bkk free travel

23 free things to do in Bangkok to get more bang for your baht

Dec 9, 2023 • 14 min read

Bangkok is an endlessly fascinating city and there's an amazing amount to see for free © trumzz / Getty Images

As one of the world's favorite budget travel playgrounds, Bangkok has freebies galore. From golden temples, captivating monasteries and vast open-air markets to meditation sessions and people-watching on the most famous backpacker strip in the world, the Thai capital can keep you entertained for weeks, even on the tightest of budgets.

Some of the most famous sights have entry fees, including the legendary Wat Pho and the Grand Palace , but there are countless other religious and historic sites that you can visit for free. With excellent public transport, even getting around won't eat up too many baht – exploring the Chao Phraya River on the public Chao Phraya Express Boat is one of the most pocket-friendly city tours on the planet. Then there's the street food, which will have you eating like a king or queen whatever your budget. Whether you're here for the culture, the architecture or the big-city vibe, here are the best free things to do in the city. 

1. Learn some local history at the Bangkokian Museum

Comprising three early-20th-century wooden bungalows, the charming Bangkokian Museum showcases an often-overlooked period of Bangkok's history. Free to visit, the main residential building was constructed in 1937 for the Surawadee family, and its interiors are filled with beautiful wooden furniture, porcelain, and other remnants of pre- and post-war family life.

An adjacent two-story shophouse contains themed displays of similar items. The third building, to the rear, was built in 1929 as a British doctor's clinic. A visit takes the form of an informal guided tour in halting English, and photography is encouraged.

2. Get souvenir-hunting at Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the largest markets in the world, Chatuchak is a simply unforgettable Bangkok experience, even if you don’t plan on buying anything. It's free to visit, and there are more than 15,000 stalls to explore, divided into 27 covered sections spanning everything from antiques and souvenirs to used vintage trainers, miniature food offerings for spirit houses and live frogs.

Planning tip: The full market operates from 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Arrive by 10am to beat the crowds and the heat.

3. Marvel at the nostalgia of Papaya

Technically, many of the objects in this celebrated four-story antique store are for sale, but prices for the owner's collection of 19th- and 20th-century artifacts are so astronomically high that the collection never seems to deplete. Instead, many see Papaya as a museum of recent nostalgia, and it's a great place to browse without any pressure to buy.

Every inch of this warehouse-size exhibition space is stuffed with art deco furniture, 1960s beer signage, superhero statues, Piaggio scooters, typewriters, movie projectors, love seats, TV sets, VHS players, wall clocks, storefront mannequins, lampshades – the list goes on and on.

Planning tip: If you're visiting Papaya, it's worth swinging by nearby Wat Lat Phao on the Lat Phao canal, with its eclectic collection of standing and seated Buddhas.

4. Take in the views from Golden Mount

There are plenty of temples you can visit for free in Bangkok, but the Ayutthaya-era Golden Mount is one of the finest, not least for its stunning views over the surrounding streets. Its glimmering golden chedi (stupa) can be seen shimmering high above old Bangkok and the surrounding canals. The hilltop temple shares a compound with Wat Saket ; it's free to visit the monastery, but there's a modest 50B fee to go to the summit.

5. Be mystified by the displays at the Amulet Market

You'll even find fascinating free sights amidst the royal monuments on Ko Ratanakosin island. Close to the river near Wat Pho, the Amulet Market is a bustling hub for the sale of small but highly prized Buddhist talismans and votive objects. Potential buyers (many already sporting chains bedecked with amulets) can be seen bargaining and flipping through magazines dedicated to these objects of devotion, some of which command astronomical prices.

It's a great place to just wander and watch as collectors peer through magnifying glasses at the tiny amulets, seeking hidden meaning and, if they’re lucky, hidden value. The easiest entry point to the market is marked "Trok Maha That."

Planning tip: If you feel like buying an amulet, less valuable talismans can be picked up for as little as 10B and mounted into metal and plastic amulet cases for not much more.

6. Experience sensory overload at Patpong Red Light District

The seedy reputation of the Patpong Red Light District may put off some travelers, but this notorious strip of go-go bars and "exotic" shows is as much a part of Bangkok life as the city's gleaming temples. A visit will reveal much about Thailand's complicated attitudes to intimacy and sexuality, but it's certainly not for everyone.

Though much toned down from its sin city heyday during the Vietnam War, Patpong is still a place of blazing neon, pumping music and scantily-dressed women – its night market even sells erotic toys – but it's now an established stop on the tourist circuit. There's even a museum of Patpong history .

Planning tip: It’s free to wander about the two main strips, but the best time to visit is 5pm when the evening market opens.

7. Be immersed in beauty at Pak Khlong Flower Market

As part of a drive to clean up the city in 2016, Bangkok's famous street-side flower market – Pak Khlong Talat – was moved indoors, but it's still a delightfully fragrant place to visit. Within the giant warehouse that houses the resettled stalls, you'll find piles of delicate orchids, garlands of jasmine flowers, rows of roses and stacks of button carnations.

Planning tip: The best time to come to Pak Khlong Talat is late at night when fresh blossoms arrive from upcountry for sale the following day.

8. Sniff out the fakes at the Museum of Counterfeit Goods

Fakes are so prominent in Bangkok that there’s even a free museum dedicated to them, displaying a mind-boggling array of counterfeit merchandise collected over the years by law firm Tilleke and Gibbins . An in-house lawyer from the company's intellectual property department provides a complimentary tour.

Planning tip: The public can visit on Mondays at 2pm and Thursdays at 10am, but you need to email or call to make an appointment at least 24 hours before your visit.

9. Enjoy the tourism of Khao San Road

From the seedy backpacker ghetto of the 1980s to the atmospheric flashpacker hub of modern times, Khao San Road – technically, Thanon Khao San , from the Thai term kâw sǎhn , meaning "uncooked rice" – has undergone a considerable image makeover over the years. The sleazy, bedbug-infested dives conjured up by Alex Garland in The Beach have been replaced by boutique hotels and hip hangouts, and the downmarket TV bars playing pirated movies have been transformed into sleek designer bars. But still, its legend lives on.

Lined with market stalls and food carts, this pedestrianized thoroughfare remains a lively backpackers’ hub – its energy radiating out along nearby side streets where excellent sleeping, eating and drinking options abound. But the long-simmering debate surrounding its merits continues. Is it too touristy to stay on Khao San Road? Is it "real travel"? Is it really Thailand at all? Our advice is just go. It’s free, it oozes atmosphere, and it poses its own riddle: if a traveler goes to Bangkok but doesn’t visit Khao San Road, did they really visit Bangkok?

Planning tip: Bring an appetite to Khao San Road! Inexpensive street food options abound – as the sun starts to set, carts touting satay skewers, pad thai noodles and popiah (deep-fried spring rolls) spill out onto Thanon Khao San and the surrounding streets. 

10. Unwind in Lumphini Park

Bangkok isn't known for its calm, green spaces, but Lumphini Park is a breath of fresh air. This sprawling city park is a chlorophyll-infused antidote to Bangkok's traffic fumes-filled streets and sun-blocking skyscrapers. With manicured lawns, thickets of trees, winding walkways and swan-shaped pedalos for hire on its glassy lake, this free-to-visit park is a great spot to pause and recharge. Many locals start their mornings here at first light with a little tai chi.

Planning tip: Combine a visit to Lumphini Park with a wander around nearby Benjakiti Park , once part of the monarchy-owned Tobacco Monopoly. Today, this former industrial zone has wetland boardwalks, woodland zones, and cycle paths with bikes for rent.

11. Pay respect at the King Prajadhipok Museum

This free museum assembles old photos and memorabilia to illustrate the dramatic life of Rama VII (King Prajadhipok), Thailand's last absolute monarch. It occupies a grand neocolonial-style building that was constructed on the orders of Rama V for his favorite firm of Bond Street merchants – the only foreign-owned business allowed on the royal road linking Bangkok’s two palace districts.

Prajadhipok did not expect to become king, but once on the throne, he showed considerable diplomacy in dealing with what was, in effect, a revolution fomented by a new intellectual class of Thais. The first floor deals with the life of Queen Rambhai Barni, while the upper two floors cover the king’s own life. A coup, carried out while the king and queen were playing golf, ended Thailand’s absolute monarchy in 1932.

12. Soak up the creative energy of the Creative District

The Bang Rak district has become a magnet for creative types in recent years. For a taste of the Thai art scene, check out Warehouse 30 , a collection of shops, workspaces and cafes offering regular lectures and exhibitions in a refurbished World War II-era building. After you’ve browsed the work of local designers, go and see the mural by street artist Vhils – a collection of faces and eyes carved into the concrete wall outside the Portuguese Embassy.

13. Experience some nature in Wachirabenchathat Park

For a dose of nature in Bangkok, head to Wachirabenchathat Park, which encompasses three of the city’s best parks in one. Known locally as Suan Rot Fai (Railway Park) because the State Railway of Thailand once had a golf course here, it’s now a collection of calm green spaces with neatly trimmed gardens, running tracks, lakes and plenty of trees. Come after a trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market to revive yourself after a day’s hard haggling.

14. Be fascinated by the Bangkok Doll Factory & Museum

This workshop was founded by Thai doll enthusiast Khunying Tongkorn Chandavimol in 1956 after she completed a doll-making course in Japan. Her dolls draw on Thai mythology and various historical periods, and the collection includes some 400 dolls from around the world, plus important pieces from her own workshop, where you can watch the figures being crafted by hand for free.

Planning tip: The museum is tricky to find; take a taxi from BTS Phaya Thai and get the driver to call the museum for directions.

15. Make a pilgrimage to Erawan Shrine 

The striking Erawan Shrine was built in 1956 as a last-ditch effort to end a string of unfortunate events that occurred during the construction of the since-demolished Erawan Hotel. It's consecrated to honor the Hindu god Brahma, creator of the universe, and serves a similar function to the spirit houses seen outside most Thai houses in propitiating divine presences. A bomb exploded near the shrine in August 2015, killing 20 and slightly damaging the shrine, but it was quickly repaired and reopened days later.

The story of its construction is fascinating. After incidents ranging from injuries to construction workers to the sinking of a ship carrying marble for the hotel, a Brahman priest was consulted. Since the hotel was to be named after the elephant escort of Indra in Hindu mythology, the priest determined that Erawan required a passenger and suggested it be Lord Brahma. A statue was built, and, lo and behold, the misfortunes miraculously ended. The hotel was demolished in 1987, but the shrine remains – it's free to visit and an important place of pilgrimage for Thais.

16. Try something new at Khlong Toey

Make an early morning trip to the city’s largest wet market to discover where most street vendors and restaurateurs source their richly varied ingredients. Ironically named Khlong Toey after the fragrant pandan leaf, the air here is usually thick with the smell of freshly gutted fish or the pungent odor of durian. The sights are better than the smells, so get here early and bring a camera. By 10am, most vendors have already packed up and left.

17. Get lost in Bangkok's Chinatown

Thick with the scent of traditional herbal medicines, Bangkok's Chinatown offers a sensory experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the city. The narrow market alleys off Yaowarat Road are crammed with bird's-nest soup restaurants, dangling lanterns, gaudy gold and jade shops, and flashing neon signs in Chinese characters. It is Bangkok’s most hectic neighborhood, where half the fun is in getting completely lost.

Planning tip: Come in the afternoon, and you can stay on to graze at the fantastic street food stalls on and around Thanon Yaowarat. Things get going from around 6pm, but the food markets (and many Chinatown restaurants) close on Mondays. 

18. Watch artisans at work at Ban Baat

The residents of Ban Baat inhabit the last of the villages established by Rama I (r 1782–1809) to produce bàht , the distinctive bowls used by monks to receive their morning donations of alms. To find the main alleyway that marks the center of the village, head to Thanon Bamrung Meuang, turn down Soi Ban Bat, then take the first right.

Tourists – not temples – are among the main customers these days, and a purchase is usually rewarded with a bàht -making demonstration where eight separate pieces of steel, said to represent Buddhism’s eightfold path, are hammered together to create a single bowl. Expect to pay around 300B for a small bowl – or watch artisans making bowls for others for free.

19. Discover Thailand's varied cultures at Sri Mariamman Temple

While Bangkok is primarily Buddhist, the city also has a sizeable population of Hindus, most originally from South India. With its looming, deity-covered gopuram (gateway tower), the arrestingly flamboyant Sri Mariamman temple is a wild collision of colors, shapes and religious imagery, and it’s free to visit, though leaving a donation is appropriate. Created in the 1860s by Tamil immigrants, its statues are a full-color guide to many of the most important Hindu deities.

Planning tip: While visiting the Sri Mariamman temple, it's worth pausing to enjoy some of the excellent South Indian vegetarian food in the area. The popular, canteen-style Saravana Bhavan is a great place to start.

20. Catch a puppet show at the Artist's House

Sort of a gallery , kind of a coffee shop, something of a cultural center… it's tough to categorize this old wooden house on Khlong Bang Luang in Thonburi. There's food available on weekends, as well as a free traditional Thai puppet show scheduled for 2pm, but the best reason to come is simply to soak up the old-world, canal-side vibe. It’s most easily accessible via Soi 3, Thanon Charansanitwong; cross the canal at the bridge by the 7-Eleven, turn left, and the Artist's House is about 100m down.

21. Find Bangkok's cutting edge at Gallery VER

This vast experimental art space has hosted a variety of work by both established and emerging local artists, often with a subversive leaning. In 2017, the gallery was raided by the Thai military, and five pieces deemed “threatening to the peace and security of the nation” were removed, only reinforcing the gallery's reputation as a hub for innovative art. An art-themed cafe on the premises often hosts talks and workshops.

22. Take time out at the Center Meditation Wat Mahadhat

Located inside Wat Mahathat, near the Chao Phraya River on Ko Ratanakosin, this small meditation center  offers free daily meditation classes. Taught by English-speaking teachers, classes last between two and three hours. Longer periods of study, which include accommodation and food, can be arranged, but students are expected to follow a strict regimen of conduct. 

23. Entertain the kids at the Children's Discovery Museum

Learning is disguised as fun at this free museum where interactive exhibits cover everything from construction to culture. Most children are drawn to the Dino Detective Zone, where kids can dig in the sand to find and reassemble dinosaur bones. It's a fun, free detour in a city that isn't always well set up for families.

Planning tip: Bring sunscreen, a towel, and a swimming costume for the kids; the museum has an outdoor play area and water park where you can cool off after the trip across town.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated December 2023

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

To compare ticket prices, you may search Skyscanner!

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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Visiting Bangkok: My Suggested 3-5 Day Itinerary

When people tell me they hate Bangkok and don’t find a lot of things to do there, I totally understand. It’s a love/hate city that most people aren’t a fan of on arrival.

In fact, when I first visited Bangkok in 2006, I despised the city and couldn’t wait to leave.

It wasn’t until I lived in Bangkok that I really fell in love with it .

A decade and a half later, Bangkok is still one of my favorite cities in the world.

It just takes a little time to get to know and love.

Bangkok is not a city that opens itself up easily, and most people spend just a day or two here before leaving to go to the islands or the jungle .

While the city may not have a lot of “tourist attractions” like Paris or London , that’s because Bangkok is a place to wander, eat, and imbibe. It is a city that reveals itself to people who get away from the temples, touts, and tourists and get into the local way of life. That’s where you find the beauty Bangkok has to offer.

That said, there are a lot of things to do and see in Bangkok . Cheap things, expensive things, unique things, and outdoor things. Bangkok has a bit of everything.

To help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit, below is my suggested itinerary for Bangkok. It will help you tackle this sprawling, hectic city in a way that gets you on and off the beaten track so you can peel back the onion that is Bangkok and discover why I love it so much.

Bangkok Itinerary

Day 1 : Grand Palace, Khao San Road, & more!

Day 2 : Floating Market, Muay Thai Fight, & more!

Day 3 : Chatuchak Weekend Market, Lumpini Park, & more!

Day 4 : Bangkok Art and Culture Center, National Museum, & more!

Other Things to See and Do : Museum of Siam, Lake Taco, & more!

Bangkok Itinerary: Day One

Afterward, wander down the street to Wat Pho and the famous reclining Buddha (as well as the famous Golden Buddha). It’s the largest reclining Buddha statue in the country at 46 meters (150 feet) long. The Wat Pho complex fills a city block so while seeing the statues doesn’t take long, you could spend a solid hour wandering the maze-like temple grounds.

Next, head across the river to Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn). This is a gorgeous Buddhist temple on the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace. It has one main spire and four small ones and is so iconic that it’s on Thai money. From the top of the main spire, you get to see sweeping views of the city. It’s my favorite temple in Bangkok.

If you want a deep-dive into the temple and palace, take a guided tour with Get Your Guide . You’ll learn about the history of each temple and the palace from an expert local guide who can answer all your questions and provide a much more nuanced experience.

Note: When visiting these places, be sure to wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders; it’s considered disrespectful to wear revealing clothes. That means no short skirts, no tank tops, nothing that shows your stomach, and no ripped pants.

The Grand Palace is located on Na Phra Lan Road; royalgrandpalace.th/en/home. Open daily from 8:30am-3:30pm. Admission is 500 THB.

Wat Pho is located on 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, +66 083-057-7100, watpho.com/en. Open daily from 8am–6:30pm. Admission is 200 THB.

Wat Arun is across the river at 158 Wang Doem Road, +66 2 891 2185. Open daily from 8am–6pm. Admission is 100 THB.

Wat Saket – The Golden Mount has an enormous, 100-meter-high, 500-meter wide chedi (mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics). This is one of my favorite temples in the city because of its beautiful golden temple and wonderful views of the city from its top. At the base of the mountain is an overgrown cemetery for 18th-century plague victims. Open daily from 9am-7pm. Admission to the temple is free while the chedi costs 50 THB.

Wat Benchamabophit – This temple is pictured on the back of the 5-baht coin. The white marble used to contrast the building was imported directly from Italy, and there is a unique blend of both Thai and European architecture and design. In the courtyard, there are 53 Buddha images representing every mudra (gesture) and style from Thai history. This makes it a good place to visually see how Buddha has been represented in Thailand over time. Open daily from 8:30am-5:30pm. Admission is 50 THB.

Just make sure your tuk-tuk driver doesn’t take you shopping along the way — drivers get kickbacks if they bring customers into certain shops. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for a reputable driver; they will likely know someone.

Bangkok Itinerary: Day Two

I love the chaos, the smells, and the little ladies cooking and selling you various treats as they paddle by you. (You never leave hungry.)

Here’s a list of the best malls in the city:

• Terminal 21 (88 Sukhumvit Road 19, +66 2 108 0888, terminal21.co.th)
• MBK Center (444 Phayathai Road, mbk-center.co.th)
• Siam Paragon (991/1 Rama I Road, siamparagon.co.th)
• Emporium (622 Sukhumvit Road, emporium.co.th)
• CentralWorld (999/9 Rama I Road, centralworld.co.th)

You can also catch fights at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, which seats up to 5,000 people, on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Between the two stadiums, there are fights going on every night of the week.

1 Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd, +66 2 281 4205, rajadamnern-boxing-stadium.business.site. Tickets start at 1,500 THB.  

Bangkok Itinerary: Day Three

Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, +66 2 272 4813, chatuchakmarket.org. Open Saturday and Sunday, 9am-6pm.

When he returned to private industry after the war, he almost single-handedly revitalized Thailand’s sinking silk industry. He made his home in the traditional Thai style, decorating it with beautiful teak wood and a surrounding garden. The tours feature a lot of history about Jim, the silk industry, and how and why Thais design their homes the way they do.

1 Khwaeng Wang Mai, +66 2 216 7368, jimthompsonhouse.com. Open daily from 10am-6pm. Admission is 200 THB.

192 Wireless Rd, +66 2 252 7006. Open daily from 4:30am-10pm.

Hang with the Hipsters on Soi Nana There are two areas in Bangkok called Soi Nana (one is a sex tourism hub), but the Soi Nana I’m referring to is a hip area for nightlife near the train station in Chinatown. This street is filled with tiny bars, cocktail lounges, and art exhibits in old-style Chinese homes left in their original style.

Some of the best bars are Pijiu (Chinese beer bar), Teens of Thailand (first gin bar in Thailand), Ba Hao (four-floor Chinese-inspired bar), El Chiringuito (Spanish tapas), and 23 Bar & gallery (bar in an art space). It’s incredibly popular with young Thais and one of the coolest new areas of Bangkok. Don’t miss it.  

Bangkok Itinerary: Day Four

Na Phra That Alley, +66 2 224 1333, virtualmuseum.finearts.go.th/bangkoknationalmuseums/index.php/th. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 9am-4pm. Admission is 200 THB.

And for cooking classes, a half-day cooking class (including a market visit) costs around 1,300 THB.

Enjoy an event at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center This contemporary arts center highlights and hosts art, music, theater, film, design, and cultural events in its exhibition and performance spaces. Opened in 2007, the BACC hosts cultural events in its exhibition and performance spaces. There is also an art library, cafe, gallery, craft shop, and book store here too. In a city that lacks a real art scene, this is an enriching place to see some local art. Check the website to see what’s going on during your visit.

939 Rama I Road, +66 2 214 6630-8, en.bacc.or.th. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-9pm. Admission is free though events cost money. See the website for pricing and tickets.  

Other Things to See and Do in Bangkok

Museum of Siam This museum uses a variety of media to explore the origins of the Thais and their culture. Opened in 2007, there are displays, movies, and multimedia that cover culture, history, Buddhism, war, and the making of modern Thailand. It’s an interactive and educational little museum housed in an old 19th-century European-style building that not a lot of tourists visit.

4 Maha Rat Rd, +66 2 225 2777. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-6pm. Admission is 300 THB.

Wakeboard at Lake Taco If you want to get out of the city and have some adventure, head to the outskirts of Bangkok for some wakeboarding (riding on a short board while being pulled by a motorboat). This is a popular thing to do with expats and though I never did it, my friends always said it was a fun time. The lake is just 40 minutes away so it’s an easy activity to do whenever you need a break from the city.

thaiwakepark.com. A two-hour ticket starts at 850 THB.

Calypso Ladyboy Show This ladyboy show is actually a good cabaret show that attracts a variety of visitors. It’s Bangkok’s version of Moulin Rouge. There’s glitz, glamour, and spectacle — everything you’d expect from a cabaret show in Bangkok. Calypso Cabaret, founded in 1988, is the best place to see a show in the city. Playhouse Cabaret and Golden Dome Cabaret are two other reputable venues that host fun performances as well.

2194 Charoenkrung 72-76 Road, Warehouse #3, +66 2 688 1415-7, calypsocabaret.com. Performances are at 7:30pm and 9:15pm and tickets start at 900 THB.

Day Trip to Ayutthaya Ayutthaya (pronounced ah-you-tah-ya) was founded around 1350 and was the second capital of Thailand (it was the capital before it relocated to Bangkok). Unfortunately, the city was destroyed in 1767 by a Burmese attack and there are only ruins and a few temples and palaces still left standing.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to the summer palace and tons of breathtaking and unique temples. Since it’s so close to Bangkok, it’s a very popular day-trip destination for tours.

While lots of companies offer trips, it’s so easy to get to that I would simply go on your own by train. Train tickets cost 90-130 THB round-trip, with the journey taking 1.5 hours each way.

If you prefer a guided tour, Get Your Guide runs tours for just 1,300 THB.

Contrary to popular belief, there’s more to see and do in Bangkok than just temples, shopping, and traffic. It’s a city whose charm emerges slowly once you get off the beaten path.

While you can see the highlights in a couple of days, with four or five days you can start to peel back the layers of this chaotic city and start to see why Bangkok really is one of the best destinations in the world.

But don’t just take my word for it. Use this post as a guide and learn to love the city the way I did. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Bangkok: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• @Hua Lamphong Hostel
• Lub d Bangkok Siam

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here are my favorite hostels in Bangkok .

Or, if you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood breakdown of Bangkok .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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2023 Bangkok Travel Guide (Budget + Itinerary)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Sep 12, 2023 | Featured , Itinerary , Thailand , Tourist Spots , Travel Guide | 44 comments

Bangkok is special to me, because this is where I first backpacked solo abroad. I remember booking a cheap airfare months before my trip. I booked a tour and a hotel from a travel agency but after paying it, they called me and said I had to pay for two because the hotel room is good for two. So I asked for a refund. And that’s how I started researching about DIY trips to Bangkok, Thailand that eventually led me to setting up this blog. I read a Bangkok Travel Guide that introduced the concept of backpacking and DIY travels to me.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE

Bangkok is a good introduction to Southeast Asia backpacking because everything here is cheap (hotels, food, tours, shopping, transportation, etc.), it is easy to explore, it is rich in culture, it has arguably the best food in Southeast Asia, it is tourist-friendly (save for a few pushy touts), it is generally safe (except for tuktuk scams) and it is easy to cross the border (from Thailand) to neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. I’ll blog about border-crossing from Thailand in the future, but for the meantime, here’s my Bangkok Travel Guide with budget and itinerary to help you plan your next trip. .

WHEN TO VISIT BANGKOK  : Bangkok is situated in Southeast Asia, near the equator, dear readers. So expect it to be hot and humid during summer and prepare for torrential downpour during the rainy season.

November to February is the best season to visit Bangkok since it is cool and dry. I have traveled to Bangkok a few times during this season. However if you want to avoid the crowd, take note that December to January is the peak season.

March to June is pretty hot, I traveled a few times to Bangkok during this season and I could not stand staying in a fan room. I recommend booking an air-conditioned room if you plan to travel around the aforementioned months. If you want to get a tan, this is a good season for Thailand beaches. And if you are in Bangkok around second week of April, don’t miss the popular Songkran Festival.

July to October is the wet season, expect drizzles to heavy downpour that might ruin your travel plans. However, there is a good side to the low season, hotels and airfares can go as low as 50% off, so it can be pretty tempting to travel.

BANGKOK CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE: Bangkok uses Thai Bhat (THB or ฿) as currency. But I suggest you bring US dollars to get a better rate. I had a hard time finding a money changer in Bangkok that accepts Philippine peso the last time I was there. Money exchange shops are widespread in Bangkok, but bank rates are usually better, so, I prefer withdrawing cash from ATM.  Take note that there is a ฿200 (₱315 – $6) fee when you withdraw using foreign accounts.  Some banks like Aeon Bank charge less, about  ฿150 (₱236 – $5)  per withdrawal. So if you plan to withdraw from an ATM, make it one time big time since the fee per transaction is quite hefty.

BANGKOK WI-FI: While most accommodations in Bangkok have free Wi-Fi, it’s important to stay connected online while you are outside and touring around. You can use your data or rent a pocket Wi-Fi.

• Thailand Pocket Wi-Fi: RENT HERE
• Thailand Simcard: BUY HERE

BANGKOK ELECTRICITY : Bangkok and the rest of Thailand uses 220 V. Power outlets commonly have two-prong round or flat sockets. Bring universal adapter plug. You can also buy at convenience stores in Bangkok like 7Eleven.

BANGKOK TIME : Take note that the Philippines is 1 hour ahead of Bangkok, Thailand. Adjust your watch while in Bangkok so you won’t miss your tour or flight.

THAILAND VISA : Philippine Passport holders are entitled to a 30 day visa-free entry (by air) to Thailand. If arriving by land like crossing borders from Cambodia, Laos or Malaysia, you will only get a 15 day visa-free stay.

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK FROM MANILA

Several airlines fly to Bangkok from Manila like Cebu Pacific, Thai Airways and Philippine Airlines.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO BANGKOK CITY CENTER

• AIRPORT TRANSFER

If you want an easy and efficient transfer in a modern air conditioned vehicle from Suvarnabhumi airport to your hotel, you can book an airport transfer.

Bangkok Airport Transfer: RESERVE HERE

• AIRPORT TAXI

The Bangkok Airport taxis are located outside the First floor (Ground Floor), near entrances 3,4,7, and 8. Taxis have different colors depending on the taxi company.

There are 2 kinds of  Bangkok Airport taxis:

• Ordinary taxi: good for 2-3 passengers with small luggage
• Maxi taxis: good for 3-4 passengers with large baggages

Taxi fare is charge by the meter, plus additional  THB 50 (₱78 -$1.50) airport surcharge and Express Way fees.

To get an airport taxi, after collecting your baggage, proceed to the kiosk with “Taxi Meter Only” sign. You need to tell the staff where you need to go and you’ll be given a paper printed with your destination. You will be pointed to where you need to go for the taxi pick up.

If you will be taking Grab  from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi) to Bangkok City, expect to pay around  ฿375 (₱590 /$11) to ฿1,000 (₱1,571 /$30)  depending on your destination.  Travel time from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi) to Bangkok City is roughly 30-45 minutes.  Remember that many drivers in Bangkok aren’t fluent in English, so you might have a hard time communicating.

•   BY AIRPORT RAIL LINK

This is the fastest way to get to Bangkok City from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi Airport) if you want to avoid the infamous Bangkok traffic. However, it won’t bring you directly to your hotel, unless your hotel is near one of the BTS or MRT stations.

The Airport Rail Link is located at the Basement Level and is open from 5:30 AM to 12:00 midnight only.  Fare is roughly THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35) from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City and vice versa.

The line starts at Phyathai Station to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Airport line stops at 7 stations along the way.

• (A1) Suvarnabhumi Airport
• (A2) Lad Krabang Station
• (A3) Ban Thap Chang
• (A4) Hua Mak
• (A5) Ramkhamhaeng
• (A6) Makkasan (City Air Terminal, interchange with MRT Blue Line (Petchaburi)
• (A7) Ratchaprarop
• (A8) Phayatai Station (interchange with BTS Sukhumvit Line).

If you’re heading to Bangkok City, you can connect to BTS Skytrain or MRT Metro Trains at (A6) Makkasan Station for THB 35 (₱55 -$1) or at (A8) Phayatai Station for THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35). Fare for the city line is THB 15 (₱24 -$0.45) to THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35) depending on the distance.

Just to give you a brief explanation, the Airport Line is the line that connects to the airport from both the BTS and MRT Line (pretty much like Manila’s LRT and MRT). BTS is a skytrain that runs across Bangkok from North to South East are. Meanwhile, the MRT is a subway that runs along the main road in Bangkok.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SUKHUMVIT BY AIRPORT LINE + MRT/BTS SKYTRAIN

Here’s how to get from Bangkok Airport to Bangkok City via the Bangkok BTS and MRT Line:

1.At Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport), make your way to the Basement Level. 2. Buy tokens or pass for the Bangkok Airport Train.

3.Ride the Bangkok Airport Train.

4.Alight at (A6) Makkasan Station. Fare is THB 35 (₱55 -$1).

5.If your hotel is located in Silom and Chinatown. Walk to the (BL21) Phetchaburi Station (MRT Blue Line).

6.Ride the blue line at (BL21) Phetchaburi Station to (BL22) Sukhumvit Station. Fare is THB 17 (₱27 -$0.51).

7. Alight at (BL22) Sukhumvit Station. Take Exit No.3 – Sukhumvit Road. From there you can get to Asoke intersection on Sukhumvit Road, to Silom and Chinatown.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SUKHUMVIT BY UBER/GRAB/TAXI

Coming from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) Airport Sukhumvit, Uber/Grabe/Taxi will cost you around TBH 325/PHP 496 (USD 10/EURO 8/ SGD 13/MYR 41).

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO KHAO SAN ROAD: BY UBER/Grab/Taxi

If you decide to take UBER/Grab/taxi to Khao San Road, prepare to pay around TBH 375/PHP 573 (USD 11/EURO 10/SGD 375/MYR 48).

BY AIRPORT LINE + BTS Skytrain

From Bangkok Airport to get to your hotel in Khao San Road, you can take the Airport Line + BTS Skytrain. The closest BTS Skytrain stations are National Stadium Station (closest station but needs 2 transfers), Ratchatewi Station (1 transfer) and Siam Station (1 transfer) but it is still quite far, about 5 KM. So from any of these stations, you can take Uber/Grab or taxi to Khao San Road.

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line to Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2: Transfer to dark green line and alight at Ratchatewi Station or Siam Station. Take a cab/Uber/Grab to Khao San Road. Fare is around TBH 107/PHP 163 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4.36/MYR 14).

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line to Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2 : Transfer to dark green line and alight at Siam Station. STEP 3: From Siam Station, transfer to light green line to National Stadium. STEP 4: Take UBER/Grab/taxi to Khao San Road. Fare is about TBH 95/PHP 145 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 12). IMPORTANT: Good news is, the MRT Extension has been approved, so once that line opens, you can just get off at Democracy Monument Station (OR 5) and walk to Khao San Road.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SILOM

BY UBER/GRAB/TAXI

Uber/Grab/Taxi to Silom from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabumi) will cost roughly TBH 375/PHP 573 (USD 11/EURO 10/SGD 375/MYR 48).

BY AIRPORT LINE + MRT/BTS SKYTRAIN OPTION 1

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line and alight at Makkasan Station. STEP 2: Transfer to MRT Blue Line en route to Hua Lamphong. Get off at Silom (Si Lom) Station.

