9 Ways to Get Around
From tuk-tuks to the BTS Skytrain, Thailand offers a fascinating mix of transport that suits every budget and style.
Quick Reference
TL;DR
Figuring out how to best get around in Thailand? Here's the short version - a rundown of what to know before you go.
Airplanes for long distance. Ride-hailing apps (Bolt & Grab) for short hops.
Airplanes and longtail boats - especially in touristy areas.
Motorbike taxis. Fun but risky - wear a helmet if you can find one.
Trains. A wonderful opportunity to soak in the Thai countryside.
Buses. Affordable and cover almost the entire country.
Tuk-tuks and longtail boats - must-try at least once.
Plane
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.
Tip: If you're flexible with dates, you can typically find a great deal on Skyscanner!
- Fast
- Often cheap if booked ahead
- Connects distant regions easily
- Airport transfers add time
- Baggage fees
- Carbon footprint
Bus
A cost-effective way to explore the country. Thailand has an extensive bus system that will take you to just about any town. Plus, there are overnight buses with reclining seats so you can wake up at your destination and save a night's rent.
Inner-city bus systems exist in Bangkok and Khon Kaen, but they tend to be confusing. Your best bet is to stick to regional buses catered more to English speakers.
- Extensive network
- Very affordable
- VIP buses are comfortable
- Long travel times
- Schedules can be unreliable
- Luggage storage is limited
Train
The most well-known route is Bangkok to Chiang Mai - over 700 kilometers. The overnight sleeper trains are an adventure in themselves, fitted with beds and amenities.
Fair warning: trains can often run behind schedule. The trip may be longer, but the Thai countryside is beautiful!
- Scenic journeys
- Comfortable sleeper cabins
- No airport hassle
- Often delayed
- Limited routes
- Slower than flying
Skytrain
The BTS Skytrain is a super convenient way to avoid Bangkok traffic. It's fast, cheap, reliable, and even a nice way to see the city from above.
It can get crowded during rush hour, and doesn't cover the entire city, but it's still the quickest and cheapest way to get around most of Bangkok. Tickets are easy to grab at self-service stations with English options.
- Fast and air-conditioned
- Avoids Bangkok traffic
- Affordable fares
- Limited to Bangkok
- Doesn't cover all areas
- Crowded in rush hour
Taxi
Easily identified by their bright green and yellow exteriors (sometimes pink or blue), taxis are abundant in urban areas. Depending on traffic & weather, this can be a terrific or horrendous way of getting around.
Tip: Make sure the driver turns on the meter. Agreeing to a fare upfront is fine, but know you'll pay a premium.
- Door-to-door convenience
- Available 24/7
- Air-conditioned
- More expensive
- Traffic delays
- Language barriers with drivers
Motorbike Taxi
Super convenient, cheap, and quick… what's the catch?
A little dangerous! Although drivers are typically skilled with tons of experience, you're taking a chance when getting on a bike without a helmet - they rarely provide one.
- Quick in heavy traffic
- Access to narrow streets
- Cheap for short hops
- Safety concerns
- No protective gear provided
- Potential for overcharging
Ride-Hailing Apps
"Superapps" have become commonplace in Thailand. Grab (which acquired Uber) is the most well known, while Bolt is an up-and-comer with slightly better rates.
This is a great option if you want transparent pricing and easy route planning.
- Easy to book
- Fixed pricing - no haggling
- Reliable and tracked
- Surge pricing at peak hours
- Requires internet
- Occasional driver shortage
Tuk-Tuk
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 at least once!
Tip: Always, always, always agree on the fare before hopping in.
- Uniquely Thai experience
- Open-air and fun
- Good for short trips
- Overcharging tourists is common
- No price meter
- Hot and exposed to traffic
Longtail Boat
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 access
- Scenic river routes
- Avoids road traffic
- Limited to waterways
- Loud and splashy
- Pricier in touristy areas