From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), you can take a taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or a pre-booked transfer to the Old City. The journey typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Songthaews (red trucks) are also an option for a more local experience, but may require a transfer.

Yes, the Old City is very walkable. For longer distances, songthaews are a convenient and affordable way to travel. Grab is also readily available.

You can walk between the Old City and Nimman (about 40 minutes), take a songthaew, or use a ride-sharing app like Grab. The journey is usually around 10-15 minutes by car.

While subjective, some travelers advise caution with certain elephant camps and 'hill tribe' tours, recommending ethical alternatives instead.

Scooter rental is popular, but roads can be busy and chaotic. If you're not an experienced rider, it's safer to use Grab, songthaews, or walk.

Many temples in the Old City are free to enter, but some may have a small donation or entrance fee, typically around 50 Thai Baht. Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang are examples where a small fee might apply.

Temples generally open early in the morning, around 6 AM, and close in the late afternoon or early evening, around 5 PM or 6 PM. Some may have slightly different hours.

Tickets for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival can range from $120 to $180 USD and typically include park entrance, a meal, and lanterns. It's a popular event, so book well in advance.

Yes, many temples are free to explore. Simply wandering the streets, visiting local markets, and enjoying the atmosphere are also free activities. The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is also free to enter.

Tickets for tours and some attractions can be booked online in advance, through your hotel, or at local tour agencies within the Old City. For markets, entry is usually free.

Key temples include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple), and Wat Lok Moli. Exploring without a map can lead to discovering many other beautiful temples. +1

The Saturday Walking Street Market and Sunday Walking Street Market are highly recommended for their vast selection of goods and food. Lanna Square Night Market is also a good option.

Absolutely! Carp Cafe offers a unique dining experience with koi fish. Other popular spots include Fern Forest Cafe, Mars Cafe, and many others with diverse themes. +1

Consider visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, hiking to the Sticky Waterfalls, exploring Doi Suthep temple, or visiting Baan Kang Wat Artist Village.

Wander through the Old City's streets, visit local markets, try authentic northern Thai cuisine like Khao Soi, and engage with local artisans.

Khao Soi is the undisputed star! This rich, creamy curry noodle soup is a must-try. Other local favorites include Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage) and Gaeng Hung Lay (Burmese-style pork belly curry).

Many restaurants serve Khao Soi, but some highly recommended spots include Khao Soi Khun Yai, Hotpot Panda Restaurant, and Kat's Kitchen.

Yes, Chiang Mai has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes. Look for places offering plant-based versions of Thai classics.

Beyond Khao Soi, consider Michelin-rated restaurants for affordable fine dining, or explore the diverse offerings at the night markets.

Generally, street food in Chiang Mai is safe and delicious. Opt for stalls with high turnover and where food is cooked fresh in front of you.

The intricate details of temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, the vibrant colors of the night markets, and unique cafes like Carp Cafe offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful soft light for temple photography. Midday can be harsh, but vibrant market scenes are great anytime.

Many travelers love capturing the lanterns during the Yi Peng Festival, the serene atmosphere of Wat Pha Lat, and the unique dining experience at Carp Cafe.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for temples and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of temples, and a prime lens is good for low-light market shots.

Photography is generally allowed inside temples, but always be respectful. Avoid taking photos of monks during prayer or in restricted areas. Some specific Buddha images might have restrictions.