Getting around the hectic city of Bangkok can be quite overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Bangkok has a number of transportation options available and we’re here to help you survive this bustling city capital!
- Getting to the city from Bangkok Airport
- The Bangkok MRT Metro
- Getting around the city with Bangkok BTS Skytrain
- Taxi
- Unveiling the Charm of Tuk Tuks
- Private Car Charter
- Taking a bus around Bangkok
Bangkok is a must-visit city in Southeast Asia. Image credit to @gussnap on Instagram
Looking for the best nightlife experience in Bangkok?
Getting to the city from Bangkok Airport
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, isn't just a destination in itself; it's also an excellent hub for exploring nearby Thai cities like Khao Yai, Koh Chang, and Kanchanaburi! Just like Tokyo, Bangkok boasts two major airports, Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK), making it super convenient for travelers.
Taking flight to Bangkok! Image credit to @kokikuma_photolife on Instagram
No matter which airport you touch down at, you're in for a treat with Klook's efficient transfer services that bring you to your desired spot without a hitch.
So, whether you're looking forward to bustling city life or eager to explore the calm countryside, Bangkok has you covered – and Klook ensures you arrive in style and comfort!
The Bangkok MRT Metro
Image credit to MRT Bangkok
Navigating Bangkok's Metropolitan Rail Transit (MRT) subway system might seem a bit slower compared to the Skytrain, but rest assured, its utility is just as remarkable.
Currently, the MRT is utilised by a whopping 400,000 daily passengers, serving the city folks an alternative to escape from the city's surface traffic chaos. Let's go deeper into the details of this Bangkok mass transit system!
MRT has two lines - the Blue Line and the Purple Line
Bangkok MRT during chill hours is perfect for a traveller like you! Image credit to @nawin_fett on Instagram
The Blue Line starts at Hua Lamphong and is the busiest line compared to the Purple Line.
The Purple Line connects the suburbs with central Bangkok, hence it is mainly used by the locals.
For seamless transfers between both lines, Tao Poon Station is your go-to interchange hub.
Wondering about operational hours?
The MRT starts getting into action around 6 a.m., extending its services until midnight hour. The frequency is around every 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the time and hour. Oh yeah, you need to note that the rush hours in Bangkok are 6 a.m. - 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
You might want to avoid these hours during your trip!
Navigating Bangkok by train! Image credit to @babyboy2528 on Instagram
Curious about fares?
Most public transport in the world has a fixed fare, and Bangkok is no exception!
The fare is calculated based on the distance covered. The price starts from 15 THB to 50 THB (approximately 66 cents to 2.20 AUD), making a typical journey through the urban a budget-friendly adventure.
When it comes to ticketing, the MRT has got you covered. Interactive ticketing machines stand ready at the stations to dispense RFID tokens, which, upon a gentle tap, grant you passage to the platforms.
Just remember, these tokens are only for your temporary tickets and must be returned upon exit at your desired station.
Looking for more info on the fares and schedules? Visit the Bangkok MRT official website here.
Facilities at the MRT stations
Navigating the city via the MRT is truly easy and accessible to all, thanks to the elevator-equipped stations, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Restrooms are also available at the stations.
If you want to exchange to the BTS Skytrain lines via MRT, these are the stations you can consider:
- Sala Daeng
- Asok
- Mo Chit
Keep in mind, that a new ticket is needed to ride the BTS Skytrain.
Getting to the airport? Phetchaburi Station is the exchange station to Makkasan Station on the Airport Rail Link, providing you with a smooth transit link from Bangkok city centre to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) - or you can just book your transfers via Klook!
If you are looking for a perfect Muslim itinerary in Bangkok, look no further!
Getting around the city with Bangkok BTS Skytrain
Going around Bangkok with the BTS Skytrain is like navigating through the urban landscape on a machine of speed and convenience. This elevated electric train system is the quickest way to navigate the city, all while keeping your wallet happy.
BTS Skytrain is accessible to all around the city. Image credit to @naoya_bkk on Instagram
It has affordable fares, punctuality, and clean coaches. What more could you ask?
If you are hunting for the famous malls that you have seen on Instagram, this should be your go-to mode of transport. It basically connects famous shopping paradises like Siam Paragon, Central World, and MBK Center.
