Transfers Countries Thailand Chiang RaiChiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Private car transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Door-to-door
in 3 h 20 min

From €24
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Chiang Rai.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 20 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Chiang Mai.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

187 km3 h 20 min

Overview: car trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Northern Thailand is best explored on a car trip from the charming Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Whether you are going back to Chiang Mai for your flight leaving Thailand, or to explore the city known as the "Rose of the North" even more, this car trip is a perfect showcase of the country's beauty and history.

The distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is only around 119 miles (187 km), but you'll spend the 3.5-hour drive surrounded by the mountains and forests of Northern Thailand, riding in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

On the way, Daytrip lets you enrich your Thai experience with exciting stops. Don't miss the striking White Temple, where you'll see the purity, wisdom, and teachings of Buddha represented in stark white spikes. Then, get a dose of history at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. The Mon-style pyramids are part of the largest and oldest temple in Lamphun.

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the busiest city in the region, the mountainous capital of Northern Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom started using Chiang Mai as its capital in 1296 and built the ancient walls and moats still seen in the historic center. Even after the fall of the Lanna empire, Chiang Mai remained a princely seat until 1939. This pedigree has left the city with incredible historical, architectural, and cultural heritage.

Wat Phra Singh, with its wood carvings and Lanna-style roofs, and Wat Chedi, with its massive chedi, are only two of more than 300 Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Beyond its religious importance, Chiang Mai is also the gateway to the region’s hills and national parks, such as Doi Inthanon National Park, known as “The Roof of Thailand”, where you'll find the country’s highest peak. Or Doi Suthep, a mountain crowned by the 13th-century Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where you’ll get to enjoy historic architecture and stunning views of the lush jungle.

Chiang Mai becomes even more magical during the Loy Krathong festival, locally known as Yipeng. During this festival, thousands of lanterns decorated with big orange stars are released into the sky. You might be familiar with this scene from the Disney movie “Tangled”, the reality is even more mesmerizing than on the screen.

The local Thai cuisine is another highlight, and the city offers dishes different from what you'd find in other parts of Thailand. For example, Chiang Mai is known for its khao soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, and sai oua, a spicy local sausage.

From Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai: travel tips

Make your trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai a super comfortable and fun one with these simple tips:

Check local events beforehand

Both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai have festivals and events throughout the year that can double the fun of your visit. Before you travel, check if any local festivals or special events are happening in either city. Planning your trip around the Yipeng Festival or a local market day in Chiang Rai can help you experience the authentic local culture.

Enjoy the sights

The drive between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai brings you through lush, forested mountains. Have your Daytrip driver put on some local music and enjoy the scenery! Or even better, add sightseeing stops along the way, like Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, a rare Mon-style temple where you'll find the world's largest gong!

Dress comfortably

Northern Thailand's mountainous terrain has its own microclimates, so it's wise to dress in layers. Mornings can be cool, especially outside of the hot season, and afternoons can get quite warm. Comfortable, breathable clothing will help you adjust to the changing temperatures easily when you stop to explore.

How to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

How you’ll travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is a quite important part of your trip, since it can affect the rest of your time in Thailand significantly. So, check your options, evaluate them well, and choose the one that’s the most suitable for you.

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by bus

Direct buses run hourly between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. The bus ride also takes almost four hours and tickets cost $7-11 on average. Buses set off from the main bus station in Chiang Rai and arrive again at the main station in Chiang Mai. The main bus service is Greenbus Thailand, which has coaches with air conditioning and toilets. Check their website for the timetable. Keep in mind that the buses follow a different route than a typical car ride and that they often fill up and sell out.

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by private car service

Daytrip's private car service is the most comfortable and flexible way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Unlike with the bus, you set your own schedule. Your English-speaking driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Chaing Rai, load up your luggage, and set off to Chaing Mai.

During the 3.5-hour drive, you can chat with your driver about local culture, and get some insider travel tips, between enriching sightseeing stops. When you get to Chiang Mai, your driver will drop you off at your final destination, be it your accommodation or the airport, and offload your luggage for the perfect end to your trip.

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by rental car

You can rent a car and drive from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. If you didn't rent the car in Chiang Mai in the first place and aren't returning to Chiang Rai, make sure you get a rental that allows for returns in a different city. The drive is relatively easy to navigate since it mostly follows Highway 118. The main benefit of a rental car is the ability to travel on your own schedule and stop for sightseeing---both benefits you can get with Daytrip.

When you drive yourself, you have to navigate the busy streets of Chiang Mai, which can be very stressful if you're not used to Thai traffic. And then there's the issue of parking if you're not returning your rental right away.

Things to do when you get to Chiang Mai

After your successful trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, the only thing left to do is to make sure you’ve enjoyed as many must-dos as possible. Here is a list of some of the best things to do when you get to Chiang Mai:

Explore the Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai is remarkably well-preserved for being in the center of Thailand's second-largest city. The original walled and moated boundaries from the 13th century still stand, and they guard over 30 Buddhist temples. Some of these temples are as old as the city itself, like Wat Chiang Man, where King Mengrai lived while Chiang Mai was being constructed.

