Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are the fastest and easiest ways to travel around the city. They help you avoid traffic and reach major attractions, malls, and hotels quickly.
This guide shows you exactly how to use BTS and MRT, step by step — perfect for first-time visitors.
🚆 BTS Skytrain (Step-by-Step)
1. Find the nearest BTS station
Popular BTS stations include:
- Siam
- Asoke
- Nana
- Phrom Phong
- Mo Chit
- Saphan Taksin
Use Google Maps or ask your hotel.
2. Check the line and direction
There are 2 main BTS lines:
- Sukhumvit Line (Light Green)
- Silom Line (Dark Green)
Look at the map above the ticket machines and find the station you want.
3. Buy a ticket
You have 3 options:
Option A: Single Journey Ticket
- Go to the ticket machine
- Select your station
- Pay in coins or notes
- Receive paper ticket
Option B: Rabbit Card (Easy Card)
Best for travelers staying many days.
- Buy at the BTS service counter
- Add money
- Tap to enter and exit
- Saves time (no queue)
Option C: QR Code Ticket
- Buy using the Rabbit LINE Pay app
- Scan the QR at the gate
- Very convenient
4. Enter the station
- Go to the gate
- Tap your card/ticket on the sensor
- Walk through when the gates open
5. Wait on the platform
Stand behind the yellow line and wait for passengers to exit first.
6. Ride the train
- Air-conditioned and clean
- Announcements in Thai and English
- Hold the handrails if standing
7. Exit at your station
- Follow the exit signs
- Tap your card/ticket at the exit gate
- If your ticket runs out of credit, pay the difference at the service counter
🚇 MRT Subway (Step-by-Step)
1. Find the nearest MRT station
Popular MRT stations include:
- Sukhumvit
- Silom
- Chatuchak Park
- Chinatown (Wat Mangkon)
- Hua Lamphong
- Ratchada
2. Choose your line
The MRT has:
- Blue Line (main tourist line)
- Purple Line (outside city center)
3. Buy a ticket
MRT has different ticket types:
Single Journey Token
- Buy from a machine
- Touch the screen → Choose station → Pay
- You will get a black round token
MRT Card
If you plan to use MRT many times, buy a stored-value card at the counter.
4. Enter the gate
- Tap the token/card at the entrance
- Keep the token — you need it to exit
5. Ride the train
- Clean and modern
- Air-conditioned
- Easy station announcements
6. Exit the station
- Insert the token into the slot at the exit gate
- If using a card, tap to exit
⭐ BTS vs MRT — Which Should You Use?
- BTS → Best for Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, Asoke, and shopping areas
- MRT → Best for Chinatown, Old Town, Ratchada, Night Markets, Chatuchak
Most major attractions can be reached by using both together.
💡 Tips for Using BTS & MRT
- Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM)
- Eat/drink before entering (not allowed inside)
- Keep your ticket/card ready
- Watch your belongings during crowded hours
- Use Google Maps for exact routes
⭐ Summary
Using the BTS and MRT in Bangkok is fast, safe, and easy.
Just follow these steps:
- Find your station
- Buy a ticket or card
- Tap in
- Ride the train
- Tap or return your token to exit
It’s the best way to explore Bangkok like a local.