A long layover in Buri Ram is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Buri Ram Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 75 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave BFV:
- 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 Buri Ram takes about 75 minutes by Taxi/Airport Shuttle. 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.
Transport from Buri Ram Airport to Downtown
From BFV, the Taxi/Airport Shuttle gets you to Buri Ram in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Airport Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Buri Ram, here are two things worth checking out:
Chang Arena (Thunder Castle) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Buriram Castle is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside BFV — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Buri Ram Airport Waiting Area
- Airport Souvenir Corner
Where to Eat
In Buri Ram
If you make it into town, Khao Tom Pla Haeng Jao Kao is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Tong Rimpruek Restaurant.
Inside BFV
If you’re staying in the terminal, BFV Airport Canteen is your main option. Coffee & Refreshments Counter works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Buri Ram, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at BFV can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Buri Ram for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BFV for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Buri Ram 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.
Taking a Break at BFV
Long overnight layover? Your options at BFV 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
A layover in Buri Ram with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Buri Ram may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.