Everything you need to know about taxis in Thailand
Navigating the bustling streets of Thailand can be a challenge due to heavy traffic. If you don’t have a personal vehicle and your destination is far off, taxis become an essential mode of transport.
Both locals and foreigners in Thailand frequently use taxi services. It’s beneficial to familiarise yourself with these services during your stay in the country.
Types of taxis in Thailand
1. Taxi-Metre Cars: With their colourful exteriors and comfortably air-conditioned interiors, these taxis are hard to miss. Fares for these taxis are based on the distance travelled, as indicated by the meter but they always start at 35 baht
2. Motorbike Taxis: Another common form of taxi, they are perfect for shorter trips and avoiding the notorious traffic of cities such as Bangkok. You can insist on wearing a helmet but a lot of them would not have them.
3. Tuk Tuks: Tuk Tuks are a popular choice amongst tourists. Though their fares aren’t regulated by meters, you can negotiate for reasonable prices before starting the trip.
4. Songthaews: These are shared taxi services which don’t follow specific routes. They’re ideal for short trips within a city, and their fares are usually cheaper compared to other taxi types.
5. Taxi Boats: When travelling in cities like Bangkok, taxi boats serve as an efficient method to traverse the city’s network of canals and rivers.
How to order a taxi in Thailand
1. Hailing a taxi on the street: You can simply raise your hand to signal a taxi from the roadside. Make sure the taxi has a red ‘vacant’ sign lit up on the dashboard. Once the taxi stops, tell the driver your destination. If they agree to take you, get in. If the taxi has a meter, ensure it’s turned on to avoid overcharging.
2. Using a taxi stand: In busy areas like shopping malls, airports, and hotels, you’ll find designated taxi stands. Join the queue and when it’s your turn, tell your destination to the taxi coordinator who will then relay it to the driver.
3. Booking via a hotel: Most hotels offer taxi booking services for their guests. Just ask the reception or guard to arrange a taxi for you.
4. Using a taxi-booking app: Apps like Grab are very popular in Thailand. You can download the app, register, and then book a taxi from your smartphone. You can enter your destination, see the fare upfront, and track the driver’s location.
5. Calling a taxi service: There are several taxi services that you can call to book a taxi. They’ll ask for your pick-up location and destination, and then send a taxi to you.
Taxi apps in Thailand
In Thailand, taxi apps have become popular for their convenience and ease of use. Each app offers similar services but also has unique features that cater to different user needs. Three of the most popular taxi apps in Thailand are Grab, Bolt, and Line Man.
Availability of taxi apps
- Grab: is a widely used app in Thailand, offering services beyond just ride-hailing. You can book a taxi or a private car through the app. It also provides options for bike rides, making it suitable for short and quick trips. Grab also offers GrabFood and GrabExpress, which allow you to order food and send packages, respectively.
What people think (4.9 stars out of 5 stars, 49 reviews
| Anna J.: “I love using Grab! The app is incredibly user-friendly, and I can easily track my driver in real-time. The various services” |
- Bolt: Bolt is another popular taxi app in Thailand, known for its competitive pricing. It often offers lower fares compared to other apps. The app is straightforward and focuses solely on providing ride-hailing services. One of the standout features of Bolt is its quick pick-up times, which are particularly useful during non-peak hours.
What people think (4.3 stars out of 5 stars, 32 reviews)
| Tippatha S.: “Bolt is my go-to for affordable rides. The fares are usually lower compared to other apps, and the pick-up times are really quick” |
- Line Man: Line Man is a versatile app that offers ride-hailing among many other services. Developed by the popular messaging app Line, it provides seamless integration with other Line services. Users can book taxis and private cars easily. In addition to rides, Line Man also offers food delivery, parcel delivery, and grocery shopping.