Be enchanted by Doi Suthep Temple

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is located around 9 miles (15 km) outside of the city, but well worth a trip. Scale the 306-step staircase, or take the cable car to the top of Doi Suthep to reach the temple precincts. Once you’re up, you’ll be welcomed by the delicately carved golden pagodas, numerous Buddha statues, and murals depicting Buddhist lore that fill this temple complex dating back to the 13th century. Arrange an evening tour for an even more magical experience.

Shop at the Sunday Walking Street Market

Every Sunday, the Sunday Walking Street Market transforms the center of Chiang Mai into a pedestrian market stretching from the Tha Phae Gate to the Ratchadamnoen Road. It’s a fantastic place to shop for local crafts, artwork, clothing, and jewelry made by the local hill tribes and other Northern Thai artists. Or just stroll around sampling the delicious street food.

Visit the Elephant Nature Park

Elephants are a cornerstone of Thai culture, but not everywhere treats these majestic creatures ethically. Head to the Elephant Nature Park for your chance to spend time with rescued elephants in a responsible setting. This sanctuary and rescue center allows you to learn about the elephants' stories and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. You’ll have a wonderful time helping to feed and bathe the elephants under the guidance of the park’s staff. There are also other rescued animals, and spending time with them is a truly heartwarming experience. Tours should be booked in advance.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai

The best time to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is between October and April when the weather is cool and pleasant. These months are perfect for exploring the city and its natural surroundings, with November to February being particularly favorable. The Loi Krathong festivities in November and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February are both worth planning trips around. Naturally, this period marks the peak season, but northern Thailand doesn't get quite as many tourists as the south.

June to October is the rainy season with higher humidity and fewer tourists, so you'll have a quieter, wetter experience. Be prepared with rain gear and sturdy shoes.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Is it better to stay in Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai?

Stay in Chiang Rai to spend calmer and quieter time and to be closer to nature. Here hotel prices can also be cheaper. Chiang Mai is for more cultural attractions and a very dynamic Thai lifestyle. So, choosing between the two cities depends on your own preferences, but both will be a great time spent for sure.

How far is Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai?

Chiang Mai is approximately 111 miles (180 km) southwest of Chiang Rai. Depending on the route, this distance can differ slightly, but the journey takes around 3.5-4 hours without traffic.

Is Chiang Mai worth going to?

Yes, Chiang Mai is definitely worth visiting. It's known for its rich culture, beautiful temples, energetic markets, and colorful festivals. The city also serves many adventurous travelers as a starting point for Northern Thailand's natural beauty. The Yipeng festival can easily be one of the best experiences you’ve ever had.

How do I get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?

You can get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by taking a bus, booking a private car service like Daytrip, or driving a rental car. The trip takes 3.5-4 hours, but Daytrip is by far the most comfortable option and even offers the opportunity to explore along the way.

Is there a train between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai?

No, there is no direct train service between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, just as there are no direct flights because of the close proximity. Most people take the bus or a private car service.

Visit these sights on the way

White Temple

Surreal ornamentation and a glistening facade make this glossy temple unique in Thailand. A Bright Buddhist Beacon

Wat Analayo

At the heart of this serene, statue-filled temple complex is a viham with dazzling jewel-encrusted Buddhas. Precious Moments

Botanical Tweechol

One of the largest gardens in Thailand is a pleasantly manicured oasis filled with topiaries and exotic flora and fauna. The Big Green

Wat Phra That Hariphunchai

This venerated temple is one of the last places in Thailand to see Mon-style architecture - and it has the world’s largest gong! Bang Me Gong, Mon

Wat Chamthewi

Pillaged of their gold leaf finish, these bare sandstone chedis are exemplary examples of the ancient Dvaravati style. A Topless Treasure

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

3,119 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Nov 27, 2019

Daytrip private driver in Thailand

“Trustpilot reviews Categories My Reviews My Settings Help LOG OUT Alternate Text Todd U. US For companies Review of Daytrip Todd U. 1 review 5 stars: Excellent 14 minutes ago Daytrip is now in Thailand My wife and i booked a driver in Northern Thailand earlier this month. i had previously used a different service around Bangkok but they don't operate in Northern Thailand. I tried to contact a popular driver from TripAdvisor but he was slow to respond. I found Daytrip (or mydaytrip) from an advertised search result. I found lots if great reviews about them from Europe but nothing from Thailand. They seemed new to Thailand but i took a chance because they offered exactly what i wanted: a ride from chiang mai to Chiang rai with optional stops along the way. Not a full fledged tour... Just a ride but private and with stops. It seemed expensive at first but later the popular driver responded and cost more. Our driver was Chairit K. He was friendly, funny, punctual (early) and spoke perfect English. As a bonus, he is Lanna so we learned their history perspective. He drove an SUV which seemed like an upgrade (we booked a sedan). Both he and our previous grab driver both said the daytrip price is actually quite a bit cheaper than others, maybe because they are new to Thailand. I think (but not sure) that the service is coordinated out of Europe. Communication was by email and prompt, informative, and accurate. I think our original driver cancelled and they found a replacement. I don't know because they handled it all. I'm glad i didn't have to go looking for a replacement myself (if i had booked a driver directly). I would definitely recommend Daytrip in Thailand.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler tuyeda2018

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,600+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.