Tips on Getting Around Bangkok
- Rand Blimes
- May 2
- 3 min read
Bangkok is one of my favorite cities in the world and makes a perfect introduction to Asia. If you’ve never been before, it strikes a wonderful balance between exotic adventure and modern convenience.
Despite being huge and sprawling, it’s surprisingly easy to get around most of the places a traveler might want to visit. Here are my top tips for getting around Bangkok.
Grab
Grab is the main rideshare app used in Southeast Asia. It’s cheap and convenient in Bangkok, and it’s the method I use most often these days (2025).
Grab now picks up and drops off at Bangkok’s airports.
I recommend setting the payment option in the app to cash. I’ve heard plenty of double-charge scam stories when people enter their credit card info. We always pay cash and have never had a problem.
If paying cash, have reasonably correct change—don’t hand over a 1000 baht note to cover a 100 baht ride. Hit a 7-Eleven beforehand for small bills.
For two or more people, Grab is often cheaper than the Skytrain—but the Skytrain may be faster depending on traffic.
Taxis
Sometimes Grab has long wait times. If so, grab a taxi off the street.
Taxis are cheap if you can get them to use the meter. This can be a battle. If they refuse, you can either accept an inflated rate or try another cab.
For groups of three or more, a taxi is often cheaper than the BTS or MRT—unless you get stuck in traffic.
Hail a taxi by extending your arm straight out, palm down, and waving your hand up and down at the wrist (local style—drivers are more likely to use the meter if they think you know what you’re doing).
Open the front passenger door and tell the driver where you want to go before getting in.
Most drivers speak little English. Unless you’re confident in your Thai, it’s best to show them a photo of your destination (maps rarely work). You can also have someone at your hotel write down the address.
If it’s a major tourist attraction, drivers will usually understand if you speak slowly.
They’ll often quote a flat rate 4-6 times higher than the meter price. Point at the meter and say “MEE-TAH.” Near Khao San Road (which I consider the worst place in Thailand) expect refusals, but elsewhere you can usually get a metered ride.
Typical fares: 50 baht for short city rides (metered) or 100–200 baht if negotiating.
Rain warning: Getting a taxi during a downpour is difficult, and drivers rarely agree to use the meter.
BTS Skytrain
The BTS (Skytrain) is our go-to during heavy traffic. Fast, reliable, and hassle-free.
Fares are reasonable. For two people, the BTS often costs about the same as a taxi or Grab.
Rabbit Card: Buy one if you’ll be riding a lot. It saves time and avoids ticket machine lines. You’ll need your passport to purchase one.
If you prefer single-ride tickets, you can buy them from the agent or machine at each station.
Swipe your card (or ticket) entering and exiting. Don’t lose it mid-ride.
It can get crowded, but Thai riders tend to stay quiet. Follow their lead.
MRT
Bangkok’s MRT (underground train) operates separately from the BTS.
As of December 2025, Rabbit Cards weren’t accepted, though this may change.
You’ll get a small black token for single rides. Swipe it when entering and insert it when exiting.
Boats
Take at least one boat ride in Bangkok (or better yet, many).
Chao Phraya Express boats run up and down the river. Flags indicate service level: no flag stops at every pier, orange skips some, yellow is express, and blue is the overpriced tourist boat (skip it).
Fares are typically under 30 baht. Pay either at the dock or onboard. Bring small bills or coins.
A great route: take the BTS to Saphan Taksin station, transfer to the Chao Phraya Express heading north, and get off at Tha Chang for the Grand Palace.
For a more adventurous ride, try the klong boats on Bangkok’s canals. They’re fun and avoid traffic, though they can be smelly—and it’s wise to keep your mouth closed while riding!
Final Tip
If you get confused or lost (it happens), just smile and ask for help. Thais are some of the most helpful people in the world, and you’ll likely end up with a great story. Because travel.
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