Metro in Bangkok Thailand: Complete Guide to BTS and MRT

1. Bangkok Metro Network – What you need to know first

If it’s your first time in Bangkok, the metro might look a little confusing at first, but once you understand how it works, it quickly becomes one of the easiest ways to get around the city.

Bangkok’s rail system has been growing steadily since 1999 and today it connects most of the areas travelers actually visit. Instead of one single metro, the city uses two main networks that work side by side.

• The BTS Skytrain runs above the streets. It’s the line most visitors end up using, especially around Siam, Sukhumvit and Silom. Best for: shopping malls to business districts, many of Bangkok’s busiest areas.
• The MRT Subway, on the other hand, runs underground. Best for: different parts of the city, including areas like Chinatown and the local neighborhoods.

The good news is that the two systems connect with each other, so moving between lines is usually straightforward. The maps are color-coded, easy to read, and displayed clearly in every station. Trains are air-conditioned and come frequently, even during busy hours, a big relief in Bangkok’s heat.

The public transportation system map in Bangkok is usually distributed for free at airports. You can find them at information desks. There are also self-service public display stands. Please click in or save the map right below for better view:

Otherwise, you can use the map on your phone by searching for 'Mmap Bangkok' on Google.

2. Is BTS and MRT in Bangkok the same? 

The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are not the same system, although they complement each other well.

• The BTS Skytrain runs above ground, which means you often get a view of the streets below. It is extremely convenient for travelers staying around Sukhumvit, Siam, or Silom, and it connects directly to many shopping malls and entertainment areas.
• The MRT, on the other hand, operates underground. It covers different zones of Bangkok and is particularly useful for visiting places such as Chinatown or traveling to local districts where the BTS does not reach.

Although relatively expensive by Asian standards, the BTS remains a practical option for travelers from Europe or North America. For short distances, it can even be cheaper than taking a taxi for groups of three or four people.

• What are the BTS timetables?

The BTS Skytrain operates daily with increased frequency during morning and evening rush hours. However, it does not run very late compared to metro systems in other major cities.

• First trains depart around 5:15 a.m. on the Sukhumvit Line
• Around 5:30 a.m. on the Silom Line
• Last trains run between midnight and 12:30 a.m., depending on direction

Exact timetables are displayed at stations, and transfers at Siam Station may require extra time during busy periods. Source: Timetable (bts.co.th)

3. Bangkok metro lines and map explained (BTS, MRT & Airport Rail Link)

Besides the BTS, Bangkok also has the MRT subway, which is very useful for places the Skytrain does not reach.

From my experience, the MRT is often a bit cheaper than the BTS and feels less crowded outside rush hours. Locals use it a lot, especially for daily commuting and getting around residential areas.

The MRT currently has two main lines:

• Blue Line: this is the one you will use the most as a traveler. It passes through important areas such as Chinatown, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Silom, and parts of Sukhumvit.
• Purple Line: mainly serves the outer suburbs and is used mostly by locals. It connects with the Blue Line at Tao Poon station.

About operating hours, you do not need to worry too much as the system runs late enough for most plans:

• Weekdays: around 5:30 a.m. to midnight
• Weekends and public holidays: around 6:00 a.m. to midnight

During peak hours, usually 6:00-9:00 a.m. and 4:30-7:30 p.m., trains come about every five minutes. Outside these times, the waiting time is normally under ten minutes.

Tips for using the tickets:

• Single trips use black plastic tokens, bought from vending machines or ticket counters.
• If you plan to use the MRT several times, you can buy a rechargeable smart card at the counter to save time.

4. Bangkok metro tickets, fares and travel cards (BTS & MRT)

Both the BTS and MRT use distance-based fares, so the price depends on how far you travel. You can buy tickets directly at the station, either from vending machines or at the ticket counters nearby.

On the BTS, you’ll find single-journey tickets and day passes. If you plan to use the Skytrain several times, the Rabbit Card is worth considering.

