How do I get from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Bangkok city centre?

Whether you’re arriving at Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Bangkok’s main airport, or Don Mueang (DMK), Bangkok’s second-largest international airport, there are several options for reaching Bangkok’s city center. Here’s a guide to help you choose the most convenient and economical way to get around, based on your budget and preferences.

1. Getting from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok City Centre

A. Taxi

The easiest and fastest way to reach the city centre from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is by taxi. Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the airport and can take you directly to your destination.

• Travel time : Approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Cost : About 300 to 500 baht (8 to 15 USD), depending on your destination and additional fees (toll, airport tax).

• Tips : Take an official taxi to the airport taxi rank on level 1. Avoid unofficial taxis to avoid scams.

B. Airport Rail Link

The Airport Rail Link is a fast and cost-effective option to reach the city centre from Suvarnabhumi. It allows you to reach several main stations in Bangkok, including Makkasan and Phaya Thai, where you can change to the BTS Skytrain.

• Travel time : Approximately 30 minutes to Makkasan Station.

• Cost : Approximately 15 to 45 baht (0.50 to 1.50 USD), depending on your destination.

• Tips : This is a great option to avoid traffic jams, especially during rush hour. If you arrive in Phaya Thai, you can easily transfer to the BTS Skytrain to reach other areas of the city.

C. Airport Shuttle

An airport shuttle is also available to select destinations in Bangkok. This service is a bit cheaper than a taxi, but longer because of the multiple stops.

• Travel time : Approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

• Cost : About 100 to 150 baht (3 to 5 USD).

• Tips : This service is less frequent than taxis or trains, but can be a good option if you prefer a budget-friendly mode of transport without having to manage multiple connections.

2. Getting from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Bangkok City Centre

A. Taxi

Taxis are also available at Don Mueang Airport to take you directly to downtown Bangkok. This is a convenient option if you arrive at a time when public transportation is less available.

• Travel time : Approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Cost : Around 200 to 400 baht (6 to 12 USD), depending on the destination and toll fees.

• Tips : Take an official taxi from the airport taxi rank to avoid scams. Make sure the driver is using the meter for a fair rate.

B. Airport Shuttle Bus

From Don Mueang, several shuttles run to Bangkok’s main areas, including Mo Chit and Victory Monument. These shuttles are a more affordable option than taxis, but they are slower.

• Travel time : Approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

• Cost : About 30 to 50 baht (1 to 2 USD).

• Tips : This mode of transport is cheap but less flexible than other options, as there are specific stops.

C. Public Bus

Public buses are also a budget-friendly option for getting to downtown Bangkok. Bus lines 29, 59, 512, and 551 depart regularly from Don Mueang to different areas of Bangkok.

• Travel time : Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.

• Cost : About 20 to 40 baht (0.60 to 1.20 USD).

• Tips : While this is the cheapest option, you need to be prepared for the heat and heavy traffic. Buses aren’t always air-conditioned, so it may be more comfortable to opt for a taxi or shuttle if you want a faster ride.

D. Train

The train is a more interesting option if you want to avoid traffic. From Don Mueang, you can take a taxi or bus to Don Mueang Railway Station, and then take a train that will take you to Bangkok Hua Lamphong.

• Travel time : Approximately 1 hour.

• Cost : About 10 to 30 baht (0.30 to 1 USD).

• Tips : This option is cheap, but it’s not always convenient if you’re in a hurry. The train doesn’t always depart at regular times, so it’s best to check in advance.

3. Comparison of Transportation Options

4. General tips for the journey

• Check the traffic : Bangkok is often congested, especially during rush hour. So allow a little margin in your schedule.

• Be aware of additional costs : For taxis, make sure that the driver uses the meter. Also check the toll charges, which can be added to the final rate.

• Avoid scams : Never take taxis or unofficial transportation, especially outside of legal taxi ranks.

Conclusion: Choosing the best means of transport

Whether you arrive in Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang, there are several options for reaching downtown Bangkok depending on your budget and preference for comfort. Taxis are the fastest and most direct solution, while the train or Airport Rail Link are economical and efficient alternatives. Whichever option you choose, it’s important to plan your ride in advance for a stress-free trip .