Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
Wilfried Strang, Pexels
Bangkok is served by two main international airports, Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK), along with a central railway hub, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, and three major bus terminals (Mo Chit, Southern, and Eastern) for domestic travel.
By Air (International/Domestic):
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK):: The Airport Rail Link (ARL) connects to the city center in approximately 25-30 minutes, costing 15-45 THB. Taxis are available for 300-500 THB plus tolls, with travel times ranging from 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses cost 35-70 THB and take 60-90 minutes. Private transfers start from around 800 THB.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK):: The SRT Dark Red Line train reaches Bang Sue Grand Station in about 20 minutes for 5-42 THB. Airport buses (A1-A4) provide routes to various city points, taking 20-90 minutes and costing 30-150 THB. Taxis are an option, with fares typically 300-500 THB including tolls, and a travel time of 30-60 minutes.
By Train (Domestic):
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal:: This station is Bangkok's primary hub for most long-distance trains to Northern, Northeastern, and Southern Thailand, having taken over most services from Hua Lamphong in January 2023. It is connected to the MRT Blue Line.
Hua Lamphong Railway Station:: Continues to operate Eastern Line and some special train services.
Indicative costs for intercity train travel, such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai, range from $27-$59 for a second-class sleeper.
By Bus (Domestic):
Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Northern Bus Terminal):: Serves destinations in Northern and Northeastern Thailand, including Chiang Mai (approx. 10 hours, 488-759 THB). It is accessible by local bus or taxi from Mochit BTS and Chatuchak MRT stations.
Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai):: Routes cover Southern Thailand, with buses to Phuket costing around $21. The terminal is reached by taxi or public city buses.
Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai):: Provides services to Eastern provinces like Pattaya (1.5-2.5 hours, 80-130 THB) and is accessible via Ekkamai BTS Station.
Long-distance bus tickets typically range from $15-$30 per trip.
Car Rental:
Car rental services are available at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, offering flexibility for exploring surrounding areas. Prices vary by car model and rental duration.
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