What people think (4.9 stars out of 5 stars, 42 reviews)
| Naruephan K.: “Not only can I book a ride, but I can also order food and even get groceries delivered! I love that I can chat with the driver directly through the Line app, making communication so much easier.” |
Which is better?
| Applications | Differences |
| Grab | Services offered: Ride-hailing (cars and bikes), food delivery (GrabFood), package delivery (GrabExpress). Payment methods: Cash, credit card, GrabPay. Loyalty programme: Offers a loyalty program where users can earn points and redeem them for discounts. User experience: User-friendly interface with real-time driver tracking. Added features: Multiple transport options, flexible payment methods, and additional services like food and package delivery. |
| Bolt | Services offered: Primarily ride-hailing (cars). Payment methods: Cash, credit card. Pricing: Often has lower fares compared to other apps. User experience: Simple and clean interface focused on ride-hailing. Pick-up times: Known for quick pick-up times, especially during non-peak hours. Added features: Emphasis on competitive pricing and essential functionalities. |
| Line Man | Services offered: Ride-hailing (cars), food delivery, parcel delivery, grocery shopping. Payment methods: Cash, Line Pay (secure and integrated with the Line messaging app). User experience: Seamless integration with the Line messaging app; users can chat with drivers through the app. Versatility: Covers a wide range of daily needs. Added features: Comprehensive service offering and integration with other Line services for added convenience. |
Good news for all tourists – these taxi apps don’t restrict you from creating an account or booking a ride. So, during your sightseeing ventures in Thailand, you’ll find Grab to be as accessible as it is for locals. But it is also important to keep in mind that taxi apps in Thailand offer various services to cater to different needs. The time it takes to book a car can vary, especially during rush hours, late at night, or early in the morning.
Taxis at Phuket Airport
Opting for a taxi from Phuket Airport can be a pretty straightforward affair. Various taxi services are readily available, making your trip as smooth as possible.
Call a Taxi Service: There are several taxi businesses reachable by phone. Get Phuket Taxi’s hotline is +66 99 113 3171, and Phuket Taxi Service via Whatsapp can be contacted through +66 84 065 4009.
Cost of taxi from Phuket Airport to popular destinations
| Destination | Estimated Fare in THB |
|---|---|
| Phuket Airport to Phuket Town | THB 750 |
| Phuket Airport to Patong | THB 800-THB 900 |
| Phuket Airport to Kata | THB 1100 |
| Phuket Town to Rawai | THB 500 |
| Phuket Town to Phuket Port | THB 450 |
| Phuket Town to Chalong Bay | THB 400 |
Taxis at Bangkok Airport
Choosing a taxi from Bangkok Airport can be a very simple process. Numerous taxi services are at your disposal, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Call a Taxi Service: There are numerous taxi companies available by phone. Bangkok Taxi’s hotline is +66 82 717 66 99, and Bangkok Taxi Service via WhatsApp can be reached at +66 82 717 66 99.
Cost of taxi from Bangkok Airport to popular destinations
| Destination | Estimated Fare in THB |
|---|---|
| Bangkok Airport to Bangkok City | THB 350-THB 400 |
| Bangkok Airport to Sukhumvit | THB 400-THB 500 |
| Bangkok Airport to Silom | THB 450-THB 500 |
| Bangkok City to Pratunam | THB 150 |
| Bangkok City to Siam Square | THB 200 |
| Bangkok City to Khao San Road | THB 250 |
Tips and Payment Rules
As you start your journey in Thailand, it’s crucial to understand the local customs around tipping and payment. You might wonder: Should you tip taxi drivers in Thailand? What’s considered a good tip for a taxi driver in Thailand?
While tipping is not required in Thailand, it’s often appreciated. Taxi drivers, for instance, are usually pleased to receive a tip, even if they don’t ask for one. If you decide to tip, a general rule of thumb is that 100 baht is considered a generous tip, though this can vary based on the length of your ride.
Regarding payment methods, you might be curious if credit cards are accepted. While credit cards are convenient, many traditional taxis in Thailand mainly accept cash. However, modern services like Grab and Bolt allow cashless payments, which means you can pay for your ride and tip your driver using a credit card or mobile wallet.
It’s important to note that not leaving a tip in Thailand is usually not considered impolite. However, if you’ve received excellent service, a tip, whether in cash or added to card payment, can be a nice gesture of appreciation. Ultimately, the decision to tip, and how much, is up to you and should be based on the service you received and the overall convenience of your journey.
As you travel the busy streets of Thailand, keeping these tipping and payment customs in mind will help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. With this knowledge, you’re well-prepared to make the most of your taxi rides in Thailand.
Safety and trust
Are Uber safer than normal taxis?
When comparing traditional taxis and tech-based services like Uber, Grab and Bolt safety often plays a critical role in your travel Thailand experience. Taxis in Thailand commonly use meters, providing transparency in fares. For Uber, the fare is pre-calculated, which also assures fare transparency. Despite being tech-based, Uber is not currently operational in Thailand. The alternative Grab, which is active, offers the same pre-determined fare system.
