What currency is used in Bangkok and where is the best place to exchange it?

In Bangkok, as in all of Thailand, the official currency is Thai Baht (THB). You cannot pay with dollars or euros in shops or cafes, so upon arrival you will need to exchange cash for local baht. It is best to bring US dollars (in 50 or 100 denominations), euros, or Chinese yuan — the exchange rate is favorable, and the difference between these currencies is small. However, we do not recommend bringing Russian rubles: the exchange rate will be very unfavorable, and you could lose up to 8-10% of the amount.

The best exchange rate in Bangkok is at Superrich exchange booths. They are located throughout the city, but the best rate is traditionally at the head office. If you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport, do not rush to exchange all your money upstairs. Go down to the lowest floor (B1) near the Airport Rail Link turnstiles — there is a Superrich exchange booth with a very good rate, often even better than in some places in the city. This is an ideal option if you are heading straight to the islands.

In the city itself, exchange booths are everywhere: in shopping malls, on the streets, in banks. Before exchanging, just take a walk and compare the rates on the boards — the difference between neighboring booths may be small, but you will be sure you did not undersell. Keep in mind that at any official exchange point, you will be asked for your passport — this is a legal requirement.

Regarding bank cards, Russian "Mir" cards do not work in Thailand. UnionPay cards from non-sanctioned banks (e.g., Rosselkhozbank) still function, but withdrawing cash from ATMs is unprofitable due to a high fixed fee (200-220 baht per transaction) plus your bank's commission. It is much more profitable to bring cash dollars and exchange them at Superrich.

You can learn more in our reliable and honest guide in the article Currency and Money in Thailand: exchange rate, exchange, cards, and everything a tourist needs to know. There we have covered all the nuances in detail, including the profitability calculation of different currencies and addresses of the best exchange offices.