Overview Compare Taxi Tuk-tuk MRT BTS Bus To Stay
How to get from and to Hua Lamphong Railway Station
Hua Lamphong Railway Station is Bangkok’s main train station, boasting an Italian neo-renaissance style with a distinct half-dome structure. The train station serves as the main hub for intercity and international train services in Thailand, and it is also connected with the MRT underground system.
The distance from Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Bangkok centre is about 4 km (3 miles). In this post, we discuss the 5 options to go to and from Hua Lamphong Railway Station: by taxi (15 minutes), by tuk-tuk (15 minutes), by train (MRT) (10-55 minutes), by train (BTS) (20-60 minutes), and by bus (30 minutes). Ticket prices range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 140 THB ($3.90).
5 ways to get from and to Hua Lamphong Railway Station
We recommend taking a taxi from Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Bangkok. Taxi fares cost around 70 THB ($1.90), and travel time is just 15 minutes.
A tuk-tuk ride lets you experience traditional Thai transport. However, note that it offers limited space and can only comfortably fit two passengers with little luggage. Tuk-tuks are also not metered, so you need to first negotiate a price with the driver. Fares usually start from 140 THB ($3.90).
If you want to save some money, you can also travel by train. The BTS (sky train) and MRT (underground) are quick and affordable. They also stop in the most popular tourist, shopping, and sightseeing areas, except for Khao San Road. For this option, you first need to take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the train station, and combined fares start from 80 THB ($2.20).
The public bus is the cheapest option at only 10 THB ($0.20). If you’re staying at Khao San Road, there is a public bus that can take you directly from Hua Lamphong Railway Station. However, this bus takes a long route and travel time can take more than 30 minutes, especially during peak hours. Expect the bus to also be crowded, which is not ideal if you have luggage.
Hua Lamphong Station by Taxi
Want to travel to or from Hua Lamphong railway station straight to your hotel? Taking a taxi is your best option. Taxis are available outside the train station.
Note that the roads in Bangkok can get extremely busy during peak hours. This is why many taxi drivers will request a flat rate, which may be much higher than using the meter. Some drivers will refuse to use the metre or agree on a fare, so prepare your negotiating skills or simply find another driver.
The taxi ride to and from the city centre costs between 70 THB ($1.90) and 100 THB ($2.70). An alternative option is to book a Grab taxi with fares from 125 THB ($3.40).
PRO TIP: Always take a metered taxi so that you don’t end up paying twice the actual fare!
Hua Lamphong Station by Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuk drivers tend to charge around the same price as a taxi, especially in tourist areas. This option is a good way to experience the local transportation in Thailand, but if you’re not hoping for that, it’s best to stick with a taxi.
Bangkok is hot and sunny almost all year round, even during the rainy season. While a ride in a tuk-tuk may get hot, especially if stuck in traffic, it does provide a nice, refreshing breeze.
Also, note that tuk-tuks do not provide a lot of space for your luggage, so it could be quite cramped.
Negotiate your price
Many tuk-tuk drivers will quote you a high price, which can be anywhere between 140 THB ($3.90) to 200 THB ($5.50) or more for two people to the city centre. Tuk-tuks are not metered, so you will need to negotiate a price. You can just move along to the next driver if you think the price is too expensive.
Note that some drivers may try to lead you to a restaurant or hotel that they are affiliated with to receive a commission. If they offer you a ride that is much cheaper or even free, you should be aware that they will likely try to sell you something.
In this case, be firm in your negotiations and tell the driver you do not want any stops on the way to your destination. This does not apply to all drivers, but it’s certainly something to be aware of.
Hua Lamphong Station by Train (MRT)
There are two main train networks that offer easy transport options to travellers within Bangkok: the Skytrain (BTS) and the underground train (MRT).
The MRT is directly connected to Hua Lamphong station, and you can easily find it by following the signs. The MRT connects Hua Lamphong Railway Station to the northeastern part of Bangkok, which includes the following areas:
- Bang Rak
- Thung Maha Mek
- Lumphini
- Khlong Toei
- Din Daeng
- Huwai Kwang
- Samsen Nok
- Chum Phon
- Chatuchak.
The MRT line is continuously expanding its network, so more destinations will follow when completed.
Trains operate from 05:30 to 00:00 from Monday to Friday. During weekends and public holidays, trains are available from 06:00 to 00:00.
Fares range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 45 THB ($1.20), depending on your current location and desired destination. For a single journey, you can buy tickets from the counter or vending machines at the train station.
Hua Lamphong Station by Train (BTS)
The BTS is the most popular train line in Bangkok with trains running to different areas in Bangkok every few minutes. This train is your best option if you are staying in the city centre because it stops at all tourist, shopping, and sightseeing areas in Bangkok, except the popular Khao San Road area.
There are two BTS lines: the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line.
