The Ping River flows along the eastern edge of Chiang Mai's urban area, and the riverfront neighbourhood — stretching roughly between the Iron Bridge and the Nawarat Bridge — is one of the most relaxed parts of the city. Old teak houses have been converted into cafes, art galleries, and guesthouses, and the tree-lined bank is good for an evening walk.
The riverside area comes alive at night, particularly around the Riverside restaurant and bar complex, which has been a Chiang Mai institution for years. Boat trips on the river are available from several landing stages; the Mae Ping River Cruise operates dinner boats. The Ping is at its most atmospheric in the early morning when mist hangs over the water and fishing boats are out.