Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok: Best Transfer Options to City Center | Trip.com (2024)

Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and need to get to downtown Bangkok? This guide will help you choose from six convenient transfer options, including the Airport Rail Link, buses, taxis, rental cars, and more.

Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer Overview

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), also known as "Bangkok New Airport," is the largest and most modern airport in Bangkok, offering a wide range of facilities. Compared to Don Mueang Airport, Suvarnabhumi is newer and better equipped, with features like mobile phone charging stations, multiple business lounges, and children's play areas.

Below is a table summarizing the different transportation options from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok:

Train | Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer

Source from

If you're looking for the best way to get between Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown Bangkok, the Airport Rail Link is the way to go. It‘s the cheapest and fastest (26 mins) way according to my experience! 👏

Train Route

This rail service runs from Suvarnabhumi (A1) to Phaya Thai (A8), with 8 convenient stations in between:

Suvarnabhumi Airport BKK (A1), Lad Krabang (A2), Ban Thap Chang (A3), Hua Mak (A4), Ramkhamhaeng (A5), Makkasan (A6), Ratchaprarop (A7), and Phaya Thai (A8).

How to Get ARL Ticket

Buying a ticket for the Airport Rail Link is easy. Here’s how:

1. Find a Ticket Machine: Look for the automated ticket machines at any Airport Rail Link station.
2. Select Your Destination: Use the touchscreen to select your destination station.
3. Pay the Fare: Insert coins or banknotes to pay the fare (as shown in the fare table below).
4. Collect Your Token: The machine will give you a token, which you’ll use to enter and exit the station.

ARL Ticket Price

Major ARL Stations

Here’s a closer look at the key stations:

【Makkasan Station】

Makkasan Station is your best option for getting to Sukhumvit Road quickly, with a fare of just 35 Baht (around $1). It was initially planned as a busy city air terminal, but it’s now a quieter stop. Get off here and follow the signs to Petchaburi MRT station, only 200 meters away. From there, take the subway one stop to Asoke Station at Sukhumvit Soi 21, where you can either hop on the BTS Skytrain or walk to nearby hotels. For destinations like Silom Road or Hua Lamphong Station (if you’re catching a train to northern Thailand), Makkasan offers direct and easy subway routes.

【Ratchaprarop Station】

If you’re staying near the Baiyoke Tower or Pratunam area, Ratchaprarop Station is ideal, with a fare of 40 Baht (around $1.15). It’s just a 200-meter walk from the Baiyoke Sky Hotel and Indra Regent. Other hotels like Amari Watergate, Novotel Platinum, and Centara Watergate are within a five-minute walk, making this stop super convenient.

【Phaya Thai Station】

Phaya Thai Station is the busiest, with a fare of 45 Baht (around $1.30), as it connects directly to the Phaya Thai BTS station. From here, you can easily travel north to Chatuchak Market or south to the city center. A short ride takes you to Siam Square BTS, which links you to major shopping spots like Siam Centre, MBK, Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon, and Central World. Phaya Thai also offers easy connections to Sukhumvit, Silom, Sathorn, and beyond.

Bus | Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer

Bus Route Map

If you’re flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport, you’ve got some straightforward, cheap options to get you right to the doorstep of Bangkok's backpacker central. The bus is the second recommended way. It's also cheap just like the trains but takes longer (between 45-60 minutes).

Public Bus

For a true taste of local Bangkok transport, the S1 public bus is your direct line from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Khao San Road. It’s perfect if you're traveling light and want to keep your budget in check.

• Where to Board: Once you’ve grabbed your bags, navigate to Level 1 and follow the clear signage for public transport. The bus stop for the S1 is conveniently located at exit 7.
• Schedule: Buses leave every 30 minutes, running from 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM heading towards Khao San, and from 07:00 AM to 09:00 PM on the return trip to the airport.
• Cost: The fare is 60 THB (approximately $1.80 USD), which makes it an incredibly economical choice.
• Travel Time: The trip usually takes about an hour, though this can vary with traffic.

Here's a quick look at the stops where you can easily walk to Khao San Road:

Pros: It’s one of the cheapest options available and the bus frequency is quite reliable. Ideal for those keeping an eye on their expenses.

Cons: Slower due to multiple stops and potential traffic. Limited space for larger luggage. Service ends at 8:00 PM, which may not suit late arrivals.

Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus Stop (from the Traveldeck)

Mini Van

Alternatively, mini vans are available if you prefer a smaller group setting and slightly faster travel. They're great for getting to other parts of the city as well.

• Pick-Up Spot: Found at Gate 8 on the 1st floor, these 9-seater vans offer a slightly faster, albeit less spacious, alternative.
• Main Routes:
• 551 to Victory Monument in the historical part of town.
• 552 to the On Nut area, close to the lively Sukhumvit district.
• Operating Hours: Vans run from 05:00 AM to 10:00 PM for both routes.
• Fares: 20 THB (about $0.60 USD) to On Nut and 40 THB (around $1.20 USD) to Victory Monument.
• Departure Frequency: Expect a van every 20-30 minutes.

