Roberta Aguirre
Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport is one of the best airports in Asia, with many amenities to keep travellers entertained during a layover. However, with the city centre just 30km away, it can be tempting to leave the airport and explore Bangkok. Travellers with a long layover in Bangkok may be able to leave the airport and visit the city, but they should be mindful of the time required for immigration, customs, and travel to and from the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the airport during a layover | Possible, but depends on the length of the layover and the time needed to clear immigration and security |
| Transportation to the city | Airport Rail Link, Express Line (suspended as of 2024), City Link, Metro |
| Nearby attractions | Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Khao San Road, Palladium Night Market, National Museum Bangkok, Siam Paragon, CentralWorld Siam |
| Airport amenities | Observation Deck, airport lounges, shopping, Thai massages, restaurants |
| Nearby hotels | Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport hotel, Louis Tavern Dayrooms Transit Hotel |
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What You'll Learn
You can leave the airport with hand luggage
Yes, you can leave Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport during a layover, even if you just have hand luggage. The airport is located about 18.5 miles from the city, which is easily accessible via the Airport Rail Link. The City Line takes about an hour to reach Makkasan Station, and from there, you may need to take a metro to reach the heart of the city.
If you are planning to leave the airport, it is important to keep in mind that you will need to go through security and passport control upon your return, which may take longer than expected. Therefore, it is recommended to allow ample time for clearing immigration and customs formalities, which can take up to an hour or more.
With that in mind, you can still explore some of Bangkok's highlights during your layover. The Grand Palace, home to the Thai King, and Wat Pho, one of Thailand's most famous Buddhist temples, are must-see spots. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere, head to Khao San Road for street food, beer, and Thai massages at any time of day or night. For a respite from the heat and humidity, the massive malls of Siam Paragon and CentralWorld Siam are just a short ride away on the BTS Skytrain.
If you prefer to stay within the airport, there are still plenty of options to keep you occupied. The airport is known for its delicious cuisine, ranging from traditional Thai dishes to international options. You can also spend time shopping, with many affordable options, including souvenir shops, bookstores, and pharmacies. For a more relaxed experience, treat yourself to a Thai massage or head to the Observation Deck on the 7th Floor for a quiet spot to rest and people-watch.
Whether you decide to venture into the city or stay within the confines of the airport, a layover in Bangkok offers a variety of experiences to suit your interests and time constraints.
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The Airport Rail Link makes it easy to reach Bangkok
Yes, you can leave Bangkok Airport during a layover, and the Airport Rail Link (ARL) makes it easy to reach Bangkok. The ARL is a fast, modern, and inexpensive rail service that connects Suvarnabhumi Airport BKK with Phaya Thai Station in downtown Bangkok.
The ARL offers a quick and convenient way to travel between the airport and the city. The City Line trains operate from 05:30 to midnight daily, with a train departing every 10 to 15 minutes. The journey takes approximately 26 minutes, with the trains stopping at six stations between the airport and downtown Bangkok. The stations on the ARL route are: Suvarnabhumi Airport BKK A1, Lad Krabang A2, Ban Thap Chang A3, Hua Mak A4, Ramkhamhaeng A5, Makkasan A6 (interchange with MRT Blue Line), Ratchaprarop A7, and Phaya Thai A8 (interchange with BTS Sukhumvit Line).
The ARL provides a comfortable and air-conditioned travel experience, with the trains featuring a larger air-conditioning pod to cope with the Thai climate. The rail link is also a safe option for travellers, and the ticket machines are easy to use, with the option to select English or Thai language. The fare is affordable, costing 35 Baht, and the plastic tokens are available in various colours, although the colour does not indicate the journey.
By taking the ARL, travellers can easily access popular destinations in Bangkok, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Khao San Road, and the National Museum. The ARL also connects to the MRT subway and the BTS Skytrain, making it convenient to explore other areas of the city.
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You can visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho
If you have a long layover in Bangkok, you can leave Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is about 30 km or 18.5 miles from the city centre, and visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. The airport is connected to the city by the Airport Rail Link, which takes around an hour to reach Makkasan Station, and from there, you may need to take a metro to reach the heart of the city.
The Grand Palace, dating back to 1782, is the ornately designed home of the Thai King. It is surrounded by intricate walls, grand halls, and buildings within the palace grounds. The intricate architecture and rich history of the site make it one of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks.