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line and get off at Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2: Transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line en route to Bearing and alight at Siam Station. STEP 3 : Transfer to BTS Silom Line en route to Bang Wa) and get off at Saladaeng Station.

BORDER-CROSSING IN THAILAND

Poipet (Thailand) – Aranyaprathet (Cambodia)

ALSO READ: 

BANGKOK – CAMBODIA BORDER CROSSING

Huay Xai (Thailand)/ Chiang Khong (Laos) Koh Lipe (Thailand)/ Langkawi (Malaysia)

ALSO READ: BANGKOK TO CAMBODIA BORDER CROSSING

GETTING AROUND BANGKOK

Getting around Bangkok can be confusing at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to explore the city. There are 6 modes of transportation that you can use:

TRAIN (BTS Skytrain/MRT)

A cheap way to get around Bangkok is via the train (BTS Skytrain/MRT). You can use single-trip tokens or pre-paid Smart Passes. Single Journey tokens will cost you THB 15/PHP 23 (USD 0.45/EURO 4/SGD 0.61/MYR 2) – THB 52/PHP 80 (USD 2/EURO 4/SGD 2/MYR 7) depending on the number of zones you crossed, while the day pass is THB 130/PHP 199 (USD 4/EURO 4/SGD 5/MYR 16). You can purchase tickets from the ticket booth or ticket machines in every station. Always print the receipt or ask for one, you might need it later.

BY CAR RENTAL

• Enjoy a comfortable private charter from Bangkok in a modern air conditioned car (up to 3 people) or a van (up to 10 people)
• Choose between full or half day packages to suit the requirements of your trip
• Plan your own itinerary and let your driver find the shortest route to get there
• Feel safe in the hands of your experienced driver and guide on request (full day charter only)

Thankfully, Uber and Grab are now available in Bangkok that will make commuting hassle-free!

I’ve used taxi in Bangkok a few times, I just hail one and they automatically turn on the meter. If they don’t, insist on using it or get out and hail another cab. Do not approach the ones parked near Khao San Road, they don’t use the meter! Flag down is THB 35/PHP 53 (USD 1/EURO 0.89/SGD 1.43/MYR 35), and usually cost me around THB 70/PHP 107 (USD 2/EURO 2/SGD 3/MYR 9) to THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (FLAT FARE TAXI): When you ride a taxi and the driver refuses to turn on the meter saying it’s a flat fare taxi. The driver will most likely charge you about 3 times the usual meter rate. Get off and hail another cab.

The Chao Phraya express boat is usually a cheap way to get to the Grand Palace complex and Wat Pho, not to mention you will avoid traffic. Meanwhile, the Saen Saep express boat is popular among locals for daily commute.

IMPORTANT: If you are a female, do not sit next to a monk on a boat (or any public transportation) or stand in the same area of the boat. Do not touch them or their things. It is frowned upon.

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (TBH 10 or TBH 20 Tuktuk Ride): Don’t believe when a local approaches you and tells you that ferry is not frequent and will leave at certain times of the day only. He will then hail a tuktuk to take you around for about TBH 20/PHP 30 (USD 0.90/EURO 0.76/ SGD 1.22/MYR 4) but instead of taking you directly to your destination, the driver will take you to different travel agencies and shops. TBH 30 is a small amount but if you are pressed for time, this can ruin your itinerary.

You can charter a long-tail boat to explore Khlong Bangkok Noi and other canals in Thonburi. Negotiate the price first before leaving.

I’ve used the bus a few times before, it can be confusing. It’s a cheap way to get around Bangkok, however I won’t really recommend this because you might get lost if you don’t know where to get off.

There are motorbikes that can take you to your destination (short-distances). I’ve used this a few times to get to my hotel and evade traffic. They are mostly wearing helmet and uniforms and parked at the BTS/MRT Stations or bus stop. The fares are clearly posted, so make sure you read them or ask the driver before hopping on the motorbike. Helmet is provided.

Honestly, I’ve never used a tuktuk before for my Bangkok tour because of the gem scam issue. But a good friend advised me, it is not as bad as he thought. The drivers will add the gem market to the destination (it’s like when you take the tours in Vietnam or Indonesia and they take you to souvenir shops where the driver and the tourist guide get commissions). So it’s still up to you if you will purchase from those gem stores. If you do, they will get a commission. But if you are really hesitant since this will waste your time and ruin your itinerary but you want to experience riding in a tuktuk, you can use it for short distance ride but be wary of another scam the TBH 10 or 20 tuktuk ride. See details below this post (list of Bangkok Scams).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (CLOSED FOR TODAY): Don’t believe when a friendly local approaches you and introduces himself as a teacher and then will tell you that the Grand Palace or a certain temple or a certain attraction is closed for a Buddhist holiday or cleaning. He will then hail an accomplice tuktuk to tour you or take you to another temple or attraction. The driver will drive you around to gem stores or shops and get a commission for taking you there. I was told they usually get gas coupons.

BANGKOK TOP ATTRACTIONS

Ko rattanakosin area.

This is where Bangkok’s most important temples are concentrated, including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Dubbed as the historic center of Bangkok, Rattanakosin established sometime in 1782 when the capital of Thai Kingdom was moved here – Rattanakosin Kingdom, which was the 4th Kingdom of Thailand.

THE GRAND PALACE and WAT PHRA KAEW

When in Bangkok, don’t miss the Grand Palace the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since 1782. This sprawling complex is sprinkled with jaw-dropping buildings, gardens and pavilions.

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Thailand Open Hours: 08:30 AM– 03:30 PM Entrance Fee: THB 500/PHP 764 (USD 15/EURO 13/SGD 20/MYR 63), ticket includes a visit to Wat Phraew and Dusit Palace (you can use within 7 days).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT: If a local approaches you and tells you the Grand Palace is close for the day and offers to take you to other temples instead. Do not believe him/her. It’s a scam. Go directly to the main entrance.

DRESS CODE: Do not wear shorts or tank tops, it is considered disrespectful. Make sure your legs and shoulders are covered. You can rent sarong near the palace gate in case you failed to comply like me.

HOW TO GET TO THE GRAND PALACE:

STEP 1: Take the Silom Line (BTS Skytrain) and alight at (S6) Saphan Taksin Station.

STEP 2: Hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Ta Chang Pier (No.9). From here, the Grand Palace is about a 5-10 minute walk.

If coming from Khao San Road, the Grand Palace is about 20-30 minute walk. Consult Google Maps for directions. Or just take a taxi or UBER/Grab for about THB 47/PHP 72 (USD 1.42/EURO 1.19/SGD 2/MYR 6).

I’ve tried this route twice but I usually visit other temples along the way. Will write a more detailed Bangkok Walking Tour blog soon.

If coming from the National Stadium, Silom or Lumphini BTS/MRT Station, you can take Bus #47. Fare is about THB 7/PHP 11 (USD 0.21/EURO 0.18/SGD 0.29/MYR 0.89) on weekdays and FREE during weekends.

From Phaya Thai, Hua Lamphong BTS/MRT Station or National Stadium, you may take a cab or UBER/GRAB for about THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13).

Bangkok Grand Palace and River Cruise Sightseeing Half Day Tour

• See the best of Bangkok on an immersive tour of the city with a professional guide
• Take a relaxing cruise down Chao Phraya River and view iconic Bangkok landmarks
• Have lunch at Wang Lang Market, a truly local place and a street food haven
• Transportation between sights and English speaking guide services are included

Inclusive Of:

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free WiFi on board Professional licensed English/Chinese/Japanese/Korean speaking guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program (THB500) Boat ride at the floating market Insurance provided by the operator

Nearby the Grand Palace is another famous temple – Wat Pho, known for its gigantic reclining Buddha. But more than that, Wat Pho is actually the earliest public education center in Thailand. Interestingly, the Epigraphic Archives of Wat Pho (Temple of the Bodhi Tree) in Bangkok has been recognised by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme.

Address : 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Sub district, Pranakorn District, Bangkok Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13)

HOW TO GET TO WAT PHO:

See directions above for getting to The Grand Palace. Wat Pho is near Tha Tien Pier adjacent to the Grand Palace but it is located on the other side of the entrance gate.

WAT ARUN Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 8:00 AM -6:30 PM Entrance Fee: THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13)

HOW TO GET TO WAT ARUN:

See directions above to get to the Grand Place. Then ride the boat to Wat Arun at Than Tien Pier near the Grand Palace. Fare is THB 4/PHP 6 (USD 0.12/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.16/MYR 0.51). Boat leaves every 10-15 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

CHAO PHRAYA PRINCESS CRUISE

• View historic Bangkok landmarks, such as the Emerald Buddha Temple and Grand Palace, by night on a grand cruise ride
• Hark back to the 80s and 90s with a live band, performing hits by ABBA, Donna Dummer and the Supremes
• Enjoy the Bangkok nightscape and take in the cool breeze from the perch of the boat deck, overlooking the famous Chao Phraya River
• Indulge in a gourmet buffet of Thai delicacies as well as international favorites

Dusit is the the administrative center of Thailand, this is where the royal palace is located, as well as the magnificent Dusit Palace, Vimanmek Teakwood Mansion and Marble Palace.

DUSIT PALACE (Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall)

Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is my favorite building in Bangkok because of the intricate paintings on its ceiling and the surreal Arts of the Kingdom exhibit.

Address: U-Thong Nai Road, Bangkok, Thailand

• As of October 1, 2017, the Dusit Palace is  indefinitely closed and the Arts of the Kingdom exhibit will be moved to Ayutthaya.

Entrance Fee: THB 150/PHP 229 (USD 5/EURO 4/SGD 6/MYR 19). But if you have the Grand Palace Ticket, it is included in the ticket so long as you pay a visit within 7 days.

DRESS CODE: Do not wear shorts or tank tops and make sure your legs and shoulders are covered. You can rent sarong near the palace gate in case you failed to comply like me.

IMPORTANT: Photography is not allowed inside, you need to deposit your bags including your camera and phone.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Vinmamek Mansion, Marble Temple

HOW TO GET TO DUSIT PALACE

The most convenient is to get there by Uber/Grab or Taxi. If coming from the Grand Palace to Dusit Palace (type Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Uber) fare is around TBH 145/PHP 221 (USD 4.35/EURO 3.68/SGD 6/MYR 18).. If coming from Khao San Road to Dusit Palace (type Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Uber), fare is about TBH 112/PHP 171 (USD 3.36/EURO 3/SGD 5/MYR 14).

But if you want to save a few bucks, you can ride the BTS Skytrain to Victory Moment Station and ride air-conditioned bus 12 or 515 to Dusit Palace at Ratchawithi Road. Alternatively, you can take the BTS Skytrain to Rajchathevi Station and ride bus 16.

If you are coming the Old City, take air-conditioned bus 70 to the Dusit Palace. You can hail bus 70 at Sanam Luang near the Grand Palace. If you are at Khao San Road area, you can hail bus 70 at Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. Then, alight outside the Royal Elephant National Museum at Uthong Nai Road. To be sure, ask the locals where to get off.

You can also take bus #3/9/32/43/64/65/524 and alight at Thewet Market or The National Library. Then, you can reach Dusit Palace on foot.

VINMAMEK TEAK MANSION (Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall)

What makes Vimanmek Mansion special, which is a former royal villa in Bangkok, is entire museum was built out of golden teak. Today, the mansion has been turned into a museum that is open to the public.

Address: 16 Rajvithi Rd, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon

Update: Building is closed for renovation.

MARBLE TEMPLE

Address: 69 Nakornpathom Rd Dusit, Bangkok Open Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

KHAO SAN ROAD AREA

Khao san road.

WAT SAKET (GOLDEN MOUNT TEMPLE)

Open Hours: 8:00 AM -5:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

HOW TO GET TO THE GOLDEN MOUNT (WAT SAKET)

This is near The Grand Palace and Khao San Road. STEP 1: Ride the BTS Sky Train to Ratchathewi Station (N1) (Sukhumvit Line). Take Exit 1 and upon exiting turn around and walk straight ahead to Khlong Saen Seab. STEP 2: Ride the long tail boat from the pier to Phan Fha Pier at Wat Saket.

WAT SUTHAT AND THE GIANT SWING

Open Hours: 9:00 AM -4:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

OTHER BANGKOK ATTRACTIONS

ASIATIQUE SKY FERRIS WHEEL

• Marvel at the spectacular bird’s eye views of Bangkok city from clean and comfy, air-conditioned cabins
• Enjoy 3 full rotations on the Ferris Wheel
• Located at Asiatique the Riverfront, an open air mall with a range of entertainment, shopping and dining options

How to get to Asiatique:

Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin [S6]. From Saphan Taksin Station, take exit 2 to the pier, about 80 steps. Take the ferry to Aisiatique. Ferry runs from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The free ferry runs until 8:00 PM only, so from 8:01 PM to 11:00 PM, you need to pay for the ferry.

MUAY THAI LIVE

• Witness fight scenes straight out of the big screen – in this live show on stage!
• See jaw-dropping martial arts moves in this tale about Thai boxing
• Experience the action up close with a Premium ticket
• Enjoy refreshments outside the venue before the show begins

BANGKOK DAY TOURS AND SIDE TRIPS

Damnoen saduak floating market.

• Discover Thailand’s most popular floating market without any forced shopping stops along the way
• Steer your boat down the narrow winding canals and explore one of Thailand’s oldest traditions
• Get a few souvenirs for friends back home and take beautiful pictures of the bustling floating market
• Learn all about the floating market’s long history from your professional guide

Join in tour Air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi on board Professional licensed guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program Boat ride in floating market Insurance provided by operator

• Visit the neighboring seaside city of Pattaya and explore its scenic beaches on a day trip from Bangkok!
• Take a boat trip to Coral Island and explore its sparkling white beaches and crystal clear waters
• Enjoy fun-filled water activities such as jet ski, parasailing, sea walking, snorkeling and more!
• Experience Pattaya’s vibrant and bustling night life as you stroll along Pattaya Beach Road
• An English, Chinese, Japanese, or Korean speaking guide is available to guide you!
• Learn about the rich, enchanting history of Buddhism with visits to three of the most important temples in Ayutthaya – Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Lokayasutharam
• Discover the former glory and grandeur of Ayutthaya with a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
• Take a ride around the mystical city of Ayutthaya on a motor boat and marvel at the ancient ruins and structures
• Savor a delicious local lunch at Ayutthaya Floating Market while watching a Thai cultural show

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free WiFi onboard Professional English/Chinese/Korean/Japanese-speaking guide All admission fees Boat ride Insurance provided by the operator

THINGS TO DO IN HUA HIN

• Visit Thailand’s famous markets on an immersive day trip from Bangkok
• Watch a train pass through the middle of a bustling market – Maeklong Railway Market
• Relax at the authentic weekend market of Amphawa, frequented by the locals
• See the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the most popular market in Thailand (Three Markets Tour only)
• Learn about the history and culture of these iconic markets from your informative guide

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi on board Professional licensed English/Chinese/Korean/Japanese speaking guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program Boat ride at the floating market Insurance provided by operator

KANCHANABURI

Kanchanaburi Custom Tour from Bangkok

• Hike in one of Thailand’s best nature preserves and jump into the emerald pools of the 7 tier Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park
• Cross the Bridge over River Kwai, setting for the namesake World War 2 movie
• Visit WW2 memorials of Kanchanaburi, where the infamous Burma Death Railway was built with POW labor
• Hike through Hellfire Pass and walk in the footsteps of the thousands of Aussie POWs who cut through the mountain rock by hand
• Choose from a 1-2 day customizable trip in Kanchanaburi to see everything the province has to offer or just your favorites

Private customizable tour 12 hour charter service (per day) Experienced driver Air conditioned vehicle Fuel costs Toll charges Car seat available upon request Guide (optional) Insurance provided by operator

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

SIEM REAP TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary) 2019

Where to shop in bangkok.

This famed 8 storied mall is packed with over 2,000 shops selling clothes, bags, accessories, electronic gadgets, mobile phones and cameras. Prices are negotiable here.

Address: Phayathai Rd, Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00PM

HOW TO GET TO MBK MALL:

Ride the BTS Skytrain and get off at National Stadium Station. MBK can be reached on foot from there.

CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

If you like bargain hunting then Chatuchak Market is for you. You can find almost everything you need here at bargain prices. You can even purchase in wholesale price.

Address: 587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Mo Chit station. Take Exit 1 and follow the crowd until you see stalls selling apparels. Turn right and continue to follow the crowd. You should see a small entrance to the Chatuchak Mark.

TERMINAL 21

Terminal 21 houses over 600 shops in its 9 floors selling everything you can possibly need. What’s unique about this mall is each floor features different cities like Tokyo, London, Paris, Hollywood, Caribbean, Istanbul and San Francisco.

Address: 88 Soi Sukhumvit 19, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO TERMINAL 21: Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Asok.

PLATINUM FASHION MALL

If you’re in Bangkok on weekdays but you missed the Chatuchak Market, you can find dirt cheap clothes and other apparels at Platinum Fashion Mall instead.

Address: 10400, 644/3 Phetchaburi Rd, Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO PLATINUM MALL:

Take the BTS skytrain and alight at Chidlom Station. Take exit 9 and walk through Ratchaprasong Skywalk. Turn right to enter Gaysorn Plaza Building.

PANTIP PLAZA

Pantip Plaza is the place to be if you like to shop for mobile phones, cameras, software, computer accessories, software and hardware and other electronic gadgets that won’t empty your wallet.

Address: New Phetchaburi Road in Ratchathewi district, Bangkok Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM HOW TO GET TO PANTIP PLAZA:

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at BTS Chidlom Station. Hire a tuk-tuk or cab/ UBER/Grab to take you to Pantip Plaza. Alternatively, you may also walk 10 minutes down Ratchadamri Road past Central World on your left, over the Saen Saeb canal and then turn left on Phetburi Road. Walk for about two blocks to Pantip Plaza, which you should see on your left. Use Google Maps.

CENTRAL WORLD

Central World is the largest shopping mall in Thailand, and one of the largest in the world. You can find almost everything you need here. The mall has easy access to Erawan Shrine and Trimurti Shrine.

Address: 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4 Ratchadamri Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO CENTRAL WORLD Take the BTS SkyTrain and get off at E1 Chit Lom Station (Sukhumvit Line). Take Exit 9 for Skybridge to Gaysorn Plaza and cross road to Central World via flyover.

SIAM PARAGON, SIAM DISCOVERY AND SIAM CENTRE Address: 991 1 Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

This is the first mall I visited in Bangkok since it’s pretty accessible, just in front of Siam BTS Skytrain. Siam Paragon has over 250 shops that caters to high-end shoppers. Madame Tussauds is located on the 6th Floor of Siam Paragon.

MADAME TUSSAUDS BANGKOK (WAX MUSEUM)

HOW TO GET TO SIAM PARAGON:

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Siam BTS Skytrain station. You won’t miss the mall because it is just in front of the station.

BUDGET HOTELS IN BANGKOK

Silom is the financial district of Bangkok. It is also a good base due to the wealth of budget hotels here plus access to MRT link to Hualamphong Station. Also check out the old backpacker neighborhood near Lumphini Park packed with affordable rooms.

Lub d Bangkok Silom Hostel

4 Decho Road Suriyawong Bangrak, Silom, Bangkok, Thailand

HQ Hostel Silom

5/3-4, Silom Soi 3, Silom Road, Bangrak, Silom, Bangkok

Hostel Na Nara

72,74 Narathiwasratchanakarin Road, Silom, Silom, Bangkok, Thailand

(KHAO SAN ROAD AREA)

Khao San Road is Bangkok’s backpacker’s mecca. It is dappled with hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels Everything you could possibly need is available here.

TARA PLACE 

The warehouse bangkok .

120 Bunsiri Road, San Chao Por Sua, Phra Nakhon, Khaosan, Bangkok, Thailand

BAAN DINSO 2

78/3 Ratchadamnoen Klang Road Pranakorn Borvornnivate, Khaosan

SUKHUMVIT AREA

Sumkhumvit has a a wealth of budget and mid-range accomodations too. Also, it is pretty accessible as it is on the MRT links to the BTS and MRT Lines. It is also near the Eastern (Ekamai) bus station and the MRT links to Hualamphong Station.

Chan Cha La 99 Hostel

Rezt Bangkok

75 Soi 22, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongton, Klongtoey, Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Oneday Hostel Sukhumvit 26

BANGKOK ITINERARY

*Take note that the Philippines is 1 hour ahead of Bangkok, Thailand.

BANGKOK ITINERARY 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS (BANGKOK + AYUTTHAYA)

Here’s a sample 4 days 3 nights Bangkok itinerary with side trip to Ayutthaya.  Feel free to tweak this depending on your budget and schedule.

BANGKOK ITINERARY 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

(bangkok + pattaya).

Here’s a sample 4 days 3 nights Bangkok itinerary with side trip to Pattaya.  Feel free to tweak this depending on your budget and schedule.

  ALSO READ: BANGKOK ITINERARY

Bangkok budget/cost, bangkok budget for 4 days 3 nights, (bangkok + ayutthaya).

Here’s a sample trip budget if you follow the Bangkok Itinerary 4 day 3 nights (Bangkok + Ayutthaya) above.

If you opt for Pattaya day trip instead of Ayutthaya day tour, you can replace the Ayutthaya budget with Pattaya City & Coral Island Day Tour from Bangkok with Klook for about THB/PHP 2,083 (USD 41/EURO 35/SGD 55/MYR 173). Total expenses for a 4 days 3 nights Bangkok trip if you follow the 2nd itinerary above is roughly TBH 6,026.03 / PHP 9,219/ USD 1180.26/EURO 153.46/SGD 246/MYR 764.

If you plan to do a 5 Day 4 night Bangkok trip, then you can do both Pattaya and Ayutthaya as side trips.

BANGKOK/THAILAND LAWS

It is very important to abide by the Thailand laws listed below to avoid getting into serious trouble. Better be safe than sorry.

• Never disrespect Thailand’s King, Queen, Heir or Regent by insulting them or defacing images of the monarchy (such as stepping on a bank note). It’s a serious offense that can result in 3 to 15 years in prison. This offense is known as Lèse majesté in Thailand, based on Thai Criminal Code section 112.
• Never step on the bank note. It is a serious offense.
• Illegal drugs (using, carrying, transporting or producing) is punishable by death sentence.
• The drinking age in Thailand is 20. Drinking alcohol is illegal in the following locations in Thailand: temples or places of worship, public offices, public parks, pharmacies, petrol stations and education institutions.
• Do not throw chewing gum on the ground (be careful when you spit it, make sure it goes to the trash can!). If caught, there’s a hefty fine and you can be jailed.
• Do not litter in Thailand, you can be fined THB 2,000 if you’re caught.

BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS

• Take off your shoes when you enter a temple.
• Tuck your feet under you so that they are not pointing at anyone or anything when you are sitting on the floor.
• Never take photos of people while they are praying and do not have your picture taken with a Buddha image.
• Visitors are not allowed to enter a temple wearing revealing clothes like tank tops and shorts or skirts above the knees. Good thing, most temples will have sarong or pants for visitors to borrow.
• Female should never touch a monk or hand him anything directly. When offering alms, place it on a table for the monk to pick up. Also, do not sit next to a monk on a boat (or any public transportation) or stand in the same area of the boat. Do not touch them or their things.

BANGKOK SCAMS

• (CLOSED FOR TODAY/GEM SCAM): Don’t believe when a friendly local approaches you and introduces himself as a teacher and then will tell you that the Grand Palace or a certain temple or a certain attraction is closed for a Buddhist holiday or cleaning. He will then hail an accomplice tuktuk to tour you or take you to another temple or attraction. The driver will drive you around to gem stores or shops and get a commission for taking you there. I was told they usually get gas coupons.
• (TBH 10 or TBH 20 Tuktuk Ride): Don’t believe when a local approaches you and tells you that ferry is not frequent and will leave at certain times of the day only. He will then hail a tuktuk to take you around for about TBH 20/PHP 30 (USD 0.90/EURO 0.76/ SGD 1.22/MYR 4) but instead of taking you directly to your destination, the driver will take you to different travel agencies and shops. TBH 30 is a small amount but if you are pressed for time, this can ruin your itinerary.
• (FLAT FARE TAXI): When you ride a taxi and the driver refuses to turn on the meter saying it’s a flat fare taxi. The driver will most likely charge you about 3 times the usual meter rate. Get off and hail another cab.

SUKHOTHAI TRAVEL GUIDE

Bangkok itineraries, kanchanaburi tourist attractions, hua hin things to do, samut songkhram things to do  , kanchanaburi travel guide, related posts.

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44 comments.

You are a blessing!! Thank you!! I’m about to go to Bangkok on the 2nd and my friend just frigging ditched me.. Thank you!!!!

welcome. enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

Hi! i just want to say thank you for posting this. It will make our trip so much easier and less hassle.

Keep it up!

welcome. enjoy your trip, Patricia! 🙂

Hello Ms. Gael, thank you very very much for this detailed and informative travel blog for Bangkok. I am planning to go there this end of October till 1st week of November, 2018 to meet my Indian friend and to celebrate also my birthday there. It will be our first time to travel in Bangkok, I hope it will be very memorable for us. I super appreciate this blog. Thank you! (^_^)

Awww! Really appreciate you dropping by! Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoy your Bangkok trip! Safe travels always! 🙂

Hi Gael, heaidng to Bangkok in two days from Canada. Last minute trip for 11 days. Very excited and I’m glad that I found your blog, some great ideas!

Thanks again!

Welcome! Enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

I’ll be going to Bangkok this May and I am a bit nervous since this will be my first time to travel alone. But thank God, I found this detailed blog post. Thank you so much! <3

Planning my First Trip outside the Philippines. Thanks a Lot. 🙂🙂🙂

Welcome! Excited for you! Have fun! 🙂

Hi thanks for the Tip. Super great help.

Can I ask a question. For any car or van hire in thailand in Klook, is it per vehicle or per person for the price? Just confused.

rate for car or van hire via klook is usually per vehicle. 🙂

for the car rental usually it’s per vehicle. click the link on the blog for more details. 🙂

I use this as my reference for our trip in Bangkok next week! You’re great! 🙂

Thank you! Enjoy! 🙂

Hi! I was wondering if there was an error with the post? Your sample itinerary for Bangkok+Ayutthaya is missing, instead the budget breakdown for Bangkok+Ayutthaya was doubled. I hope to see the itinerary for Ayutthaya. Your post is very helpful, more power! ^^

Thank you for that pointing that out. Apologies. I fixed it already. 🙂

Hello! may i ask if what is advisable? using a 4g sim or renting a pocket wifi? thanks.

if you are alone, you can just use a sim card since it’s cheaper. Pocket wifi id advisable for those traveling in groups

Wow! This is amazing! I’ll use this itinerary on my Bangkok trip. This is very helpful. Thank you for taking time to share your wonderful experience. More power!

welcome! hope you enjoyed Bangkok! 🙂

This would really help for our future thailand trip, but which most you suggest place to stay??? Near the victory mall and airport.

Can you also post any travel tips if we’ll DIY our trip to Ayutthaya? 🙂

I’ll work on that 🙂

This is very, very helpful! I am currently working on the itinerary for our Bangkok trip this September 🙂

Hi, Is there a “show money/proof of fund” at Thai Immigration? Thank you!

Supposedly, but usually they ask those who’ve been crossing back and forth sa Thailand for visa run.

I got a lot of useful information here! We will be traveling to Bangkok next week. Hihi. Will share my itinerary as well. Thanks a lot 🙂

Welcome. Enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

Love how detailed this guide is. I actually send this to my mom since she’s going to BKK with her friends. She couldn’t thank me enough cause she’s able to fill up their itinerary.

Awww. Glad was able to help! Hope she enjoys her trip! Thanks for dropping by! 🙂

Saan po may bilihan ng murang mga damit? 🙂

Sa Chatuchak Market 🙂

Bangkok is a great place to hangout. Really you have shared a great piece of information for Bangkok travelers. Your post is too long, but it is worth reading it. Good luck and keep writing!

Thank you for reading! Safe travels! 🙂

I went to Bangkok last year, but was only in for about a day and a half total as I was going south towards Chumphon. I love this guide and am looking forward to implementing it on my next trip in Bangkok! You sound very knowledgeable about the city and getting around.

these kind of blog are so much informative and surely so much helpful for the bloggers that are really needed to be the at best part.

What’s your advice for first time female travellers planning to visit Bangkok? I’m really scared and I dont know if I should still push through my plans. 🙁

Bangkok is safe naman for solo female travelers. Traveled there many times alone. You can read this guide to help you plan your trip 🙂

This is really helpful.Thank you.

welcome. enjoy Bangkok!

How’s the traffic condition?

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Whether you’re a history lover, culture enthusiast, foodie or party-goer, you’re going to love this article on how to spend 3 days in Bangkok!

Bangkok became the capital of Thailand in 1782 when it was known as Siam.

Over the next 150 years, various dynasties began developing the city, building temples, complexes and establish public works.

After World War II, the population in Bangkok grew rapidly and tourism flourished as the city became a popular destination for US military personnel.

By the 1980s, the city had a well-established tourist sex trade and became known for its nightlife, clubs and go-go bars.

Bangkok has since been popularised for this and you may even remember it as one of the debaucherous locations in the Hangover sequel.

Despite this reputation, Bangkok Thailand is a thriving city and is one of the most vital tourist, financial, and commercial centres in Southeast Asia.

READ MORE: Check out our dedicated things to do in Bangkok post!

Table of Contents

Morning: Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Wat pho – reclining buddha, midday – lunch near wat pho, afternoon – wat arun temple of dawn, explore chinatown, evening: muay thai & a night out, night – party in khao san road, morning – lumphini park, midday – chatuchak weekend market, afternoon – museum of contemporary art (moca), sunset – skywalk king power mahanakhon, evening – asiatique: the riverfront, morning – floating market, afternoon – spoil yourself with a massage, late afternoon – watch dancing fireflies on a bicycle tour, when to visit bangkok, thailand, getting around bangkok, thailand, the best hostel in bangkok – siamaze hostel, best budget accommodation for couples – vera nidhra bed & breakfast, best mid-range hotel in bangkok – rembrandt hotel & suites bangkok, best luxury hotel in bangkok – eastin grand hotel sathorn, budget – the family, mid-range – the oasis – all day dining, high-end – the silk road, how to spend a perfect 3 days in bangkok thailand.

The best thing about visiting a capital city is the variety of things it offers.

Exploring Bangkok brings about amazing street food, temples, nightlife, and of course, massages.

The best way to spend three days in Bangkok Thailand is simply to get a little taste of everything the city has to offer. Get ready to experience the best of Southeast Asia while visiting Bangkok!

Your first day in Bangkok should be spent embracing the culture and exploring the ancient side of the city.

There are literally thousands of temples in Bangkok.

So rather than trying to visit them all, you should visit some of the most significant and grand sites such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

Do keep in mind that the temples have a strict dress code so you will need to wear shirts with sleeves, long pants or skirts and shoes. You won’t be permitted with tank tops or shorts.

If you are wearing open shoes like sandals or thongs, be sure to bring socks. Don’t stress though, most places have some extra clothes for you to borrow if needed.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our Thailand Travel Guide.

Your first stop on any trip to Bangkok should be the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

The Temple of Emerald Buddha, or Wat Phra Kaew, is considered the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It’s a must-see on any trip to Bangkok.

Buddhists from all over Asia come to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to pay respect.

The statue is carved from a single jade stone and the Emerald Buddha is in a meditating posture. It is located within the Grand Palace.

With the exception of the Thai King and the crown prince, no one is allowed to touch the statue.

The cloak around the statue is changed by the king three times a year, corresponding to the summer, winter and rainy seasons – a ritual performed to bring good fortune to the country.

The Grand Palace is the former home of the monarch and situated on the ground of the Wat Phra Kaew.

While the king no longer lives here, the Grand Palace is still used for important ceremonial occasions.

Checking out the Grand Palace is simply fascinating! Aside from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, there are so many things to see at the Grand Palace. The massive temple complex has amazing architecture and design, as well as landscaped gardens.

• Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm daily
• Admission: 500 Baht
• Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Wat Pho is only a 10-minute walk from Grand Palace. You can easily visit both the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in the same morning.

On the way, you’ll find many food stalls where you can try some delicious snacks if you’re feeling peckish.

Also known as the Reclining Buddha, the impressive Wat Pho is covered in gold leaf and mother-of-pearl ornaments, is 46 metres long and 15 metres high.

The Wat Pho complex also contains four chapels with over 300 gilded Buddha images and a courtyard with Chinese statues and stupas decorated in ceramic pottery flowers and sparkling tiles.

Traditional Thai medicine and Thai massage is also taught at Wat Pho so this is your first opportunity to get a relaxing massage.

If you’d like a massage, you should book a spot when first entering the complex as there can often be a waiting list.

• Opening hours: 8:00 am to 6 pm daily
• Admission: 200 Baht
• Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 

Right outside the complex along the Chao Phraya River bank is a line of different restaurants.

