The journey from Bangkok Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat) covers a distance of approximately 30 kilometers, and there are four transportation options available for the commute from Suvarnabhumi to Chinatown: shuttle bus, private transfers, public taxi, and train. Below, we provide comprehensive information about each mode of transportation and help you determine the most suitable choice.
Bangkok’s Chinatown, known as Yaowarat, ranks among the world’s largest and is a historical enclave that welcomed Chinese immigrants in the 17th century. Over the decades, it has transformed into a bustling commercial hub within Bangkok, offering numerous attractions and shopping opportunities. This iconic area is also conveniently located near landmarks like Wat Traimit and Sampeng Lane.
For travelers visiting Chinatown, there’s a selection of excellent hotels to choose from, including ASAI Bangkok, The Quatre Chao Phraya, and Metro Hotel. The area boasts a diverse range of street food vendors and restaurants, with popular options including Rut & Lek Seafood, Hua Seng Hong Restaurant, and Shangarila Restaurant.
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat) by taxi:
Unlike other transport options, taxi fares from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok city center are not fixed but determined by the distance and time traveled, calculated using a taximeter. Typically, the fare amounts to approximately €6.80 (฿240). Keep in mind that additional costs may apply during peak hours, such as the €2.10 (฿75) toll for the Sirat Expressway and a €1.40 (฿50) airport taxi surcharge.
Taking a taxi is a quick and convenient choice for reaching Bangkok from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Upon arrival, a designated taxi queue makes it easy to hire a cab. Multiple taxi companies operate at the airport, each with its designated pick-up area, so it’s crucial to follow signs and use the designated queue. The journey duration can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions and your destination. While taxis are a bit pricier than public transport, they offer comfort and convenience, making them an excellent option for travelers with heavy luggage or groups.
Taxi Rank Location at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport: Exit the arrivals area and proceed to Level 1, where doors No. 4 to 6 lead to the taxi rank. To board a taxi, obtain a ticket with a taxi number from one of the automatic kiosks and follow the ticket instructions to find your designated taxi.
Average Cost: THB 300 – THB 500 Travel Duration: 40-45 minutes Seating Accommodation: Air-conditioned with comfortable seating Suitable for: 1-3 passengers with no more than 2-4 pieces of luggage (as most taxis are Sedan cars) Additional Information: Public taxis are available on Level 1 of the terminal.
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat) by bus:
Taking a bus from Suvarnabhumi Airport to China town is a popular and cost-effective choice for many travelers. The airport offers several bus services that operate daily, providing convenient access to various city destinations.
One popular bus service is the Airport Rail Link, connecting Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city’s public transportation network. The City Line runs from the airport to Phaya Thai station, with stops at major stations like Makkasan, Ratchaprarop, and Ramkhamhaeng. Another option is the Bangkok Bus Line, offering several routes connecting the airport to different parts of the city, including the Grand Palace and Khao San Road.
Bus fares are budget-friendly, starting at around 30 to 50 baht per person, depending on the service and destination. However, travel times can vary due to traffic, so plan accordingly. To travel from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Khao San Road in Bangkok by bus, purchase a one-way ticket for approximately €1.70 (฿60) from the bus driver, and carry small bills as change may not always be available.
Cost: THB 30 from BKK to Victory Monument, and 15 THB from Victory Monument to Hua Lamphong Bus Station. Travel Duration: 55-120 minutes Seating Accommodation: Air-conditioned with comfortable seating Suitable for: Passengers with a maximum of 2 pieces of luggage
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat) by train:
For travelers comfortable with public transportation, taking the Airport Rail Link City Train from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok is the most economical choice. However, it involves a transfer to reach downtown Bangkok, with two options: disembark at Phayathai station and transfer to the BTS Skytrain, or get off at Makkasan station and connect to the MRT subway.
Train Ticket Prices from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat):
For an affordable journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center, the City Link train is a great option. A one-way ticket to Phayathai station costs approximately €1.30 (฿45), while a one-way ticket to Makkasan station is around €1 (฿35). Both train routes take about 30 minutes to reach the city center. You can purchase train tickets at the ticket booths or automatic machines on Basement B level of Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Train Location at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Find the City Link train on the Basement B level. After collecting your baggage, follow the “AIRPORT RAIL LINK (ARL)” signs to the elevators, granting easy access to the City Link train for your journey to the city center.
