Best Ways to Get Around Bangkok with Kids
- Barry
- 7 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Planning a trip to Bangkok with your family? Wondering how to get around this buzzing metropolis without stress? We’ve done it—with two energetic teenagers in tow. Here’s your 2025 guide to navigating Bangkok like a pro, even with kids.
Table of Contents
Why Transportation in Bangkok Can Be Overwhelming—But Doesn’t Have to Be
Bangkok is exciting, vibrant, and... chaotic. With tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, street vendors at every corner, and traffic jams as far as the eye can see, getting around can feel overwhelming—especially for families traveling with kids.
We visited Bangkok in July 2024 with our two teenagers, aged 11 and 13. At first, we were worried: How do we get around safely, efficiently, and without wasting our limited energy? But after a few days, we found a rhythm—and now we’re sharing what worked best for us.
Getting Around by BTS Skytrain (Best for Families)
Our top pick for families in Bangkok.
The BTS Skytrain is modern, clean, affordable, and air-conditioned—a lifesaver in Bangkok’s heat. It’s elevated above the traffic, so no delays.
Great for: Teenagers, families, escaping traffic
Cost: 16–59 THB per trip (~$0.50–$2)
Operating hours: ~6:00 AM – midnight
Where it goes: Sukhumvit, Siam, Silom, Chatuchak, etc.
Kid-friendly tip: Stations like Siam and Mo Chit (for Chatuchak Market) are perfect for family outings.
MRT Subway (Easy for Long Distances)
The MRT complements the BTS and runs mostly underground. It’s quieter, slightly less crowded, and just as efficient.
Best for: Getting to Chinatown, Terminal 21, and interchanges with BTS
Cost: 16–42 THB (~$0.50–$1.25)
The BTS is one of the most efficient ways to see Bangkok’s top sights. In our Bangkok Travel Guide, we recommend staying near a BTS station
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps (Convenient, but Watch Out)
Taxis are cheap, but come with a warning: many drivers refuse to use the meter.
Starting fare: 35 Bath ($1)
With traffic: Expect delays during rush hours (7–10 AM, 4–7 PM)
Apps: Grab (Thailand’s Uber) is reliable and kid-friendly
Always ask: “Meter, please?” before entering.
Tuk-Tuks: Fun but Pricey
Tuk-tuks are loud, colorful, and iconic—but not the most practical.
Good for: Short distances, tourist fun
Cost: 100–400 THB depending on distance (and negotiation skills!)
No seatbelts. For younger kids, skip this one. For teens: one fun ride is enough.
River Boats: Our Teenagers’ Favorite Ride
Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River Express boats were the unexpected highlight of our trip.
No traffic, scenic, cultural
Stops near: Wat Arun, Grand Palace, Asiatique
Orange flag boat fare: 15–20 THB per trip
Tourist boat pass (Hop-on/Hop-off): 150 THB per day (4$)
We boarded from Sathorn Pier and cruised past temples with fresh breeze and zero crowds. Highly recommended!
Buses (Budget-Friendly but Confusing)
We tried the bus once—our teens thought it was “authentic,” but we wouldn’t recommend it for first-timers.
Pros: Dirt cheap (8–20 THB)
Cons: No English signage, no airco on some lines, slow
Not ideal if you're unfamiliar with the routes.
Walking in Bangkok (When It’s Feasible)
Yes, you can walk in Bangkok... but only short distances. Footpaths are uneven, and heat can be intense.
Best areas: Around Siam, Lumphini Park, and Old Town
Avoid walking during: Midday heat (12–3 PM)
Bring light shoes and UV-protective hats.
Trains to the Airport & Beyond (For Arrival/Departure)
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Airport Rail Link → Phaya Thai BTS
Don Mueang (DMK): Taxi or A1/A2 shuttle to Mo Chit BTS
Intercity travel: Book train/bus to Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, etc. via:
Transportation Tips for Families in Bangkok
✅ Plan your day around BTS/MRT lines
✅ Use Grab or metered taxis at night
✅ Skip tuk-tuks during rush hour
✅ Use river boats for sightseeing days
✅ Stay close to a BTS station for easy access
✅ Hydrate often – Bangkok is hot year-round
Final Thoughts: Our Favorite Way to Get Around Bangkok as a Family
After many visits to Bangkok, we found that mixing BTS + boats + Grab gave us the best balance of convenience, fun, and budget-friendliness. Our teens loved the river views (read shopping malls) and zipping through the city by Skytrain.
If you're traveling to Bangkok with your kids in 2025, don’t worry—there are plenty of safe, affordable, and kid-friendly ways to get around. You just need the right plan.
Want more tips for planning your family trip? Head over to our full Bangkok Travel Guide.
Practical Tools for Planning
FAQ TO GET AROUND BANGKOK WITH KIDS
What is the best way to get around Bangkok with kids?
The BTS Skytrain is generally the best way for families to get around Bangkok. It’s clean, air-conditioned, fast, and avoids traffic jams. For sightseeing, the Chao Phraya River boats are also fun and scenic—especially for teenagers.
How much does public transportation cost in Bangkok?
BTS/MRT: 16–59 THB ($0.50–$2)
River boats: 15–20 THB (local), ~150 THB (tourist day pass)
Taxis: Starting from 35 THB
Tuk-tuks: 100–400 THB (negotiable)
Is it safe to use public transportation with kids in Bangkok?
Yes, Bangkok’s public transportation is safe for families. The BTS and MRT have security, clear signage, and are used by locals and tourists alike. Tuk-tuks are fun but have no seatbelts—better suited for short rides with older kids.
Should we use taxis or Grab in Bangkok?
Grab is more reliable than street taxis because prices are fixed and you don’t have to argue about using the meter. Use it during off-peak hours to avoid delays.
What’s the best transport option during Bangkok’s rainy season?
During heavy rain, BTS and MRT are your best options. Avoid tuk-tuks or river boats when it's stormy. Always check the weather forecast in the morning and plan accordingly.
Can I get around Bangkok without speaking Thai?
Absolutely. Most transport systems have English signage, especially BTS, MRT, and tourist boat services. Apps like Google Maps and Grab work well in Bangkok and can help bridge any language gaps.
Can we rent bikes or scooters in Bangkok?
We don’t recommend it for families. Bangkok traffic can be hectic and sidewalks are not bike-friendly. For safety reasons, it’s best to stick with public transport or Grab.
Is it easy to get to/from the airport with kids?
Yes. The Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to the city via the BTS. For Don Mueang (DMK), Grab or an airport shuttle bus to Mo Chit BTS is best. Pre-booking via 12Go Asia is a convenient option.
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