Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Guide for Tourists
This guide provides comprehensive information about Bangkok Airport Suvarnabhumi (BKK). Discover details on entry procedures, accommodation options, transportation, and available amenities. Intended to assist you in planning your Thailand tour, it ensures you have all the necessary tips for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Bangkok.
Suvarnabhumi Airport Quick View
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the main international gateway in Bangkok, located about 25 km east of downtown Bangkok. It handles most international and long-haul flights, offering extensive facilities.
There are two terminals, the main terminal and the satellite terminal. The main terminal has two sections, the international section includes concourses A, B, C, and D, the domestic section includes concourses E and F, and all the concourses are connected by corridors.
The satellite terminal is primarily served for domestic flights, and it links the main terminal to the concourses.
Transfers between two terminals take time, so it is advisable to take an APM (Automated People Mover) for the connection. The APM station is easy to find, it runs frequently and takes about 3 minutes from the satellite terminal to the main terminal.
| Main Terminal (MT) | Satellite Terminal (SAT-1) | |
| 4th Level | Departures | Lounges and various services and amenities |
| 3th Level | Retail stores and amenities | Departures, retail stores, meeting points for passengers |
| 2th Level | Arrivals | Arrivals and zones for connecting flights |
| 1th Level | A small food court, bus ticket counters, taxi stand | Baggage handling, offices |
| Basement | Airport Link Station, a convenience store, and currency exchange offices | N/A |
| Basement 1 | N/A | System control rooms |
| Basement 2 | N/A | The four platforms of APM Station |
Suvarnabhumi Airport Entry Procedures
The procedure upon arrival will be: arrival - landing visa counter (for visa on arrival) - immigration clearance - baggage claim - customs inspection (if any) - arrival hall.
The general estimate for customs procedures is 45 - 120 minutes, though this can vary based on several factors like waiting lines. If you hold a Tourist Visa Exemption passport, you can save time by skipping the visa-on-arrival queue.
Baggage Claim
Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotels
There are many accommodation options near Suvarnabhumi Airport. Here are a few selected with free airport shuttle services for your reference.
Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
Connected to the airport terminal, a 5-minute walk via an underground walkway. The hotel features a 24-hour check-in service, accommodating your schedule. It is suitable for travelers with long layovers or those who prefer to stay close to the airport.
Miracle Transit Hotel
Located on the 3rd floor of BKK Airport with reservations available from 4 to 12 hours. It is specially designed for transit travelers who arrive or depart from the airport and want to make the most of their waiting time or enjoy a comfortable stay.
The Park Nine Hotel Suvarnabhumi
About a 15-minute drive from the airport, and it provides free airport shuttles. Features with luxurious amenities like a well-equipped fitness center and a deluxe spa, it is ideal for those seeking a comfortable and modern stay close to the airport.
Siam Mandarina Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
Approximately a 17-minute drive from the airport, the Siam Mandarina Hotel features a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views, ideal for relaxing after a long flight.
Grand BS Airport Hotel Suvarnabhumi
About a 15-minute drive from the airport, providing basic yet essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel offers budget-friendly accommodation with a focus on convenience.
Suvarnabhumi Airport Transportations
Suvarnabhumi Airport offers a range of convenient transportation options, including the fast and efficient Airport Rail Link, taxis, ride-sharing apps and public buses, connecting to downtown Bangkok in about 30-60 minutes. To avoid the crowds and long queues, start your trip smoothly by booking our customized tour with private transfer. Meet your driver at the airport and skip the long taxi lines for a quick and comfortable journey to your hotel.
Odynovo Private Transfer
It is about 45 minutes to the city center depending on traffic. Odynovo provides exclusive airport transfer services, tailored to fit your personalized travel plans. Easily book online ahead of your trip, ensuring a hassle-free Thailand tour from the moment you land.
Airport Transfer Services
Taxis
Taxis are available 24/7 at the Taxi Stand Gate 4 on the ground floor (1st level) of the main terminal, the cost will be metered fares plus airport surcharge (around 50 THB).
Airport Rail Link (ARL)
Suvarnabhumi Airport City Line (SA City Line) provides a fast and convenient connection to downtown Bangkok. The line provides service between Phayathai Station (with connections to BTS Skytrain) to the end terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport within 30 minutes.