Average Cost: THB 45 for the ARL, THB 15 for the bus Travel Duration: 30 minutes from the Airport to Phaya Thai BTS Station, then an additional 50 minutes to Chinatown via bus number 40 Seating Accommodation: Air-conditioned but with less comfortable seating; standing may be required when seats are unavailable Suitable for: Passengers with a maximum of 1-2 pieces of luggage Additional Information: The train is located on the B floor of the terminal and departs every 15 minutes.
The Most Economical Way from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown:
The most budget-friendly route from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown is via the BTS Skytrain and bus. Begin by taking the BTS Train to Phaya Thai Station, costing 45 Baht (approximately $1.5 USD). From there, transfer to Bus 40 for an additional 12 Baht (approximately $0.40 USD). The total fare for this journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown is approximately 60 Baht, which equates to only $2 USD. This journey typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Another option to reach Chinatown Bangkok from the airport is by going to Makkasan Station Airport Rail Link and then transferring with a 5-minute walk to Phetchaburi. From Phetchaburi, take a ride covering 7 stops until you reach Hua Lamphong. Once at Hua Lamphong, you’ll need to walk for approximately 10 minutes, depending on the distance to your Chinatown accommodation from the train station.
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown (Yaowarat) by private transfer: Customized Comfort and Flexibility
For those who prioritize personalized services and added comfort, private airport transfers are the epitome of luxury. These services can be pre-booked online or at designated counters within the airport.
Step 1: Pre-Book Your Transfer
Plan ahead and consider pre-booking a private transfer service from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chinatown with a reputable provider. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience upon your arrival.
Step 2: Meet Your Driver
Upon landing, a professional and courteous driver will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point. They will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth ride to Chinatown.
Step 3: Enjoy the Perks
Relish the exclusivity of a private transfer, tailor-made to your schedule and needs. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a group, a private airport transfer offers unparalleled conv
Obtaining a Go City Travel Pass for Bangkok:
For those interested in making the most of their Bangkok visit, consider the Go City sightseeing pass. It grants unlimited access to various included attractions and offers additional tour perks at a discounted price, all without the need to wait in line for physical tickets.
Tips for Budget Travel in Bangkok:
Exploring Bangkok on a budget is entirely feasible. The city, known for its diverse culture, offers opportunities to save money while enjoying its vibrant offerings. Look for local restaurants where meals can cost as low as 30 to 50 THB, with beers priced around 40 THB per bottle.
Accommodation options range from budget rooms at approximately 500 THB (less than $15 USD) to mid-range options ranging from 700-2000 THB ($20-50 USD). Many of the city’s attractions come with reasonable ticket fees, such as 350 THB for a visit to the Grand Palace and 200 THB for admission to the Reclining Buddha. Consider setting aside around $15 USD or less for your entertainment budget in Bangkok, and for just about $2 USD, you can rent a bicycle to explore the city.
Transportation Options in Bangkok:
Bangkok offers a variety of transportation modes, making it easy to navigate the city:
Tour Bangkok by Train:
To explore the city without dealing with traffic and pollution, consider riding the BTS Skytrain, which covers the downtown area and provides access to Siam Square. The Skytrain offers a tourist pass for unlimited rides at 140 THB per day or a multiple-ride pass priced between 345-550 THB. Bangkok also boasts several train stations for long-distance travel, with Hua Lamphong being a crucial one near Yaowarat. Other stations like Thon Buri and Wongwien Yai serve various destinations.
Tour Bangkok by Bus:
Bangkok has a wide range of buses, varying in fare, condition, and color. For budget-conscious tourists, the red and white and blue buses are recommended, offering more space and costing 6.50-8 THB. Air-conditioned versions of the orange buses are available for 11 THB. The pink and white buses, priced at a flat rate of 20 THB, offer a more luxurious option. The city has three public bus terminals: Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2), Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), and Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), serving various destinations within Thailand and beyond.