We recommend eating at any of the restaurants here as they are all generally very good.

After lunch, hop on a ferry from No. 8 Tha Tien to Wat Arun pier (the ride is 3 Baht).

The temple’s name is derived from the Hindu god, Aruna, often personified as the radiations of the rising sun.

The surface of Wat Arun temple reflects the first light of the morning and has steep piers reaching up to the sky.

In the middle of the temple is an 82-metre high Khmer-style tower where you can walk up the stairs and enjoy the view of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River.

• Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm daily
• Admission: 100 Baht
• Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok

If you prefer guided tours, you can book a walking tour that will take you through of all the temples mentioned above with detailed explanations to learn about each of them.

Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown is a must-visit and is located along the Chao Phraya River.

After your temple visits, hop on the ferry and get off at No. 5 Ratchawong Pier.

Also known as Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of the oldest parts of the city and represents the first resettlement of Chinese dating back to 1782,

Enjoy some late afternoon delights from the delicious street food vendors or meander through the maze of little alleyways and the bustling markets.

Check out our complete guide to Yaowarat Chinatown Bangkok .

With three days in Bangkok, you have to check out Muay Thai. Muay Thai or Thai Boxing, is the national sport of Thailand and something for which Thais are very proud.

Dating back hundreds of years, Muay Thai is said to have been one of the eight disciplines that Thai men needed to master and was used in the Army.

While boxing only uses two points of contact (the fists), Muay Thai fighters use their elbows, legs, shins and feet just as much.

Bangkok is home to two major stadiums that host Muay Thai events, Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium and Lumpinee Stadium .

The two stadiums operate on alternate days so Rajadamnern Studium hosts on Monday, Wednesday and Friday while Lumpinee hosts fights on Tuesday and Thursday.

Both stadiums hold fights on Saturday.

The first fight usually commences at 6 pm with the main fights later in the evening (but usually take place around the middle).

You’ll notice fighters making their way to the ring wearing the traditional Mongkon headband, a sacred item given to the fighter by his trainer that is commonly blessed by monks.

Be sure to book tickets ahead of time to avoid selling out. If you’re keen to give Muay Thai a try, there are plenty of gyms that offer classes whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced in boxing.

• Click here to book your VIP tickets at Rajadamnern Stadium .
• Click here to book your VIP tickets for Lumpinee Stadium .

After the boxing event, it’s time to burn off some of that adrenalin built up from watching the matches.

Head to Khao San Road for some drinks and a bit of a wild time (if that’s what you’re into).

You’ll find many street-side restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a Chang beer or head into any of the Khao San Road clubs if they fancy you.

Don’t forget to leave some gas in the tank for tomorrow! It’s all too easy to get carried away by the nightlife of the legendary Khao San Road.

READ MORE: Consider adding these activities to your list of things to do in Phuket !

After an extremely eventful night on Khao San Road in Bangkok, Thailand, you should take it slow and have an easy morning doing something chill like hang by the pool.

To continue your lazy morning of your 3 day itinerary, head to Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest park that feels like a deep breath of fresh air.

The park is enjoyed by both locals and visitors as it’s a nice escape from the usual crowded streets of Bangkok and is also very well maintained.

If your three days in Bangkok happens to crossover on a weekend, a visit Chatuchak Weekend Market can’t be missed.

You could easily spend a few hours here getting lost in the place.

The market is accessibly by public transport and is the perfect place to do any shopping and to pick up some souvenirs.

The range of merchandise is extensive and you can find clothes, art, shoes, home decor items and more.

Many of the shops operate on a fixed price policy and won’t give in to haggling but it’s always worth a shot as some places are more agreeable.

There is also a great selection of street food in the markets so come hungry for pad thai or spring rolls.

Bring cash!!

• Opening hours: 6:00 pm to Midnight on Friday; 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
• Admission: FREE
• Address: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok

You may not expect contemporary art to come out of Thailand but this is a world-class contemporary art museum with a focus on Thai artists.

The museum showcases and exhibits works of art collected over the past three decades by Boonchai Bencharongkul, whose passion for art runs deep.

In the 20,000 square metres of white space, some 800 works selected from Bencharongkul’s private collection are exhibited.

The range of artworks is incredible and for anyone who appreciates and enjoys contemporary art, this can’t and shouldn’t be missed.

• Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. Closed Monday.
• Admission: 280 Baht
• Address: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok

Opened in December 2016, this mixed-use skyscraper features an unconventional appearance with a spiral cut into the side of the building.

The building is located in Bangkok’s central business district and is 78 storeys high.

The Skywalk is one of Bangkok’s premium attractions and is located at the top of the building where you will find Thailand’s highest observation deck at 314 metres with panoramic views of the city.

This view at sunset is simply stunning.

Those who are afraid of heights may want to give this a miss as it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Entrance tickets for the Skywalk should be booked in advance online .

After enjoying the sunset view on your skywalk, head to Asiatique for dinner along the riverfront.

Asiatique is located at an old international trade port that is now a huge replica warehouse complex with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants.

Here, you’ll find a mix of a night bazaar and a mall – an awesome experience for anyone who loves to shop.

There is usually entertainment on most nights from ladyboy cabarets to Thai puppet shows.

You can also get a great view of the skyline from the Ferris wheel!

READ MORE: Check out these other great places to visit in Thailand !

Day 3: Go Out with a Bang

Start the day off with a visit to a Floating Market before pampering yourself and finishing your three days in Bangkok itinerary with a lovely bike adventure and fireflies.

Located 1.5 hours from Bangkok, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is sure to be a highlight attraction.

The market is located in Ratchaburi Province. Once there, you can find a driver on a longtail boat to navigate you along the narrow canals of the market.

At the market, you’ll see a colourful display of various fresh products such as fruits and vegetables as well as prepared dishes – all for sale from boats.

Here, you can try the different produce and pick up some lunch along the canal. Be sure to try some mango sticky rice, boat noodles or coconut ice cream!

You can book an awesome half-day tour of the floating market here , which is what I recommend doing.

It’s finally time to spoil yourself a little after a pretty full-on few days. Thai massages are typically stronger massages that combines acupressure and stretching.

You can easily find safe and clean massage places around the area and we’d rely on Google reviews to confirm this if you’re unsure.

Check out Myth Massage , a beautiful and reasonably priced spa blending rustic decor with modern elements.

For those who want a bit more luxury, head to The Oriental Spa where you can find sophisticated pampering with a range of treatments from around the world.

Typically not included in any Bangkok itinerary, this tour is a little different to many others out there and guaranteed to be a memorable experience.

Bamboo Bicycle Tours produce their own comfortable and high-quality bikes made from bamboo.

You’ll start with a relaxed, bamboo bicycle adventure taking you through alleys, local neighbourhoods, along the riverbank, and through the jungle.

Along the riverbank, you’ll stop for a delicious Thai dinner while enjoying the views of the city across the water.

Afterwards, the tour continues as the guide takes you to where fireflies light up the sky for an incredible encounter. The best time to spot fireflies is between May and December.

Bangkok Thailand Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend your 3 days in Bangkok, Thailand, here are some additional travel advice and tips for the area!

Being the hub that it is, it’s hard to find a time to visit Bangkok without crowds.

However, some periods get busier than others such as in mid-April when Songkran (Thai New Year) takes place and the city goes into an epic celebration.

April through June are also Bangkok’s hottest months and can be fairly unpleasant.

With Thailand’s monsoon season in September and October, the best time to visit Bangkok is around late November or early December when the rain has cleared and temperatures are still quite cool.

At this time, the Christmas holiday crowds still haven’t arrived so you still have some relief from the big crowds.

If you don’t mind the wet, visiting in September and October will mean cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better rates on airfares and accommodation.

To get around a city the size of Bangkok means navigating a few different transport options. The city has the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway, buses, taxi, motorbike taxis, tuk-tuks, songthaews, and rideshares.

Everything is fairly easy to navigate and Google Maps displays public transport options so you can easily plan ahead.

Public transport is generally the quickest and cheapest option to get around.

For rideshare, Thailand uses Grab as there is no Uber there.

Where to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand

You can find any style of accommodation in Bangkok, from cheap backpacker hostels to full-blown luxury hotels.

Being a city well connected by public transport, it’s vital for visitors to stay in areas that have easy and convenient access.

During your 3 day itinerary in Bangkok, there are a few different areas we recommend staying in depending on what kind of vibe you’re after.

Khao San needs no introductions and well known among backpackers and party-goers. With an epic nightlife scene, cheap street food stalls and plenty of hostel options, Khao San is amidst all the action and where you want to be to have a good time.

For travellers wanting to stay a little closer to historical sites and enjoy views over the river in a fancier hotel, the Bangkok Riverside is an idyllic location. This is where most 5-star hotels are situated.

Sukhumvit is Bangkok’s most stylish and cosmo neighbourhood, laced with rooftop bars, great shopping and plenty of international dining options. The area is popular among expats and is a popular area of bars and nightclubs.

Another great base is Silom , Bangkok’s business district area which has convenient access to public transport, is where Lumphini Park is located and has a variety of delicious Thai restaurants in the area. A couple of streets in the area also have go-go bar shows and parties that go on all night long!

Located on Ratchadapisek Road in the business/residential area of Bangkok, Siamaze Hostel has convenient access through the Suthisan MRT station within a 10-minute walk.

For travellers who want to get away from the craziness of Khaosarn Road, this is the place to stay if you still want easily connected transport to the old town.

The hostel offers complimentary self-serve breakfast, has a cozy lobby and lounge area to relax at the end of a long day, free wifi, laundry facilities and a kitchen to use (not that you should be doing your own cooking if you’re in Bangkok, come on!)

This chic boutique hotel has 10 rooms with 4 different designs – all very modern and stylish and resembles a B&B more than a typical hotel.

The hotel is charming with attentive and friendly staff who want to ensure that it feels cozy and homely. Rooms have comfortable beds, private bathrooms, a TV and wifi.

Located in a local neighbourhood in Bangkok, you’ll be living amongst locals in the city whilst still being a 5-minute walk from Krungthonbury BTS station and one station away from Central Pier.

This hotel offers everything for a comfortable stay during your 3 day itinerary in Bangkok without all the bells and whistles.

Rembrandt is a large and classy hotel within walking distance of Asoke (BTS) and Sukhumvit (MRT) public transport stations and located in the trendy Sukhumvit area.

While the rooms could do with a bit of sprucing up styling-wise, it’s a step up from other basic mid-range hotel options and provides excellent value for money.

The buffet breakfast is an incredible variety of Thai, Western, Indian, Japanese and Chinese cuisines. The hotel also has several restaurants and bars with stunning views over the city.

Guests can expect high levels of customer service, great food and a clean and comfortable stay.

One of the premier hotels in Bangkok, Eastin Grand Hotel is located in the Sathorn business district and is the only hotel with its own direct access to the BTS Sky Train system.

The luxuriously appointed rooms and tastefully decorated, spacious and feature all of the amenities you’d expect in a high-end hotel.

The hotel also features a swimming pool (that can get pretty busy), a 24-hour fitness centre, a restaurant, bar and lounge and babysitting services. Some rooms offer access to an executive lounge which offers a buffet from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm which includes cocktails.

Best Restaurants in Bangkok, Thailand

Being the hub that it is, Bangkok is home to an endless list of wonderful restaurants.

You won’t be short of local, fusion or international cuisines here.

Whether you’re after some cheap and tasty pad thai or a teppanyaki experience, Bangkok has it all. Here are some of the best places to eat during your Bangkok 3 day itinerary.

The Family serves delicious home-made Thai food for excellent prices without compromising on quality.

With a simple menu and vegan options, this casual restaurant aims to keep a chill vibe while always serving up awesome dishes.

The Oasis – All Day Dining offers a fantastic array of dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is open from 6 am to 11:30 pm daily.

Here you’ll find a great selection of seafood, international and Asian cuisines.

The restaurant also promises to serve the best brunch in Bangkok on Sundays so there’s only one way to find out!  

For a high end dining experience, head over to the Silk Road.

This upscale Asian fusion restaurant is known for its incredible dim sum and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to eat during your Bangkok itinerary.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

About the Author - Amanda Tran

I'm Amanda Tran, a young Aussie travel writer exploring the world one adventure at a time. I run Explore Wider and am a huge lover of nature, landscapes, food and adrenalin. I share my experiences through photos, videos and fun stories with the aim of inspiring adventurous, affordable and sustainable travel. Having lived in Japan, I am the NOMADasaurus expert guide on travelling this beautiful country, along with Australian road trips (I've done them all), Asia trips and plenty more. Follow me on Instagram .

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Explore Bangkok

Plan Your Trip to Bangkok: Best of Bangkok Tourism

Travel advice, essential bangkok.

Where to stay

Where to eat

How to do Bangkok in 3 days

Shopping guide to Bangkok

Explore Bangkok by interest

If you’re feeling fancy-ish.

Bangkok on a dime

Over-the-top pampering

Temple-hop through the city

Hit the markets

More great cities for famous street food

Bangkok Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing bangkok.

LouiseBlakemore

Book a boat and take a ride around the khlongs. We did this on our own so we were able to stop and take pics and chat with locals. Walk. Walk. Walk. This is the way to see the city, and it's safe.

deepak4ualways

The place has some of the biggest and crowded malls where you can get all sorts of products like electronics, clothing, etc. A definite place for shopaholics.

Bangkok is popular for its culinary diversity among many. Which you see will be a true fact once you step out walking. There are mouth-watering food stalls everywhere you go.

A large bustling city with many very varied neighborhoods each offering something different for people of all tastes and pockets. Exciting and vibrant with a lot of great cultural sites for those that like history and culture. Foodies will be spoiled for choice with everything from fantastic cheap street food and food courts to top-end restaurants as well.

Bangkok is a busy city. It's also very friendly and an excellent place for food lovers. No need to mention the nightlife. They wrote songs about it and have made hit movies catering to bizarre imaginations and sometimes a not-so-bizarre reality, that is Bangkok at night. Mostly though, it's a safe and friendly place.

Bangkok, the other City of Angels that never sleeps. Bangkok is full of things to do and see from ancient monuments to great restaurants. Easy to get around by Skytrain, underground, tuk-tuk, taxi or a trundling ancient bus. Bangkok is a must-visit city that caters for all tastes and lifestyles.

What is the best way to get there?

Bangkok is served by two airports, the Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK). The latter is a hub for low-cost carriers including Air Asia and Nok Air and mainly offers domestic and regional flights.

Do I need a visa?

Thailand has many bilateral agreements in place with other nations that allow visa-free travel. To see if your country is on that list please  check here .

If your country is not listed, you will need to apply for a visa at your nearest Thai embassy. You can  check here  for more information on types of visas.

When is the best time to visit?

November through January: Bangkok is hot and steamy no matter what time of year you visit, however, the very best time to visit is late November to mid-January. Known as the “cool season,” the temperatures sit around 90 Fahrenheit (36 Celsius).

The ferry on the Chao Phraya river is also convenient — if and only if — you are heading somewhere close to the river.

motorcycle taxi

Motorcycle taxis are cheap, fast but can be scary for the uninitiated. Tuk Tuks are used by both tourists and locals alike; please bargain before jumping on.

skytrain and subway

The BTS Skytrail and the MRT subway provide another inexpensive way to get around town. Both train systems are limited and only cover portions of the city, so definitely map out your route before setting out. Also note that these two lines of public transportation run separately and don't share a ticketing system. However, they do have a few connecting stations—which is helpful if you need to cross from one to the other.

The easiest way into the city is through a metered taxi. Do not use the limo or taxi services offered by touts. They can tend to swarm around you once you have cleared customs. These touts will charge rates that can be as much as 200% to 300% of normal metered taxi rates.

For more detailed information on getting around, you can refer to  this article .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Indochina Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

220 Volts / 50 Hz. Plugs are Type A, B, C, F (https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/)

What is the local currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes and no. Cards are accepted very widely but if you intend to visit street stalls or use tuk tuks/motorcycle taxis, it is useful to have cash on hand.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip, restaurants.

Waiters get the loose change left in the plate unless there's a special service reward of 20 baht in the hand.

Get the fare rounded up to the next even number.

Only massage therapists get a substantial tip between 50-100 baht.

Hotel porters

Porters and others giving small services may get a standard 20 baht gratuity.

Are there local customs I should know?

The king is very highly regarded in Thailand, as evidenced by the pictures displayed everywhere. Do not say or do anything disrespectful of the king or the royal family, even to the extent of stomping on a Thai coin or banknote which has been dropped and is rolling/blowing away. (It bears an image of the King's head, and is highly insulting to be touched by your feet.)

Royal Anthem

Before each performance at movie theatres, the Thai Royal Anthem - known as Phleng Sansoen Phra Barami (เพลงสรรเสริญพระบารมี) or sometimes more simply as "Kha Wora" is played. It is mandatory to stand up during the playing of this Thai royal anthem.

Hailing taxis

When hailing taxis, it is common to keep your hand horizontal, fingers facing down. Holding your hand with fingers up is considered rude.

Temples and Monks

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Women particularly should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders and knees. Many temples state as you enter that photography is not permitted. Even if there is no sign, please be respectful and consider whether it is appropriate to be taking flash photographs in a place of worship. Even more so if monks are present worshipping.

Always remove your shoes when entering temples (the same rule applies when entering a person's home), and do not sit with your feet towards the Buddha. Sit either cross-legged, or with your feet tucked behind you.

One of the most important points of etiquette often overlooked by some travellers is basic personal hygiene. Thai people take their personal hygiene and appearance very seriously. Since Thailand is a hot, humid, tropical country, showering frequently is essential.

Loud or abusive expressions of anger and temper tantrums should be avoided at all costs. Many things in Thailand often don't go according to plan, and visitors are advised to take a very calm attitude to various nuisances. Try to remain calm and smile despite your annoyance, and in the end you will probably get what you want.

• Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
• Akara Hotel
• MetroPoint Bangkok Hotel
• Banyan Tree Bangkok
• SEEN Restaurant & Bar Bangkok
• Spectrum Lounge & Bar
• Riverside Terrace
• Blue Sky Rooftop Bar
• Amritsr Sukhumvit 22
• Chatuchak Weekend Market
• Siam Paragon
• Wat Phra Chetuphon
• Khaosan Road
• Pratunam Market
• Half-Day Railway Market and Floating Market Tour in Thailand
• Longtail boat 2 hrs - Bangkok Canal tour
• Three BEST Temples Bangkok City Tour "Must Visit"
• Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food Tuk-Tuk Tour
• Small Group Tour to Ayutthaya Temples from Bangkok with Lunch

Why Travel Thailand?

With such an incredible balance of experiences, it’s easy to see why travelling through Thailand is extremely popular for backpackers and solo travellers. The ‘Land of Smiles’ is known for its picture-perfect beaches, yummy street food and buzzing nightlife. Thailand is a destination that just keeps giving… golden temples, incredible landscapes, untouched national parks and some of the friendliest locals on earth. You’d be crazy to go backpacking through Southeast Asia and not stop in Thailand.

Say Hello Sawasdee

Local Currency Thai Baht

Local Beer Chang/Singha/Leo

Favourite Dish Pad Thai

Group Tours In Thailand

Jumping on a group tour in Thailand is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel. You'll be picked up when you land and introduced to your new travel buddies for the trip of a lifetime. Our trips include most of the big-ticket items like accommodation, activities, local experiences, and much more. Whether you are travelling solo or with a friend/partner, everyone is welcome on our group tours in Thailand.

Stay overnight on floating bungalows in the jungle

Share a special moment hand-feeding elephants

Take a longtail boat to the famous Railay Beach

Kayaking & Tubing in Khao Sok National Park

Learn to cook like a local in Chiang Mai

Experience Thailand’s best nightlife and beach parties

Bath in the natural hot springs in the Pai jungle

Grab a beer and float down the river in a tube during sunset

Taste some of Asia’s best street food markets

Trek to the beautiful viewpoint on Koh Phi Phi

Explore the incredible golden temples in Bangkok

Hike to the top of Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi

Learn the art of Muay Thai on a beginner class in Pai

Pick a Trip

Bangkok & The South - 9 Days

Best of Thailand - 15 days

Best of Asia - 29 Days

What Our Travellers Say

Share the adventure.

Experience the ultimate thrill of travelling through Thailand on one of our incredible backpacking group tours. Go island hopping around Phi Phi or learn to cook like a local in Chiang Mai; explore the untouched beauty of Khao Sok or relax on the world-famous Railay Beach; experience the hippie vibes of Pai or dance like nobody is watching in Bangkok. Our incredible team has designed our group trips in Thailand to find the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time and nightlife.

THAILAND & VIETNAM COMBO

Can’t decide which to go for? Problem solved! We’ve combined the best of both countries, giving you the best 1-month trip in Asia.

THAILAND ISLAND HOPPER

Not got the time for the north? No worries… this 9 day trip is short but incredibly sweet. City and island life mixed into one epic trip!

THE BEST OF THAILAND

Absolutely everything Thailand has to offer in 15 incredible days. The perfect backpacking group trip in just over 2 weeks.

Thailand Trip FAQs

When is the best time/month to travel to thailand.

With such a warm climate all year round, Thailand is such a great destination to travel. Whether you decide to explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the islands, or indulge in the vibrant street food in the north, Thailand has it all. Don't worry too much about the occasional tropical showers; it’s a refreshing break from the heat before the sun comes back out. We operate our small group tours in Thailand all year round.

How many days in Thailand is enough?

We recommend setting aside 2-3 weeks for your solo trip to Thailand. With so much to explore and experience, it's important to allow yourself enough time to fully immerse in the wonders of this incredible country. Navigating the various transportation options can be overwhelming at first, but fear not! Our tours in Thailand are designed to take away all the hassles and worries of planning your trip and travelling alone. We’ll handle all the tough/boring stuff, giving you the freedom to enjoy each and every day to the fullest 🙌🏼

Do I need a visa to travel Thailand?

For most travellers, Thailand is a very easy country to visit with a simple ‘Visa on Arrival’ process. This includes a long list of different countries including; UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia and most of Europe. Be sure to do your own research, as each country/passport will have different entry requirements, and the rules can often change. It's your responsibility to ensure you've ticked all the necessary boxes to enter Thailand hassle-free. *You must check your visa eligibility as we are not visa experts. The information above is general in nature. Here’s a blog that we put together to help; ‘An Unofficial Visa Guide to Asia & Australia’.

What injections/vaccinations do I need for Thailand?

Similar to visas, we are not medical professionals and would hate to give you false or misleading information. We recommend you book an appointment with your doctor or local pharmacy to discuss your travel plans and what precautions you need to be aware of. They will provide up-to-date guidance and will no doubt have your vaccination/immunisation history on file. All the destinations and areas we travel to are generally low-risk, but best to be on the safe side! Click here for a useful resource provided by the UK NHS website.

What about COVID-19 travel restrictions in Thailand?

It's always a good idea to check whether your destination or airline requires you to be COVID-19 vaccinated or tested to travel. It's your responsibility to ensure you arrive on tour with us in Thailand without any issues. Click here for a useful resource provided by the UK government.

What kind of people join these group tours?

It doesn't matter whether you're travelling solo, with a friend, or adventuring as a couple. Our trips attract a variety of different people from all corners of the world with a common goal of having the BEST time with like-minded people. Our trips are super popular for people looking to explore new places but don't want the worry of doing it alone or don't have the time to plan a trip themselves. Jumping on a group tour in Thailand is a super popular, convenient and hassle-free way to travel!

Are group tours in Thailand worth it? Why would I not just travel solo?

Planning a solo trip can be daunting, requiring careful consideration and a lot of time. But guess what? Our Thailand group tours are designed to make your life easier and your travel experience stress-free! From the moment you land, we handle all the logistics and nitty-gritty details, including airport pickup, comfortable accommodations, seamless transportation, engaging local activities, and delicious meals. With our tours, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy your adventure in Thailand, knowing that every aspect has been expertly taken care of.

I am looking to come alone, do many people travel solo?

Yes, absolutely! Most people actually come alone, with there often being a few people travelling together either as friends or as a couple. Our trips are perfect for solo travellers as you'll make friends from the moment you arrive, and you'll have the confidence and security of doing it as a group.

How much money do you need for 2 weeks in Thailand?

Once you've booked your flights, paid off your trip and got some solid travel insurance, you'll be all set for that Thailand adventure. We suggest bringing no less than £300/$400, but this should be the bare minimum. We suggest working from an average of £400-500/$500-700 over 2 weeks, this will cover things like shopping, drinks, extra meals and anything else you fancy treating yourself to... maybe a few massages!?

What should I book first, the flights or the tour?

Great question! We always suggest getting the trip locked in first before booking flights. This way, you won’t be left disappointed if the trip goes full and you’ve already booked your flights. There are usually plenty of flight tickets available, but the spaces are limited with our trips, and the trips fill up pretty fast. We suggest booking your trip first, followed by your flight, and then purchasing your travel insurance to cover all eventualities. Getting these three out of the way as soon as possible is a good idea.

How far in advance do you recommend booking my trip to Thailand?

The average traveller typically books their trip 3-4 months in advance, which usually means there are plenty of options when it comes to dates. If you decide to book last minute, be prepared for limited availability. If you have your heart set on a specific date or trip, consider placing a deposit right away.

I’ve been looking at a few companies, what makes Feel Free Travel different?

If you're asking this question, you've probably not read what our incredible travellers are saying in the reviews . You would have noticed already that we are insanely passionate about sharing life-changing experiences with our groups. When we travel, it's more like a group of mates with that one friend who thankfully knows where they're going. Our group sizes are small and intimate, averaging 12-16 travellers. If you've not already, click here to join the 'Feel Free Family - Facebook Group' .

Is it possible to book a private tour of Thailand with a group of friends?

We specialise in bringing solo travellers together who arrive as complete strangers and soon become best friends/extended travel family. With that being said, we have been known to offer private tours subject to availability. If you send us an email to [email protected] one of the team will be in touch and see what we can do… no promises!

Feel Free Family

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• Does anyone recommend any essentials for a 15 day trip to Thailand? 😊🇹🇭 4 Comments View
• need some help with packing information lol. How is everyone packing? Backpack and luggage 9 Comments View
• As requested by Mathew James Stirland, here is my photo book from Thailand. Was there exactly one year ago before all this covid mess 😩 7 Comments View
• So gonna be booking 15 day thailand tour with a friend on the 6th, for next summer. I can imagine anytime is a good time but is there a best time for the summer? 11 Comments View
• I miss my feel free family ❤ I CAN'T wait for Vietnam in March ✈🌍🙌 3 Comments View
• Booked on to April 15 night tour, when would be the best time for booking flights? 2 Comments View
• My boyfriend and I are going to the Thailand 9 day tour with Feel Free!! May 23-31!! Let me know if anyone is going then. ☺️ 1 Comments View
• Last night with these absolute legends in Sri Lanka !!! 🇱🇰🌊🛺✌🏻✨ I have so much love for you guys !!!🥰 5 Comments View
• Just booked me and my man onto an October 2021 9 day Thailand trip. Wanted to do it for years so excited. First trip with feel free they have been so helpful already. 4 Comments View
• Would just like to say a huge thank you to the guys for rearranging my Thailand trip. I have now booked Vietnam and Sri Lanka for 2022 and im very excited!! 2 Comments View
• Awww can’t believe it’s been nearly a year since we were all in Sri Lanka for the first trip of 2020. Miss all you legends! Even you Ryan Kinsey 😉😘 7 Comments View
• Myself and Shelly Welly have just booked Sri Lanka for January 22 and Thailand/Vietnam for February 22, so excited!! 6 Comments View
• Baby Natalie getting a little bigger every time we see her! 🐘 4 Comments View
• Have just booked onto the Sri Lanka tour for Feb 22! Super excited! Has anyone else? 🤩 5 Comments View
• Hey! Anyone booked on the Sri Lanka trip in April? 🇱🇰🤙 16 Comments View
• Hey there! I'm not sure whether I can post this but I just wanted some advice about travel after the 15 day Vietnam trip that I'm going to do late next year. 9 Comments View
• With the world starting to plan its re-opening...who’s pumped for travel!? 🏝 26 Comments View
• I'm looking to book sri Lanka for end of march next year. I've never done anything like this n never travelled alone before, so nervous and excited at the same time... 17 Comments View
• Throw back to our epic times in Thailand.. it was amazing meeting all of you and the people on this trip really did make our adventure one never to forget! 2 Comments View
• Hi everyone! Finally after months of searching I’ve found a tour that includes a bit of everything I want to do! Going to book the 15 day Thailand tour! 10 Comments View
• Hey everyone, New here and just booked to go to Thailand 🇹🇭 next November!!! So excited 😆🤗💓 7 Comments View
• Not much longer until I am back in one of the most beautiful places Thailand has to offer! Khao Sok National Park, we are coming for you! 🌊🏔 17 Comments View
• ‘Did we just become best friends!?’ 😆 4 Comments View
• Hey guys 👋 I know that I'm not going to thailand till next year but what kind of luggage is best to take??🤦‍♀️🤷‍♀️ 4 Comments View
• Hi everyone 👋🏼 I’ve just recently joined this group and I was wondering if anyone is booked for the 15 day trip to Thailand beginning of January... 6 Comments View
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• Happy Anniversary legends!🌴 Exactly 1 year we landed in Bangkok to meet our new travel family 🙌🏻 Thanks everyone for making this trip so special❤️ 11 Comments View

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Bangkok Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip Guide for Reference

This Bangkok itinerary for 5 days is a collection of my favorite spots in Thailand’s capital , designed to give you a memorable trip in the city .

The itinerary I’m going to share with you is very clear and easy to follow. It highlights the best markets and must-see attractions in Bangkok .

Additionally, I’ll recommend the best routes to navigate this vibrant city . Trust me, with this guide, you’ll save time and avoid headaches when planning your journey .

So, are you ready? Let’s dive into my 5-day Bangkok plan to make your trip awesome. 😊

Explore the Best of Bangkok: Your Go-To Itinerary for a Wonderful Trip!

Day 1: grand palace, wat pho, wat arun, asiatique and cruise, day 2: platinum mall, pratunam market, bangkok aquarium, and jeh o chula, day 3: bangkok’s chatuchak, massage, mahanakhon skywalk, and more, day 4: safari world bangkok and chocolate ville, day 5: discover thailand’s top markets and visit the one ratchada, smart ways to save on bangkok attraction tickets, bangkok itinerary 5 days map, where to stay in bangkok, thailand sim card, bangkok transportation guide, related posts.

Start day 1 of your Bangkok itinerary by visiting the city’s stunning temples. Continue the excitement with a trip to a well-known open-air mall for a shopping spree.

Finish your day with a scenic river cruise, taking in the beautiful nighttime skyline.

• 9:00 AM: Grand Palace
• 11:30 AM: Wat Pho
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Baan Tha Tien or Pad Thai Kratong Thong
• 2:00 PM: Wat Arun
• 4:00 PM: Asiatique The Riverfront
• 6:30 PM: Having dinner at Rosewood Restaurant (Option 1)
• 7:45 PM: Calypso Cabaret Show
• 7:30 PM: Take the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise for your dinner (Option 2)

1. Grand Palace Bangkok – 2.5 hours (9:00 AM to 11:30 AM)

On the first morning of your itinerary , I’d suggest starting with the Grand Palace Bangkok .

This site was built way back in 1782 and used to be the home of the Thai King . Now, it is considered a major Bangkok tourist destination .

The architectural designs here are totally impressive . In fact, it’s very unique and majestic .

Take a stroll through its beautiful halls and gardens , and be sure to see the Emerald Buddha . As you explore, capture the many photo-worthy spots within the temple complex .

Take Note: To enter the palace, you need to wear a shirt with sleeves and pants that go down to your ankles. If you’re thinking of wearing a dress, just make sure it covers your shoulders and is ankle-length.

2. Wat Pho – 1.5 hours (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM)

Next, head over to Wat Pho , a renowned Buddhist temple of Bangkok .

This temple is visited by many travellers every year because of its unique features.

One of the highlights here is the huge reclining Buddha that is 46 metres long. It’s literally a gigantic golden figure , making it the largest Buddha statue in Thailand .

So, if you want to visit the highest grade among all other first-class temples, this should be part of your list.

3. Lunch at Baan Tha Tien or Pad Thai Kratong Thong – 1 hour (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

After visiting Wat Pho, a tasty lunch is just a short walk away. Both recommended restaurants are just around a 2-minute walk from the temple.

• Baan Tha Tien : This place offers a true taste of Thai cuisine in a cozy setting. Here, you can savor dishes like Tom Yam Kung and Thai-style fried rice. The prices range between 50 Baht and 120 Baht, making it very affordable.
• Pad Thai Kratong Thong : This spot is a haven for Thai food lovers. Dive into their signature Pad Thai priced at just 109 Baht. If you’re in the mood for something spicy and flavorful, the Tomyum Soup with Shrimp is a steal at 159 Baht. Also, don’t miss out on their Green Curry Soup with Chicken for 129 Baht.

