Getting Around Thailand
Everything you need to travel across Thailand and move around locally — flights, buses, trains, ferries, rentals, taxis, ride-hailing apps, city transport, tolls, driving rules and insurance.
Choose how you want to travel
Use the main JLIT booking and comparison pages below, then use the local transport guide further down for day-to-day movement.
Find Your Flights
Compare domestic and international routes, airports and booking options.
Search flights →Bus, Train or Ferry
Plan intercity journeys, island connections and long-distance travel.
Find routes →Car or Bike Rental
Compare rental options for cars, scooters and motorbikes across Thailand.
Find a rental →Ways to get around towns and cities
Metered taxis
Widely available in Bangkok and major cities. Ask for the meter, carry small notes and keep your destination written in Thai.
Grab, Bolt and ride-hailing apps
Useful for clear pricing, location tracking and cashless payment. Availability and pricing vary by city.
Motorbike taxis
Fast for short urban trips and heavy traffic. Always use a helmet and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
BTS, MRT and urban rail
The easiest option in Bangkok for many journeys. Use stored-value cards or contactless options where supported.
Local buses and songthaews
Low-cost travel in cities and towns. Routes may be less obvious, so ask locally or check maps before boarding.
Street bikes and bike-share
Available in selected areas. Check the app, pricing, parking rules and whether riding conditions are suitable.
Tuk-tuks
Convenient for short trips and sightseeing. Agree the fare before leaving and compare with app-based prices.
River boats and local ferries
Useful in Bangkok and island areas. Check operating times, weather and last-return services.
Transport apps worth installing
Important before renting a car or motorbike
Check that your licence and International Driving Permit are valid for the vehicle you plan to use.
Do not assume basic rental cover is enough. Understand excesses, exclusions and damage liability.
Bangkok and major road routes include tollways. Keep cash available unless the vehicle has an electronic toll tag.
Photograph the vehicle, fuel level, tyres and existing damage before leaving.
Wear a proper helmet on a motorbike and avoid riding in unsuitable weather or unfamiliar conditions.
Carry the correct documents and follow local rules on speed, parking and alcohol limits.
Practical tips for smoother journeys
Allow extra time during rain, holidays and rush hour.
Book long-distance transport early around Songkran and New Year.
Keep screenshots of tickets, hotel names and destination addresses.
Carry some cash even when you normally use apps or cards.
Check the final ferry, train or bus departure before committing to a day trip.
Use reputable operators and confirm the pickup point in advance.
Plan the journey, then enjoy Thailand
Use JLIT to book your next trip, compare transport options and find the practical help you need after arrival.