Getting Around Thailand: BTS, MRT, Grab, Motorbike Taxis and Traveling Between Cities
Thailand has one of the most varied and accessible transportation systems in Southeast Asia. Once you understand your options, getting around Bangkok and travelling between cities becomes second nature. Here is everything you need to know.
The BTS Skytrain
The BTS Skytrain is the backbone of Bangkok life for most expats. It runs on two main lines — the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line — connecting the major expat neighborhoods, shopping areas, and business districts above the traffic. It is fast, air conditioned, affordable, and runs from around 6am to midnight daily.
A single journey costs between 17 and 59 THB depending on distance. The Rabbit Card is the reloadable card most regular users carry — it saves time and offers slightly discounted fares.
The MRT Subway
The MRT runs underground and connects areas not covered by the BTS. The two systems intersect at Asok/Sukhumvit and Sala Daeng/Silom stations making transfers straightforward. The MRT also connects to the airport rail link at Makkasan station.
Grab
Grab is the dominant ride hailing app in Thailand and an essential tool for expat life. It works like Uber — request a car or motorbike, see the price upfront, and pay through the app or cash. Grab takes the guesswork out of taxi pricing and eliminates the meter refusal problem entirely. Download it before you land.
Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike taxis — identified by their orange vests — are the fastest way to cover short distances in Bangkok traffic. They weave through gridlock in minutes. Negotiate the price before you get on and always wear the helmet they provide. For short hops of one to three kilometers they are unbeatable.
Songthaews
Songthaews are shared pickup trucks with two rows of seats in the back. They are the main form of local transport in Chiang Mai and many other cities outside Bangkok. Cheap, frequent, and a genuinely local experience.
Travelling Between Cities
By Air Thailand's domestic flight network is excellent and affordable. Airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air connect Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and other destinations for as little as 500 to 1,500 THB if booked in advance. A flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes one hour.
By Train The State Railway of Thailand runs overnight sleeper trains between major cities. The Bangkok to Chiang Mai overnight train is a classic expat experience — affordable, comfortable, and scenic. Book through the official SRT website or at Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station in Bangkok.
By Bus Long distance buses connect virtually every city and town in Thailand. Nakhonchai Air and Transport Co are among the most reliable operators. For budget travellers buses are the most affordable option between cities.
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