Trusting Thai taxis
Trust in Thai taxi services relies heavily on the reputation of service providers. Major cities, including Bangkok and Phuket, have well-established taxi networks. However, instances of drivers refusing the use of meters or charging extreme rates rarely occur. Engaging with licensed taxis, identifiable by their brightly coloured exteriors and taxi signs, vastly reduces such risks. Verifying the driver’s identification, displayed within the taxi, further amplifies your degree of trust.
Is Grab taxi a reliable choice in Thailand?
Grab Taxi has filled the void left by Uber’s departure and operates in various Thai cities. Its safety features, such as tracking your ride in real time and sharing your ride details with a trusted contact, provide an added layer of security. Grab Taxi also maintains a rating system that allows for feedback on both the driver and the ride, fostering a trustworthy environment.
Identifying a safe taxi
- Driver Reputation: Check for reviews or recommendations.
- Vehicle Condition: Ensure the taxi is well-maintained.
- Safety Measures: Look for visible safety equipment like seatbelts.
- Licensing: Verify that the taxi and driver are licensed.
- Driver Identification: Confirm that the driver’s ID is prominently displayed.
- Fare System: Opt for taxis with transparent or pre-determined fares.
- Prioritise comfort and safety during your trip to Thailand.
- Carefully consider the factors mentioned above when choosing a taxi.
Alternatives of taxis
Thailand’s transportation view encompasses more than just taxis. If taxis don’t seem practical for your travel needs, three other popular options—tuk-tuks, rental cars, and public transport—might be your answer. Each has its pros and cons which we’ll look into in detail.
Tuk-Tuks
Joining the ranks of iconic transportation in Thailand, tuk-tuks offer an unforgettable experience. They’re fast, nimble three-wheeled vehicles, perfect for navigating through busy city streets. But keep in mind, even though they’re typical of Thailand’s cityscape, tuk-tuks sometimes cost more than taxis. To maintain your budget, it’s recommended to negotiate prices before hopping aboard.
Rental cars
Rental cars can offer greater freedom and flexibility, but they aren’t for everyone. Even though Thailand drives on the left-hand side, this can be challenging for some travellers. Recall, for driving in Thailand, you’ll need an International Driving Permit—not all travellers possess one.
Public transport
If cost-saving is a priority or you’re eager to reduce carbon footprints, public transport might be your best bet. Thailand offers numerous public transport options such as BTS Skytrain in Bangkok, MRT (Metro), and various inter-city buses. Mind that public transport routes might not cover all tourist destinations. It’s best to examine their routes before planning your travel.
It’s clear that Thailand’s transit system isn’t limited to just taxis—there’s an option suited to every traveller’s specific needs. Whether you’re after the thrill of a tuk-tuk ride experience, the freedom of driving a rental car, or the economical benefits and environmental friendliness of public transport—Thailand has you covered.
Frequently asked questions about taxis in Thailand
Can I use USD to tip in Thailand?
In Thailand, tips are usually presented in the local currency, Thai Baht. While USD may be accepted by larger restaurants and hotels, for small services like taxis, it’s advisable to tip in Baht.
Do taxis in Thailand take credit cards?
While credit card payment is increasingly common, specifically with tech-based services like Grab, most traditional taxis in Thailand still operate primarily on cash. Be prepared to have enough cash on hand for your trip.
Are taxis available at Phuket Airport and how much do they cost?
Taxis are readily available at Phuket Airport and the fare to popular destinations like Patong, Phuket City, and Kata Beach varies. For added convenience, Grab services are also available, alongside cost-effective airport buses.
What is the tipping and payment method in Thailand taxis?
Tipping in Thailand is not obligatory but is appreciated with a suggested tip of 100 baht for taxi drivers. Traditional taxis operate mostly on cash, but tech-assisted services offer cashless transactions including tipping.
Can I use credit cards to pay for my taxi fare in Thailand?
Most traditional taxis in Thailand operate on a cash basis. However, tech-based services like Grab and Bolt allow for credit card transactions or mobile wallet payments.
Is Uber available in Thailand?
No, Uber is not available in Thailand. However, other tech-based services like Grab and Bolt operate in the country and are beneficial alternatives.
What payment options are available for Grab taxis?
Grab taxis in Thailand allow for multiple payment methods, including cash transactions, credit card payments, and mobile wallet options.
