Moving Around Bangkok

BTS Skytrain

The Skytrain (BTS) has two lines that cover most of the downtown area of Bangkok with an interchange at Siam. One line stretches east to Sukhumvit Soi 77 all the way north to Jatujak Park, and the other line runs from the National Stadium at MBK Shopping Centre south to the west side of the Chao Phraya River.

The BTS has stations in most places of interest in the city, with fares depending on the distance, at approximately 15-40THB one way (although you can also purchase a one-day pass for 130THB). Daily, three-day and monthly tickets can be bought at vending machines near the stations.

MRT

The underground MRT train line has one line that connects the Hua Lamphong train station in the west of Bangkok to the Bang Sue train station in the north, passing through popular spots like Chatuchak Market and Lumphini Park.

A single ride can range from 16-40THB, while children and seniors have a discounted rate ranging from 8-20THB. There is also a one-day pass at 120THB which is valid from your first entry until midnight. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at the stations.

Ridesharing

Download the GrabCar app before arriving to make your life easier – it’s the region’s counterpart to Uber and Lyft.

Taxi

Taxis are a fairly inexpensive and comfortable way to get around the city, just be prepared for the traffic! Prices start at around 30THB and cost a couple of baht every hundred meters. For a distance of 10km, you’ll usually be paying 70THB.

Before entering a taxi, make sure the driver shows you that the meter is working. Stay away from taxis that offer rides for a fixed or flat rate as they are probably illegal and unsafe.

Bus

While buses may turn out to be cheaper modes of transport, they can be quite confusing for the inexperienced foreigner. The routes are not tourist-friendly as most of them are laid out in Thai, and tend to be quite long and convoluted.

Since the buses have long routes with multiple stops, expect longer travel time (and most of the time, unreliable time schedules). Bus tickets are upwards of 6.50THB and vary depending on the bus type and line.

Motorbike Taxi

This is a good option if you’re in a rush; however, be warned that they aren’t the safest way to get around. Make sure to wear a helmet before getting on the bike, and keep your knees tucked in at all times as the drivers will be sure to navigate very close to other cars in the traffic!

Tuk-tuk

While the tuk-tuk is one of the traditional Thai modes of transportation, it is also known for being a rip-off, with aggressive drivers trying to force tourists to pay more for a ride. They have no meter, so it will be difficult for first-timers to gauge the cost.

Always negotiate for a lower price before getting on, or better yet, hail one that is already moving. Stay away from tuk-tuk drivers that offer good prices but insist on stopping by a store after (they get a commission from the store owners for every person they bring in)!

Ferry

Ferries are a cheap way to get across the river. They have different lines – with some going faster with fewer stops along the way, and others going slower with more stops on its route. You can simply buy a ticket from the collector once you board the boat. Fares depend on the distance and type of boat, ranging from 10-40THB.

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