Navigating Bangkok can be a real challenge for first-time visitors. The Thai capital has over 9 million inhabitants and sprawls for miles across 50 different districts. We used to rely on taxis and tuk-tuks to get around, but over the years we've learned how convenient the public transport system is. Whether you prefer the BTS or the Chao Phraya Express boats, our guide will show you the 15 best ways to avoid Bangkok's notorious traffic.

Is the traffic in Bangkok really that bad?

There's no getting around it: Bangkok's traffic is catastrophic and gets worse every year. Taxis should only be used in extreme emergencies. The evening rush hour (5:00 PM to 8:00 PM) is by far the worst time to be out and about, and the morning rush hour (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM) is hardly any better. This can lead to things like missing a restaurant reservation or even missing flights if you don't plan carefully.

Google Maps can be completely wrong in a heavy traffic jam, with arrival times constantly being pushed back. This happened to us once in Sathon when we wanted to make a reservation at the Nobu Rooftop Bar. We ended up having to leave the taxi behind and walk the last leg of the journey. Even ordering a Grab doesn't really solve the problem – the only reliable way to avoid traffic jams is by public transport or motorbike.

Bangkok's city map explained

The most important landmark in Bangkok is the Chao Phraya River, which winds its way through the city and branches into numerous smaller canals. Bangkok can essentially be divided into three areas: the old city, the modern city center, and the business district. The old city lies along the riverbank, where Khao San Road, Wat Pho temple, and the Grand Palace are located. This area relies heavily on riverboats and certain MRT stations, as the BTS Skytrain line does not stop here. Thonburi, a historic district, lies directly opposite on the other side of the river and is accessible by the BTS.

Then there's the modern city center with the huge shopping malls of Siam, the skyscrapers of Sukhumvit Road, and the trendy nightlife of Thonglor. It's primarily accessible by the BTS, allowing you to travel comfortably above the traffic. In the business districts of Sathon and Silom, the MRT and BTS lines intersect. Here you'll find office towers, luxury hotels, rooftop bars, and Lumphini Park. To explore all three zones and other parts of the city, it's often necessary to combine different modes of transport. This might involve a ride on the MRT or BTS, combined with a river cruise or a short walk.

15 best ways to get around Bangkok

1. Take the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit).

The MRT is probably the public transport network you'll use most often in Bangkok. Most of the route runs underground, but some sections are above ground – particularly towards the outer suburbs, such as the Blue Line to Bang Phai station (near Wat Paknam). The Blue Line is very popular because it loops around the city, connecting to Sanam Chai station (near the Grand Palace), Sukhumvit station (with a connection to the BTS), and Wat Mangkon station (near Chinatown). Fares for the MRT are roughly the same as the BTS and significantly cheaper than a taxi.

2. Bypass the traffic jam with the BTS Skytrain

Like the MRT, the BTS Skytrain is fully air-conditioned, offering welcome relief from Bangkok's heat. This rail network runs entirely above ground, providing breathtaking views of skyscrapers, markets, and shopping malls. The most important line is the Sukhumvit Line, which winds like an artery through Bangkok's business district to the key stations of Siam and Asoke. The BTS also takes you quite far north and south of the city. For example, you can travel to Kheha station and then take a taxi to the old city.

3. Explore Bangkok by monorail.

Similar to the BTS, Bangkok's monorails run above ground. However, they are less frequently used by tourists unless you venture off the beaten path: east on the Yellow Line or further north on the Pink Line. The line you're most likely to use is the mini Gold Line, which takes you directly from Krung Thon Buri station to ICONSIAM. The monorails offer fantastic views and are, of course, more comfortable than taxis.

Kat with her mother at ICONSIAM

4. Take the SRT commuter train to Don Mueang Airport.

If you're departing from Don Mueang Airport, for example on a domestic flight, the commuter rail (SRT) is one of the best ways to avoid traffic. It takes you directly to the terminal via an elevated pedestrian walkway. Go to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station) and take the dark red line. The journey takes a maximum of 20 minutes – a great alternative to a taxi.

5. Use taxis as sparingly as possible.

Sometimes you're forced to take a taxi in Bangkok, but for short distances (outside of rush hour) they're still a good option. Taxis come in all sorts of colors – from pink to green to yellow – and you can easily hail one on the street. Look for taxis with green lights; this means they're available, and make sure the driver turns on the meter and doesn't quote an arbitrary price. With the meter running, you'll pay the local fare, which is even cheaper than a Grab ride.

6. Order a Grab meal outside of peak hours.

Grab works almost exactly like Uber – a safe and reliable app that lets you order rides with the tap of a button. Download the app before your trip and link it to your map. Most drivers don't speak English, but the app offers a translation tool if your route is unclear. A popular alternative to Grab is Bolt, which sometimes offers cheaper fares. Regardless of which provider you choose, only use ride-hailing apps outside of peak hours, as traffic jams and higher fares are common then. And if you like, you can also use Grab for motorcycle rides.

