Airports In Bangkok: A Guide To Suvarnabhumi And Don Mueang

Breathtaking view of an airport with a plane around stunning architecture during the day.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and one of the most popular cities in the country. It encounters a huge crowd of tourists travelling to and from different Thai destinations as well as other Southeast Asian countries. There are two airports in Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport being the primary airport and hub for international travel. This airport is popular for its modern design and facilities. Don Mueang is one of the oldest airports in the entire world and still functions in Bangkok mainly serving domestic flights.

2 Airports In Bangkok

Image of an aircraft waiting at Suvarnabhumi with a van and man standing in front.

Photo: Nopparuj Lamaikul / Unsplash

1. Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)

The primary airport of Bangkok, the Suvarnabhumi, is located in Racha Thewa subdistrict. Suvarnabhumi is situated to the east of Bangkok. Covering an area of 32.4 sq km, it is one of the largest airports in Southeast Asia. There are three terminals in the airport out of which 1 and 2 serve as International terminals whereas 3 is for domestic.

2. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

The oldest airport, Don Mueang, is in Khet Don Mueang or the district of Don Mueang. It is located to the north of Bangkok. Until 2006 this was known as the Bangkok International Airport. This airport has been operating for over 100 years making it one of the oldest airports in the world. The airport started serving in 1914.

How To Reach Airports In Bangkok

A stunning view of a few aircraft standing on an airport in front of architecture.

Photo: Alireza Akhlaghi / Unsplash

By Train: It takes only 15 minutes to travel from City Air Terminal to Suvarnabhumi Airport by a non-stop journey through the express line. The commuter train also connects the city with the primary airport through 8 stops with a travel time of 27 minutes. The commuter train costs 150 THB per trip.

By Bus: There are buses connecting the city of Bangkok with both the airports with regular trips. Both airports are also connected through bus services, which can be found right outside the airport. The buses are also the cheapest mode of transportation to and from the airports.

By Cab/Taxi: Private cabs and taxis are always available from any part of the city to the airport and also to the airport. You can avail cabs for convenient traveling however the fare could be higher compared to other public transportations. Cabs also offer flexibility while traveling such as going to some shopping areas or sightseeing before reaching the airport.

Places To Visit Around The Airports In Bangkok

1. Train Night Market

The Train Night Market is one of the best places to visit around the airport in Bangkok.

Photo: Kamil Molendys / Unsplash

The Train Night Market of Bangkok is also known as Rod Fai Night Market. It is unique and authentic to the Thai culture. You will get antique products that speak of the heritage and culture of Bangkok. The shops have colourful roofs and sell everything from antique collectables, chic fashion, and mao Kitsch work, to modern apparel and mementoes. This open-air bazaar is not only famous for its affordable and wide-ranging buyables but also for authentic Thai street food stalls. You will get some of the most delectable dishes here that showcase Thai flavours and techniques.

Location: 1 4 Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250, Thailand

2. The Paseo Mall

Image of the escalators in the Paseo Mall near one of the airports in Bangkok for all.

Photo: กสิณธร ราชโอรส / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Paseo Mall is very close to the Suvarnabhumi Airport of Bangkok, and it is a great place to shop during your travels. The mall offers shops for souvenirs, clothes, gifts, etc., at a very reasonable price. You will also get massage parlours and spas offering famous Thai spas to relax your mind and body while travelling through the city of Bangkok. This city is known for its shopping spaces and massage parlours, and both are available in Paseo Mall, just 9 minutes away from the airport. So, if you are planning to pick up some last-minute gift items, this is your place to be.

Location: 318, 5 Lat Krabang Rd, Lat Krabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand

3. Royal Thai Air Force Museum

National Aviation Museum of Royal Thai Air Force near one of the airports in Bangkok

Photo: PEAK99 / Wikimedia Commons

The Royal Thai Air Force Museum showcases the history and journey of the air force in Thailand. The exhibits include military transport aircraft, attack aircraft, fighter jets and helicopters. It also showcases some aircraft that are the last of its kind to be retained in the world and some aircraft designed in Thailand. The museum is divided into 5 buildings, each showcasing different stories, history and facts about the air force, such as different kinds of helicopters, equipment, uniforms, fighter jets, etc.

Location: Sanam Bin, Don Mueang, Bangkok 10210, Thailand

4. Museum Of Contemporary Art

Image of MOCA or Museum of Contemporary Art near one of the airports in Bangkok.

Photo: Smuconlaw / Wikimedia Commons

MOCA Bangkok is a private art museum or exhibition created with the sole purpose of showcasing Thai art forms collected over two decades. The art exhibits include favours by King Rama IX. There are displays in honour of Prof. Silpa Bhisari, the Father of Contemporary Art. The Museum has displays that showcase the evolution of art in Thailand through the introduction of Western style and influence. Thus, MOCA has carried art through the years and shows the changes it has undergone.

Location: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

Where To Stay

 breathtaking view of a bedroom with a white bed and a side table during the daytime.

Photo: Jean van der Meulen / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The airports in Bangkok cover the east and north sides of the city and thus have a wide-ranging accommodations from luxury 5-star hotels to budget-friendly stays nearby. The closest 5-star hotel to Suvarnabhumi airport is the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, which is only 300 meters away from the airport. The unique accommodation option within the Suvarnabhumi is Avagard Capsule Hotel, which is ideal for a layover and quick rest stop. For more affordable options, visit the Suvarnabhumi Apartments, which are just 2.5 km away. Near to Don Mueang airport, there are plenty of luxury stay options, such as the extravagant Amari Don Muang. There is also a wide range of affordable options near Don Mueang.

Where To Eat

A tempting view of a table served with different Thai food, pasta and meat for all.

Photo: Jerome Jome / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

There are a plethora of eateries within the Suvarnabhumi Airport, such as LukkaiThong Suvarnabhumi, Asian Corner, etc. However, if you want to visit eateries outside the airport and enjoy amazing meals, then Koh Lanta Restaurant is a great option that serves amazing Thai dishes. Don Mueang Airport has a long list of amazing restaurants in close vicinity, such as Baik Baik for Thai food, Classic Room Restaurant for Asian and Thai dishes, and Zeppelin Restaurant for international cuisine. The Coffee Club is a popular eatery near Terminal 2 of Don Mueang Airport, serving cafe-style food with both Thai and International dishes.

The airports in Bangkok play an important role in not just in Thai tourism but also in connecting major destinations of Southeast Asia. Suvarnabhumi caters to modern needs through advanced facilities and sleek infrastructure. On the other hand, Don Mueang is known for its heritage and historical significance. Plan your next trip to Bangkok with TripXL to get seamless travel experience in Bangkok.

Cover Photo: Kylle Pangan / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, both Bangkok airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, provide free Wi-Fi, to which passengers need to register with an email address and phone number.
Yes, both Bangkok airports have ample shopping and dining facilities. There are duty-free stores, souvenir shops, apparel and accessory shops, and great dining options.
Yes, both Bangkok airports have luggage storage facilities, with additional charges. The charges may vary between the two airports and depend on the quantity of luggage.
There are many hotels, villas, and resorts near the airports with different price ranges and star ratings.
Yes, there are bus services from both the airports in Bangkok and also cab or taxi services.

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