Trust me, these nearby eateries will not only save you time but also provide a delicious culinary experience.

4. Wat Arun Bangkok – 2 hours (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

After enjoying your lunch, continue your Bangkok trip by exploring Wat Arun , often known as the “Temple of Dawn”. This is a very beautiful temple situated along the riverside .

There are plenty of gorgeous spots here , including the colourful spires that complement the water scenery . The religious items inside are also very impressive.

And of course, the architectural beauty of the temple is totally unique .

So, take your time and capture many picturesque photos . For sure, you will be in awe of the amazing photo choices.

5. Asiatique The Riverfront – 2.5 hours (4:00 PM to 6:30 PM)

Next on the itinerary is Asiatique Bangkok , a lively night market and entertainment spot by the river.

To be honest, this is one of my favourite night markets to go in Bangkok because of its incredible array of activities.

Start with some shopping; there are hundreds of boutique stalls selling unique items .

Don’t forget to take a ride on the big Ferris wheel – the view from the top is breathtaking , especially at sunset.

6. Rosewood Restaurant or Happy Fish ( Dinner Option 1) – 1 hour (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

For a delightful dinner in Asiatique , you’ve got two popular choices : Rosewood Restaurant and Happy Fish. Here’s a quick intro to help you decide:

i. Rosewood Restaurant

Rosewood Restaurant is truly a gem! Nestled in a serene setting with beautiful wooden decor , this spot offers the perfect ambiance for a quiet, romantic dinner .

For a start, their roasted chicken, brimming with traditional Thai flavors, is a must-try . Their steaks won’t disappoint either . Many visitors highly recommend the Grilled Chicken , so it might be worth a taste.

And as the evening deepens with live music , it’s the perfect setting to round off your meal with a cold beer , immersing yourself fully in the relaxed atmosphere.

ii. Happy Fish

For a lively dining experience, head to Happy Fish .

Not only do they serve mouth-watering seafood , but they also have a variety of international dishes , like grilled chicken, pizza, burgers, and spaghetti . With prices ranging from 200 Baht to 500 Baht , it’s affordable too.

Fancy a drink? They have a nice selection of cocktails and beers to complement the live music . The riverside view, combined with the tunes, makes it a memorable spot.

7. Watch the Calypso Cabaret Show – 1 hour (7:45 PM to 8:45 PM)

Be sure to catch a live performance of Calypso Cabaret after dinner. It’s a famous ladyboy show with vibrant dances, stunning costumes, and impressive performances .

The combination of glittering costumes, lively music, and talented performers make this a highlight of any Bangkok visit.

The original ticket price for the show is 1200 Baht , but if you purchase online , you can gain a 25% discount ! The show has two time slots: 7:45 PM and 9:30 PM. For updated show times, please check their website.

8. Chao Phraya Princess Cruise (Dinner Option 2) – 2 hours (7:30 PM to 9:30 PM)

Another great dinner option is to hop aboard the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise , which you can easily board at Asiatique Pier .

You can get more information about this trip by checking the cruise menu and prices here .

The cruise itself is such a lovely way to see Bangkok’s scenic night landscape and relish in the cool river breeze .

You are given 2 hours to savour the overloaded buffet of local and international dishes .

While enjoying your food, there’s a live band to serenade you for a night full of entertainment .

Let’s get ready for day 2 of your exploration in Bangkok . The itinerary for today takes you through Thailand’s vibrant marketplaces, top family destinations, and a feast of local culinary delights.

• 9:00 AM: Platinum Fashion Mall
• 11:00 AM: Pratunam Market
• 1:00 PM: Have lunch at either Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle or Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice
• 2:00 PM: SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• 5:00 PM: Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• 7:00 PM: Enjoy your dinner at Jeh O Chula or the Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet

1. Platinum Fashion Mall – 2 hours (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM)

Commence with your morning adventure at Platinum Fashion Mall . Without a doubt, this is a very popular shopping mall in Pratunam , Bangkok.

It’s an indoor mall that has all kinds of fashion items and accessories .

There are over 1000 outlets inside the mall , offering trendy clothing, underwear, and kids’ wear .

You’ll also find different belts, handbags, shoes, wigs, and even cosmetic products . The best part of the mall is that it is air-conditioned.

2. Pratunam Market – 2 hours (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

No Bangkok itinerary would be complete without going to the Pratunam Market and exploring its vibrant shops.

This busy marketplace is just situated on the opposite side of Platinum Fashion Mall .

Most of the stalls sell fashion stuffs at a wholesale price , ranging between 50 Baht and 400 Baht per piece of cloth . This means the clothes here are really cheap .

So, if you’re in need of new dresses, pants, shoes, and accessories, this is the best place to get your money’s worth .

3. Lunch at Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle or Chicken Rice – 1 hour (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

After all the shopping, enjoy your lunch at one of the recommended spots below , which are close to Pratunam Market . Both places offer some of the best tastes of Bangkok . Enjoy your meal.

i. Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle

For just around 100 Baht, you can enjoy a rich and creamy noodle soup made with a fragrant broth, large prawns (Kung), and often served with noodles.

The soup is tangy, spicy, and a tad creamy from coconut milk, making it an unforgettable dish.

Access: Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle shop is not close to Pratunam Market. You can take a Grab car for about 150 Baht, and it takes 15 minutes to get there.

ii. Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice

If you’re a fan of chicken dishes, you must visit Go-Ang Pratunam . For only 50 Baht per plate, you can savor their famous tender Hainanese chicken paired with fragrant rice.

4. SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World – 3 hours (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

In the afternoon, consider a visit to SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World , the largest aquarium in South East Asia . It’s a spectacular place with over 30,000 marine creatures .

I’ve been there, and it’s a sight to behold. The highlights for me were the sand tiger sharks , giant eagle rays , and the vibrant coral reef fishes .

Plus, you shouldn’t miss the playful penguins and giant spider crabs . I truly love this place for its mesmerizing marine displays.

A little tip: consider booking your aquarium admission tickets online . I found out you can save some money off the original ticket price this way!

Access: If you’re coming from Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle shop, you may opt for a Grab car to SEA Life Bangkok Ocean World, which costs about 120 Baht and will take roughly 10 minutes.

5. Madame Tussauds Bangkok – 2 hours (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM)

Spend your evening at Madame Tussauds Bangkok . This is such a nice spot to run into your favourite stars .

In this museum, you’ll get to meet the wax figures of best-known movie actors such as Jackie Chan , Captain America , Will Smith , and Hugh Jackman .

Musical stars like Michael Jackson , Lady Gaga , and Ariana Grande are also present.

For the sports category, there’s David Beckham , Cristiano Ronaldo , Serena Williams , and more. In addition, there’s a display for the world’s top leaders .

6. Dinner at Jeh O Chula or Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet – 2 hours (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

If you’re looking to indulge in a memorable dining experience in Bangkok , you can’t miss out on Dinner at Jeh O Chula or the Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet . I’ve had the pleasure of dining at both, and believe me, they’re truly special.

i. Jeh O Chula

At Jeh O Chula , the star dish is their famous Mama Instant Noodles . It’s called Jeh O’s Famous Mama Tom Yum .

This isn’t just any bowl of noodles. It’s a small pot comes with Mama Noodles mixed with flavorful seafood like prawns and squid, eggs, and juicy pork meatballs .

They even add their signature crispy pork belly, giving it an upscale twist . Though it might sound simple, take my word for it, the dish offers a burst of unexpected flavors .

Just a heads up, the queue at Jeh O Chula can be quite long , sometimes stretching over an hour . If you’d like to skip the wait , I suggest you reserve a seat online.

Access: Jeh O Chula is a bit far from Madame Tussauds Bangkok, so I suggest taking a Grab car to get there. It will cost around 100 Baht and take about 10 minutes.

ii. Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet

The Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet is on the 81st floor . It’s in Thailand’s tallest hotel !

They have lots of food like sushi, grilled meats, seafood, Thai dishes, and desserts . Want to see all the food choices? Simply check the buffet menu here .

And the best part? While eating, you can see the whole city of Bangkok from high up . It’s a beautiful view!

Access: Catch a Grab car from Madame Tussauds Bangkok to Baiyoke Sky Hotel will cost about 100 Baht and is expected to take approximately 10 minutes.

On day 3 of this Bangkok travel itinerary , start with a visit to Thailand’s largest market for an immersive shopping experience.

Afterwards, explore the art and history at a heritage house. Then enjoy a leisurely massage to relax before continuing your adventure.

• 9:00 AM: Chatuchak Weekend Market
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Chatuchak Market
• 1:00 PM: Jim Thompson House
• 3:00 PM: One More Thai Massage
• 5:00 PM: Mahanakhon SkyWalk
• 7:00 PM: Jodd Fairs Dan Neramit
• 9:00 PM: Dinner at Holy Shrimp

1. Chatuchak Weekend Market – 3 hours (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)

Have a fun morning visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market Bangkok . As the largest market in the country , you surely will have a lot of shopping options here .

This particular market is known for its trendy clothing at super cheap price .

Most of the items available on display are fashionable tops, comfy shirts, formal wear, and sports attire .

There are also colorful headbands, cute footwear, beautiful bags , and a lot more!

2. Having Lunch at Chatuchak – 1 hour (12:00 PM to 1:00 PM)

After shopping at Chatuchak Market , you don’t need to venture far for lunch .

The market isn’t only about fashion; it’s also a culinary hotspot with numerous food stalls serving a range of delicious foods, drinks, and desserts .

Don’t miss out on dishes like fried chicken, grilled river shrimp, chicken skewers, and coconut ice cream . Many of these mouthwatering items start at just 20 Baht .

3. Jim Thompson House – 2 hours (1:00 PM to 3:00 PM)

The next stop is to visit Jim Thompson House and search around its connecting houses . This traditional museum is known for its ancient and personalized exhibits .

Some of the things featured here are silk scarves, handbags, accessories, and clothing . Each of these comes with unique and beautiful designs that make it very eye-catching .

There’s also a cosy restaurant and gift shop inside the museum.

So, if you want an old-style tourist site in Bangkok with eye-catching display, make sure to pop by the museum.

4. One More Thai Massage (Chit Lom) – 2 hours (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

For those seeking to unwind and relax in Bangkok , One More Thai Massage is a spot you shouldn’t miss.

Located in the heart of the city, this massage haven offers an authentic Thai massage experience .

When you’re there, I’d recommend trying their traditional Thai massage or perhaps a soothing foot massage .

It’s not just about the massage, though; the ambiance and the skilled therapists make the whole experience truly rejuvenating .

For a detailed look at their packages and treatment options , simply see their prices here .

5. Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Thailand’s Highest Observation Deck) – 2 hours (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM)

Before the evening kicks in, go to Mahanakhon SkyWalk and catch the sunset . This spot is the best place to see the entire view of Bangkok and its magical cityscape.

The moment you step onto the glass skywalk, you’ll find yourself immersed in a stunning landscape of soaring buildings and lively streets below.

It’s like the whole place is lit up with the warm glow of the sunset . Believe me, you’ll want to take it all in. It’s a view you’ll never forget .

Tip: Be aware that evening lines can be long, so it’s best to book your Mahanakhon SkyWalk tickets online beforehand to save time and ensure your spot.

6. Jodd Fairs DanNeramit – 2 hours (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

If Jodd Fairs DanNeramit isn’t on your itinerary yet, it should be! It’s a special market in Bangkok with a fairytale castle , cool vintage cars , and lots of food stalls .

And if you like taking photos, this market is perfect. There are so many great spots for pictures!

Shopping here is fun too. You can find stylish clothes, cool accessories, old-school items, and gifts to take home.

And if you get hungry, there’s plenty of food . From tasty Thai snacks to Japanese food, BBQ skewers, drinks, and more . Plus, there are nice places to sit and eat .

I recommend trying the spring rolls, pad Thai, chicken skewers, and the sweet mango rice . They’re all delicious.

7. Savor Holy Shrimp – 1 hour (9:00 PM to 10:00 PM)

For dinner , I’d recommend trying Holy Shrimp at Jodd Fairs DanNeramit.

They serve amazing seafood dishes . You can enjoy tasty shrimps, mussels, and scallops, all cooked just right in a yummy sauce .

The mix of herbs and a splash of lemon make everything taste even better. Don’t forget the sweet corn—it adds a nice touch to the meal.

If Holy Shrimp isn’t to your liking, don’t worry! Jodd Fairs DanNeramit has plenty of other food options to explore .

From crispy fried chicken and cheesy pizza to juicy burgers and spicy tomyum , you won’t have any trouble finding a delicious dinner here . There’s something for everyone’s taste!

Going to Tokyo soon? Consult my Tokyo itinerary for 7 days to assist you in planning your trip.

The next stop on your Bangkok adventure takes you first to a popular zoo, home to a diverse array of animals and marine life.

Following that, you’ll visit a vibrant park offering stunning photo spots and picturesque dining experiences.

• 9:30 AM: Safari World Bangkok + Lunch
• 4:30 PM: Chocolate Ville + Dinner

1. Safari World Bangkok – 6 hours (9:30 AM to 3:30 PM)

Get yourself ready as you visit the Safari World Bangkok in the morning. Home to thousands of different animals , this park is undeniably entertaining.

Here, you will encounter bears, crocodiles, deers, lions, parrots, orangutans, tigers, and many more !

There are also remarkable shows to look forward to such as the tiger and lion feeding shows , dolphin show , orangutan show , and sea lion show .

Giraffe feeding is another captivating activity for all ages.

I highly suggested that you book the zoo tickets online to save around 40% compared to buying the tickets on-site.

Getting There:

Unfortunately, there isn’t a BTS or MRT station near Safari World. The best and easiest way to get there is by taking this shuttle bus from Central World shopping mall. This is how we did it during our visit. However, it’s required to reserve your seat online in advance .

Please be aware that outside food is not permitted at Safari World. However, there’s no need to worry! The park has numerous restaurants offering a variety of dishes, from Thai and Asian cuisines to Western favorites like burgers.

2. Chocolate Ville – 3 hours (4:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

Come evening, proceed to the ever-colorful Chocolate Ville Bangkok . This is a beautiful European-themed village that is filled with gorgeous photography spots .

Walk around and you’ll see pretty streets everywhere, perfect for photos . There are fountains , old-style buildings , and even a calm lake .

If you’re visiting Safari World Bangkok and Chocolate Ville in one day , consider booking this shuttle bus . It’s a time-saving choice since neither attraction is train-accessible.

Alternatively, you can take a Grab car from Safari World to Chocolate Ville, which will cost around 160 Baht and take about 30 minutes.

When you’re ready to head back to your hotel, getting a Grab car from Chocolate Ville is also simple.

You can take your dinner at Chocolate Ville. It offers lots of yummy food choices, from local Thai dishes to tasty Western meals. I believe you’ll enjoy it!

For a scenic dining view, I’d suggest grabbing a seat by the riverside.

Day 5 of the Bangkok itinerary will bring you to the best Thailand floating market and other unique tourist spots .

During our recent trip, we took a bus tour from the city centre of Bangkok to the markets . We chose this method because these places aren’t easily accessible by public transport .

If you want to follow what we did , just book the top-rated bus tour here .

Personally, I was very satisfied with the bus tour service . We had enough time to explore , and the guides offered recommendations on the best local foods to try.

Now, I’d love to share with you the destinations we visited on this day.

• 11:45 AM: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• 1:50 PM: Maeklong Railway Market
• 6:00 PM: The One Ratchada + Dinner

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – 1 hours 45 minutes (11:45 AM to 1:30 PM)

Commence your morning with a visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , the most famous floating market in Thailand .

This destination is not just a top day trip from Bangkok but also a haven for photography enthusiasts . So, make sure to include this place in your itinerary .

As you wander, hop on a boat ride for an up-close view of the market . You’ll find delicious local snacks being sold by boat vendors – make sure to taste a few!

If you join the tour like we did , the tour guide will arrange a boat ride for you , so there’s no need to worry about it.

While exploring the market along the canal , you’ll discover a wide range of delicious foods . Make sure to sample as many dishes and snacks as you can.

For your lunch , you can opt for the boat noodle , which is priced at 60 Baht . Then, pair it with the delicious mango sticky rice at 50 Baht . These two are very popular in the market, so make sure not to miss them.

And, you can try coconut ice cream , which is also a favourite among locals and even tourists . The price for this kind of dessert is normally 40 Baht .

Side note: Some travellers choose to visit Amphawa Floating Market . This market is celebrated for its seafood goodness and relaxing ambiance, but it’s not as renowned as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

2. Maeklong Railway Market (Rom Hup Market) – 1.5 hours (1:50 PM to 3:20 PM)

In the afternoon, make your way to the Maeklong Railway Market and capture the moving train . This is definitely the main reason why travellers want to visit this popular market when they’re in Bangkok.

Aside from that, this place is also a fun spot to buy some dried fruit snacks . Most of these are sold for as low as 50 Baht .

So, if you’re looking for delicious and affordable treats, you can buy them here.

And to energize you, try the fresh coconut in the market , which is also very cheap . It’s only 20 Baht! You really can’t find this kind of price anywhere in Bangkok , so don’t miss them out.

3. The One Ratchada – 3 hours (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

Kick off your evening at The One Ratchada . This cozy market is perfect for both shopping and eating .

If you’re like me and love local markets, this place is a treat. You’ll find stylish clothes and unique souvenirs to take home .

With a vast array of food options , you can easily have your dinner in the market .

Delight in delicious sushi , refreshing smoothies , and fresh coconuts . And for seafood lovers , don’t miss out on the grilled crabs and prawns .

To top off your visit, unwind at one of the laid-back bars with affordable drinks and lively music. Enjoy!

If you’re planning to see several attractions in Bangkok , you might want to consider getting the Bangkok Multi-Attraction Pass .

For instance, if you’re interested in visiting Safari World, enjoying a river cruise, and seeing the city from the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, buying tickets one by one would cost 3,230 Baht .

But if you get the multi-attraction pass , it’s just 2,400 Baht for all three . That means you save 830 Baht .

If two of you are traveling , you’ll save even more , about 1,660 Baht in total . The pass can get you into as many as 28 attractions . For more info, just hit the link below.

• Check out Bangkok Multi-Attraction Pass here

To help you craft the perfect itinerary for your Bangkok vacation, I’ve created a map that highlights all the best places in the city.

This way, you can see where each attraction is located and easily plan out your route from one must-see to the next.

For the best accommodation , below are my most recommended hotels to stay in Bangkok . These hotels are situated near BTS stations, shopping malls, and eateries .

• Holiday Inn Bangkok : For those who want to be near Chit Lom and Siam BTS stations, this hotel is a great choice. Not only that but this is also 5 minutes away from the top shopping malls such as Central World and Siam Paragon.
• Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel : This hotel is very near to Pratunam Market and Platinum Fashion Mall. Just a 5-minute walk to Siam Paragon Mall and Central World Shopping Complex.
• ibis Bangkok Siam : This hotel is very close to MBK and Siam Paragon shopping mall. It’s also located next to the National Stadium station. This BTS station allows you to easily ride BTS Skytrain to visit other places in the city.

Just in case you do not know, it’s quite difficult to get a free Wi-Fi connection in Bangkok. That’s why it’s advisable that you get a Thailand prepaid SIM card ahead of time.

You can book here for the prepaid SIM card before you kick-start your vacation. This is actually what we did during our trip to the city.

Why Use Local Prepaid SIM Card

• It allows you to navigate around the city via Google Maps easily.
• It lets you check the precise train route from time to time while travelling.
• It gives you the chance to use Grab. Having a local SIM card is needed because the driver needs to call you beforehand to confirm the pickup location.

Why Book the SIM Card Online

• Online reservation offers you up to 50% discount compared to buying it directly at the airport.
• It’s easy for you to pick up the SIM card at the counter of Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport .

After your Bangkok trip, is Singapore or Penang your next stop? If yes, then better read my suggested 5 days in Singapore itinerary or Penang 3-day itinerary right here!

1. BTS Skytrain and Metro (MRT)

The best way to get around Bangkok is by taking the BTS Skytrain and Metro (MRT) . This transport option lets you skip the traffic jam and save your travel time .

You can purchase the train ticket from the ticket vending machines located in each station . Hence, you just buy the tickets every time you need to ride a train .

To check the train route, I recommend that you utilize Google Maps. This gives you the shortest route to reach your preferred destination.

Unfortunately, taxi scams in Bangkok are quite common . Some drivers do not use their taxi meter so they charge tourists a higher, fixed price .

Because of this, I encourage you to use Grab for safety purposes . The rates of this transport service are also reasonable, so nothing to worry about.

3. Airport Transfers

My most recommended choice when it comes to travelling from the airport to a hotel is via private airport transfer . It’s because this option offers stress-free transportation .

There’s no need to drag your luggage during train transfers . All you have to do is relax and wait for your destination.

I booked a private airport transfer during our trip , and their service was truly excellent , with a very friendly driver . They can even take you directly to any hotel in Bangkok .

Check out the prices at the below links.

Bangkok is all set for you; just add these ideas to your own itinerary. Have a fantastic time exploring!

30 Top Things to Do in Bangkok You’ll Want to Go in 2024

12 Best Bangkok Night and Day Markets to Visit in 2024

Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok: A Detailed Guide

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How to Transfer from BKK to DMK or DMK to BKK for FREE!

Travel Tips , Thailand

Mar 16, 2013

comment 625 Comments

By Ryan Gargiulo

Last Updated: October 2nd, 2023

BKK to DMK  — In this short tutorial, you will learn how to transfer from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Don Muang Airport (DMK) or vice-versa for free using the complimentary shuttle bus.

This resource page will prove to be really handy for those of you planning on traveling within  Thailand  or other parts of SEAsia on a budget airline such as AirAsia, Nok Air or One-Two-Go.

In order to move between both airports you’ll need to know how to take advantage of the free shuttle bus that runs between the BKK and DMK airports or vice versa DMK to BKK.

How to Get From BKK to DMK for Free

There are two airports in Bangkok , the main airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) which services all major airlines and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) which now serves all of Asia’s budget airlines.

Prior to the change of operations back in October 2012, you were able to fly budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air and One-Two-Go to and from BKK airport but since the big move you now have to make your way over to Don Muang Airport to catch your next budget flight.

The problem with this change is that taxis and tuk-tuk rides between airports can be costly and often scammy. Fortunately, there’s an alternative way to get to and from BKK and DMK airports and best of all, it’s free !

Free Shuttle Transfer from BKK to DMK

Follow the instructions below and learn how you can easily make your way from BKK to DMK airport (or vice versa) for FREE!

1. If you’re flying into BKK, pass through Immigration, grab your bags and head for the exit. Once you exit immigration, you should be on Floor 2. Double check signage to make sure you’re on the second floor of BKK airport.

2. When you enter the arrivals hall (Floor 2), ignore all signs pointing you towards public transportation, buses, etc. Simply walk straight until you see Door 3 on your left hand side.

3. Exit the airport via Door 3 and turn right. You’ll see a little table with a few people standing around. Ask them for the free shuttle to Don Mueang Airport.

Below, you’ll find the latest shuttle updates from our readers.

Latest Updates: 11/20/23: I’m on the bus now and it’s still on the same spot mentioned in your post, — Sejdo 10/2/23: I just boarded the shuttle and am waiting for departure. It is still at exit door 3 on the arrivals level. — Rob S.

Note: If you find that the information above has changed or you had a different experience, please feel free to leave a comment below or  contact me  with the latest information.

4. Before boarding the bus, the staff will ask you for your boarding pass and/or flight itinerary. I’m guessing the reason that you’re heading to DMK is because you have a flight with a budget airline departing from DMK, correct? If so, show them your boarding pass, flight itinerary, or e-ticket and you’ll be all set.

5. Once the free shuttle bus arrives, you’ll be on your way to DMK airport in no time. The official time from BKK to DMK airport or vice versa is around 50 minutes but can be up to 2 hours depending on time of day and traffic conditions. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Note: Your flight itinerary must be for the same day or the following day in order to be eligible to transfer between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport for free.

Are you looking for details on how to get from DMK to BKK? If so, I’ve got you covered below.

Free Shuttle from DMK to BKK Airport

For those of you who are arriving to Don Muang Airport and want to get a free shuttle transfer from DMK to Bangkok Airport, the process works the same exact way, just in the opposite direction.

UPDATE: The free shuttle from DMK airport to BKK airport can be found outside of the ground floor of Terminal 1.

Shuttle Bus Schedule

Below you’ll find the free shuttle bus schedule from DMK to BKK. This schedule is identical to the BKK to DMK schedule. The shuttle runs daily from 5am to Midnight.

Important Notes:

• The distance between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK) is 29.5 miles (47.5 km).
• The free shuttle that runs to and from BKK and DMK has a transfer time of anywhere from 50 minutes to two hours depending on time of day and traffic.
• Taxi rates between BKK and DMK or vice versa should run approximately 350-450 baht. There will be some small toll fees in addition to the fare (approx 60-65 thb).
• There is a public bus (#554 & #555) that runs between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport. The fare is approx. 35 baht. If you have luggage, it’s best to use an alternative options.
• Buses that depart from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) and arrive at BKK and drop off at level 4, gate 5.

Grab Taxi (Alternative Method of Transport)

If you’re in a rush and need to get to DMK as soon as possible, it might be smart to order a Grab taxi.

Grab Taxi Estimate from BKK to DMK Airport: 306 THB – Approx. $10 USD

Help Us Keep This Page Updated

If you find any of the information on this page to be incorrect, please feel free to contact me with me your latest trip updates.

The reason why this continues to be the best resource for information regarding the free shuttle to and from BKK and DMK airports is because of you , the readers, who continually send updates with door changes, schedule updates, and more.

Hotels Near BKK and DMK

I’ve decided to add this new hotels near BKK and DMK section as a resource for those of you who have extended layovers and stopovers in Bangkok and are looking for a place to lay your head. I hope you find it useful.

Below you’ll find a widget where you can search for cheap hotels near BKK and DMK airport.

BKK to DMK Shuttle Map

625 thoughts on “How to Transfer from BKK to DMK or DMK to BKK for FREE!”

Love this :-) we will be flying mainly air Asia while on our rtw in southeast Asia! Last March they were still operating out of the main airport. Thanks for the money and time saver :-)

Hey Hannah, glad to hear you found this useful. I knew this would be super helpful to budget travelers as you now have no choice. You must travel from DMK airport if you’re going to fly any of Southeast Asia’s budget airlines. Be sure to check out my hotel recommendation as well in case you have to spend a night before flying out.

Hey Ryan, Very helpful info thanks. Are there any updates on this since it’s a couple of years ago please?

Hey Kay. All of the information should be accurate and up to date. I update it often.

Hi Ryan I am arriving at BKK at 0055 am and leave from DMK at 0700. Is DMK OK to hang out in overnight or should I stay @BKK til the 0500 am shuttle? Your thoughts?? Thanks kylie

BKK is probably a better airport to hang out in but the problem is you would arrive to DMK at around 6 and that’s probably not going to be enough time to check in for your flight. Tough call.

Just for other travelers’ information, the domestic terminal at DMK is newly refurbished and is the most comfortable airport terminal I’ve ever been in, out of dozens. A good place to overnight.

Thank you so much for your comment/contribution to this article.

I shall recah BKK by 01:00 AM and have next flight from DMK at 06:15 AM. do we have any free shuttle between BKK to DMK in night?

Can I use this shuttle if I have to catch bus from DMK not plane ? Thank you

No. This free shuttle is only for passengers flying from the alternate airport.

if they’re still up to date, can you link to your hotel recommendations? they’re not coming up in the search. thanks!

Is this free shuttle bus still up to date?

Yes, it is! ;-)

Ryan – you just saved me at least a 1000 bucks on this trip with your advice. It worked so well. Thank you for taking the time to put it on this site.

No problem, Dennie. Glad to hear it! Thanks for following up.

In case I don’t have a boarding pass, is it possible for me to buy a ticket his same DMK->BKK shuttle, direct non stop?

No. Unfortunately, you cannot. There are no tickets for sale. This is a free shuttle running between BKK and DMK airport or vice versa for passengers with valid boarding passes departing from either of the two airports.

Hii, we will be reaching to DMK at 5AM in the morning and have a catch-up flight at BKK on next day 5AM. Still can we use free transport?

As of 2018, some budget airlines operate from BKK. They include Jetstar and some Scoot [ex-Tiger A320 aircraft]. Most Scoot B787 [and Nok-Scoot B777] operate from DMK. So remember Jetstar uses BKK, and Scoot uses both.

Thanks for the tip!

I have a question, if i arrive to DMK airport today but my next flight is around 22 hours after at shuvarnabhumi, then is it possible if i go out of DMK and stay at the hotel overnight and come back next afternoon to DMK and board the bus to shuvarnabhumi? It will be a great help. Thanks.

Yeah, this shouldn’t be an issue but you’ll have to make your way to Arrivals in order to board the shuttle. My advice would be to stop and ask the attendant when you land in DMK to be sure.

Sooo glad I came across your page. I am travelling in October and was worried about how I was going to transfer. I will let you know if there are any changes! Thank you thank you!

Thanks Debbie!

Hello sir on 24 Jan I reach bkk Suvarnabhumi Airport 21:40 then from immigration I am free around 23:30 can I get free stuttle after 12 o clock at night or any bus for chai mai bcoz I check there is no flight and bus at night but from dmk there is flight early morning so please guide me what to do.

No, you’ll need to find alternative transport such as Grab taxi.

Hi! I’m leaving soon to Bangkok, did it work well for you?

Hello, unfortunately it says that uber was not available here now in thailand. Sad :(

Yes, but GrabTaxi is available and just as good.

I am travelling from GUANGHZOU to DMK to CMB then to Dubai..will i need a visa while in Thailand as i connect from DMK to CMB..please brief me

If you leave the airport, yes. Even if it’s just to transfer from BKK to DMK or DMK to BKK.

Can i take my luggage along with me in this free bus?

Yes, of course.

I have to travel from DMK to BKK with my family and few luggage pcs. Does the free shuttle bus have separate place to keep luggage ? Pls suggest best and faster way.

Yes, of course. It’s an airport transfer shuttle so there are plenty of spaces for luggage.

Thanks for this information, we took this free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK last week and it worked perfectly and saved us a lot of money. It is still at exit 6 in DMK but now you have to get a ticket by showing your flight information and your passport (of all the passengers). They will than stamp your hand. The ticket stand is inside, right next to exit 6.

I’m so glad I found this. I would’ve never guessed BKK is different from DMK. I’m going in May and this is sooo helpful.. thank u

Best of luck!

Does anybody know if I can spend a few days in Thailand then return to the bkk airport to get this shuttle to dmk airport for a flight to krabi?

Yes, of course. As long as you have a valid boarding pass for your flight from DMK.

Is there a last trip for free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK? What if I will arrived 9pm in DMK.. can we still avail tue free transfer?

Is it possible to take the free shuttle if youre eta in bkk airport is 10:00 and your flight to phuket is 14:45? Or is it better to take the taxi?

If there’s a shuttle available as soon as you land, I’d go for the shuttle. If not, just grab a taxi and be on your way.

HI, any idea how much a taxi would cost from DMK to BKK ? Im arriving at 11pm and unsure if i will make the last shuttle.

I believe it should be somewhere around 300 THB

Excellent write up, everything was as you described!! Thanks so much for providing this info.

Thanks Dan. Best of luck!

If it’s possible that i have a e ticket from DMK to HDY and i will take a taxi from my home to BKK and then take free shuttle bus from BKK to DMK?

Thanks ryan its help me a lot & your information is accurate.. i was landed yesterday 15/08/19. and i follow your article then i found free shuttle bus thanks man thanks a lot ?♥️❤️

Thank you for the feedback! Best of luck.

I followed the guide …it worked………, Just show the info about your next flight from DMK or bbk and they will put a stamp on your wrist, and you are free to hop on the shuttle

Perfect instructions. Walked out of gate 3. Desk on left. Showed boarding pass. Hand stamped SV straight onto bus

Thanks for the feedback, Richard! Appreciate it.

I had 3 days in bangkok. Unfortunately, I spent a lot of money. I really rookie. I wish I were acquainted before with the blog.

Sorry to hear!

I’d be landing BKK Airport at 12:55 AM. I’ve to catch flight from DMK airport, which is at 7:45. Given the odd time I’ll be travelling, can you please suggest me the most economical and safe way of reaching from BKK airport to DMK airport?

Hey Ryan , I just chanced upon ur article and am looking forward to following ur advise . Arriving suvarnabhumi airport on the 8th dec at 0825 am and have a connecting flight From DMK at 1310 .pm Advisable to take the free shuttle ?

Hi Setu. Yes, that should be sufficient.

Thanks Ryan, your article really helped and saved time and money for me. I landed today, 4th Jan 2020 on DMK airport and easily found shuttle to BKK at Gate 6. Your article is quite accurate and it took us 40-45 mints to reach BKK airport.

