BANGKOK TRANSPORT HUBS
How To Get To Bangkok: Main Transport and Transit Hubs Information
Bangkok's extensive transportation network connects the city through multiple major hubs serving rail, air, bus, minivan, and water transport.
Bangkok is served by two major airports. Suvarnabhumi International Airport handles most international flights and is where you'll likely arrive. Don Mueang Airport, the older of the two, is now the hub for budget airlines and domestic flights. Airline operator services can change between airports, so it is best to verify flights and terminals.
Bangkok's bus network is extensive and incredibly cheap, though it can be confusing for first-timers. Air-conditioned buses are more comfortable for tourists, while the older orange and cream buses offer a more authentic (and sweaty) local experience. For traveling to other parts of Thailand, three main bus terminals serve different regions: Mo Chit for the north and northeast, Ekkamai for eastern destinations like Pattaya, and Sai Tai Mai for southern beach destinations.
The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are the easiest option for navigating central Bangkok. These modern, air-conditioned systems help you avoid traffic jams while offering great views of the city. The Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi Airport directly to the city center in about 30 minutes. For longer journeys outside Bangkok, the railway system connects you to destinations across Thailand, with trains departing from the impressive Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal and the historic Hua Lamphong station.
Minivans are a popular middle ground between buses and private transport. They're faster than buses because they will normally not have multiple stops and are cheaper than taxis for intercity travel. Most minivan services depart from the Mo Chit New Van Terminal, though you'll still find some at Victory Monument. They're ideal for reaching nearby cities and provinces.
The river ferries and express boats are not only practical for avoiding traffic but offer wonderful views of riverside temples and traditional neighborhoods. The boats are cheap, frequent, and connect many major tourist attractions.
International Airports
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
Bangkok's main international gateway handles the majority of international flights and serves as Thailand's largest airport. Located 25 kilometers east of downtown Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi connects to the city via the Airport Rail Link, taxis, and buses. The airport serves as a major Southeast Asian hub with extensive global connections.
To get to Suvarnabhumi, take a Taxi from Bangkok, BMTA or Bor Khor Sor Bus, or BTS Skytrain from Phaya Thai interchange station in Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi is pronounced "Soo-wan-a-poom". The address is 999 Moo 1, Bangna-Trad Road. Km 15 Rachathewa, BangPli Samut Prakan.
Suvarnabhumi Airport Linkline and Taxi
Within the Suvarnabhumi airport complex are the Taxi services that can take you to Bangkok city or as far as Pattaya city. There is also the rail link station to Bangkok city that is integrated into the airport basement.
Suvarnabhumi Public Bus Centre (BMTA)
Located adjacent to Suvarnabhumi Airport and accessible via free shuttle bus from (1st Floor (gate 3 & 8) 2nd Floor (gate 5) 4th floor (gate 5), this dedicated bus terminal offers direct intercity coach services to destinations across Thailand including Pattaya, Rayong, and other eastern provinces. The bus facility provides an alternative to taxis or train for travelers continuing their journey from the airport.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
Originally Bangkok's main airport until 2006, Don Mueang now primarily serves low-cost carriers and domestic flights. Located 24 kilometers north of central Bangkok, it remains one of Asia's busiest airports for budget travel. Transportation to the city includes taxis, buses, and nearby train connections.
The easy option to get to Don Mueang is by taxi from Bangkok. Difficult cheap option is to take the MRT subway from Bangkok to Hua Lamphong train station, then a train from (North & Northeast lines) to Don Mueang Train Station, which is next to Don Mueang Airport.
The address is 222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Khwaeng Sanambin, Khet Don Mueang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
Railway Stations
Hua Lamphong Railway Station
Bangkok's historic grand central station, Hua Lamphong has served as the city's main railway terminus since 1916. Located in the Pathum Wan district, this iconic terminal connects Bangkok to destinations across Thailand. While still operational, most long-distance services have transitioned to the newer Krung Thep Aphiwat station. The station features distinctive Italian-design architecture and connects to the MRT subway system.
To get there take the MRT subway to Hua Lamphong. The Bangkok Train station is opposite.
The address is Rama IV Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok.
You can view and download the Thailand railway map.
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (KTW)
Opened in 2023, this state-of-the-art railway station which is located in the Chatuchak district now serves as Bangkok's primary rail hub. It is also known as Bang Sue Grand Station.
This modern facility handles most intercity and long-distance train services previously operating from Hua Lamphong. It serves as a major interchange connecting the MRT subway, SRT Red Line commuter rail, and intercity train services.
To get there, take the MRT line to Bang Sue station and then the underground walkway to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.
The address is 336 Thoet Damri Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok
You can view and download the Thailand railway map.
Bangkok Bus Terminals
Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit)
Also known as Mo Chit Bus Terminal, this hub serves routes to northern and northeastern Thailand destinations including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Nong Khai. Located near Chatuchak Park, the terminal connects to both BTS and MRT lines for easy city access.
To get there, take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit station and then a tuk-tuk or taxi. It is a fairly long walk.
Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai)
Situated in the Ekkamai area along Sukhumvit Road, this terminal serves destinations east of Bangkok including Pattaya, Rayong, and Trat. The convenient location next to Ekkamai BTS station makes it easily accessible from central Bangkok. Take exit number 2 to the street.
Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)
Located in Thonburi on the western side of the Chao Phraya River, this terminal serves southern destinations including Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani. While farther from the city center, it's accessible via public buses and taxis from central Bangkok.
It is located on the corner of Phutthamonthon Sai 1 Road and Borommaratchachonnani Road, Northern Thonburi. Sai Tai Mai, Taling Chan Station
Water Transport Main Pier
Chao Phraya River Central Pier (Sathon)
Sathon Pier is the central pier on the Chao Phraya River. It is conveniently below the BTS Skytrain station of Saphan Taksin. Other major interchange piers are Tha Maharaj, Tha Chang, and Phra Arthit.
Express boats, local ferries, and tourist boats operate along the river, offering connections between key districts and serving as an alternative to road transport during peak traffic hours.
Bangkok Minivan Terminals
Minivan Services
Bangkok's busiest minivan departure points were at Victory Monument which served as an informal hub for minivan services to various destinations. Most services have now relocated to designated terminals. The Mo Chit New Van Terminal is located across the road from the main Mo Chit Bus Terminal building. This is where most minivan services operate.
The other minivan services are located in the Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai and the Southern Bus Terminal at Sai Tai Mai.
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