Discover how to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Explore four dynamic options to ensure a comfortable, scenic, and memorable journey across Thailand. Perfect for everyone’s travel style!
Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most popular routes in Thailand, and for good reason. Traveling around Thailand is effortless and inexpensive, with reliable rail, road, and air connections.
We, as a family, prefer to travel in our vehicle, a rental car, or a private car with a driver (if the distance permits). But I get it; not every family operates on the same schedule or travel style.
Some have leisure time to savor a slow train journey or enjoy the scenery from a bus window. Some are short on time and prefer to catch a quick flight. Whatever your style or schedule, here’s your go-to guide for whisking your family to Chiang Mai from Bangkok.
BTW, if you’re still figuring out how to make the most of Bangkok before heading north, our 6-day itinerary for Bangkok can help. We’ve also got you covered with our top recommendations for family-friendly stays in Bangkok and the most essential travel tips to make your trip smoother and stress-free.
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How to Get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok
By Air
Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is ideal for those who seek the quickest route. A flight significantly reduces the travel time, giving you more time to explore Chiang Mai.
Several nonstop flights, including Thai Lion Air, Thai Air Asia, and Nok Air, operate from Bangkok’s Don Mueang, and a few, like Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and VietJet, operate from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chiang Mai International Airport.
With a short flight time of about 1 hour 15 minutes, flights depart all day long, allowing you to manage your travel plans according to your schedule. Whenever I book flights, I always check Skyscanner and WayAway first—they make it so easy to compare prices, find great deals, and save money on airfare. I highly recommend giving them a try!
Flight costs vary depending on the airline, your chosen seating class, and how early you book your tickets. The prices typically start from USD 35 per person one way. Additionally, airlines frequently run promotions, so keeping an eye out for these can also help reduce travel costs.
Also, remember to factor in the time and cost of getting to and from the airport. Both Bangkok airports are about 30 km from the city. They are pretty well-connected by public transport, but with luggage and family in tow, it’s best to use Grab (a rideshare app).
Chiang Mai’s airport is just about 5 km from the center and takes no more than 15 minutes. The best way to travel is a quick Grab or a private transfer.
To make your air travel even smoother, remember to check in online if available, choose seats in advance to ensure your family can sit together, and review the airline’s baggage policy to avoid any last-minute fees. This preparation will help ensure your flying experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
By Train
For travelers with time to spare, a train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a solid choice. A day train means soaking in the scenic countryside, while an overnight train saves the cost of a hotel and lets you sleep through the journey.
All trains leave from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, which is easy to reach from the city center. The journey takes anywhere between 10 to 13 hours, depending on the train you choose.
If you prefer traveling by day, Train No. 7 is the best pick. It’s the fastest, taking only 10 hours, and also one of the cheapest.
If an overnight train sounds better, Train No. 9 is the way to go. It takes around 12 hours and offers both first and second-class options. First-class cabins come with private beds and a bit more comfort, which can be great when traveling with kids or teens.
Ticket prices totally depend on the class you choose. First-class sleepers cost around USD 45 for a lower berth, while second-class sleepers, either air-conditioned or fan-cooled, are more budget-friendly at around USD 25 to USD 30 per berth.
There’s food available on the train, but the quality and pricing can be hit or miss, so packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, especially if you have picky eaters in the family.
If you’re traveling with a bicycle or large luggage, regular trains won’t work. You’ll need to take Train No. 109, 13, or 51, as these have freight cars for extra baggage.
I always book my train tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles, and I highly recommend using 12Go to check schedules and secure your seats easily.
Booking tickets online is easier since trains fill up fast, especially during Thai holidays. Although online prices are slightly higher than at the station, it’s worth it to avoid last-minute disappointments.
Once in Chiang Mai, the train station is only a few kilometers from the city center. Taxis, tuk-tuks, or songthaews (red trucks) are the easiest ways to get to your hotel or wherever you’re headed.
Train travel is slower than flying, but it’s a great way to see the country and make the journey part of the adventure. If you’re traveling with kids or teens, bring entertainment like books, games, or a fully charged tablet.
Also, pack water, snacks, and any essentials to keep everyone comfortable. A little planning makes the trip smooth and stress-free.
By Bus
Opting to travel by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a viable option for travelers looking for value and those with flexible travel plans. The bus journey saves money while giving a chance to view the Thai landscape from a different perspective. A great way to enjoy an authentic local experience, I say.
Multiple bus companies offer multiple departures throughout the day, but overnight buses are popular because they are time-saving.
The bus ride takes around 10 to 12 hours and departs from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal. This terminal is well-connected to the rest of the city, making it easy to reach by public transportation.