Excellent. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Hello Ryan,

Thank you so much for the information! My flight will arrive BKK at 6:50 (friday). Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 10.40 (friday) from DMK? I don’t have any luggage only handbags, it should save some time, right?

Cheers! Alexander

Hi Alexander,

It really depends on traffic. We arrived in Bangkok at 1:30PM and took the first shuttle to DMK and it took us 50 minutes. I’ve heard that it can take 1.5 to 2 hours in rush hour. The fact that you don’t have any checked baggage certainly helps. You’ll have to hope that there’s a shuttle waiting to leave as soon as you arrive in BKK though.

Thanks for the tips! I’ll arrive BKK at around 11:30pm, and then I will need to take that free shuttle bus to DMK for my 6:00am flight the next morning. Is the shuttle bus open all the night? And, can I just sleep at DMK for an overnight? I know we can sleep at BKK, but I’m not sure about DMK.

Once again, thank you very much! Debbie

Hi Debbie. That’s going to be tough because the shuttle buses only run from 5AM to Midnight. The chances of you catching the midnight bus to DMK is highly unlikely as you’ll have to deplane, go through immigration, get your baggage, etc. The other issue is that your flight is at 6AM the following morning and that means you would have to get the 5AM bus which wouldn’t give you enough time to check-in at DMK. You know?

I basically have the same situation as Debbie’s, but I might be taking a 4 AM flight out of DMK. Would there be buses plying to DMK from BKK anytime from 12 midnight to 1 AM? Thank you very much for your kind help.

Hi Chiqui. Your situation is going to be tough. The shuttle only runs 5:00AM to Midnight. You can either take the last bus from BKK to DMK and hang out in the airport until you fly out OR take a tuk-tuk/taxi from BKK to DMK which will end up costing you. If you decide to take a taxi, make sure you take one from one of the official taxi stands in order to avoid getting ripped off. Good luck!

No way you can take a tuk tuk over that distance and tollway. Only taxis or buses are the options.

False. You can take a tuk-tuk.

How did you know about it! It’s good for our next trip to Asia :)

Glad to hear it!

Hey Ryan. I must say I admire people like you that share the information. will be in BKK in sept.will be happy to read your hotel recomendation. can you send me the link? thanks alot and best regards from tel aviv – Israel. Asaf.

Hi Ryan, I saw that the only person that u didn’t respond to was the one from Tel Aviv/Asaf. Making a point r we??

LOL, Ira. I’m actually just realizing that I missed this comment from Asaf thanks to your comment. No political reasons behind my lack of response, simply just a mistake on my end.

Hi, Asaf. I’m so sorry for such an incredibly late response. I’m not sure why I missed your original comment. I hope you found everything you needed in order to book your trip. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly.

Are there any airlines that fly to Phuket from BKK

Yes, of course. Try AirAsia.

Does this service still function. We are coming from Siem Reap and will land at 14:50. Our flight out leaves Bangkok main airport at 1:30, so we have enough time to get there. Are the free bus terminals well marked? Thanks so much for your assistance.

Bookmarking this for our trip to Thailand- thanks a ton :-)

No problem.

Thank you! Will be doing this when I get to Thailand :)

No problem at all Roisin! Enjoy.

Thank you very much for this information. I will be in Chiang Mai in Sept and I have booked the fly out of DMK. I land at BKK airport at 10:00 and the fly out of DMK is at 1:50 pm. I hope the time is sufficient to get there.

Hi Haiyan, will you be traveling to BKK from an international destination? I only ask because sometimes the lines at BKK immigration can be an hour or more. You need to figure that the shuttle bus will take another (approximate) hour and ten minutes from BKK to DMK, then you have to check in at DMK, etc. I’m not sure you’ll have enough time but I could be wrong.

The travel to BKK, then from BKK to DMK was a very smooth journey. Just as you descriped, the Shuttle was by the door and it was a quick and smooth ride to DMK. Immigration was not bad either. The way back was the same. It took only about one hour groom BBK to DMK. I had plenty time to catch the connection fly.

The trip to Thailand was a great pleasure. Thank you, Ryan

Thanks for the feedback Haiyan. It’s greatly appreciated.

Hi Haiyan, how long did the process take you from landing/arrival to getting to DMK? I ask because I am flying in @10:05 and wish to catch a flight @11:45 at DMK-Krabi so that I can make the last ferry on the 27th. What are your thoughts?

Thanks so much for the info!! Any idea how often the shuttle runs?

No problem. The shuttle runs 5:00AM to 24:00, every 30 mins on the half hour and hour.

Nope, it is on the hour and 20 minutes past the hour for both from DMK and BKK. For the rest quite spot on info apart from the tuk tuk which I have despite +100 arrivals in BKK never seen at any floor.

Thanks for the feedback, Eric!

Hi Ryan, I am flying to Bangkok on 29th oct directly going to Pattaya but by return is from dmk to Delhi on 1st . Can I use the shuttle service like Pattaya to suvarnabhumi and then DMK via this shuttle service or can you suggest a better way ?

Thank you sooo much! This is such a helpful tip!!

No problem. Glad to have helped.

Works!!! Took us 45 minutes. We left BKk at 13:00 (landed at 11:45), and made our 15:05 flight with time to spare!

It’s free, air con, and easy. Just exit the airport at door #3… You can’t miss them.

Perfect! Glad to hear it HD.

thanks for the info. A perhaps stupid question: if im traveling from Don Muang To suvarnbumi and intend to check in at Suvarnabumi how can i present my boarding pass to the shuttle bus folks (since i won’t obtain it until i check in at Suvarnabumi)? Or is a printed itinerary sufficient? thanks

No problem Al. No worries, a printed boarding pass is sufficient!

Do you know the frequency of the bus ride, is it every hour or so? also do they use freeways or just normal bkk city roads?

Every hour from 5:00 to Midnight.

We will arrive in suvarnabhumi and stay in Bangkok for 2 days then will fly to Phuket via DMK airport. Can we still use the shuttle from the Airport going to DMK with just the ticket on hand?

I believe you should be able to show up to BKK and take the shuttle to DMK without any problems. You might also want to check into seeing if it’s more convenient to take a tuk-tuk/taxi from your hotel in BKK to DMK instead of going back to BKK and then hopping on the shuttle to DMK. It’s up to you.

Hi Ryan, I’ll be flying from Chiang Rai to Bangkok (DMK) ..landing at 9:10pm.. and then have have a flight from (BKK) .. departing at 12:35am… Do you think I’ll be able to make it? Also, I’ll have kids with me so I’d like to have everything planned out ahead of time. Can you give me the walking directions fro the bus from DMK to BKK?

You should have no problem making your flight if it’s at 12:35AM. Unfortunately, I’m not exactly sure where the DMK bus leaves from. It’s not that big of an airport so I’m sure you’ll have no issue finding it. Simply walk up to one of the booths and ask where the free shuttle to Suvarnabhumi Airport is.

Hello everyone! I´m arriving to DMK from Kuala Lumpur, and I´m planning to catch up with a friend travelling from Argentina to BKK. Have u guys ever take the bus without a ticket for BKK? I didn´t understand how to make the “faux” itinerary!

You cannot board the shuttle unless you have a valid flight itinerary.

Can one use the free shuttle if flying Nok Air? or must you fly and have a boarding pass for AirAsia? That is, does the shuttle work for ticketed passengers with any airline at Don Muang? Thanks much. Tom

Hey Tom. The shuttle is not just for AirAsia, it’s for anyone flying out of DMK. You just need to show your boarding pass for your flight out of DMK. Enjoy your trip!

EXCELLENT!!! Thanks much Ryan for your prompt and clear repy. I like the lower fares and services of NOK Air, so prefer to fly them. Now I will purchase my ticket… though we are expecting snow and sub-zero F. tempts ahead of my fly morning on the 6th here in Denver. Hope flight connections will be made. Appreciate your site!

Hi Ryan, probably U have had this question for a thousand times, but one more time: I’ll be at DMK at 14:50 and having the fly back to London from BKK at 19:55. Would it be enough time to collect baggage, move in between..? Is there any website with Ur hotels recommendation? I need to figure out the places In Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Phuket as well.. Best Regards, Dominik

Apologies if you have already commented on this but I am coming into Bangkok to fly straight out to Yangon. Do you think I need an entry visa if I am only getting the shuttle bus (UK res). Thanks

If you’re transiting between BKK and DMK, then yes, of course. You must pass through immigration when you land in order to transfer from one airport to another.

Will be utilising this on my trip next week, was wondering if anyone can confirm which doors the shuttle is running out of 3 or 6? And are these doors close to each other? Any info would be appreciated

All of the doors are within short walking distance of each other. To be safe, just head outside and walk along the curb until you find the bus. Should be relatively simple. Good luck!

What happens if you have an airline ticket other than AIrasia.FRom what I have heard,the free service is only for Airasia customers.Is this true?

Also,how do you make a “faux” airasia itinerary?

I believe you need to have a flight itinerary for an airline that operates out of the airport you’re wanting to go to. For example, if you’re going from BKK to DMK, you’re likely flying one of the budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, One-Two-Go. If you’re traveling from DMK to BKK, you’ll need a boarding pass for an airline that operates out of BKK. Hope this helps.

hi i am landing at DMK from hong kong and am required to catch an AIR INDIa flight to mumbai from BKK. does one require a thailand visa as you have to leave the DMK airport and enter the city and then go to BKK. I am travelling on 13 jan will be greafful for a quick reply.

Does the free shuttle run on Saturday and Sunday and on Bank holidays? Thanks

As far as I know, the shuttle operates the same schedule as the airports themselves, which is 365 days/year.

I will come at BKK at 8 AM and i got a flight from DMK at eleven. Do you think i will be on time???

Will you be traveling to Bangkok from an outside country (aka your home country to Bangkok?) If so you will need to account for the time spent at immigration. Sometimes the lines can be very long depending on the day, time, etc. I’ve stood in line at immigration in Bangkok for an hour and a half in the past. Other times I’ve flew right through. You must also remember the bus can take anywhere from 45 mins to 2 hours depending on traffic, time of day, etc. I would estimate that morning traffic will be hectic.

Hi Ryan, i am travelling around SE Asia this June. My plane arrives at BKK at 800 am and my flight from DMK is at 1500. I plan on taking this shuttle bus. My question is, is there anywhere to sleep, like a quiet room, in DMK?

Hey TBone, check this link out: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/list.asp?region=6&country=Thailand&city=Bangkok&terminal=DMK

Hope this helps!

If I have the itinerary on my phone to show them, is that sufficient? I am currently in koh yao noi and don’t have access to print my boarding pass. Also my flight lands at 4:35p in bkk and leaves dmk at 7:35p. I’m praying that I have enough time. What is your opinion?

Yeah, the itinerary on your phone should be no problem. As far as your flight times, I would say you should be fine as you’re flying domestically so you don’t have to go through immmigration. There will likely be some serious traffic on your ride between BKK and DMK but you should have enough time.

Hi everyone i took the shuttle this morning. Thx a lot for this great help! I took it on the door/exit 2.

There is the picture of the bus. It isn’t orange anymore.

http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=58690220140302075347.jpg

thx again for the tip !

Enjoy your future trip

Thanks so much Selim! I appreciate the info and the awesome photo update!

Thank you Ryan. I Was lucky to find your blog !

Thanks Ryan! This worked a treat!

Thanks for following up!

very cool! now if i could only find transportation from Siem Reap to BKK

This is exactly the information I was looking for. Thank you for such clear instructions and for posting the schedule so that I know how long the wait will be. We have quite a bit of luggage since we are nomads. Hopefully, we can get it on the free shuttle bus.

Thanks for the feedback Neil! You should have no issue catching the shuttle bus. Enjoy your trip!

I wish I had known that Bankok Air still flies out of BKK within Thailand and most prices are within $10 of Nok and AirAsia……..nice to have the free shuttle but not worth running around and the time to leave BKK if not needed!

Arrived at BKK at 0130. The shuttle doesn’t run between midnight to 5am. We took a cab. 489 baht + 140 baht in toll fees. Arrived at DMK in about 40 minutes. Out driver was falling asleep at the wheel, so we kept coughing loudly to keep him awake and tried to communicate with him. Flying to Phuket on airAsia at 0620. Posting on DMK free wifi now.

Thanks for the heads up Tommy! Sounds like you had quite the adventure. Glad you made it there safely.

Hi, How safe is taking a cab midnight from DMK to BKK? I’m reaching 0015 from Phuket and am flying out from BKK.

Shouldn’t be a problem at all. Best of luck.

Arriving in BKK at 9.15 from London on the 10th of June, would there be sufficient time to get from BKK to Don Mueang to catch a flight at 12.40?

Really depends on how long it takes you to get through immigration/baggage claim in BKK. Also, remember that the shuttle takes a minimum of 50 mins without traffic. You should be fine. Let us know how you make out.

Just printed off your instructions for getting from BKK to DMK–Heading to Thailand this weekend for two weeks, can’t wait!

Awesome, Brooke! Glad to hear it. Enjoy your trip!

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Arriving on Sat from Brunei at BKK 12:45pm. Need to take flight from DMK, as there are several flights leaving for Phuket from DMK around 4-5 pm. what is the safest time I should allow on a weekend using the Free airport shuttle bus. Also considering buying flight ticket at DMK. Alternatively is it better to take train to Ratchpraprop Station and take taxi using toll rd. Any recom. greatly appreciated!!

Hey, Ike. You’ve got 4-5 hours. That will be plenty of time to take the shuttle to DMK. No worries at all. The best way to get from BKK to DMK is by the free shuttle, hands down.

Hi, Im flying with Air Asia. I’ll be landing in DMK but i need to go to BKK to pick up a friend. so i wont be catching a flight from BKK- Which means i wont have a boarding pass. I dont feel comfortable in making a fake pass so can i pay the shuttle bus to take me to BKK? I do have a flight from BKK but its 9 days after i arrive. Thank you.

Hi, Asma. No, if you do not have a valid boarding pass, you will not be allowed to board the bus. You cannot pay as it’s a free shuttle bus for passengers with flights leaving from BKK and DMK airport. In your situation, you will need to take a taxi.

Forgot to say arriving from Bali air asia at dmk need to get to bkk to get flight to USA, only have flight.itinerary. visa? Free. Bus? Thanks Rita

No problem. Hop on the free shuttle from DMK to BKK. You will need to show your boarding BKK to USA boarding pass/itinerary to board the free shuttle. No visa necessary. Enjoy.

Arriving at DMK at 4,30am and next flight is at 9.15 am from BKK.. ..is this time sufficient to catch my next flight ..do I need to pay for the visa to go from one airport to the other..please suggest ..what are the requirements to pass the immigration at DMK

You shouldn’t have any issues at that time of the morning. Yes, you will need a visa to enter Thailand. You can find more info here: https://www.thaiembassy.sg/visa-matters-/-consular/visa-on-arrival

Hay I am coming from India an I have to go to koh-Samui witch is the best way to go there..me and my wife…

Hey Amit. I would say that your best bet would be to fly into BKK, and then fly Bangkok Airways down to Koh Samui.

HAY THANKS BUDDY….NOW TELL ME I AM ARRIVING IN BKK AT 19:45 HRS. AND IS THAT OK TO BOOK A FLIGHT TO KOH SAMUI DEPART AT 21:00 HRS…WILL THAT TIME IS SUFFICIENT FOR ME TO TAKE THAT FLIGHT FOR SAMUI.??? OR IF YOU HAVE ANY BETTER OPTION FOR ME…I DONT WANT TO SPEND MY NIGHT IN BKK FOR NO USE…

No problem, Amit. I personally would not book the flight for 21:00 as you can’t be guranteed that you’ll arrive to DMK in time to check in, go through security and have enough time to board your flight.

The shuttle takes a minimum of 50 minutes without traffic. If you get off your plane in BKK at 19:45, it’s just not enough time. I wouldn’t risk it if I were you. Good luck!

Hi, I am arriving at BKK at 410 am by spicejet from Kolkata. I have the next flight from DMK air asia at 7 am to Hanoi. I have visa exemption. Would I be able to catch the flight and shuttle bus at 5 am? How is the traffic at 5 am? Thanks Girish

FIrst of all I love your website and all of the information you have provided. Second I am envious of your on going excursion! >.,< eat some good food but i guess on a budget would be great! HELP

Hi, How exact do the check the boarding pass? Can anybody link or send me a template please? Thanks a lot!!!

I’m sorry, I’m not sure what you’re looking for here. Which template are you talking about?

hey ryan, great site. we have flight that lands in dmk at 9:30 and our next flight leaves at 14:00. when is rush hour in thailand? we do have luggage. do you think that is enough time to reach bkk? thanks!

Thanks, Stephen. No worries, you’ll have plenty of time to grab your luggage and make the transfer between airports. Good luck.

We will arrive BKK at 11:15 pm and will spent the night near the airport. How could we take the free shuttle before we get to DMK to check in for our boarding pass ? I had my itinerary with our names on it from Air Asia with our booking number & barcode, is this sufficient for the shuttle ?

Thanks Oyky

No problem. You don’t need your actual boarding pass. Just be sure to bring your printed email itinerary with you and you’ll be all set.

Lol! They should pay you for patiently answering everyone’s questions.

Hey Ryan, thanks for the reply. I had a question about hotels/motels. We are staying only one night in bangkok before going to phuket. we land bangkok (bkk) early afternoon, need a place to stay over night thats convenient while being able to explore the city at night, then easy transport to DMK the next morning for our flight around lunch. Do you have any suggestions on where to stay? We don’t necessarily need a nice hotel for a one nighter.

For Phuket, we are staying for 4 days, 3 nights. Should we book a hotel all three nights in Phuket? or do most people travel around Phuket to other places??

Thank you so much!

Hey Stephen, I stayed here before my DMK flight: https://www.pausethemoment.com/phurahong-homestay-review/ . It’s close to DMK but not close to all the action in downtown BKK though. It’s basic but does the trick!

I would say most people stick to Phuket. You wouldn’t have enough time to really explore much outside of that.

hi ryan thanks for great informations i will arrive at BKK at 1210 3rd dec& will flight from DMK 1530 to phuket, can i go by shuttle bus?, enough time? which bus& where can get it? if not whats best alternative?

Yes, this should be enough time. Although, it depends on how long it takes you to get through immigration/baggage claim and how long it takes for the shuttle bus to take you between BKK and DMK airports. If I’m not mistaken you need to be checked in at least 45 mins before departure for Phuket which might be cutting it close. Best of luck.

Thank you so much for the information! My flight (Monday 19th of March) will arrive BKK at 7:10 . Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 9:30 from DMK?

this is my first time in Thailand im coming with my wife to spend our Honeymoon :D

do you think i should take a taxi better than a free shuttle ?? Thank you ,,

No problem, Rami. I personally would not risk such a close flight. Whether you’re taking a taxi or the shuttle, the timing won’t make much of a difference as they’re both direct.

Ryan –

Thank you for the useful info. Our situation is we land at 9:10 PM at BKK. We will take the free shuttle bus to DMK. Our Air Asia flight to Hanoi is at 6:00am the next morning. So the question is can we simple stay at DMK airport for the 4 to 5 hours we will have once we get to DMK waiting in the terminal area (assume we get on the 11 pm or 12 am free bus) so arrive at midnight or 1 am at DMK.

Hi! I’m wondering how the traffic is at 5:00 AM taking the first shuttle ride out from BKK? Since I’m thinking of taking the 6:45 AM flight out from DMK. And how long is the check in usually at DMK? Would it be too risky to take the 6:45 AM flight if I only have 1 hour and 45 mins from the time I leave BK– If the shuttle is even on time and leaves exactly 5:00.

Thank you for being so helpful! Our trip to Thailand is coming to a close as we head over to Phuket and then back to Bankok and then back to the states. We fly in to DMK at 8pm and leave BKK at 1045pm. I don’t think we’ll have enough time for the shuttle but was curious if we’d have enough time for a taxi or uber? Thoughts?

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Hi there, I’ll be travelling to Thailand on the 15th and I found this site to be very helpful. Being a first time traveller to this country I wanted to find my way around in the most budget friendly way and finding out that there is a free shuttle from DMK to BKK is a great money saver. Thanks for sharing the info :)

Thanks for the comment. So glad to hear you found this helpful. Best of luck and safe travels!

Hi Ryan, thanks a lot for the useful info. I will arrive at BKK at about 14:40 and take 17:45 flight out of DMK. So kindly advise me if I have enough time for shuttle bus and check-in at DMK ?

Hey Phuong. It completely depends on how long it takes you to pass immigration and collect your baggage. Long lines at immigration are common. You need to factor in the time it takes for the shuttle to go from point A to B as well as a minimum check-in time with your airline.

I would be arriving with my family of 5 on 1st May Friday morning at 6:40am. We plan to take the air Asia flight at 9:55. Do you think it we would get to the the other airport in time if we get the 8am shuttle?

Also how bad would the traffic be on Friday morning at 8?

Lastly , would getting a taxi be quicker and by how much ?

Thanks for the help.

Hi Hisham, you must remember that immigration and baggage will take some time. I’m not sure you’ll have enough time to transfer to DMK and check in for your flight. I imagine traffic in the morning hours would be crazy. Taxi wouldn’t be that much quicker because everyone is going the same route. Maybe a little faster at best. Best of luck!

Hi, Ineed to know that my friends are coming from changsha (chaina) to dmk air port.then there next flight is from bkk air port.Only i need to know that is there a visa required for Thailand.Because they are Pakistani Nationals.

Hi Umer. Yes, according to this link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Pakistani_citizens — visas are required for Pakistani citizens.

Hi Ryan, Thank you for all the information here. I am sorry you must have heard this heaps of time but I stress easy so I thought I would ask you too….My domestic flight with Air Asia will reach DMK at 01:10 pm Sunday and my international flight from BKK leaves at 7:20 pm Sunday ….Does it take long to clear immigration, check in and everything? Is this time sufficient as I am travelling with 2 kids? Thanks for your help!

Hi there. No worries. You will have plenty of time to transfer and check in for your international flight from BKK. Best of luck and safe travels!

Thank you Ryan! you are very kind :)

Hey Ryan, My flight arrives at 08:00 am at Suvarnabhumi Airport , and my flight from Don Mueang has now been moved an hour closer to around 13:30. Does it take long with baggage and immigration, do you think its possible that we could make it in time?

You shouldn’t have any issues making it on time. Enjoy your trip!

Hi, i’m flying to Bangkok in 2 weeks and I know i’m not gonna be able to get the shuttle ( or if i’m Lucky maybe ). I was just wondering if you still remember the name of one of the official taxi stand ? Don’t wanna get ripped off you know haha :) thanks !

Hi Ana, the taxi stands can be found on Level 1 (Ground Level) near entrances 3, 4, 7 and 8. Hope this helps!

Thank you so much for the information, your website is really awesome! My flight (Wednesday 3th of June) will arrive BKK at 7:35 am . Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 11.00 am from DMK?

this is my first time in Thailand im coming with my wife to spend our Honeymoon.

Hi Gaber. Appreciate the feedback! As for transferring between airports, you shouldn’t have any issues catching your flight from DMK. I would personally take advantage of the free shuttle. Have a great trip!

Hi There Gaber

I have a similar trip planned. Did this work out?

Cheers, Jeff

We r 2 family’s with young children between 11 and 16 years we r 8 persons is we will arrive to bangkhok at 12.3 pm we will travel to pukhet how much it will cost us to take a private vane or small bus to cash our air Asia fly to pukhet and how many time it will take us to arrive

Hi Everyone!

So I’m flying in to BKK at 12:50 on Thursday 17 December 2015. I have a flight from DMK to Phuket at 16:55 the same day. Do you think I’ve given myself enough time with immigration and customs and transfers etc? Your help would be much appreciated!

Yes, you should have plenty of time.

hi, i will be in thailand soon (on a tourist visa) for 10 days,then i’ll exit thailand from DMK airport(air asia) to cambodia for a week ; on the way back to my country i booked a flight back from cambodia (air asia) to DMK and on the same day from BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport back to my country; my question is : is my single entry thai Visa would allow me to exit DMK for the second time to go to BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport ? thanks in advance for any info .

we are flying in at BKK on 27th and renting a car to return at same airport on 30th June , can we take the shuttle to DMK on 30th we have flight to phuket from DMK on 3oth

Yes, absolutely.

hi, i will be reaching BKK airport at 5.35 am, and then have a flight to catch from DMK at 10.55am. Firstly, i wanted to know how much time it will take for visa processing? Secondly, i would like to know the traffic conditions i will have to face if i have to go to DMK using the free shuttle. Thanks in advance.

You should have plenty of time to obtain your visa on arrival and make your way to DMK airport. No worries. Enjoy your trip.

Thanks for the information on the free shuttle I will use it, and what are your recommendations for Phuket hotels please Kind regards John, London

It’s actually possible to go (Don Muang) DMK > BKK (Suvarnabhumi) or BKK > DMK via train. DMK SRA 9bht (state rail authority of Thailand) > Hau Lamphong (Central) great old art nouveau station > via a rather long pedestrian tunnel to MRT 35bht (Metro) > Petchaburi interchange > SA 35bht (Suvarnabhumi express). Certainly a bit of mucking about but avoids the crazy traffic on Bangkoks roads and the Metro and Suvarnabhumi express are air conditioned. It’s also possible to pick up the evening train to Chiang mai from DMK , departs about 7.30pm. It’s just a pedestrian bridge from the airport over the toll road to the railway station.

Thanks for the tip, Stuart!

I will be having my trip this august. My flight is from KUL-DMK and then BKK-DXB. Any advise on how to avail that free shuttle?

Yeah, you can catch the shuttle the same way as mentioned in this post. The schedules are the same from both airports.

Hi, I am landing at the Suvarnabhumi Airport at 5.35 hrs and have a connecting flight deom Don Muang airport at 8.55 hrs. is it very tight timing gap to take the shuttle or should i opt for other commuting options. please advise. thanks for the post.

You should have plenty of time to get to DMK as long as the immigration lines are not too long at BKK. Best of luck.

Arriving at BKK on an 11:10 pm flight. Leaving airport for hotel and then flying out of Don Muang 8:00 pm (next day). can we return to BKK and take the free shuttle to Don Muang or are we not allowed to re-enter airport on our single entry visa? Just take a taxi from our hotel near BKK to Don Muang? -what would be easier??

Thank you for suggestions! Terry

Yes, you can definitely still take advantage of the shuttle. Just get dropped off at the airport and make your way to the arrivals terminal. From there you can hop on the shuttle without issue.

Did you have to show any proof when you went from DMK to BBk By free shuttle? Was the shuttle easy to find?

Yes Natalie. You must show your boarding pass/printed email itinerary or mobile itinerary to prove you’re flying out of DMK/BKK.

Hi, My boyfriend and I will be landing in DMK at 7PM and are catching a flight out at 9AM the next morning (a sunday). Do you know of any budget guesthouses or nice places to stay close by, or with a free airport shuttle around 8-15 $ ? Thank you so much Regards

Hi Gabriella – Check out this place – https://www.pausethemoment.com/phurahong-homestay-review/

Hi Ryan Your blog has been very much useful for people visiting Thailand. I am planning to visit Thailand by the end of September with a few friends. We ll be having around 5-6 days to spend over there and we have planned to spend these days in Bangkok and Phuket. its our first time that we are going to visit Thailand so that’s why m asking you if you can recommend some good places over there, plus good but cheaper hotels to stay. Thank you so much Regards

Hi Xaib. Thanks for the comment. Unfortunately, I’m not the best person to ask when it comes to recommendations for accommodations/things to do. It’s not that I don’t know the destinations, I do. It’s more of the fact that I’m not an expert. Your best bet would be to take a look at http://wikitravel.org/ to search for Bangkok and Phuket recommendations.

Me and my husband planing to fly into DMK but really want to be in BKK area. Can we take the shuttle bus for free? If so how? If the people asking for all that proof and of course the other way around to head back( we will have a round trip ticket so the proof will work out) anything to do in DMK? I would rather fly into DMK the flight is like 40usd round trip.

I believe that in order to take advantage of the free shuttle your return flight must be within 24 hours. If your flight from BKK is the following day after you land in DMK, you should be all set.

Hi Ryan, your post really helps to save a lot of bucks :) I shall arrive in BKK on 22May2019 and depart 26May2019 at DMK. Can I still take a free shuttle bus ride from BKK heads to DMK?

hi! your blog is veryyyyy helpful. Thankyou.

Thanks Archie.

hi, is the bus still running from same place at DMK? can i use it with any ticket outb from Bkk or just thai airlines?

Of course. Yes, any flight.

hi ryan, this blog is awesome. i’m flying into BKK at 11:40 and am flying out from DMK at 15:45. would I have enough time to take the shuttle and not a taxi? thanks

Thanks Katie! Yes, you should have enough time to take the shuttle. Best of luck.

We have a 16 hour flight to BKK with a 4 year old and a baby (I know, what were we thinking?) We get to BKK at 8:00 am and can’t decide whether to just go for it and take a flight straight down to Phuket after arriving, or if the arrival/bag pick-up/immigration at BKK will have us just wishing for a Bangkok hotel to rest in for 24 hours before continuing onward. Any advice for us?

Hi Debbie. That’s going to be a long way to fly with two small kids. That being said the flight time from BKK to Phuket is short so maybe you’ll just want to suck it up and get to where you need to be. At least then once you’ve made the big trek, you’ll finally be able to relax and enjoy your vacation.

This is another option: Although this is not free, it is fast and air conditioned as well. Take the Sky Train to the end – the Phaya Thai station (about 45 baht), take the BTS from Phaya Thai (you don’t have to leave the station area, just walk down the ramp and over to BTS) to Mo Chit.(about 42 baht) Get off at Mo Chit and take the A-1 bus (30 baht) which goes straight to the Don Muang Airport. From Phaya Thai I can get to the airport in 30 minutes. From the airport to Phaya Thai it is about 30 minutes, maybe less.

I will arrive at DMK on 8:15pm and my girlfriend is arriving at BKK at 11:15pm i really need to be there before here its a matter of life and death lol, do you think public bus or taxi will assure me to arrive there within the time?

You should be able to take the free shuttle from DMK to BKK with time to spare. If you’re really in a rush then sure, a taxi or bus would work as well (at a cost)

I am flying to Phuket, Thailand in december (2nd week) from Mumbai (India). To save some money, I am thinking to taking a flight to bangkok which arrives at 4.10 am in BKK international airport. Then move to DMK airport by free shuttle service. From DMK airport i am thinking of taking air asia economy flight to Phuket (HKT).

My queries are – 1. Can i move to DMK from BKK airport without taking on arrival visa and then take it eventually at phuket airport?

2. If the answer to first question is YES, then how much gap should i keep between the two flights? If i am landing in BKK at 4.10 am then what should ideally be the take off time of my flight at DMK airport?

No. Your visa on arrival is given to you at your point of arrival (BKK)

Hey, Ryan, you are a clearly a super-star on this topic! We arrive BKK (ex LGW) @ 14:50 on 16.12 and need to get an internal flight to Udon Thani, returning from there to catch an 11:30 flight (to LHR) ex BKK on 24.12. Please could you let us have a stab at how long we should allow for our connections in each direction, so that our internals are not too tight? We will have hold luggage on all flights. We would be most grateful. Andrew Burr

3-4 hours should be plenty. That being said, immigration lines and baggage check times can be unpredictable.

I’ve checked the comments and I know that you have answered this kind of question a 1000 time… I’m here to make it 1001! :p

So my flight lands in BKK at 14h25, on Dec, 22nd; And I’m planning to catch another flight to phuket from DMK at 17h50. I won’t need visa on arrival (have it from Tunisia before taking off) and will have usual luggage. Do you think that I will have enough time to take the free shuttle, and still be on time for the registration and everything in DMK???

Biiiiiiiiig thanks in advance!! ;)

Hi Ryan, Your directions to transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport to Don Muaeng by the free shuttle were spot on. Had absolutely no problems. A big thank you for your directions.

Excellent. Glad to hear it! Thanks for stopping by and reconfirming that our information is still correct.

Hi Ryan, Thanks for this xclnt post. my arrival time at DMK at 11:00pm from seim Reap . How long it will be clearing immigration and visa on arrival at DMK? Is there any bus service from DMK to Mo Chit area after midnight if the immigration takes more than a hour?? Or we have to take a cab? Thanks in advance

Dear Ryan – many thanks for the information. I need to travel from DMK to BKK but I will not have boarding pass upfront (I can only get my boarding pass when I check in at BKK) can I still take the shuttle bus and pay a fare ? please advise

You don’t necessarily need your boarding pass. An email itinerary for your flight should be sufficient.

I have a flight landing in BKK at 10:05 from Taipei, and I’m trying to catch the ferry to Phi Phi, but it leaves at 15:00. The only flight that would get me there in time is DMK-KBV but it leaves at 11:45, what are you thoughts on making it, considering its not traffic hour and it will be a Wednesday?

Sounds like that might be a little too tight of a window. You just never know how long deplaning and immigration will take.