It saves time during busy hours and can also be used in some convenience stores, cafés, and restaurants around the city.

To manage your card more easily, there are two helpful apps:

• My Rabbit – for checking balance and topping up
• Rabbit Rewards – for tracking trips and discounts

At many BTS stations, older ticket machines still accept coins only, which can surprise first-time visitors. Newer machines have touchscreens and are much easier to use. If you’re using a paper ticket, insert it at the gate when entering, the machine will keep it when you exit. Just remember that the maximum time allowed inside the paid area is 120 minutes.

On the MRT, tickets work a little differently. You’ll receive a small black token for single journeys, or you can buy a stored-value card if you plan to ride often. Unlike the BTS, the MRT does not offer daily or multi-day passes.

How to buy an MRT ticket

Buying an MRT ticket is usually easier than the BTS, especially if it is your first time using Bangkok’s metro. Here is how it works:

• MRT stations have both vending machines and ticket counters.
• You can buy a single journey token or a stored value card at the counter.
• Staff usually speak basic English and are used to helping travelers.

For a single ride:

• Go to the vending machine near the entrance.
• Select English on the screen.
• Choose your destination station from the map.
• Insert coins or banknotes.
• The machine will give you a black token and your change.

To enter the station:Tap the token on the reader at the gate.

To exit: Insert the token into the slot at the exit gate.

If you plan to use the MRT several times, you can buy a stored value card at the ticket counter and top it up when needed.

Local tip: MRT machines usually accept banknotes more easily than BTS machines.

Read more:

• What to do in Bangkok?
•  Hello in Thai? Guide to greeting like a local 

5. How to use the BTS and MRT in Bangkok step by step

Using Bangkok’s metro system is quite straightforward once you try it a couple of times. Here is how locals usually do it:

1. Start by checking the route map inside the station to find your destination and the correct line. The maps are color coded and easy to follow.
2. Buy your ticket from the vending machine or prepare your travel card before entering the gates.
3. At the entrance, tap your card or insert your paper ticket. Keep your ticket if you are using a single journey fare.
4. Platforms are clearly labeled, and train directions are shown on screens above the tracks.
5. Announcements are made in both Thai and English, so it is easy to know when to get off.
6. When transferring between lines, follow the station signs carefully. Large interchange stations can be busy, especially at peak hours.

During rush hours, trains may be crowded, but services remain frequent and reliable, so the next train usually arrives quickly.

After one or two rides, you will feel much more confident. The system may look confusing at first, but it becomes very intuitive once you are inside the stations.

6. How to get from Bangkok airports to the city by train?

From Suvarnabhumi Airport

The Airport Rail Link is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reach central Bangkok. It connects the airport directly to Phaya Thai Station in about 30 minutes, where you can transfer to the BTS Skytrain.

Trains run daily from early morning until midnight, with frequent departures throughout the day. Tickets are purchased as tokens from machines or counters inside the station, located on the basement level of the airport.

From Don Mueang Airport

Don Mueang Airport is connected to the city by the SRT Red Line. The station is located opposite the terminal and can be reached by following the clearly marked signs.

Trains run every 15 to 20 minutes and arrive at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, where passengers can transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

7. Places you can easily reach by Bangkok metro (BTS & MRT)

Bangkok's iconic temples accessible by BTS and MRT

• The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho - MRT Sanam Chai
• Wat Arun - BTS Saphan Taksin, followed by a short ferry ride
• Wat Traimit - MRT Hua Lamphong
• Jim Thompson House - BTS National Stadium
• Erawan Temple - BTS Chit Lom

The city's liveliest markets

• Chatuchak Weekend Market - BRT Mo Chit / MRT Chatuchak Park
• Patpong Night Market - BTS Sala Daeng / MRT Si Lom
• Pratunam Market - BTS Chit Lom, followed by 10 minutes walk
• Talad Neon Night Market - BTS Chit Lom, followed by a short walk
• Rot Fai Market Ratchada - MRT Thailand Cultural Center
• Sampeng Market - MRT Wat Mangkon