Tour Bangkok by Tuk Tuk:
Experiencing a ride in a tuk-tuk, the famous three-wheeled motorbikes of Asia, is a must when in Bangkok. While it can be challenging to negotiate a fair price, tuk-tuks are efficient for short journeys. It’s advisable to hail tuk-tuks from main roads rather than tourist areas, as drivers in tourist spots often expect higher fares.
Tour Bangkok by Boat:
Navigating the Chao Phraya River via boat is a popular activity for tourists. The Chao Phraya Express Boat serves both locals and tourists, with different lines connecting various destinations. For a complete tourist experience, consider the Tourist Boat, priced at 150 THB per day or 50 THB for a single ride. There’s also the San Seap Express Boat for canal routes and river taxis available for hire to reach areas outside the usual routes. Local boats, costing less than 30 THB, provide a budget-friendly alternative for getting around Bangkok.
The cheapest boat ride found is a mere 4 THB for a 3-minute journey from Wat Pho to Wat Arun. Walking may be required for 10 minutes from Hua Lamphong train station to your accommodation in Chinatown, depending on its distance.
In summary, Bangkok’s diverse transportation options cater to various budgets and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and affordable experience in this vibrant city.
Discovering Chinatown: A Melting Pot of Culture and Flavors
Now that you’ve arrived in Chinatown, get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating blend of Chinese heritage, Thai culture, and the dynamic atmosphere of this bustling neighborhood.
Exploring Yaowarat Road
Yaowarat Road is the main artery of Chinatown, bursting with life and energy day and night. The colorful and ornate Chinese-style buildings, adorned with traditional lanterns, create a unique ambience that captures the essence of Chinatown.
Temples and Shrines
Chinatown is home to several noteworthy temples and shrines, each bearing intricate architecture and cultural significance. Wat Traimit houses the famous Golden Buddha, a massive solid gold statue, while Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, known as Wat Leng Noei Yi, is one of the largest and most important Chinese Buddhist temples in Bangkok.
Street Food Heaven
Indulge in the gastronomic delights of Chinatown’s renowned street food scene. From delectable dim sum and scrumptious seafood to exotic fruits and desserts, every corner presents a tantalizing culinary adventure.
Shopping Galore
Embarking on a journey from Bangkok Airport to Chinatown unveils an incredible fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you choose the swift BTS Skytrain, the door-to-door convenience of airport taxis, the budget-friendly shuttle buses, or the personalized experience of private airport transfers, each transportation option offers a unique and memorable way to reach this captivating district.
As you arrive in Chinatown, prepare to be enchanted by its vibrant streets, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine. From exploring iconic temples to indulging in the diverse flavors of street food, Chinatown is an extraordinary destination waiting to be discovered. Embrace the charm of this enchanting neighborhood and let the allure of Chinatown captivate your senses.
So, with this comprehensive guide in hand, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Bangkok – from the airport to the captivating realm of Chinatown. Safe travels and happy exploring!
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:
Which mode of transportation is the most cost-effective for traveling from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok?
The most budget-friendly means of transportation is the City Link train, with a one-way fare costing around €1.30 (฿45) to Phayathai station or €1 (฿35) to Makkasan station.
How much does a taxi ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport to downtown Bangkok typically cost?
Taxi fares from the airport to the city center aren’t fixed and depend on the distance and time traveled, calculated via a taximeter. The approximate cost is €6.80 (฿240), but additional charges for toll roads and airport fees may apply.
What is the average duration of a bus journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to downtown Bangkok?
The travel time for a bus journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to downtown Bangkok can vary due to traffic conditions, but it typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
What are the available train options for traveling from Suvarnabhumi Airport to downtown Bangkok?
You can opt for the City Link train to reach either Phayathai station for a transfer to the BTS Skytrain or Makkasan station for a transfer to the MRT subway.
How can I purchase tickets for the City Link train at Suvarnabhumi Airport?
Tickets for the City Link train at Suvarnabhumi Airport can be obtained at ticket booths or automatic machines located in the Basement B level of the airport.
