Car and Van

Cars and vans can be rented in Thailand. The rental costs for cars are from around 2,000 to 3,000 baht per day and vans from 2,500 to 3,500 baht. There are a number of car rental agencies around town, including some of the international chains such as Budget, Avis and National. Regularly, international rental companies charge a bit more than local companies, and surely they offer a larger choice. A car can also be rented at travel agencies, which have many branches and offices in large- and medium-sized hotels. It is advisable to check whether a car is insured for liability before signing a rental contract. Driving in Chiang Mai is not as difficult as Bangkok, but you’d still be well advised to rent a care with driver.

Motorcycle

Motorcycles can also be rented in Chiang Mai and it’s a great way to get around town, if you’re able to ride. Actually, it has recently become a popular way to travel around Thailand by motorcycle, especially in the North. Rentals vary considerably from city to city. In Chiang Mai, there is an abundance of motorcycle rental shops; the costs are certainly much lower. Anyway, whether you rent a motorcycle from a big rental company or a small shop, it is advisable to check the machine over thoroughly before you take it out. Before renting, make sure that insurance is provided, though with an extra charge. And please note that both rider and passenger on a motor bike must wear a helmet.
Bicycle
One way I enjoy going around Chiang Mai is bicycle. As you see Chiang Mai is the old city walls’ and not big city, so biking is an easy option to get around. You will get in everywhere you want within 10 minutes. Bikes rentals are offered at every other street corner and for a simple bike start from 30 baht/day. And here it’s very difficult to find the stands to lock with. Don’t be worried about your bikes. I think Chiang Mai is going to have more stands for bicycle.

Important!
1. Thai drives on the left-hand side of the road.
2. Foreigners who wish to drive motor vehicles in Thailand need a valid International Driving License.
3. Driving license and passport must be carried at all times when driving.

Taxi

There also is the service of taxi in Chiang Mai. I can say that going anywhere by taxi is very comfortable way to do. In early 2005 there were only 15 plying the streets (versus 2700 Song-Thaews), but one year later there were over 45, with the number growing monthly. About the cost, it’s very reasonable at 30 baht for the first 2 km. and 4 baht/ km. after that. It’s very easy if you come to the airport and write the telephone number of taxi which you might decide to use the service later. Or for advance bookings, contact with 66 53 279291.

Mini-Van

If you want to travel by car without driving by yourselves, it’s a great way to take a mini-van with the driver who takes joy in showing you around Chiang Mai and its environs. Maybe after hotel sent the driver to you to meet at the airport and later you can arrange to have the driver as your primary mode of transport in and around Chiang Mai. Meanwhile you are able to hire driver through the rental company and then arrange a deal on the side. It’s a private day trip for the travelers and getting sightseeing as described with transportation. The easy way is you can hire the English driver to be your guide or separately English-speaking guide (pay more extra money) or even Thai driver to consider you are in Thailand. . Normally, the driver picks you up at hotel or resort. For $20 a day (divided between 5 passengers), you get an air conditioned mini van and a driver that happily take you anywhere