Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, and with a population of 11 million people, it's by far the largest city in the country. Bangkok is undeniably interesting. In fact, it ranks as one of the most visited cities in the world. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, shopping, or nightlife, Bangkok offers a diversity of experiences.
Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis, and navigating the city might appear challenging, particularly visitors on their first trip to the city. In addition, the traffic congestion can be overwhelming, especially during commuting or peak hours. If you're new to Bangkok, you want to know how to get around to explore the city.
So, here's the guide on how to get around Bangkok as a tourist. The transportation system is reasonably developed, and there are many different ways to move around. Using a combination of transportation options, you can efficiently explore this vibrant and culturally rich city. Without further ado, here's the guide.
Table of Contents
By BTS Skytrain
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The Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as BTS Skytrain, is an elevated rapid transit system. It's an efficient and convenient way to navigate the city, especially for avoiding the notorious heavy traffic during peak hours. Like any public transport system, be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
There are two main lines on the BTS Skytrain. The Sukhumvit Line runs between Mo Chit and Bearing, passing through Bangkok's central and southwestern areas. The Silom Line runs between National Stadium and Bang Wa, passing the city's northern, central, and southeastern areas.
You'll find ticket vending machines at every station, with instructions in both Thai and English. Tickets cost 17-62 THB (0.50-1.70), depending on the length of the journey. The One-Day Pass is also available, and for 150 THB (4 USD), you can travel as many times as you want on the BTS trains.
Trains operate from around 6:00 AM to midnight, with service starting later on weekends. Some stations also serve as interchanges between the Sukhumvit and Silom Lines, providing convenient transfers. Key stations include Siam (shopping district), Asok (business district), and Mo Chit (near Chatuchak Weekend Market).
The signage and information at most stations are also in English, making it user-friendly for tourists. Most stations are equipped with escalators and elevators for easy accessibility. Try avoiding using the BTS during crowded peak hours (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM) to experience a more comfortable journey.
By MRT
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The Metropolitan Rapid Transit, or MRT, is another mass rapid transit system in Bangkok. The MRT includes two mostly underground and two elevated monorail lines, with more lines currently in development. Using the MRT and BTS Skytrain is an opportunity to explore a much greater area of Bangkok.
The underground MRT Purple Line is runs from Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi, northwest of Bangkok. Tourists are more likely to use the underground Blue Line, a quasi-circle route where many places of interest are located. The Blue Line also links to many business and residential areas in Bangkok.
The MRT Yellow Line is an elevated monorail running north-south between Lat Phrao and Samrong in the eastern area of Bangkok. The MRT Pink Line is another elevated monorail extending into Bangkok's western area. Tourists are less likely to use the two monorail lines unless planning to explore the city further.
The MRT Blue Line connects with the BTS Sukhumvit Line at Phahon Yothin, Chatuchak Park, and Sukhumvit Stations. The MRT Blue Line also connects with the BTS Silom Line at Si Lom and Bang Wa Stations. Riding on the MRT and BTS systems requires purchasing separate tickets.
The MRT operates from around 6:00 AM to midnight. Ticket machines are available at all MRT stations, with instructions in both Thai and English. Similar to the BTS, MRT fares are distance-based. The further you travel, the higher the fare. Information and signs at the stations are also in Thai and English.
By Metered Taxi
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Metered taxis are a convenient way to get around Bangkok and are widely available. With plenty plying the streets, they offer flexibility and ease of access to various parts of the city. You can easily flag one down on the streets and find them stationed at taxi stands near major shopping centers, hotels, and tourist attractions.
Bangkok's taxis are generally reliable. Taxis here come in various colors. There's no difference in service, just the taxi company's color scheme. Most taxi drivers speak little or no English. So, have someone write the name of your destination in Thai or show the location on a map or navigation app.
You can identify when a taxi is available if you see the illuminated red "vacant" sign (in Thai script) displayed in the front window. In Bangkok, you're allowed to flag a taxi at a bus stop as long as there's no bus approaching. While you can flag a taxi almost anywhere, consider the traffic situation if it's safe.
Taxis in Bangkok are very affordable compared to most Western countries as long as they use the meter. Local law requires taxis to use the meter, but some drivers may refuse and instead ask for a flat price, which is more than the metered fare. If the driver refuses to use the meter, flag for another taxi.
