Getting around in Bangkok can be a real drama. The main streets and expressways are packed with cars and sometimes it can take up to an hour to move a few kilometers. Fortunately, there are several ways to get about with avoiding these long queues of endless cars. Walking, the most obvious one, can be the least practical as Bangkok’s sidewalks are everything else than pedestrian friendly. The pavements are overloaded with street vendors, barbecues, motorbikes, pedestrians and more. However, motorbike taxis can be found at nearly every street corner and are the most practical way for short distances.

Recently, Bangkok introduced the BTS Sky train (1999) and the Metro Underground (2004). With these two traffic-free transport facilities, traveling around Bangkok not only got much easier and faster but they

are pollution friendly too. The Sky train runs along two major roads in Bangkok - Sukhumvit and Silom road - and can get you to places deep inside the city centre within minutes. Other major city locations and important places are covered by the Metro and many stops have a connection to the sky train. There are currently plans to expand both networks, but aren’t to be finished before 2009.

Rush hour

There is nothing worse than being stuck in the middle of Bangkok's infamous rush hour traffic jam. All main roads, toll ways and other streets that lead in and out of the city are jammed to the very last inch. Moving nearly seems impossible. It is advised to use the BTS Sky Train or the Metro at those times, even if your next destination is not covered by the network zone. Use it to move out of the main areas and take an ordinary or motorbike taxi afterwards. Rush hour in Bangkok are from 6:30 to 9:00 and 17:00 to 20:00.

Taxis are one of the simplest ways to get around in Bangkok. They can be found everywhere - really, everywhere - and operate for a very cheap price. All taxis cruising in the city are metered - therefore the fare is calculated according to the distance. Most rides within Bangkok city do not exceed 120 Baht ($1= 32 Baht  / 1€ = 45 Baht ).

Attention: Some taxi driver do not use the meter and charge you way over the odds! Click more for further information.

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It is recommended getting around town via BTS sky train. It is fast, safe and the most reliable Mass Transit System in Bangkok. With 23 stations, they are conveniently located along Sukhumvit and Silom lines which operate daily from 06:00 to 24:00. BTS sky trains covers many areas such as the commercial as well as the residential. One Day Pass and 3-Day Tourists Pass make exploring Bangkok easy and economical. Prices depend on the distances, running from 10 to 40 Baht. 1 day passes cost 100 Baht.

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Besides the BTS Sky Train, Bangkok has another hassle free option to get around the city without getting yourself stuck in one Bangkok's infamous traffic jams. This in combination with the BTS Sky Train and Chao Phraya Express Boat makes getting around to some of the most popular destinations a much easier task than before.
Note that your ticket is only valid for one transport option and cannot be used for others.

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Tuk Tuks, also known as sam-lor, are the famous three-wheeled, open-air taxis of Bangkok. Popular for traveling short distances with a big load capacity for transporting up to 6 people or items that don't fit in a regular taxi. The fare always should be regulated before the ride and costs about the same as a regular taxi.

Attention: Some Tuk-Tuk drivers are involved in Gem and Jewelry scams! Find out how to avoid being another victim by clicking on more.

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There are many other transport facilities which can be found around Bangkok, such as motorbike taxis, tuk-tuks, buses and boats. Most of them are used to travel short distances and are, in general, cheaper than other transport options. However, they are exposed to the city's heat, noise and polluted air which can make it a very sweaty experience.

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