Pros: These routes are convenient for reaching major city spots, making it easy to connect to other transport or explore on foot. They're also quite affordable, especially if you’re sharing the ride.

Cons: You might wait a bit longer for a van to fill up, and the space inside is quite compact.

Shuttle Bus

The airport shuttle service makes it easier for travelers to travel to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport from Central World. One-way fares are 150-200 THB (USD$4.09)

We took the bus at 2pm to the airport and were the only ones on it. It took 30 minutes to the airport and was very comfortable! There is also a lounge you can wait at. Recommended!!

• From Suvarnabhumi Airport: 10:00 / 14:00 / 18:00

Bus Stop: 1st Floor, Exit near Hug Thai zone

•From Central World: 11:30 / 15:30 / 19:30

Bus Station: 1st Floor, BUA Counter, between Gates 7 and 8

【12% Off】Car Rental | Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok and desire the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car might be your best travel option. Especially if your itinerary includes destinations outside the convenient reach of public transport, such as Hua Hin, phu*ket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, or other regional highlights around Thailand, car rental offers flexibility and saves significant time.

For travelers using Trip.com, there's currently a promotion offering a 12% discount on car rentals. 🎁

Cars to Rent at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Here are some car rental options available from Suvarnabhumi Airport:

Required Documents

Before you rent a car in Thailand, ensure you have the following:

• Valid Passport
• Original Hong Kong Driving License
• International Driving Permit (also known as international driving license, which requires your Hong Kong ID, driving license, a photo, and proof of address for application)
• Credit card under the same name as the driver

Taxi | Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer

If you're looking for a cheaper alternative to a private car, taking a public metered taxi from Bangkok Airport is a great option. Taking a public taxi is recommended if you have large luggage, don’t mind older vehicles, and are comfortable communicating your destination to the driver.

Location: Public metered taxis are located at Level 1 arrivals at Bangkok Airport. Follow the signs to the taxi stand to get started.

How to Get a Taxi

1. Retrieve a Ticket: Use the taxi machine to get a ticket. This ticket will have a number corresponding to your designated taxi.
2. Find Your Taxi: Match the number on your ticket to the number displayed on the tarmac in front of the taxis.
3. Hand the Receipt to the Driver: Once you've located your taxi, give the receipt to the driver and tell them your destination. Showing your hotel or accommodation on Google Maps can help avoid any confusion.

Tips for a Smooth Ride

• Insist on Using the Meter: Make sure the driver turns on the meter as soon as you get in to avoid being overcharged.
• Consider the Expressway: The driver might ask if you want to take the expressway, an elevated road that bypasses traffic. Using the expressway incurs additional toll fees, so be sure to have some cash on hand to cover these costs.

Costs and Fees

• Total Cost: The cost of a public taxi from the airport to the city typically ranges from 300-350 THB (approximately $9-$10).
• Airport Surcharge: 50 THB (about $1.50)
• Expressway Fees: Up to 70 THB (around $2)
• Base Rate: Starts at 35 THB (about $1), which increases per kilometer:
• 5.50 THB/km for the first 1-10 km
• 6.50 THB/km for 10-20 km
• 7.50 THB/km for 20-40 km
• Luggage Fee: If you have more than two large pieces of luggage, there may be an additional fee ranging from 20-100 THB (approximately $0.60-$3) depending on the size.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bankok Popular Spots

If you're heading from Suvarnabhumi Airport to some popular spots in Bangkok, here's a guide on the best ways to get there:

• Airport Rail Link (ARL): This is a quick and cheap option running directly from the airport. It’s available from 6 AM to midnight. You can hop on the ARL to reach central spots or connect to other public transport systems like the BTS or MRT​​.
• BTS and MRT: These train systems are great for getting around Bangkok. They link up well with the ARL, making it easy to transfer if you need to travel further or to specific areas​​.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Grab/Bolt): Taxis are available all the time, and so are ride-sharing services like Grab and Bolt. These might be a bit more expensive than the train but can be more comfortable, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Arrive Late or Early: Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer

Arriving at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport either super early in the morning or late at night can definitely throw a wrench in your travel plans. But don’t worry—I’ve been through this myself and have some tips to help you get where you need to go or find a comfy place to stay without any fuss.

When it comes to getting from the airport to your destination, it's important to know the schedules 👀

• Airport Rail Link (ARL): This is your quickest link to the city, running from 6:00 AM until midnight. If your flight lands outside these times, you’ll need another plan.
• Buses: The airport buses usually start their rounds at around 5:00 AM, perfect if you land with the sunrise. They stop running shortly after midnight, so night arrivals won't have this option.