The metered fare starts at 35 THB (1 USD) for the first kilometer (0.6 miles) and is then calculated based on the distance traveled.
- 1-10 km (0.6-6 miles) - 6.5 THB (0.18 USD) per km
- 10-20 km (6-12 miles) - 7.0 THB (0.19 USD) per km
- 20-40 km (12-25 miles) - 8.0 THB (0.22 USD) per km
- 40-60 km (25-37 miles) - 8.5 THB (0.24 USD) per km
- 60-80 km (37-50 miles) - 9.0 THB (0.25 USD) per km
- Over 80 km (50 miles) - 10.5 THB (0.29 USD) per km
There may be surcharges besides the fare. There's a 50 THB (0.40 USD) surcharge for taxis from the airport. Add an extra 3 THB (0.08 USD) per minute if the taxi slows below 6 km (4 miles) per hour due to heavy traffic. The passenger is also responsible for paying tolls, such as using the expressways.
The taxi fare to Khao San Road costs 300-400 THB (9-11 USD) from Suvarnabhumi Airport and 200-300 THB (6-8 USD) from Don Muang Airport. Most journeys within central Bangkok cost 60-120 THB (1.70-3.40 USD). While there's no obligation to tip, it's a convention to round up the fare to the nearest 10 THB (0.30 USD).
By Grab Taxi
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In addition to the traditional taxis, you can also use the Grab ride-hailing app, which is similar to Uber. It's a convenient way to get around Bangkok, especially in areas where it's hard to find traditional taxis. Grab is a reputable company and the most popular ride-hailing app in Thailand and many Southeast Asian countries.
Besides the Thai version of the app, English is also available. You can easily book a vehicle on your mobile device. Enter your destination, and the app will show you the vehicles available and the fares. The app provides upfront pricing, so you know how much you'll pay before confirming the booking.
You can choose the vehicle and driver you want before booking. Once a driver accepts your request, you'll see details about the driver, including the name, photo, and vehicle number. You can track your driver in real-time traveling to pick you up on the app's map, including the estimated time of arrival.
There's a booking fee to cover the driver's expenses for picking you up, which ranges from 20 to 40 THB (0.60-1.20 USD). Most passengers prefer to pay their fare in cash, though you can link your credit card to the app. To facilitate payment to the driver, have small bills when paying by cash.
By Tuk-Tuk Taxi
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Tuk-tuk taxis are essentially three-wheeled motorized vehicles with an open-sided cabin for passengers. They are commonly used for short distances or quick trips, and most can accommodate two or three passengers. For tourists, these vehicles offer a unique way to get around Bangkok by adding a touch of excitement.
Tuk-tuks are plenty in Bangkok and can be found throughout the city. While you can flag for an approaching tuk-tuk on the streets, you can also find them waiting for passengers near popular tourist areas, shopping malls, transport hubs, street corners, and busy intersections.
Unlike standard taxis, tuk-tuks don't have meters. So, it's essential to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the ride. Keep the bargaining friendly, but be firm in negotiating a reasonable fare. Confirm the agreed price before getting into the tuk-tuk to avoid later misunderstandings.
Clearly communicate your destination to the driver. If language is a barrier, ask a local to write the destination in Thai or show the location on a map. Once you're on board, these small three-wheeled vehicles can easily navigate the traffic and get you faster than larger traditional taxis.
Fares on the tuk-tuks are the same or slightly more than cars used as taxis. Payment is in cash, and make sure to have small denominations. Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers who offer heavily discounted fares and then take you to shops or attractions where they receive a commission.
By Motorcycle Taxi
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With Bangkok's notoriously congested traffic, there's nothing quicker than motorcycle taxis. These two-wheelers are designed for single passengers and are best suited for short distances or quick trips within the neighborhood. You can easily spot the motorcycle taxi drivers by their orange vests.
Motorcycle taxis are faster options than the larger vehicles on the road. They are quick, agile, and can easily weave in and out through the city's heavy traffic. The drivers exhibit sheer navigating skills, but if you're uneasy as a passenger on a motorcycle, consider other transportation options.
These two-wheel taxis are common and popular on the streets of Bangkok. You can flag an approaching motorcycle taxi on the streets. You can also find these two-wheelers waiting for passengers near major intersections, busy street corners, shopping malls, and office buildings.