Wat Pho, located just next to the Grand Palace, is one of Thailand's most famous Buddhist temples. It is known for its 15-metre-high gold-coated Reclining Buddha. The temple also houses over a thousand other Buddha images. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing, covering their shoulders and legs. The entrance fee to Wat Pho is 100 Baht per person.
You can walk from the Grand Palace to Wat Pho, or you can negotiate a tuk-tuk ride, which is a fun experience, especially if you are travelling with a group. You can also book a combo tour that includes a guide to show you around these sites, as well as Wat Arun, another famous temple in Bangkok.
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Khao San Road is a popular destination
If you have a long layover in Bangkok, you may be able to leave the airport and explore the city. Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok's main airport, is located about 18.5 miles from the city centre, but it is well-connected by the Airport Rail Link.
Khao San Road has something for everyone, from cheap accommodations, drinks, and food to a crazy party and laid-back scene. It is also a great place to shop for t-shirts, bohemian clothes, souvenirs, and formal suits. The street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes, from quiet balada to busy environments. If you're looking for a unique experience, try the street food, with dishes like scorpions and insects on a stick.
Khao San Road is also a great place to get a traditional Thai massage, with many popular massage places located right on the street. The area is also known for its tattoo shops, where you can get a permanent or henna tattoo.
Khao San Road is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant and exciting culture of Bangkok. With its lively atmosphere, diverse range of offerings, and central location, it is a great place to spend a layover in the city.
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The airport has many amenities to enjoy
If you have a long layover in Bangkok, you may be wondering if you can leave Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the official name of Bangkok's airport. The airport is located about 18.5 miles from the city centre, and while it is possible to leave the airport during a layover, you should be mindful of the time required for travel and security checks.
Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport is repeatedly voted one of the best in Asia. While it may not have unique amenities like some of its regional neighbours, it offers all the traditional airport activities and more. Here are some ways to spend your time at the airport:
- Dining: The Thai culture's appreciation of good food extends to its airports, so eating your way around is a great way to spend your layover. Airport lounges offer tasty food and quieter surroundings, and you don't necessarily need to be a business or first-class passenger to access them.
- Shopping: The airport shops are generally affordable, with many souvenir shops, bookstores, and pharmacies. Floor 4 has the most options, including a large duty-free section and some fancier shops like Jim Thompson Thai Silk, which offers beautiful, locally made silks at reasonable prices.
- Relaxation: If you're looking for a quiet place to rest, the Observation Deck on the 7th Floor, the area around the prayer room in the International Zone, and the basement between Doors 7-10 are recommended spots. If you're willing to pay for more comfort and privacy, the Miracle Transit Hotel and Boxtel offer day rooms for rent.
- Exploring Bangkok: If you have a longer layover and wish to explore beyond the airport, Bangkok's vibrant city centre is easily accessible via the Airport Rail Link. The City Link takes about an hour to reach Makkasan Station, and from there, you may need to take the Metro a few stops to reach the heart of the city. Keep in mind that you'll need to allow sufficient time for security checks and potential traffic when returning to the airport.
With its range of amenities and easy access to the city, Suvarnabhumi Airport offers plenty of options to keep you entertained and relaxed during your layover in Bangkok.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport during your layover. The airport is connected to the city by Airport Rail Link, which takes around an hour to reach Makkasan Station, and from there, you may need to take a Metro to reach the heart of the city. However, it is important to plan carefully, as you will need to allow time to pass through immigration and security upon your return to the airport.
It is recommended that you allow at least one hour to clear Thai immigration and customs formalities, one hour to travel from the city centre to the airport, and two hours before your onward flight to pass through security and board. This gives you a maximum of two and a half hours to explore the city.
Bangkok has a lot to offer, from temples like Wat Pho to street food and nightlife. If you're looking for a relaxing activity, you can opt for a Thai massage or visit one of the city's massive malls, such as Siam Paragon and CentralWorld Siam, to escape the heat. For a unique experience, you can take a river cruise for dinner with a view or explore the backpacking scene on Khao San Road.
The Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport hotel is the closest hotel to the airport, and it offers a 24-hour flexible check-in policy. Another option is the Louis Tavern Dayrooms Transit Hotel, located inside the airport terminal.