AOT Limousine
AOT (Airports of Thailand) Limousine is the only official limousine service at the airport, offering services with well-maintained, comfortable vehicles and professional drivers, available 24/7. Bookable online or at dedicated counters in the arrivals area, and the fare is a charter rate depending on distance and type of vehicle.
Shuttle Bus BKK-DMK
The shuttle bus between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) is a free service for passengers. Air-conditioned buses run every 30-60 minutes, taking approximately 1-2 hours depending on traffic. You must show proof of travel, such as a flight ticket, to use the service. Pick-up and drop-off are in the arrival areas at both airports.
Buses
BKK Airport offers a variety of bus options catering to different needs and budgets. Limo Bus provides shared services to key locations in Bangkok, connecting with the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway. Interstate Bus (Bor Khor Sor) offers long-distance routes to destinations across Thailand. BMTA City Bus operates affordable services within Bangkok, including routes to and from the airport, ensuring reliable public transport for both budget-conscious travelers and locals.
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7 DAYS Suvarnabhumi Airport Facilities
BKK Airport offers a wide range of facilities, including numerous dining options, duty-free shops, and retail stores. There are also lounges, free Wi-Fi, and currency exchange services. Additional amenities are a medical clinic, prayer rooms, and children's play areas. The airport also provides baggage storage, shower facilities, and business services such as meeting rooms and fax/copy services.
VAT Refund
To claim a VAT refund, travelers must spend at least 2,000 THB on goods from participating stores and obtain a VAT refund form (P.P.10). Find entrance No. 10 on the 4th floor of the main terminal to get the Customs Stamp on P.P.10 Forms. Before checking in, travelers should present their goods, receipts, and VAT refund forms at the Customs Office for inspection. After clearing immigration, the refund can be processed at the VAT Refund Office located in the departure hall.
Currency Exchange and ATM
Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available on both the arrivals (2nd floor) and departures (4th floor) levels. Exchange services are operated by major banks and specialized exchange companies, offering competitive rates. For more information on local currency, you can check our Thailand currency guide.
Currency Exchange Counter
SIM Cards
Upon arrival, you can purchase SIM cards from major Thai telecom providers such as AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove at counters located in the arrival hall on the 2nd floor. These SIM card services provide various packages, and staff at these counters can assist with SIM card installation and activation.
Dining
There are nearly 50 dining venues located in the main terminal building and departures area, ranging from café, restaurants and fast-food chains to wine bars. Below are some ideas for your reference.
For coffee lovers, there are Starbucks (Level 3, 4 Main Terminal) and Coffee World (Level 4 Gates B, F in Departures Area).
For families, S & P (Level 3 Main Terminal) offers a variety of Thai and Western dishes, suitable for both adults and kids. And McDonald's (Level 3 Main Terminal, Level 4 Gates D, F in Departures Area) is convenient and quick with familiar menu items.
For those wanting local cuisine, Kin Ramen (Level 3 Main Terminal, Level 2 Gates A in Departures Area) offers special Japanese Ramen with Thai Tom Yum Soup, and the food court Magic Food Point on the 1st floor of main terminal offers local Thai dishes at affordable prices.
Duty Free Shops
King Power Tax Free shops are located throughout the BKK Airport, primarily in departures area. Multiple outlets are available after clearing security. And you can also find these shops in concourses A, B, C, D, E, F and G, offering products including cosmetics, electronics, fashion and local souvenirs.
Lounges
BKK Airport features a variety of lounges for travelers, including airline-specific lounges, independent lounges, and specialty lounges. Such the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge (Concourse C, D & E), The Wisdom (3rd Floor, Concourse A), King Power Space (4th Floor Concourses A and E) and the Miracle Lounge (3rd Floor Concourse A). These lounges offer amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, showers, and business facilities, providing a relaxing environment.
Baggage Services
Suvarnabhumi Airport provides convenient services for travelers' luggage needs. Baggage storage facilities on the 2nd and 4th floors offer short-term and long-term options, ensuring secure storage. Baggage wrapping services on the 4th floor protect luggage during transit. For lost items, the Lost & Found office on the 2nd floor in arrivals assists passengers in reclaiming their belongings efficiently.
Massage Services
You can find massage in the airport especially in departures area and concourses, options are traditional Thai massage, foot massage, and spa treatments.
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