Public Transport in Bangkok

After living in Phuket for 4 years, I have been faced with the difficulty of getting around the island. Public transport is highly inefficient and virtually nonexistent outside of Phuket town. Tuk tuks in Phuket are run by mafia and prices are exorbitant. Taxis do not have meters so bartering is essential, but you won’t go anywhere for less than 200 baht. Motorbike taxis are dangerous and only a few have helmets for passengers.

Phuket tuk tuk

Needless to say, Bangkok is a million times more efficient in terms of transport and it is such a joy to get around the capital.

First, there is the Sky train (BTS) and the underground train (MRT) which are safe, clean, fast and cheap! They have plenty user-friendly ticket machines and staff booths, maps and signs to direct you.

Then, you have the public buses. To use them, you have to know where you are going or have been given clear indications, because the drivers don’t speak much English and the schedules maps can be hard to read. If you are on a very tight budget, they are the way to go for only a few baht!

There are also taxi-boats on the Chao Phraya River which are super pleasant as well as affordable. English speaking staff can be found at the docks. There are tourist boats for 40 baht which include a tour guide and are generally less crowded, or local boats for half the price that get very full during peak hours. The boats are great because you avoid the traffic and get a wonderful refreshing breeze, much needed in the city!

Also, you have motorbike taxis which are virtually everywhere! They were colourful bibs so they are hard to miss. They will barter with you, ride on the side walk, and will not offer a helmet so use at your own risk!

Taxi boat on the Chao Praya River

Of course, there are the infamous tuk tuks! With their colourful tin exterior and cartoony look, you will sure want to try them at least once. Watch out for the ridiculously cheap offers (10 baht rides) as you will most likely be stopped at a couple of tailor shops or diamond factories along the way, where your driver will receive a commission, generous if you buy anything. Once you bargained a fair price for your ride, you will experience insane speeding between lanes and inhale petrol fumes for sure! Go with the flow!

 

Bangkok Tuk Tuks

Finally, you of course have meter taxis. They are fantastically affordable, starting at 35 baht and going up nice and slowly until you reach your destination. Be sure to confirm the driver will start the meter, however, as they tend to prefer a fixed price with tourists instead. You may have to reject a few of them until one accepts to put the meter on – not big deal.

Meter Taxis in Bangkok

I am very impressed with the public transport in Bangkok, but I also enjoy walking around this amazing city, where poverty meets extreme extravagance. I recommend using your own two feet a lot, which can lead to rewarding little finds.