How to Get Around Bangkok

Wondering how to navigate Bangkok? From soaring Skytrains to roaring tuk-tuks, learning how to get around Bangkok is as much a part of the adventure as the temples and street food. Whether you’re exploring the sleek BTS system or hopping into a colourful songthaew, this city’s transport is fast, fun, and full of personality. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to travel like a local. You will find what tickets to buy, which apps to download, and where to catch the most Instagrammable rides across the Thai capital.

Main Transport Options:

BTS Skytrain
Elevated rapid transit system with 2 main lines (Sukhumvit and Silom) serving central Bangkok. • Daily: 6:00 AM – 12:00 A
• Sukhumvit Line: Green line covering eastern Bangkok
• Silom Line: Dark green line covering southern areas
• Air-conditioned and efficient during peak hours
Pro Tip: Buy a Rabbit Card for seamless travel and use it at 7-Eleven too!

MRT Subway
Underground metro system with Blue Line and Purple Line connecting key districts. • Daily: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Blue Line: Connects Bang Sue to Hua Lamphong
• Purple Line: Connects Khlong Bang Phai to Tao Poon
• Newer trains with platform screen doors
Pro Tip: MRT and BTS use different cards – get both or use the Mangmoom MAAS app!

Buses & Songthaews
Extensive bus network covering all of Bangkok, from air-conditioned coaches to colorful local buses.

• Red buses: Non-AC, cheapest option (8-15 THB)
• Blue/White buses: Air-conditioned (15-25 THB)
• Express buses: Limited stops, faster routes
• Songthaews: Shared pickup trucks in outer areas
Pro Tip: Download ViaBus app for real-time bus tracking and route planning!

Passes & Tickets:

Rabbit Card

Multi-purpose stored value card for BTS, shopping, and convenience stores Best for: BTS travel and shopping
• Works on BTS Skytrain only
• Use at 7-Eleven, restaurants
• Top up at any BTS station

MRT Single Journey Token

Plastic tokens for one-way MRT journeys. Best for: Occasional MRT use
• Buy at station machines
• Tap in and insert when exiting
• No stored value option

Mangmoom MAAS

Mobile app combining BTS, MRT, and Airport Rail Link payments. Best for: Multi-modal travelers
• Works on all rail systems
• QR code payments
• Journey planning included

Navigation Apps & Tools:

Citymapper: Excellent for Bangkok with real-time BTS/MRT info. ViaBus: Real-time bus tracking and route planning
Mangmoom MAAS: Official app for all Bangkok rail systems
Google Maps: Reliable for walking directions and general navigation

Most Instagrammable Transport Spots:

BTS to Wat Arun
Take BTS to Saphan Taksin, then ferry across Chao Phraya River for stunning temple views

MRT to Chatuchak Weekend Market

Perfect for capturing the bustling market atmosphere and street food scenes

BTS Skytrain Views

Elevated views of Bangkok’s skyline, especially beautiful during sunset

Khlong Boat Tour

Traditional long-tail boats through Bangkok’s historic canals and floating markets

Tuk-tuk Adventures

Iconic three-wheeled taxis perfect for quick trips and authentic Bangkok vibes

Insider Tips:

Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) on BTS and MRT
Carry a light jacket – trains are freezing cold!
Have exact change for buses – they don’t always give change.
Take express boats on Chao Phraya River during rush hour Download offline maps – Bangkok traffic is unpredictable

Want to know more about Bangkok? See our post on A Quick Culinary Guide to Local Delights in Bangkok