How To Get Around Bangkok Thailand

Bangkok is an intriguing, entertainment-filled yet complex cityscape. For a first-time traveller, getting around this city of angels can be a daunting task. Unless you prepare well with plenty of information in hand. Let’s talk about getting around Bangkok.

How to get around in Bangkok on the BTS line

The efficient and fast BTS line (Skytrain) is the easiest way to get around in Bangkok. Many a 5-star Bangkok hotel are located near BTS lines. For example, the Emporium Suites by Chatrium is just 18 minutes away (on foot) from BTS Asok. The two BTS lines are Sukhumvit and Silom. The Shilome route begins from the National Stadium station (W1) and runs along the central and southwestern areas to end at the Bang Wa station in Thonburi. The other line (Sukhumvit) travels between Mo Chit and Bearing station along northern, central and southeastern locations. These lines stop at 35 stations and operate every 5 minutes. You can access nightlife spots, ritzy restaurants and lots of attractions along the Chao Phraya River if you use the Skytrain. Ticket prices vary between 15 and 40 baht. A word of advice – avoid using the Skytrain between 7 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 7 pm, as the carriages get crowded.

How to use the MRT train in Bangkok?

The MRT subway lines connect to the Skytrain at some stations. The MRT line is cheap and fast. Most tourists use the Blue Line to get to temples and other attractions. Most daily commuters use the purple line. You can buy token tickets at vending machines for one-way trips or buy a stored value card and top it up as you go. The vending machines are easy to operate. All you have to do is select the English language. The machine displays the map. Select your destination and the map will indicate the ticket price. Simply insert money into the allocated slot, and get your token card and change.

How to get around Bangkok by boat?

You can buy a one-day pass for Chao Phraya River cruises, and explore Bangkok via water all day long. This way, you’ll avoid traffic. The cruises explain all the stops along the way, and you can pick and choose your stops. Get off from your stop, explore it and come back to the pier to catch the next boat. The cruise services run from 6 30 am to 7 30 pm on a daily basis. You can get to most of the travel attractions via boat service.

How to use buses in Bangkok?

There are air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses in Bangkok. Bus rides are cheap, and comfortable during non-peak hours. The colour of buses can indicate the comfort level. Red buses are roomy and sometimes operate at night. Green buses are inexpensive but the downside is that there is no air-conditioning. White, Blue or Cream coloured buses are roomy, air-conditioned and luxurious. The prices are a bit on the higher side. Most buses operate from 6 am in the morning and wrap up the day around 10 pm. You can also catch long-distance buses from Bangkok to Pattaya, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya and Phuket.

How to use taxis in Bangkok?

Download the Grab app to book taxis. This way you can avoid scams and refrain from paying unreasonable fares. Taxis usually charge 35 Baht for the first 2 kilometers and 5 Baht for each additional kilometer. There is even a charge for every meter you move in a taxi stuck in traffic. Taxis are comfortable but they can stall you during peak hours. If you’re in a hurry, grab a motorbike taxi. These drivers are pros at navigating traffic and finding shortcuts. However, remember to keep your valuables close to you as you ride a motorbike taxi.