Owais Crawford
Suvarnabhumi Airport is Thailand's biggest airport and is located about 26-30km outside of Bangkok. The airport offers excellent facilities, including a wide range of food options, from Thai and Asian to-go counters to Western staples like Burger King and Starbucks. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, with over 270 retail shops offering everything from designer brands to local handicrafts. If you're looking to explore beyond the airport, Bangkok's city centre is easily accessible via the Airport Link or taxi. The ARL train can take you to popular shopping centres like Terminal 21 and Paragon, where you can enjoy food and shopping. For those with more time, must-see spots in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho temple, and the Khao San Road for a lively backpacking scene.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from Bangkok | 26-30 km |
| Transportation to Bangkok | Airport Link, taxi, ARL train, limousine services |
| Food | Thai, Asian, Western |
| Shopping | Duty-free, designer brands, luxury labels, local handicrafts, bookstores, pharmacies |
| Attractions | Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Khao San Road, Siam Paragon, CentralWorld Siam, Chao Phraya River |
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What You'll Learn
Take the ARL train into inner Bangkok
The Airport Rail Link (ARL) train is a fast, convenient, and inexpensive way to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to inner Bangkok. The ARL is a commuter rail line that connects the main airport of Bangkok to the city centre. The rail link starts from underground platforms inside Suvarnabhumi Airport, before ascending onto an elevated viaduct to Lat Krabang station, and continuing west parallel to the eastern line railway. The line is 28.6km (17.8mi) long and is elevated, running above the existing eastern railway, with an underground terminal at the airport. The ARL train operates from 05:30–midnight daily, 365 days a year.
The ARL train is a great option for those looking to do some sightseeing in Bangkok during a layover. The train station at Suvarnabhumi Airport is located in the basement level of the passenger terminal, and the journey to downtown Bangkok takes approximately 26 minutes. The ARL train is also a good option for those who want to avoid the busy city traffic, as it can be a quick and efficient way to get into the city.
There are two types of train tickets for the ARL: single-trip tokens and pre-paid Smart Passes. Tourists can buy tokens at the station or buy a smart pass online in advance. The ticket machines are located at all stations and accept Thai Baht coins and banknotes only. Standard train fares are between 15–45 Baht depending on distance. Children under 12 years of age and also under 90cm in height travel free of charge.
Once you arrive in inner Bangkok, there are several must-see spots to explore, including the Grand Palace, the ornately designed home of the Thai King, which dates back to 1782, and Wat Pho, one of Thailand's most famous Buddhist temples, known for its 15-meter-high gold-coated Reclining Buddha. Bangkok is also famous for its street food, nightlife, and massive malls, such as Siam Paragon and CentralWorld Siam, which offer a cool respite from the heat and humidity.
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Visit the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace, located in the heart of Bangkok, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. This magnificent complex of buildings has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam and later Thailand since 1782. The Grand Palace continues to be used for official events and state functions, making it an important place of royalty and history.
The Grand Palace is easily accessible from Suvarnabhumi Airport, with a variety of transportation options available. The fastest way to get there is by driving, which takes approximately 28 minutes and costs around $3 to $6. Taxi services are also available and estimated to cost around 320 THB. If you prefer a more affordable option, you can take the bus for just $2, with buses departing every 20 minutes and arriving at the Grand Palace in about 36 minutes. Additionally, you can take the train, which includes transfers and takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Once you arrive at the Grand Palace, you will be greeted by its impressive architecture and rich history. The palace served as the residence for the king, his court, and his royal government until 1925. Today, it still holds significant value, with King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) residing at the Chitralada Royal Villa and King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall within the Dusit Palace complex.
Within the Grand Palace complex, you will find countless examples of exquisite Royal architecture. The palace is known for its majestic courtyards and intricate designs, showcasing the grandeur of the royalty. As you explore the palace grounds, you will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Thailand.
Near the Grand Palace, you can also visit the famous Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), located just 700 meters south. This world-renowned statue is 46 meters long and gold-plated, representing the Buddha's entry into complete spiritual enlightenment. The surrounding corridor features 108 bronze bowls, each symbolizing one of the 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha.
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Explore Wat Pho temple
Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha or the Giant Buddha Temple, is one of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. It is renowned for its massive Reclining Buddha statue, which is 46 metres long and 15 metres high. The statue is coated in gold and is truly a sight to behold. The temple complex is located in the heart of Bangkok, just south of the Grand Palace, and is a must-see for any traveller.
When exploring Wat Pho, there are a few points of interest that you shouldn't miss. The first, of course, is the Reclining Buddha, located within the Viharn Phranorn building. Constructed in 1848 by King Rama III, the statue is not made of pure gold, but its golden coating gives it a majestic and awe-inspiring appearance. Another point of interest is the various pagodas, or Chedi, located around the temple complex. The smaller Chedis, called Phra Chedi Rai, are about 5 metres tall and house the ashes of the royal family and relics of the Buddha.