You can even visit the waxen celebrities at Madame Tussauds wax museum from here. It's not just a ride; it's a journey toward unforgettable experiences.
Bangkok BTS Skytrain lines
BTS Skytrain is connected via two lines: the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line. These lines converge at Siam station, the very heart of Bangkok's bustling business district, making your trip more easy.
Zipping through Bangkok on the BTS Skytrain! Image credit to @naoya_bkk on Instagram
The Sukhumvit Line
This line showcases trains every 5 minutes from 5.15 a.m. until midnight. The line starts from Mo Chit to Samrong and connects through iconic stops like Victory Monument, Siam, Nana, and Asok.
The Silom Line
Meanwhile, the Silom Line creates connectivity from the National Stadium in Pathum Wan to Bang Wa. It has a similar frequency of trains every 5 minutes and starts from 5.30 am until midnight.
Where to buy the train tickets?
Purchasing your ticket for the BTS Skytrain is easy. You can find ticketing machines scattered across every station, but please note that similar to MRT, they only accept cash as the method of payment.
Fares are a journey in themselves, ranging from 15 THB to a little over 50 THB for a one-way ticket. It is extremely affordable!
Consult the fare information board next to the ticketing machine and locate your destination station. Insert your coins, claim your token, and embark on your journey.
If you're going to be traveling on this more frequently, you can opt to buy a “Rabbit” Top-up Card.
Taxi
We all know how this works. When in Bangkok, just make sure that the taxi meter is running, instead of agreeing to a fixed price. The meter typically starts at 35 THB. This is a convenient option when you're just trying to get somewhere nearby.
If you are looking for more comfortable options for getting around the city, you are free to opt for a taxi. However, we understand that finding a good, clean, and reliable taxi is hard, wherever we are.
Just look at the highways in Bangkok, you wouldn't dare to cross! Image credit to @babyboy2528 on Instagram
Here are some tips on things you need to note before stopping a taxi in Bangkok.
Metered taxi
We encourage you to go for taxis equipped with meters as these taxis hold the promise of a fair journey. However, many drivers choose to haggle the fares, aiming to keep the official charge of the sight. If a taxi tries to seal your journey with a price quote instead of a meter reading, consider it a red flag and find another one instead.
Fear not, taxis are often lined up at stations, so you will have many options to choose from.
Taxi rides in Bangkok offer an exhilarating journey through the city's vibrant streets. Image credit to @naoya_bkk on Instagram
Avoid taxis in tourist areas
Remember, taxis are best to find along the bustling streets rather than stopping them at tourist-heavy parking lots.
Taxis become more than just a mode of transportation. Image credit to @naoya_bkk on Instagram
Also, beware of taxi drivers with normal wear. If your eyes catch a sharply dressed driver behind the wheel of a well-maintained car, chances are they're part of a legitimate taxi company. We highly encourage you to opt for this instead!
Always open your Google Maps!
Now, as you step into the taxi, ensure that the meter will be your guide. A polite reminder to you that your driver can sometimes redirect the course of the journey. To avoid being cheated, become the navigator with Google Maps in hand.
Doing so can sometimes discourage drivers from taking the long way around because you demand the meter.
Get your Google Maps ready when you are in Bangkok! Image credit to wowzoff
When the ride nears its end, tipping isn't common in Bangkok, even in Southeast Asia, but rounding up the fare for their good service is always encouraged.
And oh - the tolls fare are at your own expense, ya!
Unveiling the Charm of Tuk Tuks
Riding Tuk Tuk in the middle of buzzling city is an amazing experience! Image credit to Klook
Have you ever heard of Tuk Tuk?
Tuk Tuk is where cuteness meets convenience! This three-wheeled motorcycle taxi offers a delightful twist on short-distance public transport in the bustling heart of Bangkok.
It is convenient and fun and will bring a smile to any traveler's face. It's like a joyful carnival ride through the city's vibrant streets, a transport mode that's as unique as the experiences Bangkok offers.
Riding a tuk-tuk in Bangkok is like embarking on a thrilling urban adventure. Image credit to @ice.pandaica on Instagram
Things to note when riding Tuk Tuk
However, while you're on this exciting Tuk Tuk ride, it's wise to keep an eye on your belongings. Bangkok's streets can sometimes be a site for those snatchers, so it is best to huddle your belongings safely between your legs as you are on Tuk Tuk.
