Top Ways to Travel in Thailand

Thailand boasts an excellent transportation network, making it easy for tourists to explore beyond Bangkok. Whether you're traveling north to the mountains of Chiang Mai or south to a tropical island, there are flights, trains, buses, minivans, and boats available. Most of these options are efficient and reasonably priced.

To assist you in planning your travels, we've created this guide to navigating Thailand's transport options.

Flying is the quickest way to travel in Thailand

Air travel is the most effective method for getting around Thailand, though it may not be the most eco-friendly choice. The country's extensive flight network connects Bangkok to major tourist spots like Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Phuket, and Krabi, as well as many lesser-known provincial capitals. If you're heading to an island, several budget airlines also provide convenient airport-bus-ferry combinations.

Keep in mind that Bangkok features two airports: Don Mueang International Airport, which serves as the main budget and domestic hub, and Suvarnabhumi Airport, the primary international gateway. The fastest way to reach central Bangkok from either airport is by taxi. Expect to pay at least 350B for the ride, plus a mandatory airport fee of 50B and additional toll charges. Both airports are connected to Bangkok's urban train system, and a shuttle bus operates between them.

The leading domestic airlines include AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and VietJet Air. Thanks to the competition, domestic flights are quite affordable, but be cautious as these budget carriers are strict about luggage weight and size limits.

The train offers a leisurely yet reliable way to experience Thailand.

For those not in a rush, the State Railway of Thailand provides an affordable and comfortable way to travel across the country. The rail network comprises four primary long-distance routes: Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, and Southern.

In 2023, Bangkok inaugurated the modern Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, located north of the city center. This station serves as the terminus for the Northern, Northeastern, and Southern lines and is integrated with the Metro network. With its opening, plans are underway for high-speed trains to connect various regions, including a route to Nakhon Ratchasima currently under construction. Meanwhile, the old terminus, Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) in Chinatown, continues to be the hub for local, commuter, and tourist trains, along with all services on the Eastern Line.

To steer clear of scams and avoid overpaying, purchase your tickets directly at one of the aforementioned stations, or use the State Railways of Thailand website or their hotline (1690 within Thailand). Different seat categories are available, detailed below.

First-class

• Offered on Overnight Express and Special Express trains only, first-class tickets feature an air-conditioned cabin, two twin beds, a private bathroom, and a lockable door.
• This option is perfect for couples or families desiring privacy.
• It’s advisable to book several days in advance, particularly during the peak season (November to March).

Second-class

• This is the most favored choice, offering both seats and sleeper options based on the route.
• Travelers can select between a pricier air-conditioned cabin or a fan-cooled option.
• Ideal for solo female travelers, as some trains feature women-only sleeper compartments.

Third-class

• Best suited for short journeys.
• Features basic wooden seating without air conditioning.
• A solid choice for those on a tight budget.

Cut costs by opting for a bus or minivan

Buses and minivans provide the most extensive and economical transportation network in Thailand. While numerous bus companies exist, the government-subsidized Transport Co is among the most reliable. Purchase tickets online or at the bus station to steer clear of scams. Be especially cautious of buses departing from tourist hotspots, like Bangkok’s Khao San Road, where incidents of baggage theft and unapproved stops have been reported.

Like most transport options in Thailand, there are various luxury levels available.

• VIP, Super-VIP, and first-class buses are ideal for overnight trips, offering ample recline space and onboard toilets. Some even provide meal vouchers and dedicated bus stewards. Remember to bring a sweater and earplugs, as the air conditioning can be frigid and movies often play at high volume.
• Second-class buses feature air-conditioning but lack onboard toilets and may have additional stops.
• 'Ordinary' non-air-conditioned buses are becoming rare, though still found in rural areas. These buses are typically slow, with frequent stops.

Minivans are increasingly replacing buses for short and medium-distance travel in Thailand. These services, offered by both private companies and the Transport Co., are affordable and fast, though passengers are often packed in tightly, and drivers may exhibit reckless behavior.

For greater flexibility, think about renting a car or motorcycle

While the idea of renting a car in Thailand can feel daunting, it's an excellent way to explore areas beyond the cities. However, be aware that Thailand has some perilous roads, so it’s crucial to drive cautiously and at a safe pace.

You can rent cars in most major cities and at airports through local firms as well as international rental agencies. Motorcycles are available at guesthouses and small local businesses, which often require you to leave your passport as a deposit. Always inspect the motorcycle’s condition and request a helmet, as it is mandatory by law.

In theory, visitors wishing to operate any vehicle (including motorcycles) in Thailand should obtain an international driving permit. However, this requirement is seldom enforced in practice.

Opt for long-tail boats for short trips and ferries for longer excursions

Thailand offers a diverse range of boat travel options, both on rivers and at sea. For shorter journeys, particularly along the canals of Bangkok, the open-air long-tail boat is the go-to choice. It’s common to negotiate the fare beforehand. For trips lasting an hour or two, larger covered boats with inboard engines are available. For longer distances to the islands, hydrofoils, ferries, and more comfortable speedboats are at your service.

Utilize motosai, tuk-tuks, and taxis to navigate through Thai cities

A popular method of transportation in major Thai cities is the motosai (motorcycle taxi). You'll spot drivers in vests at street corners, where they operate on fixed routes for short distances or negotiate rides elsewhere—ideal for avoiding heavy traffic. Just hold on tight and remember to wear a helmet!

While still present in Thai cities, the three-wheeled open-air tük-tüks have become more of a novelty than a primary transport option. It's crucial to negotiate your fare before hopping in, as initial prices can be steep for non-locals. Be cautious of drivers who may take you on unnecessary detours to their 'friend's shop,' a common scam for earning commissions from shop owners.

Taxis are readily available in most major provincial capitals, though fares can be quite high in some areas. To avoid miscommunication, consider downloading the Grab app (as Uber doesn't operate in Thailand).

Bangkok is the sole city in Thailand with an urban rail system. The Metro (MRT) and Skytrain (BTS) offer convenient and extensive coverage, continuously expanding. Fares begin at 15B, increasing based on distance traveled, with trains running from 5:30 am to midnight.

Transportation options for those with disabilities are limited in Thailand.

Buses and trains in Thailand generally lack facilities for passengers with disabilities, with Bangkok being the only city offering some accommodations. The Bangkok Mass Transit System features elevators at 17 of its 36 stations, while the Metro is even more accessible, boasting elevators at every station and locks for wheelchairs.