Most drivers have little contact with foreigners. If you encounter a language barrier, ask someone to write the destination in Thai or show it on a map to assist in communication. Ensure the driver provides a helmet. The law requires all motorcycle riders, including passengers, to wear helmets.
Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Typically, fares range from 20 to 40 THB (0.60 to 1.20 USD) for a brief five-minute trip. Fares for longer journeys rarely exceed 100 THB (3 USD). The drivers accept only cash for payment and have small bills ready.
By Songthaew
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Songthaews is another unique mode of transportation in Bangkok. They are essentially pick-up trucks converted into minibuses, carrying up to 8-10 seated passengers and the larger ones up to 20. You can also find Songthaews in other parts of Thailand, including Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai.
"Songthaew" means "two rows" in Thai, referring to two benches in the rear of the vehicle, where the passengers sit. They typically have open-air seating with only the roof covered. You can easily spot one with their unique pick-up design. Since they don't have designated stops, flag a songthaew traveling along its route.
Before boarding, ask the driver if he's heading towards your destination and ask the fare. The fare is fixed and usually costs 10-20 THB (0.30-0.60), depending on the distance. To get out of the vehicle, press the buzzer or bell when you're about to reach your destination. Then pay to the driver when you disembark.
There's another type of songthaew service. There's no fixed route, operating like a shared taxi. You'll often find these songthaews near railway stations and bus terminals, waiting for passengers going to the same destination or direction. Passengers share the fare and be prepared for multiple stops along the journey.
You can also hire songthaews for private use - The driver doesn't pick up other passengers. It's a great way to travel around Bangkok in a large group or with the family. You can hire them for a single journey or by the hour. Before hiring, discuss your intentions with the driver and negotiate the fare.
By Public Bus
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| Public bus in Bangkok | Ilya Plekhanov |
Bangkok's public buses offer an extensive network of routes that cover various parts of the city. The public buses can take you to areas in the city not directly served by the BTS and MRT transit system. What's more, they are one of the cheapest modes of transportation in Bangkok.
Most tourists tend to choose other options over local buses. Information may not always be in English, and communicating with the bus staff may be challenging for non-Thai speakers. Public buses are only recommended for those who have become acquainted with the bus routes in Bangkok.
Bangkok has both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses. Air-conditioned buses cost slightly more but provide a more comfortable ride, especially during the hot weather. A simple rule of thumb on which buses have air-conditioning is to check if the windows are closed.
At the bus stop, raise your hand when your bus approaches you. Buses here usually stop when passengers signal their intent to board. Buses here are in different colors. Buses of the same number but different colors follow different routes. So select the same number-color combination that aligns with your destination.
Fares for non-air-conditioned buses range from 8 to 10 THB (0.20-0.30 USD). For air-conditioned buses, from 12 to 25 THB (0.35-0.70 USD), depending on the distance. Once onboard, a uniformed bus conductor will come to collect payment and give you a ticket. Make sure you have a small change to pay the fare.
By River Boat
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The Chao Phraya River Boat Service is a river bus passing through the heart of Bangkok. The service serves both local commuters and tourists. It's one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Bangkok, passing through some of the city's most stunning views. It is also a fast way to get around the city without the traffic congestion.
The service includes five lines served by 65 boats - The Orange, Red, Yellow, Green, and Regular Lines covering a 21-km (13 miles) route between Bangkok and Nonthaburi. The Orange Line operates seven days a week, while the Red, Yellow, and Green Lines operate only from Mondays to Fridays.
Fares on the Chao Phraya River Boat Service range from 16 THB (0.50 USD) to 33 THB (1.00 USD). Payment methods vary between piers. On some piers, payment is directly on the boat. For others, you'd have to pay the fare at the kiosk on the pier before boarding the boat.
The riverboat service connects to many major tourist attractions and landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Asiatique Riverfront, Yodpiman River Walk, and Chinatown, centered on Yaowarat Road. Some piers are conveniently located near the BTS and MRT stations.
Boats generally run from 6 AM to 6 PM Friday-Saturday, and 9 AM to 5 PM on Sundays. They arrive at the pier every 15-40 minutes, with greater frequency during the commuting hours. Some boats can get crowded during peak hours. So, be prepared for potential crowds or plan your trip outside the peak hours.