Early Morning Suvarnabhumi Airport

Early Morning Transport

• Airport Rail Link (ARL) The ARL connects the airport directly to several major stops in central Bangkok, including Makkasan and Phaya Thai stations. Phaya Thai links directly to the BTS Skytrain, giving you easy access across the city. If you arrive just before 6:00 AM, it might be worth waiting a bit for the ARL to start operating. It’s the fastest and most cost-effective way to reach downtown Bangkok.
• Buses There are several bus lines that start operating early, including the Airport Bus which has routes directly to key areas in Bangkok. This can be a viable option if your arrival coincides with the bus schedules. Check the specific bus routes available from the airport. Buses are more budget-friendly than taxis and can be a good option if you’re not in a rush and have a clear idea of your route.
• Taxis Taxis and Grab cars are available throughout the night and early morning. They provide the convenience of taking you directly to your destination. Always ensure that the taxi meter is turned on to avoid being overcharged. For Grab, you can book directly through the app and see your fare upfront. This is particularly helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area or arriving when it's still dark.

Late Night Suvarnabhumi Airport

Late Night Transport

Landing after midnight means the ARL and buses are off the table. Here’s how you can smoothly transition from landing to relaxing:

• Taxi: As mentioned, these services run all night. Whether you book a traditional taxi or use Grab, you’ll find clear pricing and can avoid the hassle of negotiating fares.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels near the airport offer free shuttle services. This is a great choice if you're looking for ease straight after your flight. It’s not just convenient but also often includes the peace of mind of getting to your bed quickly and without stress.

Nearby Hotels with Airport Free Shuttle

Consider booking a room at a nearby hotel that offers free shuttle services if your arrival time is awkward. Hotels Near Suvarnabhumi Airport has been a lifesaver for me multiple times! Here are a couple I’ve tried and can recommend:

Must-Have Travel Apps in Bangkok

If you're planning a trip to Bangkok or anywhere else in Thailand, I've got some must-have travel apps. I've been there, and trust me, these apps are lifesavers!

ViaBus

For public transport, ViaBus is a must-have. This app helps you figure out bus and metro routes in real time, which is especially handy in cities like Chiang Mai or Bangkok. It’s perfect for those who want to travel independently and explore at their own pace.

Grab

Grab is another essential app for getting around. Similar to Uber, Grab allows you to book taxis and agree on the fare beforehand, which can really help avoid overpaying. Plus, the option to pay with card or cash adds convenience.

Trip.com

Trip.com is a useful app when organizing your travels to Thailand. It’s great for booking hotels and finding discounted flights. During my last visit to Thailand, I found some excellent deals on local attractions through this app. The customer support was incredibly helpful.

If you are a Platinum or Diamond member of Trip.com, you can access a free airport lounge where you can enjoy food and beverages as you are travelling in first class or business class even though you are actually travelling in economy.

12Go

When you’re thinking of exploring beyond the immediate area, 12Go is fantastic. It covers bookings for various types of transport including buses, trains, and ferries. The platform is user-friendly, offering real-time availability and competitive pricing, which makes planning long-distance travels within Thailand a breeze.

Bangkok Top Attractions

The Grand Palace

These are my top spots in Bangkok that I always recommend to friends. If you're planning a trip here, definitely add these to your list! 🌍💖

👑 The Grand Palace 👑

If you're in Bangkok, you can't skip the Grand Palace. It's right at the top of my list every time I visit! The complex is huge and filled with stunning buildings that are a big part of Thailand's history.

Remember, you need to wear long pants and shirts with sleeves to get in, but it's totally worth it. The 500 THB ticket might seem a bit much, but when you see the gold detailing and the amazing craftsmanship up close, you'll know where that money goes. Make sure to check out the guards in their neat white uniforms – they're great for a photo op!

Pro tip: Try to get there early to avoid the massive crowds. 🏰📸

Wat Arun

🌅 Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) 🌅

Wat Arun is another must-see. Right by the river, this place has an awesome tower that lights up beautifully at sunrise and sunset. The design is different from what you usually see in Bangkok, and it’s covered in colorful tiles and pieces of porcelain that really stand out.

Going there felt like stepping back in time. It's pretty busy, but that's just because it's so popular. You can also rent a traditional Thai dress for your visit, which makes for some great photos.

Entry is just 100 THB, and it’s definitely a place you’ll want to take your time exploring. 🌞🕌

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

🐠 SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World 🐠

For a change of pace, head over to SEA LIFE in the Siam area. It's a massive aquarium with loads of different marine creatures, and walking through the underwater tunnel is like being in another world.

The sharks and rays swimming right above you are super cool. There's also a rainforest section and even a spot where you can watch penguins play.

It’s fun for all ages and a good place to cool off from Bangkok’s heat. The ticket costs start at 890 THB, but seeing all those sea creatures up close is something you won't forget. 🦈🐧