In an effort to make things more efficient for both foreigners and locals, the government of Thailand has developed the Bangkok Transit System (BTS) Sky Train. This mass transit system is the fastest and cheapest way to get to all of Bangkok’s sights, shopping centers, and parts of interest.

In an effort to make things more efficient for both foreigners and locals, the government of Thailand has developed the Bangkok Transit System (BTS) Sky Train. This mass transit system is the fastest and cheapest way to get to all of Bangkok’s sights, shopping centers, and parts of interest. All of the cars on the Sky Train are air-conditioned, a welcome bonus during Bangkok’s hot and humid days. Additionally, all signs, maps, and station announcements are provided in both English and Thai. Travel is extra easy because most booth attendants are also able to communicate in English.

Stations

The Sky Train has two lines main lines, each connecting at some point to Bangkok’s extensive underground subway stations. Here are some of the stops that you shouldn't miss, if you want to get to the city's mainstream attractions:

Siam Station

The Siam Station on the Silom Line is a quick way to get to Bangkok’s hippest and trendiest district. Siam is heavily embedded with malls, state of the art cinemas, and other attractions. Spend the day at Mob.F mall and see the creations of some of Thailand’s renowned designers. Enjoy live music at the Hard Rock Café or kill some time at Siam Ocean World, a unique two-story aquarium underneath one of Bangkok’s largest malls.

National Stadium Station

If you’re craving to witness Bangkok's culture at its finest, hop on the Silom Line, and ride it all the way up to the National Stadium Station. From here, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre and the Chulalongkorn Art Centre are a few minutes away. When your feet are tired from all that walking, you can take a break and have a cup of coffee at what is locally known as “the house that silk built.” Jim Thompson, the father of Thai silk, has restyled his old Bangkok residence into a museum and café.

Phaya Thai Station

One of the most important stops on the Sukhumvit Line is the Phaya Thai Station. Not only does it give locals and tourists the access to many beautiful heritage houses and museums and mega malls, it also connects the BTS with the Airport Rail Link, giving visitors a quick fifteen minute-ride to the Suvarnabhumi Airport.

 Victory Monument Station

The Victory Monument Station is one of the busiest BTS stops. It is a pivotal point, where travelers can continue on buses and minivans to all parts of the city. Want to get your shopping fix? Head to Victory Point, a large open air market for anything you can imagine. The Bangkok Doll Museum is ten minutes away and a unique glimpse into the country’s culture.

Thong Lor Station

Thong Lor Station comes to life at sundown when Bangkok’s young, hip, and free start to gather at the districts many watering holes. Featuring boutique malls, concept bars, and cute boutiques, Thong Lor is a welcome change from huge malls and chain stores.

It is important to remember that while the Sky Train runs daily from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m., any traveler is not allowed through the stations past around 11:45 p.m.

Tickets

Sky Train tickets can be purchased as single journey or multi-pass. Multi-pass cards are preloaded with a baht amount that is deducted per ride. If you plan to use the BTS as your main method of transportation, you are better off getting these cards. Having them will allow you to bypass the long lines during Bangkok’s rush hour.

With Bangkok notorious for its traffic jams and pollution, the Sky Train is perhaps the easiest, quickest, most comfortable and efficient way to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.