As the north's major tourist destination, Chiang Mai is quite easy to get to. The city is even being promoted as something of a hub. Whether its planes or buses, you have several travel times a day to choose from to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Planes

Chiang Mai's international airport is served by just about every domestic air carrier in Thailand, as well as a few international airlines based in the region.

Thai Airways: The national flag carrier flies to and from Chiang Mai more or less hourly. Onward and return flights for Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai also fly out of Chiang Mai. Thai's web site allows you to view schedules and seat availability. You can now even book and pay online for paperless travel.
Bangkok Airways: The nation's second carrier services Chiang Mai from Bangkok. They have e-ticket capability, but only accept Visa and MasterCard for e-tickets.
Air Asia: The Malaysian budget carrier is now flying domestic routes in Thailand, including Chiang Mai. If considering Air Asia, it's important to keep in mind that the fares go up the closer you get to your departure date. To get the cheapest fares you need to book three months in advance.
Silk Air: This Singaporean airline flies between Singapore and Chiang Mai directly.
Tiger Airways: Budget Singaporean carrier with daily flights direct to Chiang Mai from Singapore.

Airport Transfers

The airport taxi service is cheap and easy to use. Just visit the counter right outside the baggage claim area. Transfers to most city hotels are just 120 Baht (3.19 USD). There is no need to book in advance. However, if you're traveling in a small group that may need a van or mini-bus, you may want to consider booking one in advance through one of the services below:

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	Private Transfer: Four Seasons Hotel to Chiang Mai Airport Duration: Varies	$ 18.34
	Travel from your Chiang Mai City hotel to Chiang Mai Airport. Transfer services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight details and your accommodation details. Your private transfer will be confirmed immediately and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver. Vehicles used: Air-conditioned Standard Sedan Car (2000cc) (1 to 2 people) Air-conditioned Minivan (3 to 6 people) At time of booking, YOU MUST include the following flight and hotel details: Departure Flight Number Departure Time Hotel Name (where you would like to be picked up from) Hotel Address Don't forget to book your Airport to Hotel transfer! More information & booking »
	Private Arrival Transfer: Chiang Rai Airport to Golden Triangle Hotels Duration: Varies	$ 26.75
	Travel from Chiang Rai International Airport to your hotel in in the Golden Triangle area. Transfer services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight details and your accommodation details. Your transfer will be confirmed immediately and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver. Vehicles used: Air-conditioned Standard Sedan Car (1 to 2 people) Air-conditioned Minivan (3 to 6 people) At time of booking, YOU MUST include the following flight and hotel details: Arrival Flight Number Arrival Time Arriving from (City name) Hotel Name (where you would like to be dropped off) Hotel Address Don't forget to book your Hotel to Airport transfer More information & booking »

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Trains

State Railway: The state railway operates at least two trains a day to Chiang Mai. It can be an amazingly cheap way to get around the country, if you have the time. You can go by first class almost anywhere for under 1,000 Baht. First class is only available on the overnight train from Bangkok.
Eastern & Oriental Express: The very definition of luxury from days gone by. Operates special trips from Bangkok to Chiang Mai as an extension of their train from Singapore.