To reach the BTS lines, you need to take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Hua Lamphong Station to National Stadium or Siam BTS Station. Tuk-tuk or taxi fare is about 60 THB ($1.60) to 80 THB ($2.20), but expect to pay more during peak hours.
Travel time via BTS can take 20 minutes up to 1 hour, depending on your destination. The sky trains operate from 06:00 to 00:00 every day.
The Sukhumvit Line
The Sukhumvit route passes through the followings areas:
- Chatuchak
- Phaya Thai
- Ratchathewi
- Nana
- Asoke
- Thong Lo
- Phra Khanong
- Bang Na
- Bearing
Fares range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 60 THB ($1.60). This BTS line is projected to extend further north and south in the coming years.
The Silom Line
The Silom Line starts at the National Stadium and passes through the following stations:
- Sala Daeng
- Pathumwan
- Bang Rak
- Yan Nawa
- Thon Buri
For this line, tickets are priced between 20 THB ($0.50) and 40 THB ($1.10). For more information, you can visit the BTS Skytrain website.
Hua Lamphong Station by Bus
The cheapest way to get to the city centre is to catch a public bus outside Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Bus #53 is a red-coloured non-aircon bus that travels throughout the city centre. It is the only shared transport that makes a stop at Khao San Road.
Tickets only cost 10 THB ($0.20) to the city centre. The fare speaks for itself, so don’t expect a comfortable ride. The bus will likely be hot and crowded.
Buses are available every 20 minutes from 05:00 until 22:00 daily. Travel time is about 30 minutes, but this depends entirely on traffic. Be prepared to spend up to an hour on the bus due to heavy traffic in Bangkok during peak hours.
This bus line circles around the downtown Bangkok area. For a complete list of bus stops, you can check the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority website.
Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok
Bangkok is a big and bustling city with each neighbourhood offering something different to the next. Covering nearly 1600 km² and offering over a thousand accommodation options, it can be slightly daunting picking where to stay. Here is a quick rundown of our favourite areas to stay in Bangkok:
- Khao San Road — is one of the most famous areas in Bangkok, known for its party reputation. This area attracts a lot of backpackers that are looking for cheap accommodation and a place to party.
- Sukhumvit — has a more relaxed nightlife, centred around sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars as opposed to travellers dancing on tables. It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the jam-packed city, thanks to the good connections via public transport.
- Riverside — along the Chao Phraya River, you’ll find an area rich in history and culture, hosting many of the popular sights of Bangkok, including the Royal Palace and Wat Pho – the Reclining Buddha.
Check out our favourite accommodations in Bangkok:
Greenery Hostel - Budget Friendly
As you’ve probably already guessed, Greenery Hostel has a green theme both inside and outside. It actually creates a really tranquil vibe inside a busy city.
The rooms are simple but great value for money. Plus there are nice chill-out spaces throughout the hostel with a swing, games and comfy chairs. It’s in a great location, close to lots of Bangkok’s attractions.
- Great value for money
- Relaxing chill-out areas
- Good location
- Free cancellation
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Phranakorn-Nornlen - Mid Range
It will be hard to find another hotel in Bangkok like Phranakorn-Nornlen. This hotel is like a piece of art, with every room decorated differently and boasting a unique theme. Make sure to pick your room wisely.
The staff takes your stay here to another level. They are incredibly friendly and helpful. They’ll give you great recommendations for the local neighbourhood which is full of cosy cafes and local restaurants.
- Unique design and rooms
- Incredible staff
- Nice local neighbourhood
- Very clean
Double rooms start from $33 per night.
Naga Residence - Mid Range
Naga Residence feels less like a hotel and more like a home — just a very beautifully designed home that’s exceptionally clean. The rooms are very spacious and all of them have a private balcony overlooking the city.
There’s also an onsite gym, garden and terrace area for you to enjoy. And when you venture out of the hotel there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby.
- Huge rooms
- Exceptionally clean
- Private balcony
- Onsite gym
Double rooms start from $37 per night.
The One Smart Living - Treating Yourself
The One Smart Living offers incredible value for money. The rooms are beautiful and feel extremely luxurious. You won’t want to leave your room it’s so nice!
It’s a great choice if you want to be close to the airport, but not so close that you’re constantly hearing planes above your head. The staff are incredibly helpful and super friendly. It’s hard to fault this place.
- Great value for money
- Close to the airport
- Helpful staff
- Beautiful rooms
Double rooms start from $50 per night.
dusitD2 Samyan - Treating Yourself
dusitD2 Samyan is one of the most unique hotels in Bangkok with its tiered appearance overlooking the city. You can take a refreshing dip in their sky swimming pool and enjoy the panoramic views. Or head to the gym and take them in whilst working up a sweat.
The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel create a bright and modern feel. The rooms are stunning, and decorated to an extremely high standard. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok.
- One of the coolest buildings in Bangkok
- Rooftop swimming pool
- Onsite gym
- Bright and modern rooms
King rooms start from $110 per night.
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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
