Transfers to/from Bangkok

The city of Bangkok is located in the heart of Thailand and is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and wonderful temples. If you are planning your trip you should know that Bangkok has two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. In this article, I will show you the different options you have to get from the airports to the city centre, so that all you have to think about is enjoying the best things to see and do in Bangkok.

As for the distance between the airports and the city, Suvarnabhumi Airport is about 30 kilometres from the centre of Bangkok, while Don Mueang Airport is only slightly closer, at about 24 kilometres. In both cases, there are several options for getting to your final destination quickly and easily.

A shared transfer is a convenient and economical way to travel from Bangkok airport to your accommodation in the city. The main advantage of a shared transfer is saving money. By sharing the vehicle with other travellers, the transportation costs are divided among all passengers, resulting in a lower price for each passenger.

This option is available from both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in the city and is one of the most convenient options. In terms of service, the shared transfer includes standard-sized luggage transport, meaning you won't have to worry about lugging your bags around the city. It also includes an English-speaking representative who will meet you at the airport and guide you to the vehicle.

The shared transfer is a completely safe option. The service is operated by reliable transport companies who ensure that the vehicles are in good condition and meet safety standards. In addition, sharing the vehicle with other travellers ensures greater safety compared to taking an unfamiliar taxi on the street.

Details of interest

• Journeytime: the journey takes about 1 hour.
• Price: from 17 euros per person.
• Advantages of using this method: balance between comfort and cost.
• How to book this transport: the shared transfer is booked via web indicating flight number, arrival time and address of your accommodation.
• Recommended if... you want to get rid of all the worries about airport transfers in an economical way.

If you wish to travel by private transfer from Bangkok Airports, there are several companies with which you can book a pick-up service at the airport itself. This service is also available just outside the baggage claim area.

It is important to note that this service is the most expensive, and although a taxi can perform the same function for a slightly lower price, it can provide you with greater comfort in your transfer. In general, this private transport service usually costs more than 27 euros.

A transfer in a private vehicle is the most comfortable option of all, especially if you value privacy and do not want to share your trip with other people or waste time leaving other travellers in their accommodation before you. As for the journey to the hotel, it is full of breathtaking sights, so you can enjoy the Thai architecture and cultural diversity of the city in particular. Something that can be greatly enjoyed by travelling relaxed in a private transfer.

Interesting details

• Duration of the trip: approximately 1 hour.
• Price: from 27 euros.
• Advantages of using this method: you can be sure that the vehicle will be waiting for you when you arrive.
• How to book this transport: the service is booked online.
• Recommended if... you don't mind paying a little more to feel comfortable and safe.

If you are looking for the quickest and easiest way to get from one of Bangkok's airports to the city centre, then the train is an excellent option. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get by train from both airports to the city centre.

From Suvarnabhumi International Airport

If you decide to go to your accommodation by train upon arrival, the first thing to do is to go to the Suvarnabhumi Airport train station. This is located at the bottom of the airport and you can get there easily by following the signs (in English) or by asking an airport worker to guide you.

Once you are at the station, be sure to buy a ticket for your chosen destination in the city centre. There are ticket vending machines or you can also buy tickets at the ticket counter. The recommended destination station is Phaya Thai Station, as it is the main connecting point in the city.

Then take the Airport Rail Link train, which departs from Suvarnabhumi Airport Railway Station. This train operates from 06:00 to 24:00 and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the city centre.

Finally, when you arrive at Phaya Thai station, get off the train and from there you can connect to other means of transport such as taxis, buses or the city's public transport system, BTS Skytrain.

From Don Mueang International Airport

The Don Mueang Airport train station is located near Terminal 2 of the airport and is easily accessible by following the signs.

Tickets can be purchased from vending machines or at the ticket counter. The recommended destination station is Hua Lamphong Station, which is the main train station in Bangkok and the one with which you can make the most combinations.

The train departing from Don Mueang Railway Station is the SRT City Line. This train operates from 06:00 to 20:00 and takes approximately 50 minutes to reach the city centre.

Finally, when you arrive at Hua Lamphong Station, you can connect with other means of transport such as taxis, buses or the city's public transport system, MRT Subway.

Details of interest

• Travel time: 30-50 minutes depending on which airport you arrive at.
• Price: on average 1 euro
• Advantages of using this method: speed and good price.
• How to book this transport: you can buy tickets at the station itself.
• Recommended if... you like to be on your own and are looking for a fast means of transport.

Travelling by shuttle bus from the Airport to Bangkok city centre is a very convenient and economical option for those who want to save some money. I will explain how to do it in a smooth and detailed way so that you can enjoy your trip without any hassle.

From Suvarnabhumi International Airport

The first thing you should do is exit the airport through the arrival gates. Once outside, make your way to the bus stop located on the ground floor, just outside the terminal. You will see that there are several buses available, but to get to the city centre you should take the S1 bus.

