Traveling around Thailand is easy, fast, and affordable. Whether you’re exploring Bangkok’s busy streets or visiting island towns, Thailand has many transportation options for every traveler.
This guide shows you the best ways to get around Thailand and how to use them.
🚆 1. BTS Skytrain (Bangkok)
The BTS is the fastest way to travel around Bangkok.
It avoids traffic and connects major areas like Siam, Sukhumvit, Silom, and Chatuchak.
Why use BTS?
- Clean and air-conditioned
- Easy for tourists
- Fast during rush hour
How much?
Around 16–60 THB per ride.
Where it goes:
Shopping malls, markets, hotels, and popular tourist spots.
🚇 2. MRT Subway (Bangkok)
The MRT works well with the BTS and covers areas BTS does not reach.
Why use MRT?
- Efficient and modern
- Connects Chinatown, Old Town, Chatuchak, Ratchada Night Market
How much?
Around 16–45 THB per ride.
🚗 3. Grab (Thailand’s Uber)
Grab is the easiest way to move around when you want comfort and convenience.
Why use Grab?
- Safe and reliable
- Shows exact price before you book
- Can pay by cash or card
- Available in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi
Options:
- GrabCar
- GrabBike (faster)
- GrabTaxi
🛺 4. Tuk-Tuk
A classic Thailand experience!
Good for:
- Short trips
- Fun rides
- Night markets and tourist areas
Tips:
- Always negotiate price before riding
- Tuk-tuks can be more expensive than taxis
- Great for photos and local experience
🚕 5. Taxi
Taxis are everywhere in Bangkok.
Tips:
- Make sure the driver uses the meter
- Metered taxis are cheaper than Tuk-tuks
- Available 24/7
🚤 6. Boats & Ferries
Thailand has many waterways, especially in Bangkok and the islands.
Types of boats:
- Chao Phraya River Boat → Perfect for visiting temples (Wat Arun, Wat Pho)
- Canal boats → Cheap, fast, local
- Island ferries → Koh Samui, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi
Why use boats?
- Great views
- Avoid traffic
- Very cheap (as low as 15 THB in Bangkok)
🚌 7. Bus & Minivan
Best for city-to-city travel.
Popular routes:
- Bangkok → Pattaya
- Bangkok → Hua Hin
- Chiang Mai → Pai
Cheap and easy to book at stations or online.
🚆 8. Trains
Thailand’s trains are slow but scenic and comfortable.
Great for:
- Overnight sleeper trains
- Chiang Mai route
- Ayutthaya day trip
🛵 9. Motorbike Rental
Common in Chiang Mai, Phuket, and islands.
Important:
- Must have an international driving permit
- Wear a helmet
- Only rent if experienced
⭐ Which Transport Should You Use?
- Bangkok → BTS, MRT, Grab, Boats
- Chiang Mai → Grab, motorbike, red trucks (songthaew)
- Phuket / Krabi → Grab, taxi, motorbike
- Islands → Boats, motorbikes, songthaews
Summary
Thailand is easy to explore with many transportation options:
- Fast: BTS, MRT
- Convenient: Grab
- Local experience: Tuk-tuk & boats
- Budget-friendly: Buses & trains
No matter where you go, getting around Thailand is simple, safe, and fun.