a Songthaew or a Grab. A short hop might start at 100-150 Baht. It is not the economical choice, but it is an experience!

• Negotiation Tip: Smile! If a driver says 200 Baht, and you think it should be 150, ask politely. If they say no, just say thank you and walk to the next one. There is always another Tuk-Tuk.

4. The Ultimate Freedom: Renting a Scooter

For many, the dream of Chiang Mai involves renting a scooter and driving up the winding mountain roads of Doi Suthep. It offers ultimate freedom—you can go where you want, when you want. However, it is also the most dangerous way to travel and carries the most legal risks.

The "Legal" Reality: To legally drive a scooter in Thailand, you need a Thai Driving License or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement.

• Crucial Note: Your car license from home is not sufficient.

• Police Checkpoints: Chiang Mai police set up checkpoints daily, usually around the moat corners or on the road to Doi Suthep. They specifically look for tourists. If you are stopped without a motorcycle license, you will be fined (usually 500-1,000 Baht). You pay the fine on the spot or at the station, and you get a receipt that allows you to drive for the rest of 3 days.

• Insurance: If you have an accident and you do not have a valid motorcycle license, your travel insurance will likely void your coverage. This is a massive financial risk. Please consider this carefully.

If You Choose to Rent:

1. Choose a Reputable Shop: Do not just rent from the cheapest place with a cardboard sign. Look for shops with high ratings on Google Maps (like Bamboo Bikes, Mango Bikes, or Cat Motors). Good shops maintain their brakes and tires.

2. The Deposit: Most shops require a deposit. Usually, this is 3,000 - 5,000 Baht in cash, OR leaving your original passport. We strongly recommend paying the cash deposit. Avoid leaving your passport with anyone if you can help it.

3. The Inspection: Before you drive away, take a video on your phone of the entire bike. Zoom in on every scratch, dent, and crack. Test the brakes. Check the lights. Send this video to the rental shop's WhatsApp or Line account immediately so there is a timestamped record. This protects you from being blamed for old damage.

4. HELMETS: Always, always, always wear a helmet. Not only is it the law (and the first thing police look for), but traffic in Thailand is unpredictable. It saves lives.

5. The Pace of Life: Walking and Bicycles

Let’s not forget the simplest way to see the city. The Old City (the square inside the moat) is only about 1.5km by 1.5km. It is incredibly walkable.

Walking allows you to discover the hidden gems that you would miss if you zoomed past in a Grab. You’ll find tiny coffee shops hidden in garden courtyards, ancient chedis tucked behind houses, and street art in narrow alleyways.

Bicycle Sharing: Chiang Mai is flat, making it great for cycling. You can rent bicycles from many guesthouses for 50 Baht a day. There is also a growing app-based bike-sharing system called "Anywheel." You scan the QR code on the green bikes parked around the city, unlock them for a small fee, and park them at designated spots when you are done.

6. The Airport Transfer

Getting from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to your hotel is straightforward.

• Airport Taxi: As you exit Arrivals, you will see counters for "Airport Taxi." They charge a flat rate (usually 150 Baht to the Old City/Nimman area). You get a ticket, wait for your driver, and go. It’s hassle-free.

• Grab: You can call a Grab from the airport, but they are not allowed to pick up at the main curb. You usually have to walk about 100 meters to a designated pickup point (often near the exit for large buses).

• RTC Bus: There is a smart bus (blue color) that runs loops from the airport to the city, costing only 30 Baht. It’s cheap and has air conditioning, but it’s slower.

Conclusion: The Rhythm of the Road

Getting around Chiang Mai is about more than just transport; it’s about finding your flow in the city. Whether you are hanging off the back of a red truck chatting with a local student, cruising up the mountain on a scooter with the wind in your hair, or walking the quiet alleys at sunrise, the journey is part of the adventure.

A Final Tip for the Weary Traveler

Exploring Chiang Mai is exhilarating, but it can be physically demanding. Walking the pavement of the Old City, sitting on the hard benches of a Songthaew, or gripping the handlebars of a scooter for hours can leave your body feeling tight and tired. Your back might ache from the potholes, and your legs might feel heavy from the walking.

This is where we come in.

At C&R Thai Massage, we understand the "traveler's fatigue." There is nothing quite like ending a day of exploration with a dedicated foot massage or a full-body traditional Thai massage. Picture this: You’ve successfully navigated the Songthaews, hiked a temple, and eaten your fill of street food. You step into our cool, aromatic sanctuary. You lie down, and skilled hands work away the tension of the road, restoring your energy for tomorrow’s adventure.

Travel requires movement, but enjoying travel requires rest. We are here to help you with the latter. Safe travels, and see you soon!