Practical info

Bangkok airport to city centre: Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang

Published on · 1 min read

Ideal for: FamiliesCouplesSoloSeniorsOn a budget

Wat Arun temple lit up at night in Bangkok
Contents

In short: From Suvarnabhumi, the Airport Rail Link reaches Phaya Thai in about 30 minutes, connecting with the BTS Skytrain. Don Mueang, the low-cost airport, is served by the Red Line. Metered taxis leave from the official queue. Don’t forget the TDAC digital arrival card.

Your options

The train reaches Phaya Thai in about 30 minutes, connecting with the BTS to Siam, Sukhumvit and Silom.

Don Mueang

The second airport, mainly for low-cost flights, is served by the city rail Red Line, then the metro.

Metered taxi

Take a taxi from the official queue and ask for the meter; expressway tolls are extra.

Booked transfer

A driver meets you on arrival: handy at night or with luggage, as traffic is often heavy.

Our tips

  1. Check your arrival airport and terminal: some cities have several, far apart.
  2. Plan the journey before you leave: offline route, hotel address in local script if needed.
  3. Have data from touchdown (eSIM or a suitable plan) to follow your route or call a ride.
  4. Late arrival, kids or big bags: a booked transfer avoids waiting and haggling.
  5. Beware of unofficial drivers approaching travellers in the arrivals hall.

What next?

To choose your area, see Where to stay in Bangkok; for sightseeing, Things to do in Bangkok. All our tips for the country: Travel in Thailand.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Suvarnabhumi to central Bangkok?

The Airport Rail Link reaches Phaya Thai in about 30 minutes, then the BTS serves the central districts. Metered taxis leave from the official queue.

What are the entry formalities for Thailand?

Visa exemptions and the mandatory TDAC digital arrival card apply to many nationalities: check the current rules for yours before you go.

Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi?

Suvarnabhumi handles most international flights; Don Mueang mainly low-cost airlines.