The temple complex also features a bot, or central shrine, as well as viharas, pavilions, and gardens. There is also a small museum and a Chinese Medicine Hall, which offers herbal remedies and medicinal treatments to visitors. If you're looking for a relaxing experience, you can also visit the massage pavilions, or "sala", which are open from 9 am to 4 pm and offer high-quality Thai massages.
Wat Pho is also a great place to interact with resident monks and learn more about Buddhism. You can receive blessings and engage in meaningful conversations about Buddhist philosophy. It is important to remember that there are certain rules and etiquettes to follow when visiting a Thai temple. These include removing your shoes, dressing modestly, and being respectful and quiet during your visit.
To get to Wat Pho, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk, or you can catch the Chao Phraya Express boat to the Tha Chang stop. The nearest BTS Skytrain stop is Saphan Taksin, from where you can take a boat up the river or get a tuk-tuk. Wat Pho is open daily from 8 am to 6:30 or 7:30 pm, and there is a modest entrance fee of 200 THB for foreigners.
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Shop at the airport
If you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy during your layover at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you're in luck! The airport is known for its extensive shopping options, ranging from duty-free shops to local boutiques.
The main shopping area is located on the first floor, offering a variety of stores catering to all tastes and budgets. Here, you can find everything from souvenir shops and bookstores to pharmacies and convenience stores. If you're looking for a last-minute gift or a memento of your trip, this is the perfect place to browse.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the second floor is dedicated to duty-free shopping. Suvarnabhumi Airport is renowned for its exceptional duty-free offerings, including international brands and luxury items. You'll find an array of high-end boutiques featuring exclusive products from coveted brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Dior. The sophisticated ambiance and top-notch customer service will make you feel like you're in a high-end mall rather than an airport. Don't forget to keep your passport handy for tax-free purchases and inquire about VAT refunds to maximize your savings.
If you have more time and want to explore beyond the airport, the nearby city of Bangkok offers a vibrant shopping scene. You can take the ARL train into inner Bangkok and visit shopping centres such as Mega Bangna, Terminal 21, or Paragon. These destinations offer a mix of food and shopping options, allowing you to experience the local culture and trends. However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so plan your journey accordingly.
Back at the airport, if you're interested in authentic Thai souvenirs and local crafts, make sure to explore the shops featuring unique products like traditional handicrafts, silk items, and OTOP (One Tambon One Product) goods. These special finds will not only delight your loved ones back home but also support local artisans and communities.
With its diverse range of shopping options, Suvarnabhumi Airport and its surrounding areas offer something for every type of shopper. Whether you're browsing for souvenirs or indulging in duty-free luxuries, you're sure to find treasures that will make your layover a memorable one.
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Eat at the 24-hour food court
If you're spending a layover at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport and are looking for a place to eat, there's a 24-hour food court near Ground Transportation (Pre-Security). This food court caters more to locals, with low prices and a wide range of Thai food. It's a great option if you're travelling on a budget and want to eat local dishes while waiting for your flight.
The food court is called "Magic Food Point" and has a canteen-style setup. It operates with a cash card system, where you buy a cash card at the entrance and use it to pay for your food at various stalls. If you don't spend all the money on your card, you can get a refund for the remaining balance.
The food court offers a variety of Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices. Some popular options include Tom Yum, Pad Thai, Green Curry, Fried Rice with Shrimp, noodle dishes, and smoothies. There are also beverages, such as coffee and fresh fruit, available at reasonable prices.
If you're looking for a quick bite before your flight or want to experience local Thai cuisine, the 24-hour food court at Suvarnabhumi Airport is a great option. It's a hidden gem, offering cheap and delicious street food, and a nice change from the typically expensive airport food.
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Frequently asked questions
Suvarnabhumi Airport is about 26-30 km outside of Bangkok, so it's easy to get to the city centre if you have a long layover. Bangkok is known for its nightlife, ritzy hotel bars, and secret speakeasies. You can also visit the Grand Palace, the ornately designed home of the Thai King, which dates back to 1782, and Wat Pho, one of Thailand's most famous Buddhist temples, known for its 15-metre-high gold-coated Reclining Buddha. If you're looking for some shopping, you can visit the Megabangna Shopping Centre or one of Bangkok's massive malls, like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld Siam, which are located on the BTS Skytrain.
Suvarnabhumi Airport has a variety of food options, including Thai and Asian to-go counters and sit-down restaurants, convenience shops with ready-made options, and Western staples like Burger King, Subway, and Starbucks. If you want to venture out, you can take the ARL train to inner Bangkok, where there are plenty of dining options.
There are several spas near Suvarnabhumi Airport, although specific names of spas are not provided in the sources.
