If you’ve got a layover in Bangkok, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BKK. The city, in Thailand, is within easy reach — roughly 90 minutes by Airport Rail Link (ARL). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside BKK
A few things to sort out before you leave BKK:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Thailand. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Bangkok takes about 90 minutes by Airport Rail Link (ARL). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is THB. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Exploring Bangkok on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Bangkok:
Start with Jim Thompson House Museum. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Siam Paragon. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BKK, you can spend time at Miracle Transit Hotel (Day Rooms) or try King Power Duty Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Eathai (Central Embassy) and Thong Smith (Siam Paragon) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Bangkok.
- At the airport: Magic Food Point (Staff Canteen) and Kin Ramen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Transport from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Rail Link (ARL) | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Airport Rail Link (ARL) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Bangkok:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $6 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $21 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near BKK
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At BKK, you’ll find bag storage at Left Baggage Service available on B2 level near the Airport Rail Link station, and also on the 2nd and 4th floors..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BKK for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Bangkok or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at BKK include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Bangkok count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave BKK. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.