I’ll arrive in DMK airport on this early March, just want to make sure if the free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK city is still running?Is it still at Level 4, Gate 5 ? Btw, do you have any idea where’s it exactly drop people off in BKK city?

Many thanks!

The shuttle only runs between DMK and BKK airport. It does not drop you off in the city.

Hi Ryan, I will be reaching at Bangkok(BKK) @12.45 AM on 10th March . I have Flight to Krabi from DMK @8.20 AM same day. So, if i plan to take the 5 AM shuttle, i can catch the 8.20 AM flight from DMK, right?

Yes, should be no problem.

Hi, i need some help here. I’ll be flying to Bangkok on 19th March at the Suvarnabhumi Airport and have a connecting flight to Bali from dmk airport. It will be a transit, do i still need to go through immigration? I am from Pakistan and i need a visa to enter Thailand, i have a single visit visa ..i don’t want to use that for transit. Please let me know what is the best option. Thanks!

Of course. Everyone must pass through immigration as soon as you enter the kingdom of Thailand. Your visa will begin as soon as you land in Thailand.

do i need a visa of thailand to go to DMK from BKK??

If you haven’t already secured a visa prior to your arrival, you will receive a 30 day visa (or visa exemption) as soon as you enter Thailand (BKK or DMK). The answer to your question is yes, you do need to pass through immigration in order to transfer between airports.

merci pour tous ces renseignements j arrive à bkk le 28/02 à 11h55 de france et je me rend à koh samui. quels soulagements grâce à tous tes renseignements.je pars plus rassurée un grand merci

Excellent Post! This is super informative. We are flying into BKK at 11:10pm and hopefully can make it through immigration to catch the midnight bus to DMK. Otherwise, we’ll have to catch a cab. Keep up the great work!

Useful info. and easy steps to follow. I also like the feature that allows readers to give updates.

Hi Ryan. Awesome blog. Myself and my boyfriend will be coming into BKK at 1135AM from Canada. We then will have a flight departing from DMK at 410PM. Do you think we would have enough time to make our flight by taking the free shuttle?

Thank you in advance.

Hi Kayla. Yes, you should have no problem getting between BKK and DMK in that time frame as long as the immigration lines aren’t too long.

Hi Ryan, What if i dont have a flight/boarding pass to support? If Im touching down at BKK and has to travel to DMK because my tour guide will pick me up from there, am i still entitled to enjoy the free shuttle service?

Hi Chocchlo. If you do not have a boarding pass they will not let you on the bus. The bus is not free transportation from BKK to DMK. It’s for those who are connecting/laying over and have a flight out of DMK. That being said, you could create a mock/fake itinerary but I can’t say that it’s something I promote/recommend.

Hi Ryan. Thanks for informative blog. This came up while i was looking for options to travel from BKK to DMK for upcoming trip. I will arrive on BKK at 00:45 and my Air Asia flight from DMK is at 7:10. Reading this, i realized, i will have to catch a Taxi to DMK. Can you please guide me about which is the best nad the safest Taxi service in the middle of the night in Bangkok. Thanks

Hey Bhavesh. I highly recommend Uber. It’s fast, easy, safe and affordable.

Is there a time frame in which your boarding pass has to be in to take the shuttle. Our air Asia flight would get in at DMK at 1450 and we have a flight from BKK the next day at 0640. Was wondering if we could still take the shuttle over to BKK or is there too much time between the 2 flights. I booked it this way in case of delays. I didn’t want to miss the flight home.

Hi Marlene. I don’t think you’ll have a problem boarding the free shuttle as long as you have a valid boarding pass for the following day. Best of luck.

Hi, my friends and I will fly to DMK on 9:35am and we will go to take shuttle bus directly to BKK once we pass through immigration. Would it be too rush if we book tickets on 12:15pm from BKK to Samui?

Btw, it’s Wednesday.

Hi Naomi. I would think that might be cutting it a little close. You should always give yourself approximately one hour from when you land to get through immigration and collect your luggage (approx. 10:35AM). Then you’ll need to figure out which bus (Trip#20 or 21) 10:36 or 10:48 from DMK to BKK. The transfer usually takes about 50 minutes but can depend on traffic and the time of day. If you figure another hour (11:35-45), you’ll arrive at BKK with maybe 30 minutes to spare. It just doesn’t seem doable in my opinion. Best of luck with your trip!

Hi, i took the Shuttle Bus today to go Form DMK to BKK, thank you for your hint! By the way the Bus i waiting now Outsider Door #6, but that should not be a Problem if you search for it Outsider Door #5!

Thanks for the update Dominik!

Need to know if a visa would be required for transfer between DMK & BKK?

Well you cannot exit the airport without passing through immigration so the answer is yes you do need a visa (or visa exemption).

Very useful information!! Just have to show the booking details at the counter outside gate 6 and it is a AC bus!!

Thanks for the update Shagun!

Hi! Thks for the great information, i just got one problem. Im arriving at Don Muaeng, and my girlfiend is arriving at Suvarnabhumi from Chile. I need to pick her up to that airport, you think i can use this free altrrnative?? Thanks a lot again!

No. The free airport shuttle between DMK and BKK or vice versa is not meant to be used as free transportation for those wanting to pick someone up from the airport. It’s solely for those who have a valid ticket to fly within the stated time.

I’d be reaching BKK Airport at 12:55 AM. I’ve to catch next flight from DMK airport at 7:45 departure time. Given the odd time I’ll have to travel, please suggest me the most economical and safe way to travel.

Dear Friends, I have 25 kg baggage. Is it allowed in shuttle bus?

I will be reaching at 1am to BKK and planning to go DMK.

Is it allowed to sit on BKK airport from 1am to 5am

I can probably guess the answer but what is the chance of the bus driver dropping me off at a cheap hotel near BKK airport if I’m getting the free bus from DMK? And could anyone recommend a nice, cheap,basic hotel near BKK airport just to spend the one night in? Cheers

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do you think it would be possible to catch a 11:25am flight from DMK when i arrive to BKK at 7:15am. We have children so usually we get to the express way in Immigration

Yeah, you should be okay.

Hey Ryan Love the information on ur blog.Totally cool.

I have been always travelling to BKK and never flown in or out of DMK. But want to try Air Asia flights and save money. Would I be able to use this option to go to Suvarnabhumi airport so that I could take the airport Rail link to the city and do the same thing while I’m flying out of DMK…?

Thanks for the feedback. You can utilize the free shuttle between BKK and DMK or vice versa as long as you have a valid boarding pass/flight itinerary.

Hi, Ryan. This is extremely helpful information. In your opinion, if I have a flight that lands at BKK at 9:45 am, will there be enough time to take the shuttle to DMK and catch a flight that leaves at 1:45 pm? Or should I book a flight that leaves DMK a little later, such as around 3:45 pm?

Hi Serena. Thanks for the feedback. I believe you should have enough time. Just be sure to factor in 2 hours of time. 1 hour to get through immigration and baggage claim and then another hour for the shuttle to DMK. That being said if you wanted to really play it safe the 3:45 would be a better choice.

I will be arriving at Don Muang Airport. I will be staying at one of the hotels in Phaya Thai area. After I arrive DMK, I’d like to take a shuttle bus that goes to BKK so I can take a train (Airport Rail Link) to go to Ratchaprarop.. Will this work for me? Kindly let me know.

Hi John. Do you have a flight out of BKK within 24-48 hours of landing in DMK? If so, then yes. If you do not have a flight and you’re just trying to find a free way to get from DMK to BKK then this will not work for you.

My wife and I will be arriving DMK at 0800 and planning to take the “free” shuttle bus service to BKK and then onwards to the city with the Airport Rail Link. Is it possible? On the other hand, we intend to take the Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai Station to BKK and onwards to DMK by taking the free shuttle bus service. My flight from DMK departs at 1730 …what time would you recommend us to leave Bangkok city for the airport?

The only way this will work is if you have proof of a flight itinerary leaving either airport BKK or DMK within the next 24-48 hours.

Hi Ryan: I am planning to arrive DMK from Siem Reap around 22:45 in December 26th 2016 and then take the free shuttle bus to BKK to catch the flight to Hong Kong at 03:35. Do you think, I have enough time for the transit? Thanks,

Hey Eddie. Yeah, I think you should be able to catch the 11:30 or midnight shuttle from DMK to BKK. You shouldn’t have any issues with traffic at that time of night.

Thanks Ryan. Love the information on your blog, very useful with details. I am still at planning stage, in your opinion, which is the most economical way to travel from Siem Reap to Hong Kong and then catch the 11.15 am flight to USA on the same morning flying in from BKK or DMK. How reliable is Air Asia? Thanks again, Eddie

Thanks Eddie. Appreciate the feedback.

For all travel related logistics you should find this article to be pretty helpful: https://www.pausethemoment.com/how-to-plan-travel-logistics/

In my experience AirAsia is as reliable as any other airline. I’ve never had a bad flight with them.

Good luck on your trip.

Hi Ryan I am planning to arrive at BKK at 8pm and will take another flight from DMK the next morning. So I will have around 12 hours layover. The question is that can I stay inside BKK transit area? Then go outside after in the morning. Or I have to go through immigration counter immediately after landing to go to DMK by shuttle bus? Thank you in advance

You will go through immigration immediately and no you will not be able to stay in the transit area for two reasons. Firstly, you’re not transiting to another flight from BKK. You’re next flight is from DMK. Secondly even if you could stay in the transit area, your luggage would need to be picked up after you pass through immigration. As for staying in the airport after you pass through immigration and baggage claim, read this for more info: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok.htm

Thank you for all the helpful details! We are flying in from Phuket into DMK, but then starting out return to the US out of BKK. Your info on the free shuttle is much appreciated as we just spent 1,800 baht on hotel transfers in Phuket!

No problem at all. Glad to hear I’ve helped you save some baht. ;-)

Hi Ryan I’m travelling to Bangkok next month and from there I’ll get another flight to phuket. 3 questions: 1. If I enter Thailand from BKK and leave from DMK. Would it cause any trouble of entry – exit ports. Is It mandatory to exit Thailand from same entry port? 2. Visa on Arrival facilities are available on which airport – BKK or DMK ? Accordingly I have to get the flights for that airport only as I dont have prior visa. 3. I’m planning to book separate flights from Chennai to bangkok and then Bangkok to Phuket. Would I be allowed to come out of Bangkok airport (DMK or BKK) and then enter the airport again to catch another flight to phuket. 4. How much gap should I provide between two flights. How much time would it take for visa processing , how long would be the queue in general ?

Hey Kabir. Here are the answers to your questions:

1. No. It does not matter where you enter/exit.

2. All international airports would be required to have immigration officers on duty — both BKK and DMK airports offer visa on arrival services.

3. Yes, of course. Once you land and pass through immigration at either BKK or DMK, you’ll have your visa on arrival in hand and you’ll be in transit to the other airport. No issues there.

4. A few hours to be safe because traffic and other road related issues can really make a difference when it comes to transferring between both airports. I cannot tell you how long the visa on arrival process would take as I have no idea how busy the airport will be. That being said, I can’t see it being more than an hour or so at the worst.

Thanks Ryan !! All this information is really helpful.

No problem. Happy to help!

Hi Ryan, thanks for this article, it’s just what i was hoping to find. I’m planning to travel from Pattaya to Phnom Penh and was gonna book flight FD 606 DMK to PNH around the end of September. My idea is to get the airport 389 bus from Pattaya to BKK (120bt ) then use the bkk to dmk shuttle bus. The flight leaves dmk at 15:00, and i’ll check in online beforehand. I’d be interested to know your thoughts on what time you think i should catch the airport 389 service from Patts’ in order to arrive at dmk around 13:00 Thanks in advance…

Hi John — The bus from Pattaya to BKK takes approximately 2 hours and then you need to factor in that the free shuttle between BKK and DMK can take anywhere from 50 minutes to 2 hours depending on time of day and traffic.

The 9AM bus from Pattaya to BKK would have you at BKK by 11AM. Hop on the next free shuttle from BKK (ex. 11:30AM) and you should be in DMK around 1PM. This would be plenty of time to hop on your flight to Phnom Penh.

If you wanted to really push it you could take the 10AM bus from Pattaya to BKK but I’m not sure I would risk it. That’s on you!

You can find the Pattaya to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Schedule here: http://airportpattayabus.com/pattaya-suvarnabhumi-airport-bus-schedule-timetable

Best of luck and enjoy your trip!

Hi, if I want to go to BKK to meet my friend there as we are coming from different countries and airlines from my country only fly to DMK and hers flies to BKK. How much would the shuttle cost? As I read that it is only free if you are transferring to catch another flight. Would appreciate your quick reply! Thanks again!

Hi Adylla. The free shuttle that runs between BKK and DMK and vice versa is only available to those who have connecting flights, not for public transport. Other options when transferring from BKK to DMK or the other way around is to either take advantage of the first ride free promo from Uber by downloading the Uber app and entering my promo code: UBERPTM to get 200 baht off your first ride or taking a taxi.

These directions were so helpful during our trip last week- Thank you SO much!

Thanks for the feedback Kim. Glad to hear that you were able to use the directions to get where you needed to go. Out of curiousity, how long did the transfer between BKK and DMK airport take? I know it varies depending on traffic and time of day. Would love to hear your experience.

Hi Ryan, It will be my first time in Thailand and my question is, if I am flying out of DMK to Phuket and not doing a transfer or anything like that; Is it smarter/better to take a uber/car or go to BKK just to transfer for free to DMK and avoid the taxis etc.

Never mind I just read the answer to my question in the comments thanks!

Ryan, If I am getting in early in the morning, like at 1:30 or 2 AM, would you recommend that I just forget about finding a place to stay at near BKK, and just head straight to the shuttle for DMK? If I get in from the states early in the morning, and have a morning flight from DMK to Ranong,I think it would be better if I just got there in the early morning, and then took the shuttle to make my 5:45 AM flight in DMK.

Hey Colin. Well, the shuttle only runs between 5:00AM and Midnight so taking the shuttle at 1:30-2AM won’t be an option. Even if you wait it out until the morning, you still won’t be able to take advantage of the shuttle as you wouldn’t have enough time to check-in, etc. I would suggest grabbing an Uber and making your way to DMK for your early morning flight.

I will arrived in 11:50PM in BKK, and will fly out to Myanmar from DMK at 7:15AM. Since the free shuttle starts at 5AM it is not wise to risk my flight for this. What I would like to know is about the #555 bus. Does it run 24 hrs? If not, what’s their schedule,been checking online but it gets confusing cause I’ve seeing different timetable. Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Hi Joie. As far as I know, it does not run 24 hours. I found some information on this site: http://www.transitbangkok.com/to_Bangkok_airport.html but it’s not too clear. That site might offer you some more information that could end up being useful.

Hello Rishi,

My Air India flight lands at 7.45 AM at BKK then i have 11.25 AM NOK Air flight from DMK, we have 3 hours and 40 min approx between two flight.

Is that time enough for immigration & traveling?

We are 7 adults and 2 child – family.

Waiting for your valuable reply.

Hi Kiran. Thanks for the comment.

Your stop over time shouldn’t be an issue. The only thing I’ll say is that you have a lot of people in your group so be sure to keep everyone together and the transfer between BKK and DMK should be no problem.

Best of luck with your trip in Thailand!

Hey Ryan thanks for the info mate! With a friend of mine we are going to Thailand. So after Phuket we have a flight to China from BKK and I was kinda worried about how to get there but I found your blog and OMG you are our saviour :) Thanks a lot and if you come to Lanzarote drop us a line ;)

Thanks Bobby. Best of luck and enjoy your trip!

My friends and I will be landing in BKK at 12:30pm and have a flight at 4:25pm from DMK to the south and was wondering if we will have time to transfer and get to our next flight by taking this free shuttle. Based off of rush hour times I think we will be fine. What do you think?

At that time of day you should have enough time. That being said if you are a worrier and want to be sure you get there on time I would take an Uber and you should have no issue at all.

Thank you for this article. The information is really useful for me. I am arriving on BKK at 13:20 and my flight from DMK is at 16:40. Do you think that the shuttle would be an option for me to get there or it would be better to get UBER?

Thanks, Tanya

Hi Tanya. You might want to take an Uber just to be sure!

Thank you, Ryan!

Hi Ryan, I am in Jomtien and will be flying to Saigon from DMK, it would be very convenient for me to get the bus from Jomtien to BKK and then use the transfer bus to DMK, I originally flew into BKK early in November and will have a boarding pass for my flight out of DMK the day I travel, will I be able to use the shuttle, if not is there a normal bus service between the two airports?

Hi Geoff. Yes, you should have no problem boarding the free shuttle from BKK to DMK as long as you have a boarding pass in hand. Best of luck!

Approximately which is the worst hour to go from BKK to DMK? We will land at 06:35 am in BKK (Etihad international flight, hand luggage only), and we will take a flight at 10:00 am from DMK. We would like to tal the free shuttle (2nd floor, gate 3) as there shouldn’t be traffic jam at that time..right?

Thanks in advance, Carlo

Sounds like you shouldn’t have any issues making your flight. Just hop on the first shuttle and you should be all set.

Hi Ryan Il be landing at BKK in d morning around 11am..will be staying somewhere close by and have a next day 8.30 pm flight from DMK..so if I leave from BKK the next day to go to DMK to catch my evening flight ,will I still be able to tk the free shuttle cz my time between both the flights will be more than 24 hours..

I don’t think that should be an issue. Just be sure to have a printed and valid boarding pass/e-ticket in hand to show the staff before boarding the shuttle bus.

Do they make stops between the airport? For example if I have a flight from phuket back to DMK and need to go to Kasetsart University. Will this shuttle stop at the bus stop for me? Thanks!

No. It is direct service between airports.

Ryan, arriving into BKK at 4pm on Saturday, April 15th. Heading to Siem Reap. I’m keen to book an AirAsia flight out of DMK at 8pm that same day. Is there enough time for the transfer? How is traffic from BKK to DMK on Saturday afternoon/evening? This is also the weekend of the water festival. Other option is a $100 usd more expensive flight out of BKK. Thoughts?

Thanks is advance, John.

Hey John. I can’t say for sure but what I will say is that at 4PM you might be risking hitting some traffic in the city. I imagine it might be a bit hectic. The other option would be to take an UBER and if you’re a first time user of Uber you can use my promo code UBERPTM and get a discount on your ride. Sure, it’s not FREE like the shuttle but it is another option. That’s a tough call because $100 USD more is quite expensive. Let me know what you decide to do. Best of luck and enjoy yourself.

We are arriving BKK at 6:10 AM. Our next flight to phuket is at 9:45 AM. We do have checked luggage as well. What do you think is the best possible way to get there in time ? or is that even possible ?

– Ahmed

I wouldn’t risk it personally. That’s too tight of a window IMO. I would suggest trying Uber versus waiting on the next shuttle. Even then, it’s going to be cutting it close depending on how long you’re in line at immigration.

DMK has the cheapest good airport food I have ever seen. Food from about 1 Euro in the food hall. Water for next flight is also cheapish at about 50cents. Do not trust the tap water, ymmv.

I am arriving BKK at 14:50 and will take visa on arrival, claim my checked in baggage. I need to catch another flight from DMK which is scheduled at 19:00 hrs. Do you think, I will be able to make it on time using the free Airport shuttle, keeping in mind the usual evening time traffic en-route?

Yes, you should have no problem.

Hello Ryan, How is the traffic jam at 8 am between these two airports?

I believe 8am traffic in most major cities in the world would be considered pretty hectic. I wouldn’t risk it if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands.

If you look at the bus schedule, from 8 am – 11 am and again from 4 pm – 7 pm, buses run every 12 minutes as opposed to every 30 minutes other times. To me, this would indicate peak traffic times, meaning, temper expectations and assume closer to 2 hours than 45 minutes.

Thanks for your informative blog. I’m flying into bkk Sunday at 11 am and going to catch a flight to Phuket out of DMK. Booking it now, looking for something 2 pm or later. I’ll hit you back with how long the bus ride form BKK to DMK took.

Sounds great. Looking forward to hearing back from you.

Hi Ryan, we arrive in BKK at 1am on March 29th and connecting flight from DMK is 8.25am.

1. Can you please guide if it is a good idea to stay at BKK airport itself post immigration and take the 5am free shuttle to DMK ? This is assuming there is some lounging facility at BKK post immigration. This option will ensure a free ride to DMK.

2. Or should we Uber it up to DMK as soon as we are done with the formalities at BKK and spend the night at DMK ? In this case, is there any lounging facility at DMK and whether they will allow us inside the airport so early before our flight (8.25am from DMK)

Hi SM. Thanks for the comment.

Here’s a great resource for overnight in BKK airport: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok.htm DMK airport: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok-don-muang-airport.htm

See which option suits your needs best ;-)

HI, I will be arriving at DMK airport on April 13th Morning. Can i take the airport shuttle till BMK using the free shuttle service? I will have my luggage with me and do we need to necessarily fly from BKK airport in order to use the shuttle service? Since i will be going to Pattaya from Bangkok my van will be starting from BKK airport and hence i will have to get transferred to BKK. Can somebody share the details?

You can only take advantage of the free shuttle service if you’re flying. It’s simply transportation for those who are transferring between airports to make their next flight. In your case, you will need to either take a taxi, tuk-tuk or Uber (best option) as suggested in the post. Best of luck!

This blog is really helpful. I am landing at BKK at 16.00 and I am catching a flight from DMK at 19.50. I know it’s tight but do you think it’s possible on the free shuttle at the time of day? Obviously it depends on traffic conditions but what are they usually like at this time of day?

Would the shuttle be the fastest way or would you recommend an alternative?

I think it’s possible but remember that there will be lots of traffic at that time of the day. I would recommend checking out Uber as I think the drivers would be able to maneuver their way around the traffic and use alternative routes versus the bus which takes the same direct route each day. You can find a promo code above for Uber if you’re a first time user. Best of luck!

Hi Ryan, My question is somewhat similar to Alice. I am arriving at BKK from International flight from the states at 6:35 pm, I have a flight out of DMK at 9:45 pm on October 19th…given the time of year and time of day, do you think this is doable?

Sounds doable but you’ll need to hustle and hope that your experience at immigration in BKK is quick and painless.

Thank you in advance for this information now i am going to dmk and need to go bkk i hope this still works

Hi Mark. Everything should be up to date. If you find that something has changed, please follow up and let us know in a comment. Thanks!

I will flight to Thailand (BKK Airport) in April-17.

Is this option to travel for free to DMK available?

If you have another flight departing from DMK airport within 24-48 hours after arrival in BKK — YES.

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Hey Ryan, let me start by thanking you for the excellent information and your promptness in communicating with would be travellers. More power to you!

My query – eta @ dmk from Phuket @ 2310hrs Etd from bkk @ 0350hrs

1) Do we have enough time or should I look for another incoming flight from Phuket?

2) Is the last shuttle still @ midnight ?

3) We are a group of 2 adults + 2 children (cabin as well as check in luggage for all). Would 1 uber be able to handle all? Asking as am not aware of the adequacy of the vehicles mostly running as cabs in Bangkok.

Thanks a lot once again for keeping this page alive. ????????

1. Yes as long as you can catch that last bus at 24:00. I’m not sure though. You might need to UBER. 2. Yes. 3. Yes, you can order a larger Uber if necessary. Just be sure to plug in the amount of passengers before requesting the Uber pickup.

Hey Ryan, i wanna go from HKT to BKK Airport. I bring my bike in a large box with me. You think its gonna be a problem?

Ill arrive at HKT Airport around 07.15 am and have to catch the flight at BKK Airport 12.10 am. Is that enough time for the free shuttle service?

Thank you for your information and making a very helpful homepage :)

kind regards Gunnar

Hi Gunnar. I’m sorry you will need to give me some more information in order for me to help you. You’re flying from HKT to BKK?

Hi Ryan & All, Can you plz share with me any updates on the free shuttle bus between the 2 airport?

I’m arriving at DMK and plan to catch a bus from BKK airport to HuaHin. Wonder if there any chance I hop on to the free shuttle and drop at BKK airport? As I am not boarding to any plane at BKK airport. Just need to get to the bus terminal located there. Or any others alternative if the free shuttle not allowing me. Thanks very much.

Hi Alfred. You cannot use the free shuttle as a means of transport between two airports unless you have a valid boarding pass for a flight. Your best bet to get from DMK to BKK is either to use a taxi (metered) or UBER. You can save some money if you use my Uber promo located above. Best of luck!

Appreciated your reply and confirm Ryan. Happy Travel for all out there. ;)

No problem Alfred. Thanks!

Love this, thank you! These are some very useful tips!

Thanks for this article, it’s very thorough.

No problem! ;-)

I’m traveling to thailand this july 2. I will arrive at BKK at 8:40am and planning to take the 11:40am flight to phuket at DMK. I have no baggage to check-in. Is it too risky or will i be able to make it? Thank you in advance!

Do we need transit visa in Thailand for travelling from BKK to DMK ? We are flying to BKK from BOM and then taking a light from DMK to REP

Hi Atul. Please see the following link for more information: http://www.thaiembassy.org/hague/th/services/42921-Transit-through-Thailand.html

Better yet, it might be worth sending the Thai Embassy an email just to be sure.

Hi Ryan Gulfair Eta @ BKK 09.30 am. Phuket airasia flight from DMK @ 11.40 am. Is there enough time to opt free shuttle or use Taxi ? We are 2 Adult + 2 Child with check in baggage. If the above transit time is not enough, shall I change phuket flight to 13.15 pm prior travelling, or can this be done at DMK check in counter if i miss 11.40 am flight ? Please advise.

Hi Sbs. WOW. That is going to be very tight no matter how you look at it (shuttle vs taxi). I hope you don’t hit any big lines at immigration because if you do you will be in trouble. In this specific case I would say Uber/Taxi because you need something immediately and you have no time to waste sitting around waiting for the next available shuttle.

If you miss your flight, it’s on you. You’ll have to speak with the airline regarding your concerns. Best of luck!

Thanks Ryan. For safe side, I changed my Phucket flight to 01:15 pm. Took free shuttle and reached DMK @ 11.45 am. Everything went well and we enjoyed the trip.

Glad to hear it! Thanks for following up.

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Thanks! This was super helpful. We took the 6.30am bus (found it easily from your instructions), it took 1hr 15mins with a bit of traffic. Plenty of time for bag drop etc for 10am flight. Perfect!

Thanks for following up Emma! Glad to hear the free shuttle worked out well for you.

Hi Ryan, I am reaching at BKK airport at 1:00 am and have flight at 7:00 am from DMK airport. If you can help me with which will be convenient and safe way for the transport?

Thank you in advance

Hi Ryan, Thank you for this article, very helpful! We are arriving to BKK at 9:00 am on Thursday, and wondering if we can catch a flight from DMK at 13:30? both of the flights are international, and we have a cabin baggage.. what do you think? how is the traffic at this time of the day? Thanks!

Hi Gil — shouldn’t be an issue but you never know with Bangkok traffic.

I would be arriving at DMK airport from there I need to reach Swarnaboomi BKK airport , the purpose is to meet our friends. I do not need to take any flight from BKK airport.

My query is, Need I carry any flight tickets that acknowledge I will take a flight from BKK airport. Please help. I want to use the free shuttle.

Thanks for your informative and useful article.

No, you cannot use the free shuttle as free transportation.

Hi Ryan, If I’ll arrive at BKK at 18:05 and want to take a flight from DMK at 22, do you think that would work with the transfer??

Could work depending on how fast you get through immigration and on to the bus. It’s hard to say, really.

Hi Ryan, First up.. amazing blog. Truly a helping one. I just have two quick questions if you could help me please? I was planning to travel back home from Krabi via BKK.

1. The bus timing image posted on the blog shows a bus departing every 12 minutes however, some comments suggests its every 20 mins and some say its every hour basis. Please could you confirm the latest bus frequency as of now (DMK to BKK).

2. I was planning to take the first flight from Krabi to DMK (AirAsia) on a Thursday morning which will arrive in DMK @ 9:05AM. I have another international flight to catch (back home) from BKK airport at 11:50AM. Will I make it in time if I use the FREE BUS service considering the latest I need to checkin to an international flight? Will I miss the 9AM bus?

Thanks Jubz. The schedule you see here is correct as far as I know. No, I wouldn’t risk that, personally.

First off, thank you so much for putting a site like this together. All of us greatly appreciate your responses and knowledge from getting back and forth from BKK and DMK. It looks like it’s helped many travelers, so thank you!!

My question is, we arrive at BKK at 10:30pm. We’ll have enough time to go through immigration and catch the last bus at midnight to DMK, correct? Our flight from DMK isn’t until 8:30am.

Thanks again!

Hey Chris. I think you should have enough time but you’ll need to hustle. Hopefully you don’t get caught in any lines at immigration. Otherwise I think you’ll be alright. Best of luck

Hi Ryan, Can I know what is required to board the free shuttle? I am reaching DMK on a Friday and my return flight is on Sunday through BKK, however, can I still take the free shuttle when I arrive on Friday to BKK? I need to show them my flight ticket and passport as well for the shuttle right?

If your flight departs from either BKK or DMK you can use the free shuttle to transit in between airports for free. If you’re just using it to pass between airports you will not be allowed to board.

Thank you very much for your information. I am arriving at BKK airport at 2:30pm and I have a flight at DMK at 07am next day. Can I use the free Shuttle Just showing my flight ticket for the next day?

Yes, absolutely. You should be all set. Best of luck.

Hi Flying from Cambodia (REP) on Friday morning 18th May 2018 to stay in Bangkok overnight for a flight Saturday 19 May at 11.40am. The free shuttle bus timetable is blue and red, ARE THE BLUE TIMES QUICKER TRANSFERS (offpeak e.g 11.30-16.00) so we can get to Bangkok, drop our bags and do a bit of sightseeing Friday. Thanks

Unfortunately, I do not know what the color coding is about at this time. I will try to find this out and update the article with the info.

Hi Ryan just got this weekend from Thailand, and we used the free shuttle thanks to your site! Be weary, I didn’t have reception when we first landed at BKK, so we didn’t have your directions on hand and ended up with wrong information and paying 750 baht to get from bkk to dmk!!! Luckily I screenshot your directions for our return from dmk to bkk :) just wanted to confirm that as of October 28, 2017, the AOT shuttle can be found outside of door six at dmk. Not sure how to attach pictures, but I did take a couple if you’d like to post for your viewers!

Thanks for the feedback, Nicole! Door 6 — noted! Thank you.

Hey, I am reaching BKK at 5:05 AM, and I have booked a 8:10 AM flight from DMK. I don’t think I should wait for the Free Airport Shuttle. Just wanted to know, how long will immigration take (given that I have a visa). Also, I’ll be landing on the 4th Floor Thai Airways Terminal at BKK, which floor and which gate will be the closest and easiest to get an instant cab, I will not be having internet access, so Uber is not an option. How long will the cab take at those hours? Should I reschedule the DMK flight?

No. I wouldn’t risk it. I have no idea how long immigration will take. Unfortunately, nobody will be able to tell you how long it should take. You can use the free Wi-Fi to order your Uber and meet at the designated door.

Hi Ryan, I will be arriving at BKK airport 12:50AM. I have to catch next flight from DMK at 7:45 AM. Air asia DMK to Phuket. Is 5:00 Am shuttle suitable to catch the flight as in Flight tickets It is mentioned (Check-in Time : Check-in desks will close 2 hours before departure.) and approx 50 min as read above it takes when no traffic from BKK to DMK. if i reach at 6:00 AM approx at DMK airport, Airport authorities wont allow me to board the flight??

No. I wouldn’t risk it.

Hi Ryan, your article is really help. Same with Mona, I would be arriving at DMK airport and then I have to go to BKK to take a bus to Hua Hin. If I can’t take the free bus, then can you recommend me a bus from DMK to BKK? (where i have to go, and how much cost i have to pay). It would be great if you recommend the cheapest one haha. Thanks!

Hi Sekar — I would recommend you use Uber.

This blog post is amazing! Thank you for your help and sharing this info. My sister and I are landing in BKK @ 1615 and were thinking of going straight to Phuket and catch their last flight out of DMK @ 2200…do you think we will be able to make that flight with rush hour traffic in mind and customs? thank you!! Also, Happy Thanksgiving.

Hey Suz — Yeah you should have absolutely no problem with getting to DMK. Best of luck and enjoy your trip! Happy Thanksgiving to you, too.

Hello ! I have a question. If we arrive to BKK airport at 06:40, and want to catch a flight from DKK at 10:40, it’s possible with free bus ? And if we only go from BKK to DKK airport with tickets printed, and after that we leave the Thailand, we need to pay the visa 50$ for each person ? They will consider a international transfer or we need to pay for visa for Thailand ?

Thanks a lot ! Cosmin

Might be tough if you run into traffic at that time of the morning. You just never know with Bangkok traffic. Unfortunately, I cannot provide advice in regards to visas. Best of luck, Cosmin!