Shopping centers in Bangkok

• Siam Paragon - BTS Siam
• CentralWorld - BTS Chit Lom
• MBK Center - BTS National Stadium
• ICON SIAM - BTS Saphan Taksin, followed by a free shuttle
• Terminal 21 - BTS Asok / MRT Sukhumvit
• EmQuartier - BTS Phrom Phong
• Attractions for Children in Bangkok
• Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World - BTS Siam
• Lumpini Park - MRT Lumphini 
• Art in Paradise - BTS Mo Chit / MRT Chatuchak Park

8. Bangkok metro tips and common mistakes to avoid

Rush hours in Bangkok are usually between 7:00–9:00 a.m. and 4:00–7:00 p.m. During these times, trains can become very crowded, especially in central areas such as Siam, Asok, and Silom.

Here are my tips that can make a big difference:

• During peak hours, it is common to wait for the next train because the first one may already be full. This is normal and locals are used to it.
• If you are traveling with large suitcases, a stroller, or several people, the metro can feel stressful. In this case, taking a taxi or a ride-hailing service is often more comfortable.
• The BTS does not connect directly to the airport. You need to use the Airport Rail Link first and then transfer to the BTS or MRT.
• If possible, try to travel after 10 a.m. or before 4 p.m.. Stations are calmer and moving around is much easier.
• Outside rush hours, the metro is one of the most pleasant ways to get around Bangkok. Trains are frequent, stations are clean, and the air-conditioning is a welcome break from the heat.

This is why many locals rely on the BTS and MRT every day. Once you get used to the system, it quickly becomes the most reliable way to explore the city.

9. FAQs

1. How much does the metro cost in Bangkok?

The Bangkok metro (MRT) is an affordable way to travel, especially when moving between popular districts like Sukhumvit or Silom to reach Hualamphong Train Station. Ticket prices range from 16 THB (US$ 0.50) to 42 THB (US$ 1.30), and a one-day pass costs 150 THB (US$ 4). The metro operates frequently from 6 AM to midnight.

2. Is the metro in Bangkok 24 hours?

No, Bangkok’s MRT operates from 6 AM until midnight. There are parking facilities available at 7 stations: Sam Yan, Sukhumvit, Phetchaburi, Thailand Cultural Center, Huai Khwang, Ratchadaphisek, and Kamphaeng Phet.

3. What is the cheapest way to travel in Bangkok?

The BTS Skytrain is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to get around the city. As an elevated metro system, it allows you to travel more quickly between destinations compared to taking a taxi.

4. How to buy a 3-day pass in Bangkok?

Three-day passes allow unlimited travel for three consecutive days (from the first use until midnight two days later) and cost 230 THB (approximately US$ 6). These passes can be purchased from ticket counters at any BTS station.

5. Is it better to use cash or card in Bangkok?

While using cards for payments can be more secure, especially to avoid carrying large amounts of cash, it's important not to rely entirely on cards. Many places in Bangkok still prefer cash, so it's wise to carry some for smaller transactions.

6. How do you pay for the Metro in Bangkok?

The Bangkok MRT uses a single-journey fare system. You can purchase tickets through two main options:

• Ticket Machines: Located at every station entrance, these machines are user-friendly. Simply choose your destination, select the number of tickets you need, and pay using either cash or a contactless card.
• Ticket Counters: Alternatively, you can purchase tickets from the staff at station counters if you prefer personal assistance.

Our last words

The Bangkok Metro is more than just a transportation system. It is a gateway to the diversity, cultural richness, and wonders of this dynamic city. Whether you want to visit iconic temples, venture into bustling markets, shop at renowned malls, or treat your children to unforgettable moments, the BTS and MRT will take you to all these places, allowing you to discover the fascinating juxtaposition of tradition and modernity that defines Bangkok.

Source:NORTHERN BANGKOK MONORAIL COMPANY, Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand 

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