When arriving in Bangkok, one of the first things travelers want to know is: how long will it take to get from the airport to their hotel? The answer depends on various factors such as the airport you arrive at, your destination, the time of day, and the mode of transportation you choose. Here’s a breakdown based on popular locations in Bangkok.
Which Airport Are You Arriving At?
Bangkok has two main airports:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – The primary international airport, located about 30 km east of the city center.
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – Mainly serves budget airlines and domestic flights, situated around 25 km north of central Bangkok.
Key Factors Affecting Travel Time
- Time of Day: Rush hours can double travel times due to congestion.
- Weather Conditions: Heavy rain can cause flooding, leading to major delays.
- Hotel Location: Destinations outside central Bangkok or near Sukhumvit and Silom areas can impact travel times.
Travel Time to Popular Locations
Check the travel times from Thailand’s two major airports to popular hotel areas in the Bangkok area below. This can help you plan your trip more efficiently in one of the world’s busiest cities.
(Note: Distances and Time mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on specific locations and routes.)
Downtown Bangkok (Silom & Sathorn Areas)
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (30 km): 30-60 minutes (Taxi), ~45 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS)
- From Don Mueang Airport (25 km): 30-50 minutes (Taxi)
Old Town Bangkok (Grand Palace & Chinatown Area)
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (35 km): 45-90 minutes (Taxi), ~60 minutes (Airport Rail Link + Taxi)
- From Don Mueang Airport (30 km): 40-80 minutes (Taxi)
Khao San Road (Backpacker Hub)
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (35 km): 45-90 minutes (Taxi), ~60 minutes (Airport Rail Link + Taxi)
- From Don Mueang Airport (30 km): 40-80 minutes (Taxi)
Sukhumvit Area
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (27 km): 30-60 minutes (Taxi), ~45 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS)
- From Don Mueang Airport (22 km): 30-50 minutes (Taxi)
Riverside (Chao Phraya River Hotels)
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (40 km): 45-90 minutes (Taxi), ~60 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS + Boat)
- From Don Mueang Airport (35 km): 40-80 minutes (Taxi)
Thonburi Side
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (40 km): 50-90 minutes (Taxi), ~70 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS + Taxi)
- From Don Mueang Airport (35 km): 45-80 minutes (Taxi)
Ari & Saphan Kwai
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (30 km): 40-70 minutes (Taxi), ~50 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS)
- From Don Mueang Airport (20 km): 30-50 minutes (Taxi)
Ratchada & Huai Khwang
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (30 km): 40-70 minutes (Taxi), ~50 minutes (Airport Rail Link + MRT)
- From Don Mueang Airport (25 km): 30-60 minutes (Taxi)
Lat Phrao & Chatuchak
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (28 km): 40-70 minutes (Taxi), ~50 minutes (Airport Rail Link + MRT)
- From Don Mueang Airport (22 km): 30-50 minutes (Taxi)
Bang Na & Eastern Bangkok
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (25 km): 30-60 minutes (Taxi), ~40 minutes (Airport Rail Link + BTS)
- From Don Mueang Airport (30 km): 40-70 minutes (Taxi)
Intercity Travel from Bangkok
For travelers heading beyond Bangkok, here’s how long it takes to reach popular destinations:
(Note: Distances and Time mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on specific locations and routes.)
Pattaya
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (150 km): 1.5-2.5 hours by taxi or private transfer, ~2.5 hours by bus.
- From Don Mueang Airport (165 km): 2-3 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Khao Yai
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (160 km): 2.5-3.5 hours by taxi or private transfer.
- From Don Mueang Airport (140 km): 2-3 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Hua Hin
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (200 km): 2.5-3.5 hours by taxi or private transfer, ~4 hours by train.
- From Don Mueang Airport (220 km): 3-4 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Ayutthaya
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (80 km): 1.5-2 hours by taxi or private transfer, ~2 hours by train.
- From Don Mueang Airport (60 km): 1-1.5 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Kanchanaburi
- From Suvarnabhumi Airport (130 km): 2.5-3 hours by taxi or private transfer, ~3 hours by train.
- From Don Mueang Airport (140 km): 2-3 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Plan Your Journey with Ease
To ensure a smooth arrival, it’s always best to plan ahead. If time is your priority, consider using the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi or booking a private transfer to save time and avoid stress. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, but be mindful of potential traffic delays.
Siam Family Tours offers private airport transfers to all the areas listed above, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Contact us today for pricing and to book your ride!