How to get to Bangkok
Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s easiest cities to arrive in, but knowing the difference between the two airports makes your arrival much smoother. Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) serve very different types of flights and the way you travel into the city from each one is not the same. Here is a clear overview to help you plan your trip the right way.
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
This is Bangkok’s main international airport and the one most long haul travellers use. It handles the major global airlines and has the best transport connections.
Passport control can take some time depending on your arrival hour but the airport is modern, organised and easy to navigate.
Getting into the city
Airport Rail Link
The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city.
It takes around 30 minutes and costs between 50 and 100 THB.
The train connects directly to the BTS at Phaya Thai Station which is ideal if you want to avoid traffic.
Taxi, Bolt or Grab
A comfortable option, especially if you arrive late or carry luggage.
Expect around 350 to 450 THB to reach central Bangkok.
Always choose the highway when the driver asks. The toll is around 75 THB and can be paid in cash or sometimes by card.
During peak hours traffic may slow you down so build in some buffer time.
BKK is generally the easiest airport for a smooth arrival.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Located in the north of Bangkok, DMK is the hub for low cost airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air and Lion Air. Many regional flights within Asia land here.
It is important to know which airport you are arriving at because the transport options are different and the travel time to central Bangkok is usually longer from DMK.
Getting into the city
There is no direct fast train into downtown. The most practical options are:
Taxi, Grab or Bolt with an average fare of around 400 THB.
Just like from BKK, always choose the highway if offered to avoid unnecessary delays. The toll is around 75 THB.
DMK can feel busier and less streamlined than Suvarnabhumi but still easy enough to manage when you know what to expect.
Flying Out of Bangkok
This is something many travellers forget until the last minute. Bangkok has two airports and it is essential to double check which one your departure flight leaves from. Many travellers arrive at BKK but fly out of DMK or the other way around, especially when combining long haul flights with regional low cost flights.
The distance between BKK and DMK is significant and travelling between the two airports can take more than an hour depending on traffic. Always check your booking carefully and plan your transport accordingly. Leaving for the wrong airport happens more often than you think.
Train to Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station
Bangkok is well connected to the rest of Thailand by train.
The overnight train from Chiang Mai is one of the most popular routes, offering a comfortable and scenic way to arrive.
Bang Sue Grand Station is the new central hub with modern facilities.
Hua Lamphong, the historic old station, still operates some routes and is close to Chinatown and the Old Town.
Both stations connect directly to the MRT, making it easy to reach your hotel.
Bus Terminals
Long distance buses from all regions of Thailand and neighbouring countries arrive at three main terminals:
Mo Chit Terminal for the north and northeast
Ekkamai Terminal for the east including Pattaya and Koh Chang
Sai Tai Mai Terminal for the south including Phuket and Krabi
From each terminal it is easiest to continue your journey by taxi or Grab because they are not directly connected to the BTS or MRT.
Final Thoughts
Arriving in Bangkok is simple once you understand the difference between BKK and DMK and know your transport options. BKK offers a smoother and faster connection into the city. DMK is best for regional budget flights but usually takes longer to reach your hotel. Whether you arrive or depart, always double check the airport on your booking to avoid unnecessary travel and stress.
