Bangkok's transport system is surprisingly efficient once you understand it. From modern elevated trains to traditional river boats, the city offers multiple ways to navigate around traffic. Here's everything you need to know to move around Bangkok like a local. Compare with Phuket transport.
BTS Skytrain
The BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) is an elevated train network covering major areas. Fast, clean, air-conditioned, and reliable. Two main lines: Sukhumvit (light green/dark green) and Silom (dark green).
Operating Hours
6:00 AM - Midnight (daily)
Frequency
3-8 minutes between trains
Single Journey
16-59 THB depending on distance
Day Pass
140 THB unlimited rides
Tips for Using BTS
- Buy a Rabbit Card (reloadable) if staying several days - saves queuing
- Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) when trains are packed
- Stand on the left on escalators - right side is for walking
- Siam station is the main interchange between lines
- Keep your ticket until you exit - needed at exit gates
MRT Subway
Underground metro system with Blue and Purple lines. Connects to BTS at several stations. Great for reaching areas without BTS coverage like Chinatown and Hua Lamphong train station.
Operating Hours
6:00 AM - Midnight (daily)
Single Journey
16-42 THB
Day Pass
120-230 THB (1-3 days)
Storage Card
Available for regular use
MRT Advantages
- Connects to both airports (Airport Rail Link interchange)
- Reaches Chinatown (Wat Mangkon station)
- Serves Chatuchak Market (Kamphaeng Phet station)
- Less crowded than BTS during peak hours
Taxis
Cheap and convenient, especially for areas not served by BTS/MRT. Always insist on using the meter. Available 24/7 throughout the city.
Starting Fare
35 THB first 2km
Per Kilometer
5-7 THB depending on speed
Airport to City
250-400 THB (plus tolls/fees)
Average Trip
60-150 THB in central areas
Taxi Survival Guide
- ALWAYS insist on meter - if driver refuses, get another taxi
- Have destination written in Thai or show on map
- Carry small bills - drivers often claim no change
- Add 50 THB for airport pickups (official surcharge)
- During traffic, meter runs faster when stationary
- Some drivers refuse short trips during rush hour
- Green "Available" light on means taxi is free
Grab / Bolt (Ride-Hailing Apps)
Uber-like services popular in Bangkok. Grab is most established, Bolt also available. No haggling, fixed prices, cashless payment option, and reliable drivers.
Pricing
Similar to metered taxi
Surge Pricing
Yes, during peak times and rain
Payment
Cash or card in app
Wait Time
2-5 minutes typically
Why Use Grab
- No language barrier - address already in system
- Fixed price known upfront - no meter issues
- Driver can't take longer route to increase fare
- Rate your driver - quality control
- Safe for solo travelers, especially at night
- GrabBike option for motorcycles in traffic
Chao Phraya River Boats
Scenic public boats along Bangkok's main river. Great for sightseeing while getting around. Orange flag boats are tourist-friendly express service.
Orange Flag Express
15-32 THB per trip
Tourist Boat
60 THB day pass
Operating Hours
6 AM - 7 PM (varies by line)
Frequency
Every 15-20 minutes
River Boat Tips
- Tourist boat (blue flag) has audio guide and fewer stops
- Orange flag boats are faster but skip some tourist stops
- Hold on tight - boats move fast and stop abruptly
- Best way to reach riverside temples and old Bangkok
Other Transport Options
Getting to/from Airports
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Main international airport, 30km from city center
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Budget airlines and domestic flights, 25km north
Our Transport Recommendations
Best Overall System
Combine BTS/MRT for main travel with Grab for last-mile connections. Fast, reliable, and affordable.
For First-Time Visitors
Stick to BTS and MRT. Download Grab app as backup. Avoid buses and regular motorcycle taxis.
Budget Travel
BTS/MRT day passes if doing lots of sightseeing. River boats for riverside attractions. Regular taxis with meter for evening travel.
Late Night Options
After midnight when trains stop: Grab (safest), metered taxis, or hotel transfers. Never street tuk-tuks late at night.
Essential Transport Tips
- Download offline maps and Grab app before arrival
- Get a local SIM card for internet access and navigation
- Always carry small bills - change can be an issue
- Peak traffic hours 7-10 AM and 4-8 PM - use trains if possible
- Friday evenings have worst traffic of the week
- Rain makes everything slower and more expensive
- Hotel staff can help write destinations in Thai
- Screenshot your destination on Google Maps to show drivers