What currency is used in Bangkok and what money is best to bring?

In Bangkok, as in all of Thailand, the official currency is the Thai baht (THB, Baht). One baht equals 100 satang, but satang coins have practically gone out of circulation. Banknotes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 baht are in use, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, and 10 baht. You cannot pay with dollars, euros, or rubles in a store or cafe — only local money is accepted. The exception is personal payments to guides for excursions.

It is best to bring US dollars in cash in large denominations (50 and 100 dollars). The exchange rate for these is the most favorable. The second most favorable option is euros, the third is Chinese yuan. However, it is not worth bringing Russian rubles: the exchange rate for rubles in Bangkok is extremely unfavorable, and you will lose about 8-10% of the amount compared to exchanging through dollars.

It is best to exchange money in the city, not at the airport. The best exchange rate in Bangkok is at the Superrich exchange chains. Their branches are located in the city center, especially many in the Pratunam area and near BTS Chit Lom station. At Suvarnabhumi Airport, there is also one Superrich exchange with a good rate — it is on the lower floor at the entrance to the Airport Rail Link. At other airports in Thailand, the rate is usually 0.5–2 baht worse than in the city.

When exchanging, be sure to present your passport — this is a legal requirement. Banknotes must be perfectly new: without wear, tears, stamps, or inscriptions. Old-style dollars (without the blue stripe) are also accepted, but the rate may be 0.1–0.5 baht lower.

Regarding bank cards: Mir cards do not work in Thailand. UnionPay cards from non-sanctioned Russian banks (e.g., Rosselkhozbank) are still accepted in 2026, but withdrawing cash from an ATM will cost 200–220 baht in fees plus your bank's commission. Therefore, cash remains the most reliable and profitable method.

You can learn more in our reliable and honest guide in the article Currency and money of Thailand: exchange rate, exchange, cards and everything a tourist needs to know. There we have thoroughly analyzed all the nuances: from exchange rates at different exchangers to cryptocurrency operations and obtaining a local card.

Where to go in Thailand for the first time?
Do I need a category "A" license to rent a motorbike?
Can I exchange rubles in Phuket?
Follow the link, all these questions are discussed in the chat - https://t.me/thailand_travel_chat