How to Book Tickets Online in Thailand – For Attractions, Trains, and Local Transport

May 27, 2025By Kim Ngan
Kim Ngan

📌 How to Book Tickets Online in Thailand – For Attractions, Trains, and Local Transport

Planning your days in Thailand is fun… until it comes time to book things.
From ferries to island tours, night markets to ancient temples — there’s a lot you may want to see. But how do you actually book tickets? And how do locals do it?

The good news is: Thailand’s online booking scene is easy, mobile-friendly, and full of great deals — if you know where to look.

Here’s a friendly guide to help you book like a local (without getting scammed or overpaying).

1. Best Sites for Booking Attractions & Day Trips
Want to visit the Grand Palace, take a cooking class, or go island hopping?

These apps/websites are your best bet:

- Klook – great for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi (tours, activities, SIMs, passes)
- GetYourGuide – ideal for tourists from Europe/US, with clean UX and trusted reviews
- Viator (by Tripadvisor) – good for private tours and international-friendly bookings
- Tiqets – for fast-track tickets to museums or temples
Tips:

- Read reviews from real travelers before booking
- Compare prices across platforms
- Book at least 1–2 days in advance for popular activities
 
2. How to Book Train & Bus Tickets
Want to travel between cities like Bangkok → Chiang Mai or Bangkok → Ayutthaya?

Use 12Go Asia (https://12go.asia) – the most reliable site for booking:

- Trains (Thai Railways)
- Intercity buses
- Ferries to islands (like Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi)
Why we love it:

- Clear timetables and seat classes
- Supports international payments
- Shows real-time availability
 
3. Ferries to the Islands
Heading to the islands? You’ll need to book a ferry — and maybe a combo with a bus or van.

- Again, 12Go Asia is excellent
- For island-only travel: try Lomprayah or Seatran Ferry (official websites)
⚠️ Book at least 24–48 hours in advance during peak season (Dec–Feb, July–Aug)

4. Airport Transfers & City Transport Apps
Once you land, you don’t need to bargain with taxi drivers or get lost at bus stops.

Use:

- Grab (the “Uber of Southeast Asia”) for car or motorbike rides
- Bolt – cheaper than Grab in many cities
- Klook or KKDay – for pre-booked airport transfers or private drivers

These apps are safe, cashless, and avoid surprise charges.

5. Paying for Tickets – What Works Best
- All platforms above accept international credit/debit cards
- Some accept PayPal or Apple Pay
- You’ll get instant e-vouchers via email or app — just show them at the entrance
- No Thai phone number? No problem — most confirmations go to email
Pro tip: Save your vouchers/screenshots offline in case of weak Wi-Fi at the site.

6. What Locals Know – You Should Too
Thai people use LINE MAN, Shopee, and local apps for booking – but they often require Thai bank accounts
You, as a traveler, will get better service and English support using Klook or 12Go Asia
 
Freedom Comes from Booking Ahead
Booking online doesn’t just save you time — it gives you confidence.
You can skip the haggling, avoid tourist traps, and know where you’re going — all before you finish your morning coffee.

So next time you land in Thailand, don’t wing it.
Book smart, travel slow, and enjoy the ride.