Car Hire Chiang Rai Airport (CEI)
Looking for car hire at Chiang Rai Airport? Rhino Car Hire helps you compare rental cars from trusted suppliers at Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), giving you the freedom to explore northern Thailand at your own pace.
Whether you're visiting ancient temples, mountain villages, the Golden Triangle or planning a wider journey through northern Thailand, collecting your rental car at the airport is one of the easiest ways to begin your adventure.
Compare prices, choose your vehicle and book your Chiang Rai Airport car hire today.
Why Hire a Car at Chiang Rai Airport?
Northern Thailand offers some of the country's most rewarding self-drive experiences, with many attractions located outside the city centre.
Hiring a car at Chiang Rai Airport allows you to:
• Explore Chiang Rai and the surrounding countryside
• Visit the Golden Triangle region
• Discover mountain villages and national parks
• Travel independently throughout northern Thailand
• Reach attractions that are difficult to access by public transport
A rental car provides the flexibility to experience the region on your own schedule.
Chiang Rai Airport Quick Facts
• Airport Name: Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport
• IATA Code: CEI
• Distance to Chiang Rai City Centre: Approximately 10 km
• Driving Side: Left-hand side
• Main Travel Region: Northern Thailand
• Popular Destinations: Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle, Mae Sai and Chiang Saen
Explore Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is known for its unique temples, relaxed atmosphere and spectacular natural surroundings.
Popular attractions include:
• White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
• Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
• Black House Museum (Baan Dam)
• Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
• Clock Tower
The city serves as the perfect base for exploring Thailand's northernmost province.
Popular Destinations from Chiang Rai Airport
Golden Triangle
One of Southeast Asia's most famous regions, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River.
Chiang Saen
An ancient riverside town with historic temples and views across the Mekong.
Mae Sai
Thailand's northernmost town, located on the border with Myanmar.
Doi Tung
Known for mountain scenery, royal gardens and cooler temperatures.
Phu Chi Fa
One of northern Thailand's most spectacular viewpoints, offering breathtaking sunrise views above the clouds.
Best Road Trips from Chiang Rai Airport
A rental car allows you to explore some of northern Thailand's most scenic routes.
Golden Triangle Route
Travel through mountain scenery and historic towns to one of Thailand's most famous destinations.
Doi Tung Scenic Drive
Explore winding mountain roads, forests and panoramic viewpoints.
Mekong River Route
Follow the river through traditional communities and spectacular landscapes.
Chiang Rai Highlands Adventure
Discover hill tribe villages, tea plantations and remote mountain scenery.
Explore More of Northern Thailand
Many visitors use Chiang Rai Airport as the starting point for a wider journey through northern Thailand.
Popular onward destinations include:
• Chiang Rai
• Golden Triangle
• Chiang Saen
• Mae Sai
• Chiang Mai
• Pai
A rental car makes it easy to combine several destinations into one memorable trip.
Driving from Chiang Rai Airport
Chiang Rai Airport provides excellent access to northern Thailand's road network.
Approximate driving times:
• Chiang Rai City Centre – 15 minutes
• White Temple – 25 minutes
• Chiang Saen – 1 hour
• Golden Triangle – 1 hour 15 minutes
• Mae Sai – 1 hour
• Chiang Mai – 3 hours
Roads are generally well maintained, although mountain routes can be winding.
Choosing the Right Rental Car
Economy Cars
Ideal for couples and city breaks.
Compact Cars
Perfect for touring northern Thailand.
SUVs
Popular for mountain routes and longer journeys.
Family Vehicles
Suitable for groups and travellers carrying extra luggage.
Driving in Thailand
Before setting off, keep these useful tips in mind:
• Drive on the left-hand side of the road
• Speed limits are displayed in kilometres per hour
• Mountain roads may be steep and winding
• Fuel stations are widely available throughout the region
• Allow extra time when travelling through rural areas
Book Your Chiang Rai Airport Car Hire Today
Rhino Car Hire makes it easy to compare rental cars at Chiang Rai Airport. With trusted suppliers, competitive prices and convenient airport collection, you can start exploring northern Thailand from the moment you arrive.
Search, compare and reserve your Chiang Rai Airport car hire today.