Bangkok’s taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. But before you hail a cab, it’s helpful to understand how the fare is calculated. Here’s what you need to know:
The Meter Matters: By law, all Bangkok taxis must use a taximeter. This meter starts at 35 baht (around €0.95) for the first kilometer. After that, the fare increases gradually, typically around 2 baht per kilometer.
Traffic Jams: Bangkok’s traffic is legendary. If you get stuck in a slow crawl (under 6 km/h), a surcharge of 1.25 baht per meter applies. This can add up, so be prepared for slightly higher fares during peak hours.
Toll Roads: If you’re taking a longer trip and use an expressway, you’ll need to pay the toll on top of the meter fare. The cost varies depending on the route, but usually falls between 25 baht (€0.65) and 120 baht (€3.20).
Sample Fares: Here’s a rough idea of what you might expect to pay for some common trips:
- A few kilometers within central Bangkok: 60 baht (€1.60) to 100 baht (€2.65)
- 5km trip: 55 baht
- 10km trip: 80 baht
- Terminal 21 to Grand Palace: 90 baht (not including tolls)
- Suvarnabhumi Airport to MBK Center: This trip can cost around 260 baht for the meter fare, plus a 70 baht airport surcharge and potentially another 50 baht for tolls depending on the route.
Tips for Taxi Travel:
- Always use a metered taxi: Avoid taxis that offer a fixed fare, as this is likely to be more expensive.
- Have small bills handy: Taxis often won’t have change for large bills.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases: This can help ensure clear communication with the driver.
- Use ride-hailing apps as an alternative: Ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular in Bangkok and can sometimes offer competitive fares, especially for longer trips.
By understanding how taxi fares work in Bangkok, you can avoid surprises and get around the city efficiently and affordably.
