Getting around Bangkok's city center: BTS, MRT, buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, boats, motorbike taxis, and rental cars are popular means of transportation in Thailand. Below, you'll find information on ticket prices, operating hours, and essential tips for using these modes of transportation in Thailand:
Bangkok Skytrain (BTS)
- Operating hours: From 6 AM to 10 PM. BTS routes in Thailand typically run every 3 to 6 minutes.
- Ticket prices: 15 - 40 baht.
- Important note: You have two BTS routes to choose from:
+ The first route, Silom, marked in vibrant green, starts from Silom and travels to Sukhumvit at Siam Square plaza, stopping at the National Stadium.
+ The second route, Sukhumvit, in lively green, follows Sukhumvit Road and the Phayonyothin direction towards Bangkok's capital.

Bangkok Skytrain (BTS)
Bangkok Metro (MRT)
- Operating hours: From 6 AM to 10 PM, with each trip spaced approximately 7 – 10 minutes apart.
- Ticket prices: Ranging from 15 to 40 baht, depending on the travel distance.
- Note: Currently, the MRT passes through stations such as Hua Lamphong, Sam Yan, Silom, Lumpini, Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Lad Phrao, Ratchadapisek, Sukhumvit, Rama 9, Thailand Cultural, Huay Kwang, Kampaengphet, Bang Sue, Chatuchak.
>>> For more details on using MRT and BTS in Thailand, check out the article “Guide to Using the Subway (MRT) and Elevated Train (BTS) in Thailand”
Bus
- Operating hours: Buses operate from 5 AM to 11 PM. Additionally, there are night buses running from 11 PM to 5 AM the next day.
- Ticket prices: Range between 7 and 22 baht, depending on the distance traveled.
- Note: There are several types of buses to choose from, including:
+ Red buses, which are more spacious and some operate during the night.
+ Green buses offer budget-friendly fares but lack air conditioning.
+ White, blue, and cream-colored buses provide spacious, cool interiors with air conditioning, albeit at a higher fare.

Buses in Thailand
Taxi
- Operating hours: 24/7.
- Fare: 5 baht per km.
- Note: You can hail a taxi anywhere in Thailand, be it from a hotel, airport, or on the street. Taxis in Thailand come in various colors for easy identification. Most taxi companies here have a meter displaying the running km; if not, you should request the driver to activate it to avoid any overcharging.

Tuk Tuk
- Operating hours: From 6 AM to 11 PM.
- Fare: Ranges from 10 to 20 baht, depending on the distance.
- Note: A Tuk-tuk can accommodate 2-5 people. If you're planning a long-distance journey, it's advisable to avoid choosing a tuk-tuk. However, before starting your trip, inquire about the fare and avoid peak hours (7 AM - 9 AM and 4 PM - 7 PM) due to heavy traffic. Tuk-tuks are considered a 'specialty' of the land of golden temples, so if you get the chance to travel to Thailand, experience this unique mode of transportation.

Tuk Tuk - The Thai Specialty
Motorbike Taxi
- Operating hours: Service available from 6 AM to 10 PM.
- Fare: Approximately 30-40 baht, depending on the distance.
- Note: You can hail a motorbike taxi anywhere in Thailand; they typically wear orange uniforms. The fare for motorbike taxis varies based on your route, so negotiate the price before getting on. However, using motorbike taxis has limitations, as some drivers may ride fast, posing a safety risk.
Renting Cars and Motorcycles
- Operating hours: Flexible.
- Fare: Rental prices vary based on the type of vehicle and rental location. Around 200 baht for motorcycles and 500 baht for cars.
- Note: Based on travel experience in Thailand, for more control over your transportation, you can opt to rent a self-driving car or a motorcycle. However, this is suitable for those familiar with the roads. To rent a vehicle, you need a valid license and must adhere to the traffic laws in Thailand. Keep in mind that traffic in Thailand is on the left side, and wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is mandatory.
Boats and Ferries
You can take boats and ferries to explore palaces, temples, and various other famous spots in Thailand. Be sure to inquire about the prices before renting a boat. If you choose the Mytour Thailand tour, you'll receive a complimentary boat ride on the Chao Phraya River, along with other enticing offers, making your trip more meaningful and memorable. Contact 1900 2065 to book your tour early.
Nguyen Nga
Image Source: Internet