Getting Around in Bangkok

Yes, Bangkok's traffic is notorious - with good reason. It's very easy to get caught up in gridlock traffic any time of the day or night, and waste a lot of valuable time in the process. However, with excellent and modern public transport systems in place, Bangkok is surprisingly easy to navigate your way around.

The Skytrain (BTS) and underground (MRT) rail systems connect the main shopping, entertainment and business areas of the city, while river taxis and express boats can be used to explore many historic sites and attractions at the riverside. Taxis are cheap and appear on virtually every corner at almost any time. Tuk-tuks, once a big Bangkok attraction, are slowly disappearing in favour of more comfortable transport, but are still worth a ride at least once. Most buses might be slow and old, but a great way to travel with locals and get a real feel of the city.  Another option is motorbike taxis. They're fast and efficient, but not for everyone. There is, of course, always the humble bicycle too - perhaps not the safest option, and strictly for the adventurous.

Plan the best route & select the most suitable mode of transport

Wherever you are traveling to around the city, it's advisable to get your hands on a good map first to plan the best route, and then select a sensible mode of transport to get you there. Take a moment to orientate yourself with our 'Getting Around in Bangkok' Guide. It will not only inform you about the options available, but also contains some valuable pointers to look out for. Often, for example, you can use a combination of transport options effectively to reach your destination, as the two lines of the BTS and MRT line inter-connect at various points.

Tourist scams involving some taxi and tuk-tuk drivers who will approach you with promises of great tailors, 'cheap' seafood restaurants and jewellery shops are as common as the stupas you've seen on postcards. Being informed means you'll know what to expect, what to look out for, be able to plan an excursion wisely - and make the most of your time to explore this sprawling city with ease. Also have a look at our Area Guides with valuable information of what each of Bangkok's areas has to offer. And to select a hotel perfectly suited to your needs, we have you covered too.

Besides the BTS and MRT, the easiest and most convenient way to get around Bangkok is by taxi. Most taxis are new, spacious and, in addition to the traditional green-yellow and red-blue, they also come in funky colours like bright orange, red and even pink. Finding a taxi is not a hassle, especially around hotels, shopping malls and other tourist attractions. (READ MORE)

Tuk-tuks or 'sam lor' (three-wheeled) used to be everyone's favourite way of getting around Bangkok before the BTS, MRT and colourful taxis took over. Originating from an old-fashioned rickshaw during the second World War, a tuk-tuk is essentially a rickshaw with a small engine fitted in. (READ MORE)

While Bangkok has grown incredibly over the last few years - luxury hotels, new shopping malls and skyscrapers adding to the ancient skyline of timeless temples and pagodas - getting around couldn't be easier. The Bangkok Transit System (BTS) or Skytrain, an elevated rail system which crosses the city and connects many of the most popular areas, has made life a whole lot easier. . (READ MORE)

Fast and efficient, the Mass Rapid Transit network (MRT) has been a welcome and well-used addition to Bangkok's public transport network since its hi-tech doors sprung open back in July 2004. With a capacity to whiz 40,000 passengers per hour in each direction, trains every five minutes in peak times (07:00 - 09:00, 16:00 - 19:00) and every seven minutes at other times, its responsible (along with the Skytrain) for taking much of the pressure off the city's notoriously clogged roads. (READ MORE)

Boats are a great way to get around the famous riverside area with its many historical attractions, and to explore the 'klongs' (canals) for a glimpse of yesteryear Bangkok. Several kinds of boats (express boats, river taxis and tail-boats) run up and down the Chao Phraya River, connecting with the local suburbs on the Thonburi side and along the river, while ferries can be used to cross the river at various points. (READ MORE)

Buses in Bangkok provide an incredibly cheap way to travel from one side of the city to another. It's also a great way to see the real Bangkok you don't often see if you're traveling by other means of transportation. Although buses give you a ringside seat to experience and observe the locals and the city, they're not the most favourite means of getting around. Obnoxious drivers, aggressive bus conductors, bad traffic, pollution and sweaty fellow passengers are some of the things you will inevitably encounter. But this is real, hardcore Bangkok. (READ MORE)

Driving in Bangkok can be huge time-waster and a big headache. Finding your way around the many one-way traffic systems can boggle the mind, and often road signs are in Thai only. So unless you plan to drive outside Bangkok to another destination like the beach, use the very efficient transport services like the Skytrain, or take a cab. (READ MORE)

Indeed, one of the fastest ways to get around town when you're a solitary traveller is to jump on a motorbike taxi. By being able to dodge the almost constant gridlock and dart in and out between cars and buses, motorbikes are a quick way to get around, especially during rush hours. Considering Bangkok's notorious traffic conditions, it is probably also the most dangerous! (READ MORE)

Forget motorbike taxis, buses, BTS, underground and ordinary cabs, because getting around in Bangkok can be done with a little more flair and style than that. And what could be more stylish than riding in an iconic London taxi around the city, or beating the traffic while admiring the Grand Palace from a whopping height of 5,500 feet from the ground? (READ MORE)

Unless you know how to make a broomstick fly, we're running out of ideas for you. Cycling as a general means of getting around Bangkok is a dangerous undertaking, and not advisable. For avid cyclists, however, there are some back road routes and a number of cycling tours which are likely to be right up your alley. Head to our section on cycling for a few options. Another exception is cycling in parks - a great leisure activity for grown-ups and kids alike. Our parks page lists a number of possibilities.

Finally, don't under-estimate your feet and how far they can carry you. Many areas of Bangkok are best explored on foot, like Chinatown and shopping areas. If you wear comfortable shoes and arm yourself with a good map, a bottle of water and the right attitude, you'll be rewarded with many surprises Bangkok is going to dish up along the way. Afterwards, reward yourself with a foot massage.

Happy getting around and exploring our beloved city! Be safe and street-smart.