Bangkok may be famous for its traffic chaos and air pollution—but don’t let that stop you. With the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway, exploring the city is not only easy and affordable, but also cool, clean, and surprisingly scenic.
🚝 BTS Skytrain – Zip Through the City Above Ground
The BTS Skytrain is hands-down one of the fastest and most efficient ways to get around Bangkok. With air-conditioned trains gliding above street level, you’ll skip the traffic and soak in great views of the city. The BTS runs on two main lines:
- Sukhumvit Line (light green): From Kheha in the southeast to Khu Khot in the north, this line covers key stops like Asok, Mo Chit, and Phaya Thai.
- Silom Line (dark green): Running from Bang Wa to National Stadium, this line includes Chong Nonsi and Saphan Taksin, where you can catch a free shuttle boat to riverside destinations like ICONSIAM and Asiatique.
The central interchange at Siam Station connects both lines, giving you easy access to Bangkok’s top shopping, business, and entertainment areas. Many stations are also conveniently connected with MRT Subway.
Buying tickets is simple—just use the machines or counters at any station. If you’re planning multiple trips, grab a Rabbit Card (physical or via app) for discounted fares and quicker access. There’s also a One-Day Pass for unlimited rides, ideal for sightseeing days (note: not valid on all lines).
Trains run daily from 6:00 AM to midnight, and stations are well-signed in English and Thai. Most are also equipped with elevators and ramps for accessibility, and helpful staff are always nearby.
🚇 MRT Subway – Glide Underground to Culture & Calm
When the BTS doesn’t reach, the MRT Subway usually does. This underground system is just as modern and reliable, with air-conditioned trains that make zipping across Bangkok comfortable—even during the midday heat.
There are two main MRT lines:
- Blue Line: The heart of the MRT network, forming a loop from Tao Poon to Lak Song, and linking to the BTS at Chatuchak Park (Mo Chit), Sukhumvit (Asok), and Silom.
- Purple Line: A quieter commuter line stretching from Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai, ideal for residential and suburban stops.
Tickets can be bought from easy-to-use touchscreen machines or station counters. Consider a stored-value MRT or Mangmoom card if you’re staying a while—it saves both time and baht. Credit cards (VISA and Mastercard), issued by both international and Thai banks, can also be tapped at the gates.
✨ Must-Visit Spots on the BTS & MRT
Both systems open up access to some of Bangkok’s best attractions:
- Grand Palace & Wat Pho – Hop off at Sanam Chai MRT.
- Chinatown – Get to Wat Mangkon MRT for temples, street food, and hidden bars.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market – Reach it via Mo Chit BTS/ Kamphaeng Phet MRT.
- Terminal 21 – Just steps from Asok BTS / Sukhumvit MRT.
- Benchakitti – Get off at Queen Sirikit MRT.
- Lumpini Parks – Get off at Lumpini MRT/ Silom MRT/ Sala Daeng BTS.
- Bang Kachao – Take the MRT to Bang Wa, then a short boat ride.
Whether you’re in town for temples, markets, shopping, food, or a bit of everything, the BTS and MRT make exploring Bangkok stress-free.
🗺️ Tip: Plan your route at bts.co.th or mrta.co.th before heading out!
