If you're gearing up for a budget-friendly exploration of Bangkok, you must know this game-changer—the Bangkok BTS Skytrain. Navigating around the city becomes a breeze on this efficient and affordable public transport.

Imagine cruising past Bangkok's iconic skyline, hassle-free and light on the wallet. Intrigued? Let’s join us on a journey through the ins and outs of the Bangkok BTS—from its routes to pocket-friendly fares. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this local gem.

Ready to uncover the secrets of seamless city exploration? Read on to learn more about BTS Skytrain for your next smooth trip in Bangkok!

Bangkok has several public transportation alternatives, but MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit) Skytrain are two of the most convenient ways to travel around the city. What are the differences between those two?

The primary difference between these mass transit systems is their tracks. While MRT mostly runs underground, BTS runs along elevated lines. On top of that, the BTS system consists of 62 stations with 70.05 kilometres of system length, while there are 54 stations for MRT with 225.7 kilometres of system length.

However, both offer clean trains with comfy chairs and air-conditioned systems, ensuring your trip around Bangkok is pleasant despite its hot, humid weather.

If you’re travelling from abroad or from other cities, don’t worry about getting lost since there are travel help desks ready to give you guidance and advice for essential travel things in Bangkok, including tour service, itinerary, and travel destinations.

Bangkok has two BTS Skytrain lines: the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line.

The Sukhumvit Line starts at Kheha Samutprakan Station and ends at Khu Khot Station, covering three provinces: Pathum Thani, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan. The system length is approximately 54.25 kilometres, and 47 stations, including Siam, the only interchange station, are included.

This route crosses several stations near famous tourist attractions, such as Victory Monument BTS Station, a 4-minute walk from the Victory Monument.

Another popular tourist attraction along the BTS Sukhumvit Line is SEA LIFE Bangkok, a 13-minute drive from the BTS Skytrain Siam station.

On the other hand, the Silom Line starts at Bang Wa Station and ends at National Stadium Station. The total system length is approximately 14 kilometres, with 14 stations and two interchange stations: Siam and Saint Louis Station.

Arriving at Saphan Taksin BTS Station, you can drive 8 minutes away to Chao Phraya Princess Dinner to set sail and enjoy a first-class dinner cruise for a 2-hour voyage along the river. From the cruise, you can witness the stunning Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn from afar.

By the end of the Silom Line route, you’ll be near Thailand’s infamous National Stadium, situated only a 7-minute walk from the National Stadium BTS Station.

Looking to explore Bangkok efficiently? Here's a tip: grab a Rabbit card! For a small deposit (100 baht, around £2.33), you can top it up with cash and pay-as-you-go (slightly cheaper than single tickets). You can even buy discounted multi-trip passes valid for 30 days.

However, there's a slight catch with the Bangkok BTS Skytrain. Most of the network (Mo Chit to On Nut on Sukhumvit line, National Stadium to Wongwian Yai on Silom line) is operated by a private company, while the rest is run by the city government. This means Rabbit cards with multi-trip passes only work on the private sections. To use the government-run stations, you'll need cash on your Rabbit card or be prepared to pay an extra 15 baht (£0.35) per trip as a flat fare.

It might sound confusing, but don't worry! This only affects travelers using multi-trip passes. If you're a tourist buying single tickets or a day pass, everything is included in the price (single fares go up to 44 baht, or £1.02, with a possible 15 baht surcharge for very far stations, making a maximum fare of 59 baht).

Planning your Bangkok adventures? Take note of the Skytrain's operating hours: it runs daily from 6:00 AM to midnight.

Just like in any city, expect crowds during peak hours. This happens in the early mornings and early evenings when commuters are heading to and from work.

For a smoother ride, aim to travel outside these peak times. Here's your sweet spot: after 10:00 AM and before 4:30 PM,or after 7:30 PM in the evening.

While the Bangkok BTS Skytrain is considered one of Asia's pricier public transport systems, it can still be a good deal for visitors, especially those coming from Europe or North America, where fares might be even higher. Fares are adjusted periodically, with a slight upward trend. Currently, a single ride starts at 16 baht (around £0.37) for one station and goes up to 59 baht (£1.38) for a trip across the entire system. For unlimited travel within a day, you can purchase a one-day ticket for 140 baht (£3.26).

Here's some good news for families with young children, kids under 90cm travel for free. Just look for the height charts near ticket machines. Now, for those using a Rabbit Card (explained elsewhere), there are discounts for Thai students and senior citizens. However, unlike the MRT subway system, the BTS Skytrain's elderly discount is only applicable to Thai citizens, excluding even retired expats living in Thailand.

For added convenience, you can use the general Bangkok BTS SkyTrain Rabbit Card. This card allows seamless travel without the hassle of individual ticket purchases. With a variety of recharge options, the Rabbit Card ensures swift entry, saving time at ticket vending machines.

Priced at THB 200, including a THB 100 card issuance fee and initial charge, the Rabbit Card comes with a 5-year validity period and a 2-year validity for the top-up amount.

Beyond BTS, the Rabbit Card extends its usability to popular eateries and shops in Bangkok, offering discounts for seniors and students. Note that BTS tickets are not interchangeable with other public transport systems in Bangkok, such as the MRT.

Address: 106/19 Rang Nam Alley, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Price: Starts from THB 1,634.42

Conveniently situated in central Bangkok, a 9-minute walk from BTS Victory Monument station, De Prime Rangnam Hotel provides a 4-star experience.

Moreover, it is minutes away from King Power, the city's largest duty-free shopping mall, surrounded by smaller malls and lively street food stalls, capturing the essence of everyday Bangkok life. On top of that, there is an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar for a well-rounded stay.

Address: 5 Phaholyothin Soi 18, Phaholyothin Road, Jompol, Chatuchak, Bangkok, Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok, Thailand, 10900

Price: Starts from THB 1,562.64

Located just a short stroll from Chatuchak Weekend Market and a 10-minute walk from Saphan Khwai BTS Station, Boutique Poo-Yai Lee presents cosy air-conditioned rooms with balconies and complimentary Wi-Fi.

It's an ideal choice with its proximity to the Central Ladprao Department Store and easy access to Don Muang and Suvarnabhumi Airports.

Those are important points to note about BTS Skytrain before visiting Bangkok for your next travel itinerary. Elevate your trip by planning with Traveloka—your one-stop app for booking hotels and Manila to Bangkok flights with the best deals. Book your flight tickets with Traveloka now and step aborad on a memorable journey in Bangkok!