Thank you so much for this information! I’m really starting to look forward to my trip to Thailand in less than two weeks as it’s all starting to really come together! Just a quick question: At the end of my trip, I’ll be arriving into DMK around 1.30am on Friday January 5th, and my flight out of BBK is around 8.30am. I’ll have no luggage to check…if I take the bus at 5am, will this be enough time to get my flight? Or should I find another way of getting there earlier? Thanks! :)

If you catch the 5am you should be fine. Hopefully you won’t hit too much traffic at that hour.

I’ll arrive Dec 16 7pm at DMK and fly out of BKK on Dec 19 8am. Can I take the shuttle going to BKK airport?

I believe your flight needs to be within a 24 hour window but if you stay near DMK and then head back to DMK on the 19th and take the shuttle from there you should be fine.

Your best bet is to double check with the staff at DMK when you land on the 16th.

Thank you for creating such an awesome and helpful page! I was wondering if you could help me out. I am flying from Northern Thailand to DMK and my flight lands at 10:35AM on a thursday (January 4th). My international flight back home takes off from BKK at 2:35PM. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle service and will my printed itinerary count as a boarding pass for the shuttle?

Hi Joy. Sorry for my late response. Just seeing this now. I think since it’s mid-day you should be okay. Just be sure to hop on the next bus as soon as you land and you should be okay. Yes, the printed itinerary for your next flight will be sufficient.

This was perfect! Just made it from bkk. Great directions and very easy! Thanks!!!!

Thanks for the feedback. Please share it with your family and friends traveling to Bangkok ;-)

Thank you for the solid transport guide! I learned about this option from your page. Would add one comment which is that when trying to get to the 2nd floor of BKK Airport from above you might encounter security that needs flight information, but this route isn’t necessary.. A lady who worked there actually walked me a different route to escalators that had no security, which led to the exits and door 3 like you wrote about.

Thanks for the tips, Sam! Glad to have been able to help you.

Hello, thanks a lot for the awesome info! Do you think it is still valid nowadays? I hope so. I also wanted to ask your opinion please :) I am scheduled to arrive at 4 am in BKK. What is the fastest way to get to DMK? Do you think this shuttle is one of the fastest options, or is there faster?

Your help would be VERY much appreciated :)

Hi Dina. Yes, this is still valid and up to date. If your arrival is at 4AM you should be able to take the 5AM bus. If not, the next one is at 5:30AM. Otherwise, you could always take an Uber. Best of luck.

Hi, I am reaching BKK 2:45 am and I have to catch a 6:40 am flight to krabi from DMK. Do you think if I take the first bus of 5am from BKK then I will be able to make this flight? I have an option of taking 7:45am flight from DMK as well. Do you think I should prefer that instead?

No. I wouldn’t risk taking the bus at 5am. It’s highly unlikely you’ll make it. Take an Uber at 2:45 and wait it out.

Hi Ryan! Thanks for the helpful information but I have a question. I’m flying back to my country from BKK on April, 15th (Songkran) at 1:30 am. I will be coming from Krabi, so I will need to transfer from DMK to BKK the day before (April, 14th). So, of I get there (DMK) around 7pm, would it be enough time to get to BKK using the free shuttle or taxi? Do you know if the shuttle service is affected by the holiday? thank you very much!

You should have no problem at all at that time. Best of luck.

Hi Ryan, We definetly have to catch a international flight on the 26.3.2018 at 9.30am at bkk. Before that we are on Bali and have the following options to fly from Denpansar to DMK (international): 1) 26.3.18 that lands at 04:33am in DMK 2) 25.3.18 that lands at 4:50am in DMK (but is more expensive) Do you think the first one is ok, or is it to risky because of delays etc.? Kind regards Johannes und Carolin

Earlier the better my friends. Best of luck!

Hi there, I will be BKK at 2 pm and my flight to krabi at DMk is 8 pm. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle service and whats the time of shuttle car ? is there any risk of taking shuttle car or I should go by taxi for avoiding risk.

Yeah, I believe so. Hop on the first shuttle bus after arriving in BKK and you should be fine.

Good site and useful info!

Short question: Do the staff of the shuttle bus only accept printed tickets or is a ticket confirmation (with booking number and date) on a camera or telephone also ok?

I believe showing your departure confirmation via your smartphone is sufficient enough.

Can i use the Free Transfer from DMK to BKK even though i dont have a flight to catch at BKK. (as would be getting in DMK and need to receive a friend from BKK) Or do i need to show my flight details before i board on the Bus.

No. The shuttle is not for public use unless you have a flight.

Arriving bkk 4.10 pm hoping to catch a flight dmk 8.00pm possible with bus or is that rush hour and I be better off holing Uber ? By the way great site job well done thank youpeter

Might be tough due to traffic. I wouldn’t risk it.

Great article. The location and times have not changed as of March 27, 2018

I showed my boarding pass on the airasia app and they stamped my hand to confirm I was good to go.

Thanks for the update, Yang! Appreciate it.

thanks Ryran for the information.

Same as Yang Chen. I took the bus 2018/04/01 2200.

Thank you for this! It’s very helpful. Just a question, are the public buses available throughout the day (or only at certain times of the day)? Thank you for your response!

You can check out the full schedule in the photo above.

Hi, I’m landing at DMK airport and after few days i will travelling out from BKK airport so will they allow me to use the free shuttle bus service even though i did not land at DMK airport the very same day?

Hi! We are so appreciative of people like you who share helpful travel tips. We have a few questions that’d we could use your feedback on!

We will be traveling to thailand for the our honeymoon, and we’re flying into to BKK from the US. We won’t arive until 10:30 pm. How long should we expect to wait in customs?

How early do you suggest we arrive to the DMK airport for domestic flights (HKT)? How early should we be there to checkin for International flights from BKK? Thank you!

Hi. Im reaching BKK at 1420 and my next flight is from DMK at 1830. Will the shuttle work for me or would it be better to take a taxi>

Is your flight to BKK international? If so, you’ll want to take into account that immigration can take a little while depending on how many flights are arriving at that time. You should have enough time but worst case scenario you can always use UBER.

arriving to BKK at 11:10am…. to catch a connecting flight at DMK, should i get the 15:45 connecting flight or 18:10 to Chiang Mai

thanks. great informative site.

Hey Ryan! This is really helpful information. I have a question – I’ll be landing in BKK before midnight and have an 11 am DMK departure the next day. I’ll have a good amount of luggage as I’m moving for work. Should I stay around BKK and relax and a lounge and uber early the next day or do you think it’s better to go straight to DMK? Should the shuttle be a consideration at all?

Hi Ryan, great information. Thank you for this. I am looking at an international flight from the US arriving in Bangkok at at 1:25 p.m. I am waiting to spend the night in Bangkok and then fly from DMK to Luang Prabang. Would I still be allowed to use the free shuttle. These are two different itineraries with separate confirmation numbers.

Can anyone let me know how long it would take to get from the Bangkok cruise terminal to the DMK airport for a flight to Angkor Wat? I will be landing circa 8:00 a.m. and need to buy an air ticket in advance since this route is heavily booked. Expected cost would also help. I should add that time is of greater essence than money…

Hello ryan i m going to bkk airport on 19th july my arrival there is 20:55..i m getting cheap flights from dmk to Phuket… please advise will i able to catch a flight from dmk to Phuket i also have to apply my on arrival visa from bkk…and please also tell me..is there bus service available there so early in the morning… Please reply asap… Thanks Vipin India

Hi Vipin. I don’t know when your flight from DMK to Phuket is so I cannot advise you at this time.

Hi All, we are a group of 10 friends and would be landing DMK at 3.05pm and catch a flight at svarnabhumi at 8pm. How should we travel and is this much time sufficient or we should get our flights rescheduled? Please help.

You will have plenty of time. Best of luck!

We arrive at 18:25 to BKK. We want to head over to DMK because we have a flight the next morning. Will we be eligible for the free shuttle bus? Thank you

Yes. Should be no problem at all just be sure to present your boarding pass.

Hii Ryan I m arriving to BKK at 01:05 AM and want to catch flight for Phuket from DMK at 06:00 AM. Please suggest How to reach DMK on time.

You can either choose to grab an official taxi (metered) from the taxi rank or download the Grab Taxi app and order a Grab. Getting there at that hour should be no problem at all.

Hello, My husband and I are taking a trip to Thiland December. We land at DMK, coming from Phuket, at 0730. Our flight home is from BKK at 1330. Would this be enough time to catch the Free Shuttle between the 2 airports? Thanks. Karissa

Yes. You should have enough time to catch the shuttle.

Hi, My timing is tighter than Karissa’s! We arrive at DMK at 10;45PM and fly out of BKK at 1AM. Shuttle will not work? How much is the GRAB taxi, and would it be enough time? Thanks- you are very helpful !!! Bob Cheney

No, I wouldn’t risk the shuttle.

For the taxi estimate, try this: https://www.taxifarefinder.com/main.php?city=GrabCar-Economy-Bangkok-Thailand&lang=en

I’m heading into BKK this Friday night, arriving a little after midnight. The last bus leaves at midnight and the first bus leaves at 5:00 am. I’m trying to see if I should just stay there in the airport, not sure if that’s allowed and then head out on the first flight to DMK? Or, if I leave the airport, get a room for the night, how do I get to the free shuttle coming back into the airport?

Just used this today! Thanks so much!

Hello Ryan, I will arrive in DMK from Tokyo at 13.50, then I’ll go to BKK to catch a plane to Koh Samui. Should be enough time to take the shuttle instead of the taxi, right? Thanks!

Well, what time is your Samui flight at?

Will we need to show boarding passes to get on the shuttle from DMK going to BKK? Well be coming back from Krabi and staying in Bangkok for a few more days before heading home.

Yes, you will.

Hi… coming to Thailand in September.. flight landing at 8am and flight out to Phuket from dmk at 10.40. Is that ok?

Two hours and 40 mins between flights is not enough.

Hi, is it possible for me to hop on the shuttle bus to BKK from DMK even if i have no next flight to catch? Because my flight arrives at DMK and would like to meet with my family in BKK for the trip. Do i need to pay extra for that?

No. This shuttle can only be used for normal transportation between the airports. You must have a boarding pass.

Hi, just wondering if you know if this free bus shuttle service is still active as of now and even in September?

Yes, of course! This guide is constantly updated. Thank you!

Hi there we are arriving into DMK airport on the 30th Dec at 09:05 which is a Sunday our departing international flight leaves at 13:45 from BKK and I think check in is about 2hours prior departure .Do you think the free bus service will work for us or a alternative transport

At that time you should be alright but don’t waste ANY time.

Dear Ryan, I will arrive BKK at 4 am and my next flight depart from DMK at 7h10 am? could I take the fist shuttlebus at 5 am from BKK and reach DMK at 6am, then enough time for check-in/immigration (only hand bag) at DMK for Thai Lion air flight at 7h10. Many thanks for your advice.

That’s cutting it a little tight. I wouldn’t risk it.

Hi Ryan – Thank you very much for putting all information altogether and keeping this page up-to date. I am just wondering how much we can rely on this free shuttle service between the two airports? What is the frequency of buses running from BKK to DMK? I will arrive at BKK Airport on November 21 (Wednesday) at 9 am and my next flight to Phuket is at 12:45 PM from DMK airport on the same day? Do you think I will be able to catch my flight if I take this shuttle service? Just FYI, I already got the VISA.

hi plane departs DMK for Mae Sot on Sat 29/12/18 at 9-40am. Does free transport between airports start early enough for us to use this option? If so what time would be best? We return from Mae Sot at 11-30am Tuesday 1st Jan 2019 & have flight from BKK leaving at 3.50pm. Is there enough time to travel to meet our connecting flight? Steve

Hi Ryan, is it possible to ride the free bus to BKK if your just going to pick someone up? Me and my partner will be meeting in Bangkok. I will be arriving at DMK and she will be at BKK. Thanks in advance.

Hi Ryan… We will be arriving DMK airport at 7:20 PM and from BKK we have another flight at 10:40 PM. Will this work..??

I’m not sure I’d risk that timing.

Hi Ryan! We have a problem with choosing a right flight. We will arrive at BKK at 9.35 (a.m) on Friday. We are thinking about flight from DMK at 13.30 (1.30 p.m). Is there any chance to be on time using the free shuttle bus? There is also a flight from DMK at ~20.00 (8.00 p.m), but we prefer to be on the spot as soon as possible.

Best regards!

First flight should be OK but just remember it all depends on how much time it takes to get through immigration, if your flight is on-time, baggage, etc.

Very helpful Ryan I read through a lot of questions and I will proceed as per your advice. Its odd that all this information you have is not in the airport website .So congratulations to you.

Thanks Steve!

This website is great! Thank you =) question regarding my trip: HOLIDAY SEASON December 30th..I am landing at BKK at 9.50 AM and my flight is at DMK at 2.40PM do you think I have enough time for transfer using the shuttle?

Sorry for the late response. Hope you made it on time!

Hi Plz help us in transfer from DMK to BKK. We are landing from phuket to DMK at 1.30 Am. Our next flight from BKK airport is at 8.30 Am for India. Plz suggest a good way to reach on time at BKK airport. How much time before we should reach. THANKS.

I would recommend using a Grab taxi because the first shuttle doesn’t run until 5AM.

Hi Ryan, thank you for the blog and answering everyone. My two boys and I have a flight from DMK to Buri Ram leaving at 2pm. When would be the best time to leave BKK with the shuttle bus to get to DMK in time? I’m asking mainly to avoid rush hour. Also, on my return, my flight leaves BKK at 9:45pm and I was planning on leaving Buri Ram at 3pm, which will get me to DMK at 4pm. Will that be enough time to get me to BKK and checked in by 9:45pm at BKK for my international flight? Or should I leave Buri Ram with the morning flight?

Hi Ruby — Earlier the better just in case of traffic along the way. Maybe 10AM? On the way back, I wouldn’t be so sure it will only take 1 hour (3-4pm). Again, the earlier the better.

Hi, I will be arriving at DMK on 3 Dec at 5.40 HRS. I am planning to catch a connecting flight from BKK to USM at 8.25 HRS. The gate closes at around 7.45 HRS in BKK. So, ideally I have 2 hrs 25 min in hand from landing at DMK to reaching the gates at BKK.

Is it a safe timing in the morning? I will be travelling for the first time.

Seems a little too tight of a schedule for my liking. I wouldn’t risk it.

Awsome! We will be there tomorrow and i let you kno guys how this works…

Hi! I’m arriving at BKK on February 21, 2019 a little after midnight. My flight at DMK is at 13:50 to Vientiane. Do you know if the shuttle operates 24hrs? Will that be enough time to get to DMK? Thank you!

The shuttle does NOT operate 24 hours. You can find the schedule above! ;-)

Thanks Ryan. Your info is still very much valid! (thumbs-up) Just took the shuttle. They rubber stamp the passengers for whatever reason.

Will arrive at Don Muang Airport by air Asia and stay here for 2 nights before catching my next flight to Bhutan, my outbound flight is at 6am and prefer to stay near Survanabumi airport for easy transfer. Do I entitle to the free shuttle bus from Don muang airport to Survanabumi airport?

I believe the flight needs to be within 24 hours but you could always walk out to the bus to ask to be sure.

Hi I want to go from DMK to BKK to catch the bus from BKK to Pattaya. I will not have an airline ticket. Can I take the shuttle?

thanks for the info, it will save me a night ( or long wait in the airport) when going from hkt/dmg and leaving from bkk

do I have to have a connecting flight at BKK to be able to take the shuttle bus?

Hi Ryan, firstly thank you for these details, its extremely helpful! I just wanted to check something, and apologies it’s probably really obvious from your info above, but we arrive into BKK airport on Saturday afternoon 8th Dec, around 1.30pm from London and we will then need to catch another flight from DMK at 8.30pm takeoff. Now, thats 7 hours to go through immigration, get across the city yo DMK and check in on time for our flight (we are flying to Phnom Penh). Does this sound reasonable? I know you say it can take up to 2 hours to cross the city, Im a little nervous of crossing the city on a Saturday and just wanted to get some re-assurance, albeit I know you cant tell for sure! Any the buses still go from the same directions above and every 30 mins? Many thanks, much appreciated. Declan

You shouldn’t have any issues at all. Yes, the schedule remains the same.

Hi Ryan. I need your advise please. My flight from siem reap arrives in DMK airport at 17:50pm. My flight home is departing from BKK at 21:50pm. I know that with the bus shuttle its a bit risky… But If I take a taxi from DMK you think I can manage the time?

You should be alright. Find out how long the shuttle will take to arrive and then make a decision on whether it’s better to just jump in a Grab taxi instead of waiting for the shuttle to arrive.

Hey. I’m arriving at DMK, next flight is from BKK. Do I need Thailand visa to change airports? Indian citizen btw.

Yes, you do need to pass through immigration in order to get to the shuttle.

Thanks for your article!

It took us 1h10 for out of the plane of bkk to security control done in dmk this morning. We were stressed because we had only 3hours but we have time for lunch finally.

Conditions: Landing at 10:30 Bus after landing to terminal 10min Walking and passing immigration 5min (lucky) Finding the bus 5min Bus started just we went in No trafic jam, 5 min at each toll so about 45 min Going to terminal 2 and security 5 min

We may have had great conditions but it can helps calculating for others!

Thanks so much for sharing. This is incredibly helpful information and I’m sure it will help a lot of people arriving in BKK/DMK. You sure got lucky at immigration! Honestly, your whole experience was as streamlined as it gets. Nice work!

Hey! Thanks for this awesome information. I’ll be over there in March and am hoping this is still how it will works at that time! Question– if my flight is arriving at BKK at 7am, what’s the earliest you’d recommend booking a flight out of DMK? Thanks a bunch!

Thanks for the feedback. Everything should be working the same as this info has been the same for years now. I would say no earlier than 11am-noon as you need to factor in immigration, baggage, the transfer to DMK, etc.

Somehow I found ThaiViet Airlines, but lost the contact. Found VietJetAir. Seems to be the same one. What do you know about it? It shows flying form BKK to Phuket.

Unfortunately, I don’t know much about this airline that you’re mentioning. Sorry!

Thank you for this! You saved my wife and I 550 Baht. It was easy to get to as you stated.

Thanks for the feedback.

Hey there:) I have question and hope somebody will be able to help me. We arrive Bangkok suvarnabhumi on january 27th , 8.20 a.m + 1 hour. I’m wondering if we can risk and buy a next flight from the same airport , 10.20 a.m. Is that enough time to go through emigration, take luggage and do next check-in?

Thank you for your help and suggestions

No way. Too tight. Even if you’re flying from the same airport, you’ll still be counting on your flight landing on time, getting through immigration, picking up your baggage, exiting and rechecking your baggage with your airline and passing back through security. That’s a lot to worry about. Best of luck.

Hi, As part of tourism I’m planning to visit Bangkok with Krabi/Phuket with my family. Can you please help me to know what are the good budget hotel (with excellent all round facilities)

Im going to BKK in Nov, I fly in Nov 16th and i have a flight in DMK the next morning at 6am? you think i could take the shuttle to DMK when i land on the 16th?

Yes, you will just need to show your boarding pass so be sure to download it electronically beforehand and/or print it out.

Hello Ryan I wonder if you have some info for a bus ride from bkk to pattaya and their schedule as well as the fare please? Would appreciate it very much, you have a good day.

Please find the information here: https://airportpattayabus.com/

Hi, thanks for the great info! Our flight with AirAsia lands in DMK at 11:20 am on a Sunday from Vietnam. We need to transfer from DMK to BKK for our flight to Koh Samui. we have different options but we are going to book a 3:15 pm flight from BKK. Do you think almost 4 hours gives us enough time to pick up our baggage, get through customs and immigration and transfer to BKK on time?

Hey Matt — You should have enough time although if your flight is late you’ll be cutting it close. Best of luck!

Hi there, took from bkk airport to dmk airport at 3pm . Took 55 mins but it’s starting to jam along the way

Thanks for the feedback!

This may be a very convoluted a complicated question, but I thought maybe you were the guy to ask. I will be traveling to BKK but I have a friend who is traveling into DMK. Bangkok is our final destination airport wise on this trip. He has never flown before nor does he know how to travel. I am trying my best to have him meet me at at BKK when I arrive considering he will be arriving hours before me. Is it possible for him to take the free shuttle over to BKK to meet me over there even though he doesn’t have any real need to be at that airport? Will they have restrictions on who can take the free shuttle if they are not actually taking a flight out of there?

I know… an odd question but I am looking for answers.

Hi there. Unfortunately, no. He will not be able to use the free shuttle without a proper boarding pass.

Thanks for this page…..my son will be travelling in July and this will be most helpful. Especially on a very low budget

Glad to hear it. Thanks!

hope you will be fine .Me want to know about some information if me come in bkk airport and some day stay and then go to bali and back to DMK Airport and me have a single entry visa . can me travel again to BKK from my county without any disturbance.

After reading this article, I tried and traveled free of cost from bkk to dmk. Thank you for this post

Public transport in Thailand is pot luck at best. I have tried many times. (Family in Bangkok & Ubon). Get a taxi, it’s simpler, quicker, easier, safer and it costs about £10 max.

I have question and hope somebody will be able to help me. Take my flight from Mumbai at 1.45 AM and arrive Bangkok suvarnabhumi on November 1st , 2019, 7.40 a.m + 1 hour (take visa on arrival). I’m wondering if we can risk and buy a next flight from DMK airport , 11.20 a.m. to Phuket.

Is that enough time to go through emigration, take luggage and do next check-in?

Hello Ryan I have flight from BKK airport at 15:15 but i have another flight to arrive on DMK at 09:30 AM. Can i reach on time on BKK airport By using Shuttle Bus or I Choose any another Option? Suggest me?

Actually I am travelling to BKK, but I have to go DMK after all. can I take this advantage as I have no flight from DMK only I am landing in BKK And returning back again from BKK after spending few days?

Hi I land at bbk from out of Thailand at 9:45. And I have a flight from dmk at 12:40. What do you think. Is an Uber or taxi arrives faster than the shuttle? Thank you

I would recommend ordering a Grab taxi unless the bus is waiting to leave as you exit the airport.

I understand that one has to “reserve” the spot on the free shuttle bus between DMK and BKK- I can ‘t find the link to do that! Can you help? Thanks TJ

Hi, this thread still seems active after so many years, so I’m trying my luck for some assurance also :) My AirAsia flight from Yangon arrives at Don Mueang 10.15 am, then my next Philippine Airlines flight depart from BKK at 1.30 pm. Do you think the time is enough to transfer between the two airports? Most likely I won’t have any check-in luggage to wait for.

Thanks for the tips! Did exactly what you said and it was easy. Got on the shuttle bus and left BKK @ 11:20am, arrived DMK @ 12:20pm. This really helped to save some $$$. Our flt is @ 4pm so we still have alot of time to wake around.

hey friends ,

I need some information and help,

i will reach to Bangkok BKK airport on 15th of April , then from BKK i need to go to PHUKET. I found that , Flights from BKK to PHUKET are costly than DMK to PHUKET.

I want to ask that , how i can transfer from BKK to DMK , and is the transportation services are available on 15th of APRIL , because i heard that there is a SONGKRAN festival in BANGKOK. and generally how much time taken to travel from BKK to DMK.?

another problem i found that , whatever the flights are there from DMK to PHUKET , are not allowing CHECK-IN BAGGAGE, if i have a CHECK-IN baggage , how i get a transportation from BANGKOK to PHUKET?

help me with some solution.

My flight from from Vietnam lands in DMK at 22:45 and i need to catch my international flight at BKK airport at 5:45 AM on next day. I want to book a hotel near BKK airport to rest. Do i need to complete visa on arrival in DMK? Please suggest me the best way.

Hey Harsh. Yeah, you will need to get your visa on arrival in order to stay the night in Bangkok. Here are some great accommodation options near the DMK Airport that you should consider: https://airbnb.pvxt.net/kNBWV

Are Thai Lion flights delayed pretty often? Any more often than Nok Air or Air Asia flights? Saw some pretty bad reviews of Thai Lion Air online and I was wondering what your experience with them is. I don’t care about comfort and I’m not checking bags, just wondering what the chances of a delay are…

DETAILS: My flight lands in BKK at 9:35 AM and I’m trying to land in Surat Thani (URT) early enough to catch the last bus-ferry to my next destination (last bus->ferry leaves FROM THE AIRPORT at 4:10 pm). Debating between a Thai Lion flight DMK->URT 2:00 PM-3:10 PM, or a Nok Air flight DMK->URT 12:40 PM-1:50 PM.

We’re more likely to catch the later flight, but some of the Thai Lion reviews said that their airline is essentially a checked baggage scam and that frustrated customers/poor baggage loading procedures caused delays. Wondering what your thoughts were and if you’ve flown with Thai Lion before. Thanks.

My friend and i are planning a trip to Thailand in july. We are also visiting Singapore. A flight back to DMK from Singapore leaves at 8:30pm arrives at 10:05pm. Our flight from BKK to NY leaves at 1am. Would you suggest taking a grab taxi from DMK to BKK? would we make it in time by atleast midnight to check in and etc?

Cool Ryan Thanks. Am traveling from Holland to Bangkok and true DMK to Myanmar. I will do exactly how you wrote. hahah I will make sure to have with me and walk exactly as indicated. Thanks a lot for sharing.

We are landing to DMK Since it is cheaper than BKK. We are planning to stay in Pratunam. So can we use the free shuttle bus to reach BKK and then to Pratunam by BTS?

Not unless you have a valid flight/boarding pass for the next day to fly from BKK.

Thanks Mr Ryan

10 May 2019

My wife is landing at DMK while my plane is landing in BKK and ahead by at least 3 hours , can I use the free shuttle to travel to DMK to meet my wife?

Your reply on this query is highly appreciated.

Hi Ronald. If you are flying into BKK and transferring to DMK to hop on another flight, then YES. If not, then no. Unfortunately, the shuttle can only be used by those who have a valid boarding pass/ticket for a flight out of either DMK or BKK. This shuttle is simply dedicated to transferring passengers from one airport to another. This is NOT a free ride to either airport. Best of luck and have a great trip.

Sir, my flight 2am at bbk airport , that time no any shuttle bus, what I do sir, for go DMk, for my connecting flight

You should order a GRAB Taxi from the airport.

Hi Ryan I want to know that my flight is on 7 December and I m landing bkk airport on 7 December and my next flight is on 8 December from dmk …so I can get free shuttle service with valid tickets? Thank you

I’m just back from travelling to Thailand and as my final destination flight was to Roi Et airport I used the free shuttle bus service between BKK and DMK airports in Bangkok. It was simple and just as you have described here and I am grateful for having this information before I travelled. Only difference is that now that at both BKK and DMK airports you approach the AOT desk at the respective Gate 3 at BKK and Gate 6 at DMK where the staff check your boarding pass (paper or e-boarding pass) and stamp the back of your hand. Porters beside the bus check your hand and will even assist you with putting your case on board. I was lucky as I avoided the rush hours period and had a painless free trip both ways. Thanks for posting this valuable money saving advice. NB anyone planning to travel to Roi Et airport as I did then there are only 3 flights per day between DMK and Roi Et so plan your trip to suit and allow time for the bus depending on rush hours traffic. Flights to Roi Et leave from Terminal 2 at DMK.

Thanks for sharing!

Are they strict about the boarding pass requirement? We fly into DMK the evening of 7/12 and fly out very early on 7/14 out of BKK. Our plan is to stay two night out by the BKK airport.

I believe the policy is that your flight must be within 24 hours but I could be wrong. My recommendation would be to ask once you arrive and see what they say. If you could update us in a comment on this post that would be greatly appreciated!

Kindly guide me … i will arrive bkk at 6:25 pm and my next flight is from dmk at 10:55 pm for phuket. Can i reach in one hour by taxi to DMK after my immigration and luggage clearance

Hi Zertashia. You’re really cutting it close. Try your best to get through immigration/baggage as fast as possible. Getting there in an hour shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Best of luck!

Hi Ryan, I am travelling from melbourne to DMK i need to visit Bangkok city. What would be the cheapest way to travel . i am only carrying hand luggage 7Kg. Does the free shuttle runs from DMK to Bangkok city? Prince

Thank you so much for the free transfer information from BKK to DMK. I used this service 2 days back (on 10-Jun-2019) and it worked like a charm. I came out of the EXIT C – Baggage claim area at around 9.05pm, i started proceeding towards Gate 3. On the way, i confirmed with AOT counters about the free shuttle and they confirmed just go to Gate 3. After getting out at gate 3, i showed my e-ticket for next day flight from DMK, they stamped me and my family and I was on the shuttle bus. It started right on time – 9.30pm . It took exactly 48 minutes from BKK to DMK. The following piece of info can be updated (It is not required)

UPDATE: There is an information desk inside the terminal at Gate 6 which you have to visit before boarding the bus. You’ll have to show your boarding pass and get it stamped. (Credit: Matthias 3/29/2019.)

Thanks Punit! Appreciate you checking in with us with your experience.

Hiya. I am landing at 16:25 at DMK and I am leaving BKK at 21:00. Do you adivse I take the free shuttle or a grab taxi? I ma worried as it will be rush hour and I have to go through passport control off the plane. I am an anxious traveller and would like the easiest route. I cannot get there earlier as I am working. Everything is also booked. Does the bus take longer than 2 hours at rush hour? Are grabs easy to book with wifi at airport? Or do i try and pre-book? Thanks for help.

Hi Hattie. You should have plenty of time to transfer between the airports. What I would recommend is to get through passport control, grab your bags and see what time it is at that point. If you’re short on time (I can’t imagine you will be), just grab a GRAB taxi and be on your way instead of waiting for the next shuttle transfer.

I will be reaching DMK at around 5:00 a.m. by Air Asia Flight. I want to access the free shuttle to BKK as I want to catch a bus to Pattaya. What documents do I need access the free shuttle?

You cannot board the free shuttle without a valid boarding pass for a flight from BKK or DMK airport. This is not a free shuttle for you to use to get to the bus you want to take to Pattaya.

Hi, You mention that in order to use the free shuttle bus you have to present your boarding pass. But when you arrive from an international flight at BKK, you have no boarding pass on the flight leaving from Don Mueang, since no check in has been made yet. So, when you mention boarding pass does this mean that it’s enough to present your flight ticket for the flight leaving from DM? Thanks

Thank you very much!

I am arriving into DMK at 7.15pm and flying out of BKK next morning at 8am – totally different airlines. I am staying at a hotel at BKK so want to use the shuttle to get to BKK then go to the hotel. Will have itinerary for next morning but no boarding pass yet. Will this be ok to get to BKK then find my way to the Novotel ?

Hi, is the free shuttle info up to date ? Thank you! :)

Yes, it is. ;-)

Thank you so much for this guide, it was a huge help and saves so much $$.

They have a desk setup outside door 3 right in front of the bus so no need to go to 6, you simply show your itinerary/boarding pass, they stamp you and on the bus you go.

My bus left about 8:23am and arrived about 9:35am.

Thanks for following up, Ebony. I appreciate the help to keep the information on this page updated.

Hey, thanks for posting this. Do you know if I arrive in BKK and have booked an onward flight from DMK will it work? I think it will be cheaper to book the air asia flight separate to my long haul flight so they wont be on the one itinerary. Will I still be able to use the express bus? Thanks for any advice!

do we require any type of VISA to travel from BKK to DMK for using the shuttle bus service. i have to board a flight from DMK.

Yes, there should be a visa on arrival depending on which country you’re traveling from.

Hi, thanks for all the important information. I am reaching BKK at 2:30 PM and my next flight is from DMK at 7:30 PM. Can you suggest good vegetarian food (if possible Indian vegetarian food) options near BKK or DMK (preferably DMK) ?

Unfortunately, I cannot provide you with restaurant suggestions. I recommend you use GoogleMaps and check reviews of local restaurants.

Dear Ryan, Need an advice from you. I just received an email that my NOK flight is cancelled that was scheduled to take off from DMK airport at 11:20 am and they have given a choice to reschedule for 9:55 am flight. I will be arriving at BKK on an international flight (means i have to go through immigration) approx. at 6:15 am. Would I have enough time to clear immigration, collect baggage and reach DMK on time to checkin for the flight scheduled to takeoff at 9:55am.

Hi there. I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s possible but you would be cutting it quite close in my opinion. You have to figure that you’re not going to be through immigration and to your baggage until at least 7-7:15am. Then you’d have to catch the next bus (asap) and hope that the traffic wasn’t too hectic at that time of the morning. I can’t make the decision for you but if you decide to go for it, the worst case scenario would be that you’d need to grab another flight from DMK.

Hi Ryan, Thanks so much for this useful post! It was very helpful last time I had a layover in Bangkok. I have a couple of questions for my next trip, and I really hope you have some good tips for me! :) My flight from Bali lands at DMK at 11.10pm and I have a flight from BKK at 09.05am the next morning. 1. Do you think there’s any chance at all I’ll make the shuttle at midnight? 2. Do you know if I’ll be able to check in at BKK that many hours before my flight if i decide to go to BKK that night? 3. If not, would I be able to find a quiet place/corner to sleep on the floor at BKK that night? 4. Last one, I promise! Can you recommend an airport hotel within walking distance of DMK so that I can take the free shuttle before my morning flight from BKK?

