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Getting around in Chiang Mai could not be easier. There are several methods of transport in Chiang Mai that you can use. Chiang Mai, although the 2nd largest city in Thailand, is fairly compact. The inner city within the walls can be explored easily on foot and when you see the traffic and watch some of the driving manoeuvres you may decide it's the best way.
Fortunately, for those who wish to explore further afield or just don't feel like walking, Chiang Mai has excellent transport options even though there is no Skytrain yet or an underground rail network. There is a Bus system in Chiang Mai but hardly anyone uses it. The alternative means of transport are much more convenient albeit not as environmentally friendly.
Tuk Tuks are everywhere. Even when you can't see them you can hear them. 
They are 3 wheeled and gas driven and a fun experience not to be missed. Before getting into a Tuk Tuk you must agree the price with the driver. Almost certainly he, or she, will ask for more than the going rate, especially those waiting outside large hotels for their victims. Treat this as a friendly game and practise your bartering skills. If you can't get the right price there is always the next one which won't be far away. Note that prices will be higher the later it gets in the evening or if its raining hard! Prices quoted are per Tuk Tuk, not per person. A word of caution. Many drivers will not admit to having change so be sure to carry some small denomination notes & coins.
Song Thaews are pickup trucks with 2 rows of covered seats in the back. ( In Thai, Song means two and Thaew means Row). They are Chiang Mai's "Mini-bus system". Whilst they come in various colours, Green, Yellow, White and Pale Blue it is the Red Song Thaew th
at you will want. The other colours are for out of town routes. You can hail a Song Thaew even if there are other people in it, just like a real bus. One difference from the Tuk Tuk is that your trip in a Song Thaew may not be quite as direct because of the other traveller's destinations.
When you flag down a Song Thaew speak to the driver before getting in. Tell him where you want to go. He will nod his head if he is going your way and then you just get in the back. If he's not going your way he will shake his head and drive off. Do not ask the price. The price for an inner city trip is Baht 20 per person. Sometimes the driver will ask for more than Baht 20. Just shake your head and wait for the next one. With a Song Thaew you may not be driven exactly to where you want to go but it will be very close. There is a bell in the back which you can ring when you want to get off. Don't forget to pay the driver.
If you are in a hurry, or just don't like sharing, then you can negotiate a price with the driver of an empty Song Thaew for a one person or one group only trip. Some can also be hired by the hour.
These are dying out now in Thailand but a few can still be seen in Chiang Mai usually around the main markets. Designed only for short trips, it's hard work especially if the passenger is "well built" . If there are 2 of you then you need 2 Tricycles! Practise your bartering here also but do try to be a little generous.
Th
ese are relatively new in Chiang Mai as can be seen by the gleaming condition of most of the cars. There are not too many of them so you may have quite a wait but you can call them by phone.
( 053-279291, 053-271242 ext.16, 081-9520900 or 081-9616006).
They are comfortable and air conditioned and most drivers are willing to use the meter but even so this is one of the more expensive means of travel.
For out of town trips hiring a car or motorcycle will give you complete freedom to go when and where you want. Car Rental & Motor Cycle Rental is very straight forward. Most road signs are in English as well as Thai and those visitors from the UK especially will feel at home as Thais drive on the left (at least most of the time) . An International or Thai Driving Licence is required and if you intend to ride a motorcycle then you must ensure your licence covers that. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory and the laws on drinking and driving are being enforced more strictly now. The use of cell phones whilst driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system. Helmets are required by Law for motorcycle riders.