Exploring an Array of Travel Options
From tuk-tuks to the BTS Skytrain, Thailand offers a fascinating mix of transport that suits every budget and style.
Thailand · Survival Guide
Figuring out how to best get around in Thailand? We've got you covered. Here's a rundown of the various ways to get around in the Land of Smiles.
From tuk-tuks to the BTS Skytrain, Thailand offers a fascinating mix of transport that suits every budget and style.
Only available in Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain (or just BTS) is a super convenient way to avoid traffic. It's fast, cheap, reliable, and is even a nice way to see the city.
It can get crowded during rush hour, and it doesn't cover the entire city (particularly the old town side), but it's still the quickest and cheapest way to get around most of Bangkok.
You'll find it pretty easy to snag a ticket at the self-service stations, with English options and straightforward maps that lay out the different stops.
Quick & Efficient Urban TransportEvery mode has its merits — here's what to know before you go.
The most iconic mode of travel in Thailand. These open-air, three-wheeled vehicles are a fun way to get around the city. No trip to Thailand is complete without hopping in one of these at least once!
Exhilarating and unique cultural experience, offering a fun way to explore local areas with open-air rides and personalized routes.
Watch OutSafety concerns due to lack of protective gear, along with language barriers and potential for overcharging tourists.
Convenient and efficient transportation option, offering easy booking, reliable service, and often competitive pricing compared to traditional taxis. This is a good option if you want transparent pricing and easy route planning.
Convenient door-to-door transportation with flexibility, offering a faster and more direct option compared to public transport.
Watch OutPotential for surge pricing during peak hours and reliance on internet connectivity for booking rides.
Convenient door-to-door transportation with flexibility to travel to specific destinations, offering a faster and more direct option compared to public transportation.
Direct routes with comfort, especially useful for airport transfers and late-night travel.
Watch OutCan be more expensive, especially during peak hours or in tourist areas, with potential for traffic delays.
Quick and agile option for navigating through traffic in congested areas, offering flexibility and accessibility to narrow streets and shortcuts.
Beating traffic jams and reaching tight spots quickly. Thrilling way to experience the city.
Watch OutA little dangerous! These drivers are typically skilled, but you're always taking a chance without a helmet — they rarely provide one.
Inner-city bus systems do exist in cities such as Bangkok and Khon Kaen, but they tend to be pretty confusing. Your best bet is to stick to the regional buses that are catered more to English speakers.
Economical option for budget-conscious travelers, offering affordable fares compared to other modes of transport.
Watch OutCan be slower and less comfortable, especially for long distances, with limited amenities and potential for delays due to traffic.
The most well-known train route is Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which covers over 700 kilometers. The overnight sleeper trains are an adventure in themselves, fitted with beds and amenities.
Fair warning though — trains can often run behind schedule. Your trip may be longer, but the Thai countryside is beautiful!
Scenic long-distance journeys and a uniquely Thai travel experience on the sleeper overnight routes.
Watch OutCan be slower than planes and subject to delays, with limited routes and schedules compared to buses.
The most convenient way to travel across the country. Low-cost carriers such as Air Asia and Nok Air have flights to just about every major town in Thailand.
Speedy transportation between destinations, reducing travel time significantly compared to buses or trains.
Watch OutRelatively expensive when considering flight tickets, airport taxes, and additional fees for baggage.
A converted pickup truck with two rows of bench seats in the back. Common throughout Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai. Often operates like a shared taxi on fixed routes.
Budget travelers wanting a local experience. Very affordable and widely available outside Bangkok.
Watch OutLimited coverage area primarily focused on urban centers, less accessible to rural or remote destinations.
An iconic way to explore Bangkok's canals (khlongs) and reach the islands of southern Thailand. Bangkok even has an express boat service on the Chao Phraya river.
Island-hopping, exploring river communities, and avoiding road traffic in Bangkok's canal network.
Watch OutRoutes are limited to waterways. Can be loud and splashy — bring a plastic bag for your bags!