Hey Nathalie!

1. No, I don’t think it’s likely that you’ll make the shuttle but you can take a Grab taxi or alternative transport to a cheap overnight hotel nearby BKK that evening.

2. No. Check-in is usually 3 hours ahead.

3. You might be able to find somewhere to nap downstairs.

4. There are many. Check the bottom of the article and you’ll see a section called Hotels near DMK.

I arrive at BKK at 08.50 and my flight from DMK to Phuket is at 13.30. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle? Not sure how long it takes to go through immigration and collect bags? I’m travelling on a UK passport for <30 days and therefore I don't need a visa, hoping this speeds things up a bit. Thanks! Anna

Yes, that amount of time should be sufficient.

Hi Ryan, first off thank you for providing all of this info. I have an urgent question. We realized our transfer was out of DMK a bit late and are worrying we are not going to make the transfer now. Our BKK arrival is at 8:45 pm and our flight out of DMK to Chiang Mai is at 10:20 pm. Is this enough time at all to get to DMK from BKK even via taxi? Or do we need to change our plans accordingly. THanks again

Thanks for the information! it’s so usefull. I’m traveling to Thailand on April. I’ll arrive at Bangkok on April 13 (songkran), and then i have to take a flight to phuket from BKK airport ..so i’m wondering if you know if the free shuttle bus will be working on this festive day? Thank you.

Hi, this was super useful, thanks so much for posting. just wanted to add one piece for clarification to your readers –

When catching the bus from bkk, it is *after* exiting baggage claim. I misunderstood and went all the way to the left side of the baggage claim – the closest exit was “exit C” which was next to door 9/10, so I had to walk all the way back to the other side. Exit point B is next to door 6; I didn’t see if there was an exit A , but if there was, I’d guess it’s the closest exit to door 3 (where the bus was).

This is an incredible tip – I can’t believe I didn’t know about it before now! I don’t think I’ve ever actually transferred between the airports, but I’ve definitely booked more expensive tickets to ensure I’m flying in and out of the same one. Maybe I won’t have to next time. Thanks!

Thanks for the comment. Best of luck.

Great.. I followed your instruction from BKK to DMK.. took 45 minutes.

Thanks for sharing! What time did you take the bus at?

We will arrive on BKK 13 Jan at 10am and our flight departs from DMK at 13:30pm. What would you advise? Grab taxi or free shuttle bus. Checking in deadline is before 12:00. Im a bit stressed out we miss our flight. Did not know about the different airports…

I would only take the shuttle if it’s sitting there waiting for you to board as soon as you exit. If not, jump in a Grab ASAP.

Hi, is the shuttle available to those arriving at the International Terminal at BKK, but have a ticket booked online from DMK to Phuket?

Yes, you can take the shuttle from BKK to DMK without issue.

Do you know if it’s still possible to take the bus if you don’t have a flight from the other airport? Like, pay for a ticket? Just because this is the only direct connection as far as I’m aware. Cheers!

No. This shuttle bus is strictly for those who have departing flights from the alternative airport.

Is there a Visa necessary to travel from BKK to DMK ? Thanks in advance

Yes, you need a visa on arrival in order to exit the airport.

I am arriving to BKK via an international flight at approx. 13:15pm..My next flight at DMK is at 17:05..do you think I will be able to make it ? I am just super worried about my initial flight being delayed.

Yeah, I think you should have enough time. Let’s say it takes you an hour to get through BKK customs/immigration and then an hour for your transfer to DMK, you would still have a good amount of time. Now if your flights get delayed obviously that could be an issue.

Hello Ryan. Thanks for great article, but I have question if shuttle bus applies only for budget airlines? I’m arriving at DMK airport (by AirAsia Airlines) and on the same day I have flight at BKK airport but by QATAR Airways. I’m also able to take the free bus?

No, it applies to all airlines departing from either airport. This shuttle is just to provide transport for those arriving at one airport and departing from another. If you do not have a flight out of the other airport, you cannot use this shuttle. In your case, you have a flight so you are eligible to use the free shuttle.

Great and helpful information! thank god I read this article before going Bangkok. Saved some money on those transfers for airpor to airpot and bought some beers instead! Cheers man. God bless

Glad to hear it, Omar! Best of luck.

Hey Ryan, Thank you for your helpful article. I will meet my father at DMK airport, do you have any ideas for an easy meeting point at the airport? Unfortunately, he won’t be able to use the internet, so we’re a bit concerned to find each other. Thanks in advance!

I would recommend meeting at the little restaurant/cafe called THE COFFEE CLUB in Terminal 2. Choose a specific spot to meet and I think everything will work out fine.

Still valid, arrived at Bangkok BKK 21st of February and took the bus for free to DMK. Thanks, Ryan!

Thanks for sharing your experience, Chris!

If I land at BKK at 18:05 from an international flight, have I enough time to get to DMK for a flight to Krabi at 22:10 leaving with Asia air

That might be a little tight considering the time of day, traffic and the current situation surrounding COVID-19.

Hello Mr Ryan. We like to take the Shuttle Bus from SUV to DMK in the first week of november 2020. Also go back in the first week of december 2020. Do You think, it is still working, even the virus?? Thanks for Your answer. Greetings from Portugal.

Hello brother, need your help! i’m Travelling from Indonesia to BKK, then have 4 hours 30 mins gap and next flight to India from DMK. Q1. if this time is enough for this? Q2. Do i need to have a Visa just to travel from these two airports? eagerly looking forward to your response.

Can you advise please…

If I arrive at DMK by train from Isaan, can I use the shuttle to Suvarnabhumi to catch my flight on the same day to Dubai? Is that easier and quicker than leaving the train at Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok instead, and then taking a taxi to Suvarnabhumi?

Many thanks in advance.

Thank you for this article and for keeping it updated. I’ll be arriving close to midnight so looks like taxi is my only option. How safe are the taxis at night? I’ll be traveling solo and am a female. Do you happen to have any info on that?

Super helpful. I’m on shuttle from bkk to dmk right now. Current procedure is use exit 3, a guy at a desk to the left will check your boarding pass, give you a sticker and shuttle is parked to the right of the exit.

Caught this bus from BKK to DMK today 22 Jan 2023. We needed to show e-ticket and passport to get on. The white desk outside door 3 is labeled “AOT Shuttle Bus”. Bus appears to leave on the hour. The information provided at the top of the page appears to be correct. We left at 13:00 and trip took 50 mins.

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• Járat (ya-rat) – Line (as in bus line, tram line)
• Ellenőr (el-luh-nur) – Inspector
• Érvényes (air-ven-yesh) – Valid
• Lejárt (lay-yart) – Expired
• Átszállás (aht-sah-lahsh) – Transfer
• Pótdíj (poat-dee-aj) – Surcharge
• Menetidő (men-et-e-doe) – Travel time
• Vonaljegy (vo-nal-yed-y) – Single ticket
• Korlátlan utazás (kor-lat-lan oo-ta-zash) – Unlimited travel
• Havi bérlet (hah-vee bear-let) – Monthly pass
• Napijegy (na-pi-yed-y) – Day ticket
• Csoportos jegy (cho-port-osh yed-y) – Group ticket

Join the Budapest Language Exchange Community

After navigating the city with your travel card or pass, why not dive deeper into the local culture? Budapest Language Exchange (BPLX) events are the perfect place to practice Hungarian, English, German, Spanish, French, and more. Connect with locals and expats in a fun and friendly environment, and make your Budapest experience truly unforgettable.

So, whether you’re here for a short visit or planning to stay a while, Budapest’s travel cards, coupled with your new Hungarian vocabulary, will surely make your journey smooth and enjoyable. See you at the next BPLX event!

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2024 budapest travel pass: bkk price cut & expanded pest county/country pass options from march 1, new evening front boarding system for bkk buses from january 19, 2024, how to use bkk single tickets in budapest, the best skiing and snowboarding destinations near budapest.

Passing Ports

Hopping airports in Bangkok? Use the free shuttle bus between BKK (Suvarnabhumi) and DMK (Don Mueang) Airports

Short version: There’s a lesser-known free shuttle bus between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) that you can take advantage of if you are planning a trip to Thailand.

Read on for the long version.

How to go from BKK to DMK for free

If you are planning your first trip to Thailand, perhaps you may not know this. Bangkok has two airports – Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) which is used by all the full-service airlines such as Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air India and the likes and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) which is a low-cost hub and is used by Air Asia, Scoot, Indigo, SpiceJet etc. There are times when you try to book a flight to Chiang Mai or Krabi where OTAs will suggest a multi-airline ticket which may require you to shuttle between the two airports.

The two airports are 45 kilometres away, and no metro service connects the two. Thailand is famous for its scams, and the taxis and the tuk-tuks will truly take you for a ride (pun intended!). However, there’s a lesser known mode of transport that’s free – the free shuttle bus service from BKK (Suvarnabhumi) to DMK (Don Mueang) and from DMK to BKK.

Bangkok free airport shuttle timetable

The free Bangkok airport shuttle starts from 5 am until midnight every day. Below is the Bangkok airport shuttle bus timetable from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Don Mueang Airport.

The free airport shuttle schedule from Don Mueang airport to Suvarnabhumi airport is the same as in the above image.

Documents required to avail free shuttle transfer between Don Mueang and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and vice versa

Please keep the following documents ready to avail this free airport shuttle in Bangkok.

• Boarding Pass of the arrival flight (the one that you took to land at either airport)
• Ticket of the departing plane (the one you are taking to reach your destination

You will be asked to show these while boarding the free Bangkok airport shuttle.

Free shuttle transfer from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport to Don Mueang airport

Follow the instructions below to go from BKK to DMK for free.

• If you’re flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), cross immigration (you ought to be on Floor 2, do double check the signage) and head for the exit.
• When you enter the arrival hall (Floor 2), ignore all signs pointing you towards public transportation, buses, etc. and walk straight until you see Door 3 on your left-hand side.
• Leave the airport via Door 3 and turn right. You will see a small table with a few people standing around. Ask them for the free shuttle to Don Mueang Airport.
• Now’s when you will be asked to show the documents mentioned above.
• Once the free shuttle bus arrives, board it and be on your way to DMK airport. Please remember that this bus does not stop anywhere en route.
• The official time from Suvarnabhumi airport to Don Mueang Airport or the vice versa is around 50 minutes, but it can take up to 2 hours depending on the time of the day. So do take care to plan accordingly.

Do keep in mind, your flight itinerary must be for the same day or the following day to be eligible for the free Bangkok airport shuttle transfer between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport.

Are you looking for details on how to get from DMK to BKK? Here’s how you do it.

Free shuttle from Don Mueang airport to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport

Follow the same set of instructions as given above. The free shuttle from DMK airport to BKK airport departs from Terminal 1, and you will find it outside Door 6.

Are you planning a trip to Thailand? Check out these posts.

• Exploring Thailand: North to South of Thailand in 10 Days
• Thailand waives visa on arrival fees for Indian Citizens
• 4 Nights, 5 Days In Krabi, Things To Do And Places To See
• Exciting things to do on a trip to Thailand &#8211; Krabi Island Hopping
• Where to stay in Krabi: for first timers, solo travellers and families
• Chiang Mai, Thailand: things to do, places to see and more!
• A day trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market and the bridge over River Kwai
• Staying at the InterContinental Bangkok: Hotel Review

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No Thai Visa Required – Citizens of Myanmar

I am a holder of Myanmar passport. I heard the news that citizens of our country will no longer require a visa to enter Thailand. When is the implementation of this new rule, and how many days can we stay in Thailand if we are traveling without a visa?

Citizens of Myanmar are now allowed visa-free visits to Thailand for up to 14 days if arriving by way of air travel into the country. The recent reciprocal agreement has been implemented last August 11, 2015 which also gives visa waiver privilege to Thai nationals who wish to travel to Myanmar for a maximum duration of 14 days. At the moment, there are 23 airports across the Kingdom of Thailand where travelers may arrive via a commercial aircraft. The regulation, however, in all the land borders or immigration checkpoints remains the same as Burmese citizens are still required to obtain proper visas if entering Thailand by means of land travel from a neighboring country.

See more questions and answers on the Frequently Asked Questions page of this website

Related Immigration Questions

• My 3 month visa expires soon, must I now leave the country?
• The financial requirements for the marriage visa are?
• Can I immigrate to Thailand permanently?
• Must I get a visa before or after I get married in Thailand?

You can also search our entire FAQ section to find the answers to your question/s. Use the search tool below.

Related Posts

Visa on Arrival: Can I apply in advance?

Processing time for visa on arrival

Application form for Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival Requirements

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274 Comments

I hold a Myanmar passport, but my passport is only valid for four and a half months. Can I go to Thailand in this way?

Hello, Han Tun Moe.

Unfortunately, you need a passport with a validity of 6 months or more for a Tourist Visa.

Hi. I’m concerned about my upcoming trip to Thailand from Australia on November 30, 2023, because my Myanmar passport is set to expire on December 31, 2023. Could this pose any issues when entering Thailand?

Hello, Serena.

You will need a passport with a validity of at least 6 months or more to be able to apply for a Tourist Visa to Thailand.

I am from the uk and my husband is from Myanmar.I would like to stay in Bangkok for 45 days together with my husband.Can he apply tourism visa for 45 days to come to bangkok.

For UK national it is 45 days and Myanmar national is only 14 days. If the Myanmar national wishes to stay more than 14 days, he must apply for a Thai visa from the Thai Embassy or Consulate. Thank you.

I am from singapore, intend to travel via cruise ship into thailand, We will be accompany by our domestic helper from myanmar. Do we need to apply visa for her in this case.?

Singapore national can enter Thailand for 30days without a visa Myanmar national can enter Thailand for 14days without a visa

Our Myanmar workers who worked in Malaysia and want to go travelling in Hatyai or Phuket for 3D2N via Airasia by themselves. Are they exemption for the visa with our Company accompany??

Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via airport only. If she enters Thailand via land border, she has to apply for a tourist visa at the Thai embassy or consulate in Malaysia.

Hello!I am a Myanmar Passport Holder.I have ald booked and will stay at BK city inn. We are not rich but I so interest Thailand Culture so My hub and me will stay about 3D 2N. Let me know about show money.After bookings,we have only 300USD in hand.Could we pass immagration?

Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via AIRPORT. You can bring 10,000THB per person for show money.

Hi ;I am myanmar passport holder.if I stay in bkk over 14 days how should I need to do ?

Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via AIRPORT. If you wish to cross the land border, you need to apply for a Thai tourist visa at the Thai embassy in Myanmar.

My family from Malaysia are planning for 1 week trip to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai by air from KLIA in the coming year end. My sister in law who is Malaysia PR and Myanmar passport holder need a visa?

If her family from Myanmar wish to meet up with us at the border do they need to apply visa ?

Malaysia passport holder, you can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 30days. For Myanmar passport holder, they can also enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via AIRPORT only. If they wish to cross the land border, they need to apply for a tourist visa.

Hello Thai Embassy,

I am Myanmar Passport Holder.

I will visit to Thailand for about 10 days which would be visa free. Then, I will fly from Thai to Korea. When I came back from Korea to Thailand, I want to enter Thailand with 90 days visa. How should I apply 90 days visa in advance : via Online ? Thai Embassy in Korea ? at Arrival ? Please advise most convenient way for me. Huge Thanks.

If you want to apply for a 90day visa, you need to contact directly the Thai consulate or embassy of your residence. If you will apply in Korea and you have a proper visa to stay in Korea then you can apply it there.

This will be my first time travelling to Bangkok.How much show money amount do I need?Is Baht 10000 enough??

10,000THB per person or 20,000THB per family

Is there any criteria in visa exemption for Myanmar passport holder?I’ll travel by air.Do I need to show money?

Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days only via International Airports only. For Show money, you can bring 10,000THB per person or 20,000THB per family. Bring also your return ticket and hotel accommodation.

Hello Thai Embassy I’m Myanmar passport holder. I’m planning to visit Thailand,Cambodia and Laos for 12days. I’m going to Cambodia for 2days from Bangkok by border passing and then i’ll come back by flight to Bangkok. Then i’m going to visit around thailand for 4days and then i’m going to Laos by train from Bangkok. I’ll come back by flight from Laos to Bangkok. I’ll stay at bangkok for one night and i’ll come back to my country next day. I would like to know about do i need any visa for this process. Please Let me know Thank you

If you are holding a Myanmar passport, you need to apply for a Thai Tourist visa if you will cross the land border. You will get 90days entry. As soon as you enter Thailand, you need to apply for a re-entry permit so that you can go in and out of Thailand within 90days period. if you dont have a re-entry you will need to apply for a visa at the Thai embassy before entering the land border.

Hi.My passport is just 2 months old.I have a plan to go Bangkok in this August.Is my passpory eligible for travelling?

Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via airport only. If by land border, you need to secure a Thai tourist visa. If your passport is expiring in 2 months, that will still work as long as your stay will cover the validity of your passport.

Hello Thaiembassy I would like to know one question. Can I fly to transit from Yangon to Bangkok then to Singapore. Please let me know. Thank you!!!

Myanmar national transiting via Bangkok airport does not need a visa. If you wish to stay in the international area ( without passing through immigration), you dont need to obtain visa. If you wish to get out of the airport, Myanmar passport holder can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via airport only.

I am holding Myanmar passport and will travel to Hatyai from Malaysia by car. do I need visa to enter Hatyai

I have apply visa to Malaysia thank you

For Myanmar passport holder, you can enter Thailand under visa on arrival for 14days via air. If you wish to cross the border via land, you must obtain a tourist visa.

I am a Myanmar with Singapore work permit. I am travelling to Hat tai by air,do I need Visa? Thank you

For Myanmar passport holder, you can enter Thailand for 14days via air. Bring your passport and return/outgoing ticket.

I’m from Myanmar. Can I enter to Thailand from Phnom Penh by bus?

For Myanmar national, you can enter Thailand for 14days via air. If you want to enter by land border, you need to secure a Thai tourist visa before entering.

I wonder if anyone happens to know about traveling to Thailand by bus via China for Myanmar passport holder. I am a Myanmar passport holder and planning to attend a friend’s wedding in Khon Kaen next month. So, my question is do I need to apply for a visa at Thai Embassy in Kunming, China, if I go to Thailand by a vehicle? Many thanks in advance!

For Myanmar national you can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via AIR. If you will cross the land border by bus, you need a Thai tourist visa. You need to apply the tourist visa at the Thai embassy in China before entering the Thailand border.

We are from Singapore…My family will travel to Thailand Bangkok and Khao Yai…. And we will bring along our Myanmar helper…. Is the Myanmar helper (Singapore work permit holder )need visa travel to Thailand???

For Myanmar national, they can enter Thailand under visa exemption for 14days via AIR only. If you will cross the land border, she must apply for a Thai tourist visa before entering the land border of Thailand.

Hi I m from Indian nationality but working in Saudi Arabia last 3 years and I m.planning to visit Thailand for 12 days vacation. Could you advise what document I need to bring with me for on arrival visa..

For Indian passport holder, you can enter Thailand under visa on arrival for 15day entry. You can refer to this link for more information: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/visa-on-arrival.php

I’m Myanmar passport holder. I would like to visit to Thailand from Dubai. Is there any required visa if I travel from Dubai to Thailand without a visa and I will stay about more than a week about 12 days? May I know? Please.

If you are arriving at Bangkok airport, you will be given free visa and you can stay up to 14 days.

I want to visit Maesot from passing Myanmar borderline in 31 December 2016. I am Myanmar passport holder. Do I need visa? If need, may I request my Visa from online?

You need to contact the Thai embassy in Yangon regarding this matter.

I’m a Myanmar citizen. I’m working at Malaysia. Can I apply a tourist visa at Kuala Lumpur Royal Thai embassy? And what document needed and how long will it take before I can get the visa?

If you have a proper employment pass in Malaysia, you can obtain a tourist visa from the Thai embassy in Kuala Lumpur. If you do not have an employment pass, you must apply for the Thai visa in Yangon.

I’m a Myanmar Citizen but I want to stay for a long time at Thailand. Thus, I want to get Thailand Visa to stay longer in the kingdom. If I will apply for a Thai Visa, what are the requirements needed? Please, reply sir.

If you wish to stay long term in Thailand, please apply for a proper Thai visa from the Thai embassy in Yangon. You may contact the Thai embassy directly for more information.

I am Malaysian, my wife is Myanmar passport holder and stay in Malaysia with a valid visa. My question is if my wife is allowed to enter Thailand by airway without a visa. Can she use the land border when she be back to Malaysia?

Yes, she can arrive by air and she will be given 14 days free visa at the airport. She can exit Thailand by air or by land.

I am a Myanmar passport holder. I heard the news that Myanmar citizens are allowed to enter for 14 days via international airports. I have plan to visit thai on next week. I will come with lion thai air line and arrive Don Mueang International airport. In this case, it is valid for visa free.

Moreover, I heard that some amount of money have to show to get entry stamp at immigration. How much of dollars or bath do I have to show? Thank you.

Yes, you will be given 14 days free visa at Don Mueang Airport. You need a return ticket and proof of funds such as 300 USD cash.

I am a Myanmar passport holder. Now I work in Malaysia. I want visit to Thailand. Do I need to apply Thailand visa?

Myanmar passport holders are entitled to enter Thailand without a visa for 14 days if they arrive through an international airport. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a tourist visa beforehand.

I have a plan to study in Thailand for a master degree course. What kinds of passport may I need to apply for the education visa for Myanmar citizens?

A regular Myanmar passport can be used to apply for a visa to study in Thailand.

Hello. I am visiting Myanmar with a 28 tourist visa. I have Netherland nationality and now would like to visit Thailand for 1 week before returning to Yangon. Do I need an additional Thailand visa? If yes, can I get this at the border? How much would it cost?

Kind regards, Louise

You definitely do not need a visa. You can stay as a tourist for a maximum of 30 days based on your passport. You must show proof at the border that you will exit Thailand within the 30-day period, have accommodation for your entire trip, and, if requested, provide evidence of funds.

I’m Myanmar citizen. I would like to visit Phuket by air from Myanmar to Thailand. The next day again from Don Mueang Airport to HKT. Do I need to apply visa?

Based on the airport where you will arrive, you do not need to apply for a visa. You can stay in Thailand for a maximum of 14 days without a visa as long as you enter through an international airport.

If I get Myanmar visa for visit do I need another visa to visit Thailand?

Depending on your passport, you may need to apply for a visa before traveling to Thailand. Your entry into Thailand is not affected by any visa that you obtain for other countries.

Should you need information about applying for a visa, kindly get in touch with the Thai embassy or consulate near your residence.

I am a Myanmar passport holder. I will go to Thailand by air. I would like to travel to Cambodia via Thailand by land border crossing, but will come back to Thailand, and coming back to Myanmar by air.

Do I need to apply re-entry visa to come to Thailand? If yes, can I apply at Thailand and Cambodia border?

If you will enter Thailand with the 14-day visa free entry stamp upon arriving through an international airport, you can apply for a re-entry permit at an immigration office as long as your next trip to Thailand is still within the 14-day period.

Thanks for the quick reply.

May I ask another question? If I would like to go to Cambodia and coming back by air, do I still need to apply re-entry permit?

If you will arrive through an international airport on your flight from Cambodia to Thailand, you do not need to apply for a re-entry permit.

I am Myanmar citizen who is working in Singapore. I’d like to come and visit Thailand in April next year. I’d ask you if I need visa to enter Thailand from Singapore.

Applying for a visa depends on how long you plan to stay in Thailand. Myanmar passport holders can enter Thailand without a visa for a maximum of 14 days if they arrive through an international airport. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a tourist visa from the Thai embassy or consulate before traveling to Thailand.

Hi, I am Myanmar citizen. I would like to know that temporary passport is made or is not made at the Myawaddy-Mae Sot border bridge for visiting to Bangkok. And then a person who holds Myanmar passport without visa can visit to Bangkok? Please give me some advices. Thank you so much.

Kindly get in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Myanmar or the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok for information regarding applying for a temporary passport.

Myanmar Embassy, Bangkok Telephone: +66 022 337 250, 022 344 698, 022 344 789, 022 377 744,022 337 250 E-mail: [email protected] Address: 132, SathornNua Road, Bangkok 10500,Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand

Myanmar passport holders can enter Thailand without a visa for a maximum of 14 days as long as they enter through an international airport.

Hi, I am Myanmar passport holder. I will travel to Thailand tomorrow and will stay in Thailand more than 14days (will be staying 18 days). Can I apply visa on arrival when I arrive Chiang Mai international airport? I just got my spass yesterday and not enough time to go down to Thai embassy to apply before travel.

Based on your passport, you are not eligible to apply for a visa on arrival. You will need to apply for a visa before traveling. Otherwise, you must exit Thailand before the 14-day entry stamp expires.

DMK to BKK - Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport

When you need to transfer between airports in  Bangkok , you have several options. What is the best way for getting from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport ? It depends on your needs as the trip from  DMK to BKK airport can be completed by shuttle bus, public transportation, taxi or private transfer.

DMK to BKK Distance

The distance between DMK and BKK airports is about 40-50 km, depending on the route chosen. The length of the most popular and fastest route from DMK to BKK airport via toll roads that is used by the shuttle bus is almost 49 km.

The journey from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi by taxi or private transfer in normal traffic conditions should take less than 1 hour while the shuttle bus trip might be just a bit longer. If you will decide to use public transportation, the time of traveling between DMK and BKK airports with all the transfers can easily be 2 hours and more.

Travel SMART!   Stay connected right after your arrival by booking a discounted Thailand SIM Card and picking it up at the airport so you could use unlimited Internet on the way:  [SALE] SIM Card for Thailand (Airport Pick Up)

Free Shuttle Bus DMK to BKK

If you arrive at  Don Muang Airport (DMK)  and have a flight from  Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)  on the same or next day, you can use a very convenient shuttle bus between Bangkok Airports . The shuttle bus service is offered free of charge. No booking is required for shuttle bus as the service is provided by first come, first served scenario.

Shuttle bus from Don Muang to Suvarnabhumi starts running at 5:00 and the last bus leaves at midnight. Depending on the time of the day, shuttle buses depart every 12 to 30 minutes. The trip from DMK to BKK normally takes approximately 50-60 minutes but it can take up to 2 hours if the traffic conditions are harsh. 

Free shuttle bus departs from Terminal 1 of  Don Muang Airport . Buses can be found outside the airport building on the 1st floor, at the door 6. At  Suvarnabhumi Airport  passengers are dropped off at the departures (4th Floor).

The schedule of shuttle bus and conditions for taking it are briefly described here:  Free Shuttle Bus between Bangkok Airports .

Public Transportation from DMK to BKK

If you don't have a ticket for a flight departing from BKK Airport on the same or next day, the cheapest way for getting from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport is by Bangkok public transportation .

As there is no direct train connection between Bangkok airports , when traveling from DMK to BKK by public transport, you need to take a commuter train or Bangkok bus at first and then transfer to the train heading to Suvarnabhumi Airport. You have several choices for such a transfer between the airports.

Option 1 - Airport Bus & Airport Rail Link

At Don Muang Airport , you need to get on  A3 Bus that operates from 7:00 to 23:00 and leaves about every 30 minutes. Bus ticket costs 50 THB.

A3 bus route passes Airport Rail Link Ratchaprarop station. You need to drop off there and get on the train. The journey by Airport Rail Link from Ratchaprarop station to Suvarnabhumi Airport takes about 25 minutes and costs 40 THB.

Only one connection is needed when choosing this option, so it might be the easiest way. However, the bus is less frequent so the journey might take a bit longer.

Option 2 - SRT & MRT & Airport Rail Link

At  Don Muang Airport , you need to take SRT Red Line commuter train that operates from 5:00 to 24:00 with departures scheduled every 10-15 minutes. Take the train to Krung Thep Aphiwat station, also known as Bang Sue Grand station, which is the last station on the Northern / Dark Red Line. The journey should take around 17 minutes and the train ticket will cost 33 THB.

SRT Bang Sue Grand station is connected with MRT Bang Sue Station and you need to get there by simply following the signs leading to MRT Blue Line . Take metro from there to Phetchaburi Station. The journey will cost 38 THB.

One more transfer is needed here as you need to get from MRT Phetchaburi Station to Airport Rail Link Makkasan Station. These two stations are connected by a skyway making a transfer from MRT to Airport Rail Link easy. The journey by Airport Rail Link from Makkasan station to Suvarnabhumi Airport takes about 22 minutes and costs 35 THB.

Option 3 - Airport Bus & MRT & Airport Rail Link

At  Don Muang Airport , you need to get on  A1 Bus  or  A2 Bus that operate from 7:00 to 24:00 and leave every 15 minutes or so. Bus ticket costs 30 THB.

Both bus routes pass by MRT Chatuchak Park Station and you need to drop off there. Take Bangkok Metro  from there to Phetchaburi Station. The journey will cost 33 THB.

One more transfer is needed here as you need to get from MRT Phetchaburi Station to Airport Rail Link Makkasan Station by a skyway. The journey by Airport Rail Link from Makkasan station to Suvarnabhumi Airport takes about 22 minutes and costs 35 THB.

Option 4 - Airport Bus & BTS & Airport Rail Link

Both bus routes pass by  BTS Mo Chit Station and you need to drop off there. Take  BTS Bangkok  from there to  Phaya Thai Station. The journey will cost 40 THB.

One more transfer is needed here as you need to get from BTS Station to the same named  Airport Rail Link   Phaya Thai  Station that is found nearby. The journey by Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai station to Suvarnabhumi Airport takes about 30 minutes and costs 45 THB. 

Option 5 - Public Bus & Airport Shuttle Bus

Bangkok bus No. 554 and No. 555 pass Don Muang Airport and go all the way from DMK to BKK airport . Public buses don't follow schedule very strictly in Bangkok and can get very crowdy so are mainly suitable for adventurous travelers who are traveling lightly. Buses pass on the main road nearby Don Mueang Airport. You can wait for the bus at the bus stop in front of Family Mart. The bus ticket should cost around 30 THB.

Public buses arrive at Suvarnabhumi Bus Terminal . To get to the passenger terminal of the airport from the bus terminal, you need to take a free Airport Shuttle Bus .

Taxi from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi

The journey by Bangkok taxi from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport should cost about 400-500 THB, not including toll fees and airport surcharge. To get a fare taxi price, make sure that the meter is on.

Private Transfer from DMK to BKK Airport

If you are looking for the most comfortable way to transfer between Bangkok Airports, book a private transfer online and the driver will be waiting for you at DMK Airport holding a sign with your name on it. It's definitely the most comfortable way to get from Don Muang to Suvarnabhumi as you won't need to travel by crowded public transportation and won't be ripped off by taxi drivers.

Discounted private transfer from Don Muang Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport can be booked online here:  Private Bangkok Airport Transfers .

How to travel between Bangkok airports the other way ? Check here: Suvarnabhumi Airport to Don Muang Airport .

More information about other facilities at the airports can be found here:

Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Book a discounted Thailand SIM Card and pick it up at the airport: [SALE] Thailand SIM Card (BKK or DMK Airport Pick Up) .

Flight deals to/from both Bangkok airports can be found using the form below.

Any Questions?

Check our Frequently Asked Questions about public transportation in Bangkok and ask your own question if it's not answered there yet.

FAQ – Bangkok Public Transport

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About Bangkok

What can i do in bangkok.

• Visit the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market
• Take a boat ride in “Asia’s Venice”
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• Watch a live Muay Thai match 

What are the visa requirements?

•  Passport valid up to 6 months
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When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

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Where are the best shopping places in Bangkok?

• Siam Paragon
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Where is the best area to stay in Bangkok?

• Siam - for shopping access
• Mercure Bangkok Siam
• Riverside - to see the best tourist spots
• Millenium Hilton Bangkok
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• Khao San Road - a budget-friendly district
• Khaosan Palace 
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• Park Plaza Sukhumvit Bangkok

How much is the accommodation in Bangkok?

How much is the average cost of a sim card in bangkok, guide to bangkok.

• Airport name: Suvarnabhumi Airport
• Airport code: BKK
• Currency: Thai Baht
• Exchange rate: 1 Thai Baht = 0.030 USD & 1 USD = 35 Thai Baht
• Language: Thai, English
• Time difference: GMT+7
• Weather(C/F): 35° / 27°
• Popular airline: Thai Airways
• How many airports are there in Bangkok?
• How can I find the best flight deal to Bangkok?
• Which is the cheapest airport in Bangkok?
• Can I get a direct flight to Bangkok airport? 
• Can I get free Wi-Fi in Bangkok airport?
• Can I find a prayer room at Bangkok airport?
• Tips for finding cheap flights to Bangkok?
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Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Tickets at ICONSIAM Pier

Viva Alangka Cruise in Bangkok | Thailand

Safari World Bangkok Tickets

White Orchid Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise Tickets

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World Tickets

Calypso Cabaret

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