Bangkok Layover Guide (BKK)

What are you looking for in BKK?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is unofficially called Bangkok Airport, is the busiest of the two international airports serving Bangkok, Thailand. It is located 25 km (15.5 mi) from the center of Bangkok. The airport has had commercial flights since September 2006. Bangkok is the capital and most populous city in Thailand. It is well known for its rapid urban growth, tropical climate, and booming tourism industry.

Can you leave Bangkok Airport (BKK) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
It's possible to visit Bangkok during a layover. However, certain travelers may require a visa in advance. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Bangkok Organized Tours

Maeklong Train Market

Maeklong Railway Market has the nicknamed Talat Rom Hup, which when translated from Thai which means the “umbrella pulldown market”. It is one of the largest fresh seafood markets in Thailand, and is centered on the Maeklong Railway’s track. One of the only ways to get there is often via train, this way you get to experience Thailand as a local would. » book this tour

Baiyoke Sky Hotel: Observation Deck

Be dazzled by this 360-degree revolving observation deck which provides picturesque views from one of Thailand’s tallest buildings. The view of Bangkok is spectacular as you see beyond the megacity, till the Gulf of Thailand. There are many computerized multimedia kiosks, and coin-activated telescopes to help identify what is seen in the skyline. » book this tour

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has been in many movies. The most popular one must be in The Man with the Golden Gun with Roger Moore as James Bond. This particular floating market is not only famous for being in films, it is truly a remarkable market to visit. Take in the sights and sounds of Thailand, wander through the colorful boats and chatty vendors. And be prepared to try some authentic Thai foods, such as Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, Boat Noodles or Coconut Ice Cream sold along the canal. » book this tour

Bangkok Things to do / Sightseeing

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is one of the most famous attractions there is in Bangkok. The astonishing palace is a must-see and used to be the king’s home. Once, the palace served as the seat of government for all of Thailand. The palace is huge and a good tour guide would be very helpful.

Time required: Set aside 3 or 4 hours to enjoy the palace.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 40 minutes and public transport takes an hour or more.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World has over 400 aquatic species and 30,000 fish including adorable penguins, otters, water rats and many more. It is one of the more impressive aquariums in the world. You can choose to ride in a glass-bottomed boat through the main tank or even experience a unique fish pedicure where the fish eat off the dirt on your feet.

Time required: 2 hours to a full day.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 30 minutes while public transport takes just under an hour.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is an ancient about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. It has a lot of history and was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The ruins of the old city now form the Ayutthaya Historical Park which is on an island between 3 rivers and looks like something out of a history book. The archaeological site contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues which can all be explored.

Time required: Full Day.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi an hour and 20 minutes on average while public transport takes over 2 hours.

Nana Plaza

Nana Plaza is described as the world’s largest adult playground. It is full of gogo bars and pubs. During the night, there are a lot of Thai women looking to pleasure for a fee as well as many people out to enjoy the nightlife. Nana Plaza has an electric atmosphere and is a good place for people watching while sitting at the bar.

Time required: You will need at least a few hours to enjoy the plaza.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 30 minutes while public transport typically takes an hour.

Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront has an entertaining cabaret show features transvestites and transsexuals who put on a talented and exotic show. The cabaret show has taken 30 years of dedication to the show business to perfect. The performances are in English, Korean, and Thai.

Time required: 2-3 hours.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 30 minutes while public transport can take more than an hour.

Siam Niramit

This is where spellbinding shows about Thailand’s history and culture happen. These shows have flying dancers, stunning backdrops and traditional music and even live animals such as elephants! This is one of the largest shows in the world. Feel immersed in village festivities and daily village life. The mesmerizing show tells stories about the ancient times and history of the previous kingdom that was a crossroad of civilizations.

Time required: Set aside an hour or 2 to enjoy the Siam Niramit.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 25 minutes while public transport typically takes an hour.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho is the home to the Reclining Buddha which stands at fifteen metres tall and forty six metres long. The entire statue looks like it was covered in gold and a sight to marvel at. Within the temple, there are 108 bowls which reflect the 108 positive actions which the Buddha acted out on his way to becoming perfect. Also within the temple is a place to receive a traditional Thai Massage.

Time required: Set aside 2 or 3 hours to explore Wat Pho.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 40 minutes and public transport takes an hour.

Chatuchak Market

This is the best place to go shopping because over 8000 stalls have been squeezed into 27 acres of land, making this one of the biggest markets in the world. It is open on weekends and it attracts almost 200,000 visitors per day, they sell almost anything in this market.

Time required: Set aside 2 or 3 hours to explore the market.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 30 minutes and public transport takes an hour.

Things to Do in Bangkok Airport (BKK)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
There are many lounges in each terminal of the Suvarnabhumi Airport. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There are many hotels close to the airport and even a couple within the airport. » view all or book an airport hotel online

Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There is a free lounges for the purpose of resting in between flights and these have reclining leather chairs.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free WiFi is available at the airport. Connect to one of the following networks, “@ AirportTrueFreeWiFi”,”@ AirportAISFreeWiFi” and “@AirportDTACFreeWiFi.”

SIM Card: There are several shops within the airport that sell SIM cards. » buy a global sim card for Bangkok, Thailand that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis are available at taxi ranks at the Arrival areas of each Terminal.

Train: There is a train that links the airport with the city. (more info).

Bus: There are a variety of buses available (more info).

Shuttle: There are different shuttle buses available.

Car rentals: Several car rentals companies are available and can be booked online. » view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: There are many parking zones available around the airport.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is a secure luggage storage in Left Luggage Baggage Service Center as well as other parts of the airport. » book a luggage storage or locker at Bangkok Airport (BKK) online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Bangkok Airport (BKK) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks