Steps or methods for going to Old City from Chiang Mai Airport are essential information needed by every tourist who wants to travel to one of the popular destinations in Chiang Mai.
In this article, you will get information about modes of transportation and activities that you can do in this city. Check out the summary of the information below!
Going to Old City from Chiang Mai Airport
Traveling to the Old City will feel more optimal if you have planned or know basic information about transportation, Old city Chiang Mai hotels, and other destinations. Even if you’re not a planner, understanding this can save time.
In the next section, you can find some “guidelines” to make your visit to this historical city more attractive.
What’s Old City?
The old city is an old area in Chiang Mai that combines historical elements with modernization so visitors can feel a different atmosphere.
The city was built in 1289 by King Mengrai, which later became the founding of Chiang Mai. It was surrounded by high walls and an artificial river to protect the city from the enemy. These two things then became one of the attractions of the Old City.
Not only witness historical places, but here you can also experience modern city facilities as a balance to the holiday vibe.
How to Get to Old City?
There are several alternative vehicles that you can choose to come to Old City, Chiang Mai, such as:
1. Chiang Mai Airport Bus
The airport bus can be a savior for those who want to explore places in the Old City at an affordable cost. You can find this airport bus in the arrival hall area, and it only costs around 20 THB (0.60 USD) to go to various stops, including Old City.
Bus operating time is quite long, from 06.00 AM to 10.30 PM daily.
2. Chiang Mai Airport Taxi Service
A taxi is the safest option to visit the Old City because the taxi driver will take you to the correct destination.
There are two taxi options, namely the usual airport taxi. The taxi to Chiang Mai Airport costs around 150 THB (4.48 USshjuD) to various destinations. Meanwhile, if you use a metered taxi, the cost tends to be cheaper, 100-120 THB (2.99-3.58 USD).
3. Tuk-Tuk Service
To feel a more local sensation while traveling to Old City Chiang Mai, you can use a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuk fares also tend to be cheap, coupled with an experience you won’t get from other vehicles.
Because they cannot operate within the airport area, you can find tuk-tuks around the main highways. There are lots of drivers waiting for passengers leaving the airport.
Generally, a tuk-tuk driver will set a price of 150 THB (4.48 USD), but you can still haggle the price up to 100 to 120 THB (2.99 to 3.58 USD).
Because it is shared transportation, the fare from Songthaew is much cheaper than some previous modes of transportation. You can go to the Old City for around 40 THB (1.19 USD).
To find a songthaew from the airport is relatively easy; after exiting one of the exit doors, you can walk and find a row of songthaew waiting.
Even though the rates are cheap, you must be careful with deceptive drivers. They could tell you to rent a car and be asked for 200 THB (5.97 USD). Therefore, focus on the Songthaew concept as shared or multi-passenger public transport.
5. Minivan Service
This last option is also relatively cheap, as you only pay 60 THB (1.79 USD). Minivans are slower than other forms of transportation because they depart after completion. This service is located in the south area of the terminal building.
What to Do in the Old City?
There are several recommended activities that you can do after arriving in the Old City, namely:
1. Visit Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Center
This museum presents complete information about the history and culture of the city. Here you can learn about the lifestyle, beliefs, agriculture, and other local characteristics. The entrance ticket for the public is around 20 THB (0.60 USD), and for students, 10 THB (0.30 USD).
2. Bicycle Tour
If you are good at cycling, then touring around the city by bicycle is one of the fun activities. You can see the local life, culture, history and economy of the local community, tour guides, and other guests.
Tour costs for one person from 1,150 THB (34.35 USD) for 3 to 4 hours.
3. Shopping
It would be best to shop for souvenirs at The Sunday Walking Street Market to find local goods and Thai specialities.
Besides these three activities, you can visit temples and eat at cafes and spas.
All the information about going to Old City from Chiang Mai Airport can help make your trip more exciting! If you still need to book a plane ticket, order it on Airpaz. It’s fast and easy!
