How to Get Around Bangkok

            With Bangkok being the capital and largest city in Thailand, there are plenty of options when it comes to transportation. You may be overwhelmed by the heavy traffic and aggressive driving that takes place, but don’t worry. There are modes of transportation available here that don’t involve renting a motor scooter or car. In this post we provide an infographic that includes the many modes of transportation around Bangkok. Take a look at our extensive list on how you can smoothly meander around the Golden City!

Railway and Subway 

            You’ll find that Bangkok has its own railway and subway systems. The BTS Skytrain is the railway that runs north to south and to the east side of Bangkok. Since it’s above ground, you’ll find it to be a more scenic ride. Many popular markets and stores can be seen from the Skytrain. Some of the stops on the route are connected to the large malls and department stores located in the central part of the city.

            Another perk about using the BTS Skytrain are the reasonably priced fares. You can get a 30-day adult pass that allows you up to 15 trips for only 375 Baht (around $11 USD). There are other pricing options available, so you can pick which one is best for your short or long term stay.

            The MRT (Mass Rapid Transport network) is the underground subway that has 18 different stops and moves very fast. Some of the major stops include Kampaengphet, Sukhumvit, Silom, and Hua Lamphong. Both the MRT and the BTS are connected to each other at 2 stations (Asok and Sala Daeng), making travel more convenient. The nice thing about the MRT is that you only have to wait 5-7 minutes to board a train since they come at a faster rate.

Taxis

            One of the easiest (and fastest) ways to get around Bangkok is by taking a taxi cab. If you plan to take a taxi, be sure to look out for one with a red sign on in the taxi, this indicates that the taxi cab is vacant. The nice thing about taking a taxi is that all of them are metered, so you know how much to pay the driver in the end and can avoid being scammed. It is recommended to carry a map with you in case the driver does take a longer route and to decline rides from drivers who are unwilling to use the meter.  

Tuk-Tuks

            You might have heard of a tuk-tuk before and you might have asked yourself, “What exactly is a tuk-tuk?” A tuk-tuk is more of a local taxi where passengers sit in an open cart that is towed by a taxi driver on a motor scooter. This might sound cheaper than taking a taxi, but tuk-tuks have become so popular with tourists, that they can actually be more expensive. This is because they are not metered. The price of the ride depends on where you want to go and how much the driver is willing to take you there for. If you’re good at haggling or interested in getting an authentic experience, then taking a tuk-tuk is a fun way to go around Bangkok.

Boats

            If you’re looking to see Bangkok without all the fuss of the on-land traffic, then traveling by boat is the way to go! There are plenty of boats along the large river that runs all throughout Bangkok known as the Chao Phraya. You’ll get a chance to see Bangkok from a different angle.

Buses

            Another cheap way to get from A to B in Bangkok is by taking the local bus system, the BMTA (Bangkok Mass Transit Authority). If you have a smartphone and you know exactly where you want to get off, the bus can be the best way to get to your destination without paying lots of money.