You can pay for your ticket at the S1 bus stop. The price may vary depending on the route you choose, but in general, the cost is quite affordable. It is important that you carry Thai money in cash in order to purchase your ticket.

Once you have your ticket in hand, board the bus and look for an available seat. You'll find that the buses are quite spacious and comfortable vehicles, so you'll be able to enjoy the journey without any problems. Although the journey may seem more tedious than by car or private transfer, it is an opportunity to admire the city and see interesting buildings such as Bangkok's best skyscrapers.

During the trip, the bus will make several stops in different parts of the city, so pay attention not to get lost. If you are not sure where to get off, you can ask the driver or other English or Spanish speaking passengers, or use a web app to alert you where to get off.

From Don Mueang International Airport

The bus stop is located on the ground floor of the airport. There you will find several buses available, but look for the one that says "CENTRAL WORLD" on its sign, which is the A1. This is the bus that will take you to the city centre.

You will then need to pay for your ticket at the ticket office at the bus stop. Be sure to bring Thai cash, as they don't accept other currencies.

The bus will make several stops in different parts of the city, so keep an eye on where to travel. This is a great option if you are travelling alone or with adults. If, on the other hand, you're travelling with children it may not be the best idea and you may want to opt for a more comfortable vehicle.

And if you're excited about touring the city by bus, then you should also take a ride on the Bangkok Sightseeing Bus, a great opportunity to see the main attractions.

Details of interest

• Journeytime: from Don Mueang Airport to the city centre the average journey takes about 45 minutes, in the case of Suvarnabhum Airport the journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Price: the price starts from 70 euro cents.
• Advantages of using this method: it is the cheapest of all.
• How to book this transport: as it is public transport, you do not have to book it, you take it directly from the bus stop at each airport.
• Recommended if... you prioritise spending little money.

One of the most comfortable and economical options to get to the centre of Bangkok from Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport is to take a taxi. If you share with other people, the cost will be significantly reduced. In any case, taxi fares in Bangkok are very affordable compared to those in European cities, making this a very convenient option.

To take a taxi, simply follow the public taxi signs out of the baggage claim area. There you will find a counter where you can indicate the address you wish to go to and a taxi driver will be assigned to your journey. The total cost of the journey will depend on the distance to the hotel and the traffic, but is usually between 10 and 15 euros.

In addition to the cost of the journey itself, you should be aware that there will be a small additional charge for the airport tax and motorway tolls to be paid. It is important that you try to bring some change to pay for these costs and avoid the taxi driver having to pay them out of his own pocket, which could result in him trying to charge more later.

As for Uber, it is now available in Bangkok, and is actually a very popular option for getting around the city, as it offers a convenient and safe way to travel.

Details of interest

• Journeytime: between 30 to 40 minutes.
• Price: averages around 15 euros.
• Advantages of using this method: practicality.
• How to book this transport: the taxi is taken directly at the corresponding taxi ranks, and the Uber is booked through the Uber app.
• Recommended if... you want to be comfortable but don't want to worry about booking in advance.

I have already explained how to get to your accommodation, now I want to give you some tips that you should keep in mind to have the best time during your stay in Bangkok.

Take safety precautions

As in any big city, it is important to take security measures in Bangkok. Keep your belongings close to you at all times, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep your important documents in a safe place.

Respect the local culture

Thailand is a conservative and traditional society. Be sure to dress appropriately when visiting temples or religious sites, covering shoulders and legs. You should also be careful when talking about royalty, as lèse-majesté law is very strict in the country.

Learn some Thai words

Learning some basic Thai words such as 'hello' (sawasdee), 'thank you' (khob khun), 'please' (khor bai) and 'goodbye' (la gon) can be very useful and appreciated by the locals.

Be careful crossing the street

Traffic in Bangkok can be chaotic and dangerous, especially when crossing streets. Look for pedestrian crossings and wait for the traffic light signal before crossing.

Use public transport

Public transport in Bangkok is safe, cheap and efficient. Use the BTS Skytrain, the metro (MRT) and the Chao Phraya River ferry to get around the city. You can also rent a bicycle or scooter if you feel comfortable.

Try the local food

Thai food is delicious and varied. Try local dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Khao Pad and Som Tam. Look out for places popular with locals for authentic Thai food. To maximise your experience you can join one of Bangkok's best food tours. Or if you want to learn you can also find some of the best cooking classes in Bangkok to learn the recipes and surprise your family.

Stay hydrated

Bangkok is a hot and humid city, so it is important to stay hydrated. Take a bottle of water with you and avoid drinking tap water.

Beware of the weather

The climate in Bangkok is tropical, which means that it can be very rainy at certain times of the year. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the season and always carry an umbrella or poncho in case of rain.

It is always a good idea to find out about the best times to visit Bangkok according to what your favourite activities are.