Taking a tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok is a must-do experience! Image credit to @ice.pandaica on Instagram
As you navigate the urban streets, remember that while Tuk Tuk is fun, it might not always be the most cost-effective option. The fare can at times surprise you and can be as high as the modest taxi fares.
Also, please note that riding this motorcycle taxi is like entering a world of haggling, a test of your bargaining prowess. As you step into the ride, remember that there's no set path for the fare.
So, bring along your nego skills and master the art of setting a price that matches your budget.
Private Car Charter
Undoubtedly though, the easiest way to get around comfortably is to have your own vehicle so you don't need to worry about just chilling out and enjoying your trip.
If you want to take a trip to the mystical city of Ayutthaya for a day, you can be worry-free and enjoy your travel in a modern air-conditioned vehicle. You'll have your own driver, and you can even add an option to add a tour guide, too!
Opting for a private charter in Bangkok offers you the luxury of tailored travel. Image credit to Klook
Book a private charter to Ayutthaya here!
If you want to go around Bangkok and plan around your own itinerary and do things on your own time, this Half Day or Full Day Car Charter around Bangkok is a great option.
Book half a Day or a Full Day charter here!
If you don't mind sharing your vehicle and if you want a more cost-effective option, you can also book the shared transfers between Bangkok and Pattaya, and enjoy a convenient pick-up service directly from/to your hotel in Bangkok and Pattaya.
Book a shared city transfer
Taking a bus around Bangkok
Jumping on a Bangkok bus is like entering the heart of the city – it's affordable and truly authentic. You'll see the everyday side of Bangkok, but be ready for a few challenges. There might be noisy drivers, pushy conductors, traffic jams, smog, and sweaty fellow passengers.
But hey, this is the real Bangkok experience!
Buses in Bangkok are cheap and convenient. Image credit to @grigorii_ne_leps on Instagram
Meet the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) – they're the ones behind these buses. They cover more than 100 routes across Bangkok and nearby suburbs. Imagine over 3,000 buses in different colors cruising around including regular and air-conditioned buses as well as privately-owned buses and minibuses.
So, get on that bus and let the city show you its lively, authentic side!
Types of local buses in Bangkok
Getting around Bangkok by bus might feel overwhelming at first, given the network of routes. To make things easier, it is better to have a BMTA map on hand (you can find them at most bus stations).
And if you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to ask a local or a police officer for guidance.
Bus services are generally available from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., except for all-night buses.
When opting for the local buses in Bangkok, its important to always aware of the bus number and colour. Image credit to @tatsuyaptl on Instagram
For a regular bus ride, you'll be spending around 8 THB, while expressway buses might cost you 10 THB and up. If you are looking for more comfort, you can opt for air-conditioned buses (cream-blue) with a fare starting from 12 THB, varying with distance. The all-night (cream-red) buses are about 9.50 THB.
For EURO II buses (yellow-orange), fares range from 13 THB to 25 THB, depending on how far you're traveling.
#KookTip: Don't be tricked by buses with the same number but different colours – their routes might not be similar. Stick to numbers that match the corresponding colours.
When using bus transport in Bangkok, remember these tips:
- The fare will be collected onboard by a bus conductor. Have a small change ready for the fare. While a 100 THB note is okay for air-conditioned buses, it might not work as well for regular or smaller buses. Never lose your receipt.
- Show kindness by offering seats to children, monks, the elderly, and pregnant individuals.
- Once inside the bus, move towards the back. Don't stand near the door or in the middle of the bus. Always hold onto the rail for safety.
- Signal the driver that you want to disembark by pressing the buzzer before your stop.
- If you're uncertain about your stop, ask the bus conductor for assistance. Keep the name and address of your destination (preferably in Thai) handy.
Read our guide on Bangkok's best-floating markets:
Before you go
Make sure you're ready and well-equipped for your Bangkok adventure! Stay connected with pocket wifi so you can easily map out and navigate around the city.
All you have to do is pick up and drop off your portable WiFi device at a 24-hour counter located at either the Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, or Phuket International Airport, and you're good to go!
Book your pocket wifi here!
So, how did you find out about Bangkok's transportation system? Pack your bags and let's visit Thailand!
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