Delivery services at the Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium

7. Get on a “Win” motorcycle

If you want to escape the traffic but still feel the vibrant energy of the streets, take a motorbike tour with "Win." It's the most exhilarating way to explore Bangkok: squeezing past lines of cars, riding through narrow alleyways ("sois"), and feeling the wind in your face, surrounded by towering skyscrapers. Cam still fondly remembers his first tour of this kind in Bangkok. Kat had organized two motorbikes for us, and we hopped on the back and rode to a neighborhood where Kat's mother lived at the time. It was great fun weaving through the alleys.

You'll find "Win" stands everywhere – from major street corners to shopping malls, markets, temples, and subway stations. Look out for the drivers in orange vests and ask for a helmet. Most drivers have a spare helmet under the seat, but they don't always offer it. For your information: Helmet use is mandatory, but locals rarely pay attention. Nevertheless, fines are being issued more frequently, and it's advisable to wear a helmet for safety and insurance reasons. Payment is in cash and is always inexpensive for short rides.

8. Take a tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok at night.

A tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok at night, after the rush hour, is something special. During the day, the dense traffic, heat, and exhaust fumes can make it quite unpleasant. After 8 p.m., however, the traffic thins out, and you can enjoy less congested streets, the cooler night air, and the city all around you. Since tuk-tuks are still relatively new, they are generally more expensive than taxis, Grabs, and Win motorbikes. A bit of haggling is therefore essential. For those who prefer something different, an electric tuk-tuk can be booked via the MuvMi app.

9. Leave Bangkok using public shuttle buses or private VIP vans.

Getting around Bangkok is one thing, leaving the city is another. Here, the public minivan shuttles prove to be lifesavers – shared taxis (smaller than buses, of course) that connect Bangkok with the outer districts and nearby cities like Pattaya and Ayutthaya. You'll find these minivans at bus stations like Ekkamai (east) and Mo Chit 2 (north). Tickets, which are very inexpensive, can be purchased upon arrival.

If you're traveling in a group and want maximum comfort and privacy, booking a VIP van is the best option. You can book vans through your hotel or a local travel agency. We often use this option for our four-hour drive to Chanthaburi (Kat's hometown). For both public shuttle buses and private VIP vans, we recommend leaving early in the morning—before 7:00 a.m.—to avoid heavy traffic.

Kat with her mother and Cam's mother in a private VIP van

10. Experience the public buses (BRT & BMTA)

Traveling on a budget in Bangkok offers several advantages, including the extremely affordable public buses. They're not only inexpensive but also provide an enriching experience, as you get to interact with locals. We've taken the bus a few times in Chinatown, and it's always an authentic experience. However, only the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) has a dedicated bus lane for most of its route, while the BMTA (Bangkok Mass Transit Authority) does not – which means you might encounter traffic jams.

Public buses in Chinatown

11. Hop on a songthaew for a truly local ride

Perhaps the most authentic mode of transport in Bangkok is the legendary "songthaew," essentially a pickup truck with a bench seat. These vehicles serve as local shuttle buses and are perfect for short trips through the alleyways (sois) or for exploring the outer districts. Tourists frequently see them at markets and MRT or BTS stations like Bang Chak. They are incredibly cheap and especially convenient outside of rush hour, between 10:00 and 15:00. A ride in a songthaew is a real adventure: there are no seatbelts, and locals hang onto the bumper, but importantly for safety, they drive slowly through the streets.

12. Cruise through Bangkok on the river and canals

One of the most efficient ways to explore Bangkok is by boat on the river and canals. There are two main networks: the Chao Phraya Express, which whisks you quickly across the river, and the Khlong Saen Saep Express, which takes you through Bangkok's historic canal system. To transfer from the train to the river, head to Saphan Taksin Station, located right next to Sathorn Pier. Look for flags on the boats, such as the orange flag. Popular routes include the trip from Sathorn Pier to Ratachawong Pier (near Chinatown) and from Sathorn Pier to Tha Chang Pier (near the Grand Palace).

13. Charter a private longtail boat

This tour is better suited as a one-off experience than for everyday use, but it's still a quintessential Bangkok experience and a great way to escape the traffic. Longtail tours can be booked online, such as this private Bangkok canal tour. Alternatively, you can simply head to the tourist centers of Sathorn or Tha Chang (but be careful not to overpay). A trip through the city's hidden canals is an unforgettable experience – the atmosphere is rough and not always clean, but you'll get an authentic glimpse into local life.

