Taxis in Bangkok

Taxis are very a cheap method of getting around the city and are very safe. They are also ideal for getting to and from the Airport.

Sometimes at rush hour the traffic is very busy and the BTS might be a better options. Ensure you have ample cash and ideally small notes. Taxi’s are not happy to change a 1000 baht note. I always give a small tip of 20 or 40 baht depending on the length of the trip. Forty baht can buy them lunch.

If you travel on the expressway then then you are liable for the tolls usually 50-100 baht at each toll booth where you have to pay. Again, keep small notes for these tolls.

Why are Bangkok Taxis different colours?

• Green + Yellow: Privately owned, often considered better maintained by the owner-driver.
• Solid Pink: Common in Sahamit Taxi Cooperative.
• Solid Blue: Common in Thai Taxi Cooperative.
• Solid Orange: Common in Bowon Taxi Cooperative.
• Solid Yellow: Common in Samakkhitham Taxi Cooperative

Ensure the Taxi uses the meter (nearly all will) unless you agree a fee beforehand which is not usual for local trips. Sometimes if the route is busy it’s not cost effective for them to use the meter as they then have to get back to where they are based. This is why they may demand a fixed price. It’s not a con it’s just a choice you have to make. Usually for the few extra baht its well worth it.

• Taxis can be hailed anywhere, and a green or red light in the windscreen usually indicates they are available. However, the light will go out when the Taxi driver starts the meter, so if someone has agreed on a fixed fee, then the Taxi will have the sign illuminated but not be available.
• Every Taxi has a meter, and the fare starts at 35 baht (2026).
• Taxis from the Airport have an additional charge (50 baht – 2026) which is added to the fare.
• When using the freeway which has toll charges the customer is expected to pay for these. They vary depending which tollways you use but are usually either 50 or 90 baht. You can ask the driver to avoid the tollway but additional time in the taxi may not be cost effective or best use of time.
• Taxis usually don’t carry much change, so don’t be surprised if they refuse to accept a 1000 or even a 500 baht bank note
• Traffic in Bangkok can be very bad, and sometimes drivers will offer a fixed price for the journey. It’s up to you to accept the price or find another Taxi. The main reason is that, unlike in other countries, where time spent in traffic also counts toward the total fare, in Thailand the rate they earn is very low.
• Sometimes, taxis will refuse your ride because it might take them far away, and they might be just about to finish work. They may also refuse if the trip takes them across the river or into a very busy traffic area like the city. Sometimes the BTS is the best way to travel in and out of the city.

Top Alternatives for Ride-Hailing in Thailand:

• Grab (Most Popular): Similar to Uber, offering car and bike options.
• Bolt (Often Cheaper): Widely used, sometimes more budget-friendly, though with slightly less strict driver screening.
• inDrive: A popular alternative allowing you to negotiate prices with drivers.
• Taxi Apps (Line Man Taxi): Another reliable option for booking traditional taxis.