Buses range from standard services, which are the most cost-effective, to VIP services, which offer enhanced comfort. Standard buses generally cost between USD 15 and USD 20 and include reclining seats and air conditioning.
VIP buses provide additional amenities such as more legroom, fewer seats, onboard restrooms, and sometimes complimentary snacks, making the journey more comfortable for a slightly higher cost.
It’s wise to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during popular travel periods like holidays and weekends. While online booking is convenient and ensures you secure a seat, purchasing tickets at the terminal can sometimes be cheaper.
When it comes to booking land transport in Asia, 12Go is my absolute go-to. It takes the guesswork out of finding reliable buses and trains, making travel planning so much easier.
The bus station in Chiang Mai is not far from the city center. From there, taxis, tuk-tuks, and songthaews are readily available to help you get to your hotel or begin exploring the city immediately.
While you embark on a long bus journey with children or teens, try to select seats towards the front and on the aisle for easy access to the restroom and less exposure to motion sickness. Also, bring neck pillows, cozy blankets, and window shades to create a more comfortable and sleep-friendly environment.
By Taxi or Chauffeured Car
Traveling by taxi or private car service from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a perfect choice if your tribe wants flexibility, comfort, and a stress-free journey.
With a local professional driver at the wheel, you can sit back, relax, & enjoy the ride without worrying about navigating or dealing with Thailand’s traffic conditions. Plus, it lets you explore at your own pace while still being able to stop at any hidden gem along the route or capture the perfect sunset over the mountains.
Hiring a taxi or private car offers several advantages. You can depart at your convenience, make as many stops as you like, and explore off-the-beaten-path attractions along the way.
In your own vehicle, you can adjust your environment to suit family needs, from playing your favorite music to setting the perfect air conditioning level. Packing becomes less of a hassle when you can use the car’s trunk to store luggage, snacks, and any recreational gear you might want for the trip.
Traveling by taxi or a chauffeur-driven car is indeed the most comfortable way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, but it is also the most expensive option.
The cost can vary significantly based on the service level and the company chosen, with prices often starting around USD 270 to USD 450 for a one-way journey. This mode offers direct, personalized service, making it ideal for those prioritizing ease and comfort during their travel.
Driving from Bangkok to Chiang Mai means traveling approximately 700 kilometers through varying landscapes, from bustling city outskirts to serene countryside and mountainous terrains.
The most common route is via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) to Highway 32, then following Asian Highway 1 and Highway 11. This route takes you through Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan, and Lampang, offering a mix of historical sites and scenic nature.
The drive typically takes about 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It’s advisable to start early to avoid heavy traffic leaving Bangkok and to have plenty of daylight to reach Chiang Mai safely.
Kids and teens need to stretch and release energy. Plan for stops at rest areas or attractions where they can run around or explore.
Consider stopping at interesting locations like Ayutthaya for a quick historical tour or at one of the many roadside stations along Highway 11, which are great for stretching your legs and grabbing a bite to eat.
Is it feasible to drive on your own in a rental car while in Thailand? While it’s possible, it’s generally less recommended for tourists due to the challenging driving conditions in Thailand. The traffic can be intense, and local driving habits might be quite different from what you are used to, making it potentially stressful and more dangerous.
If you do choose to rent a car, make sure it is well-maintained before the trip. Check tires, brakes, and fluids, and plan for regular breaks to keep the driver alert and the passengers comfortable.
For booking taxis or private car services in Thailand, as I already mentioned, 12Go is my go-to for hassle-free land transport across Asia. If you’re looking for a guided transfer or a private tour along the way, platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide also have fantastic options worth checking out.
Regardless of how you choose to travel, make sure to bring along entertainment options like audiobooks and music playlists to keep everyone entertained. Carry a cooler with snacks and drinks to keep everyone hydrated and satisfied throughout the drive.
Engage everyone with car games that involve spotting landmarks, license plate games, or storytelling. Always have a first-aid kit handy, along with essential medications, extra water, and snacks.
Choosing between a taxi, private car service, or self-driving will depend on your comfort with local driving conditions and your desire for convenience versus adventure.
Ultimately, choosing the mode of transportation depends on your needs and the type of experience you’re looking for. From the swift ease of a flight and the scenic rail route to the economic bus and the freedom of a car journey—each option brings forward its unique touch and flavor. What matters is a comfortable and engaging journey for everyone. I hope that whatever mode you choose, your transition from Bangkok’s mad rush to Chiang Mai’s peaceful landscapes will be as smooth as the Thai silk.
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