Longtail boat ride in Wat Paknam

14. Explore the neighborhoods on foot and stay on the pedestrian bridges.

To be honest, Bangkok isn't exactly the most pedestrian-friendly city in the world. The distances between sights are quite vast, and the sidewalks themselves aren't exactly inviting: uneven and blocked by street food stalls, construction sites, and power poles with their infamous tangle of cables. Crossing the street is an art in itself. While there are pedestrian traffic lights in some areas, even when the light is green, motorbikes whiz by. Add to that the heat and high humidity, which leave you drenched in sweat, and you'll likely spend most of your time in the air-conditioned MRT.

Nevertheless, there are some areas suitable for a pleasant stroll, such as Sukhumvit, Siam, the Old City, and Song Wat Road. Sukhumvit and Siam, in particular, are a delight thanks to the pedestrian bridges that offer a complete view of the traffic. If you're planning a longer walk, consider taking breaks by stopping at a café or enjoying a fresh coconut from a street vendor (in our opinion, Thailand has the best coconuts in the world). Alternatively, you can visit the city's green spaces for a lovely walk, such as Benjakitti Park and Dusit Arun Park.

15. Explore quieter residential areas by bicycle.

While Bangkok doesn't boast a well-developed network of bike paths, it does offer several quieter neighborhoods that are perfect for exploring by bicycle. The labyrinth of narrow alleyways ("sois"), particularly in areas like Talat Noi and on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, is ideal for leisurely rides. Bicycles are readily available for rent at local shops or, if available, at your hotel or hostel. Alternatively, you can join a Bangkok Bike and Canal Tour, which will take you through hidden alleyways, to markets, temples, and much more. This is a wonderful way to see more while avoiding traffic jams.

Understanding Bangkok's ticketing system

Bangkok's public transport ticketing system is like a puzzle – and for good reason. The two rail networks (BTS and MRT) are operated by two different companies. The BTS uses the Rabbit Card, which allows you to top up your balance. Unfortunately, this card isn't valid for the MRT, which accepts contactless payments with physical Visa or Mastercard. Both systems also offer single tickets and day passes – the preferred option for most travelers with short stays.

Regarding buses, the BRT accepts the Rabbit Card, while the BMTA is still traditional and requires cash payment upon boarding. River and canal boats also operate exclusively with cash – tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the dock or directly on board from the conductor. For stays of 4–5 days, we recommend purchasing a Rabbit Card. You can then use your Visa or Mastercard for the MRT and pay in cash for all other forms of transport.

Bangkok's ticketing system

From Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center

After landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), getting to the hotel is the most important thing. We usually just queue for a taxi and wait about 10-20 minutes until one becomes available. This is pretty stress-free, and Kat always knows how to make sure the taxi driver doesn't rip us off. However, we've also booked an airport transfer before, which was even easier – and it was really cool to see our name on a sign in front of the gate. Alternatively, you can use the Airport Rail Link and then take the MRT or BTS to the hotel. Google Maps shows the individual steps quite well.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Accommodation with good public transport connections

The golden rule for accommodation in Bangkok is: stay within walking distance of an MRT or BTS station. While Asok is the most conveniently located, its transfer points give it a slightly seedy reputation (Soi Cowboy), which can detract from the experience. Therefore, we recommend staying in the Ari or Thonglor districts, both accessible by BTS. For a budget-friendly option, The Yard Hostel near Ari station is a good choice. Or treat yourself to something special at the Volve Hotel right next to Thonglor station.

Frequently asked questions about getting around in Bangkok

Is it safe to use public transport late at night?

Whether you're traveling by MRT, BTS, or local buses, public transport in Bangkok is very safe, even late at night. Most stations are brightly lit and well-staffed (including security personnel), and you often see locals going out for dinner nearby, which further enhances the feeling of safety. We did see some homeless people on the elevated pedestrian bridges in the Pinklao district once while we were staying at Casa 17, but even there we never felt unsafe.

Can I take large luggage on the MRT or BTS?

You can easily take your suitcase or large backpack on the MRT and BTS. This is important to know if you plan to continue your journey on the Airport Rail Link. We've heard that security officers occasionally check luggage, but this has never happened to us. We strongly recommend avoiding trains during peak hours – it's nearly impossible to get on with luggage, and you may have to wait for several trains before there's space. If you absolutely must travel on the trains, take a taxi or Grab to the airport instead (and leave early).

Should I rent a car or a scooter/motorcycle in Bangkok?

We advise against renting a car or scooter/motorcycle in Bangkok itself. As mentioned, the traffic is difficult, and finding parking is extremely complicated. We rented a car in Chiang Mai once and got around without any problems, but honestly, we wouldn't recommend it for Bangkok. Fortunately, you don't need your own vehicle to experience the best parts of Bangkok. The city is wonderful to explore using public transport and on foot.