Landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport for the first time can be exciting, but finding your way into Bangkok may feel confusing. After a long flight, most travellers want a transport option that is simple, affordable, and easy to understand.
Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok's main international airport.
The Airport Rail Link, often called the ARL, is one of the easiest ways to travel from Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok. It is affordable, avoids road traffic, and connects with Bangkok's other train systems.
I recently walked from the airport arrival area to the train station and took photos along the way. This guide follows the same route that a new visitor will take, from finding the station to buying a ticket and boarding the train.
Quick answer: Follow the Airport Rail Link signs to Basement Level B, buy a ticket for your destination, and take the train towards Phaya Thai. The full journey to Phaya Thai takes around 30 minutes.
Why Take the Airport Rail Link?
Bangkok traffic can be heavy, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. A taxi may be comfortable, but the journey time can change depending on traffic.
The Airport Rail Link travels on its own railway line, so it is not affected by road traffic. This makes it a useful choice for solo travellers, couples, backpackers, and anyone staying near a train station.
- It is one of the most affordable ways to enter Bangkok.
- It avoids traffic on the main roads.
- The station is located inside Suvarnabhumi Airport.
- Signs and ticket machines are available in English.
- It connects with the BTS Skytrain and MRT.
Suvarnabhumi Airport is large, but the transport signs are easy to follow.
Step 1: Follow the Airport Rail Link Signs
After you collect your luggage and pass through customs, enter the main arrival hall. Look for signs showing a train symbol or the words Airport Rail Link.
The station is located on Basement Level B. Follow the signs towards the escalators or lifts and continue going down.
Look for the train symbol and follow the signs towards Basement Level B.
Traveller tip: Do not leave the airport building to find the train. The Airport Rail Link station is connected directly to the airport.
Step 2: Arrive at Basement Level B
As you reach the basement, you will begin to see the Airport Rail Link entrance. The area is open and usually busy with both local passengers and international visitors.
Before entering the station, you can find several useful services. There is a convenience store near the station, and you may also see mobile SIM card services and other travel facilities.
This is a useful place to buy water, snacks, or a SIM card before continuing your journey. However, you do not need to stop here if you already have everything you need.
Step 3: Check the Airport Rail Link Route
Before buying a ticket, check the route map and decide which station is best for your hotel or accommodation.
The Airport Rail Link runs from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phaya Thai. It stops at several stations along the way.
Check the route before buying your ticket.
| Station | Useful For | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Lat Krabang | Eastern Bangkok and nearby areas | Local transport |
| Ban Thap Chang | Residential areas in eastern Bangkok | Local transport |
| Hua Mak | Hua Mak and nearby neighbourhoods | Local transport |
| Ramkhamhaeng | Ramkhamhaeng Road and nearby hotels | Local transport |
| Makkasan | Asok, Sukhumvit and central Bangkok | MRT at Phetchaburi |
| Ratchaprarop | Pratunam and nearby shopping areas | Local transport |
| Phaya Thai | Siam, Victory Monument and central Bangkok | BTS Skytrain |
Which Station Should You Choose?
Choose Phaya Thai if you want to connect with the BTS Skytrain. This is useful for travelling towards Siam, Ari, Mo Chit, Asok, Thonglor, or other BTS areas.
Choose Makkasan if your hotel is close to the MRT Blue Line. From Makkasan, you can walk to Phetchaburi MRT Station.
Choose Ratchaprarop if you are staying near Pratunam, Baiyoke Tower, or the surrounding shopping area.
Step 4: Buy Your Airport Rail Link Ticket
Ticket machines are located near the station entrance. The machines have an English-language option, so the process is simple even if this is your first visit to Bangkok.
- Select English on the ticket machine.
- Choose your destination station.
- Check the fare shown on the screen.
- Select the available payment method.
- Collect your ticket or token and any change.
Can You Pay by Credit Card?
Some ticket machines show card or contactless payment options. Check the payment symbols on the machine before starting your purchase.
It is still useful to carry some Thai Baht because the available payment methods may depend on the machine. Cash is also helpful when you continue your journey by local transport.
Helpful tip: Keep some small Thai banknotes and coins with you. They can be useful for train tickets, local buses, small shops, and street food.
Step 5: Enter the Station and Board the Train
After buying your ticket, go to the entrance gates. Use your ticket or token to open the gate, then follow the signs towards the platform.
Check the electronic information screens and wait behind the safety line. When the train arrives, allow passengers to leave before you enter.
Airport Rail Link trains are air-conditioned. You can bring luggage, but large suitcases may be harder to manage during busy hours.
Important: Keep your ticket or token during the journey. You may need it again when leaving the station at your destination.
How Long Does the Airport Rail Link Take?
Travel time depends on your destination. The full journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phaya Thai takes around 30 minutes.
| Destination | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Lat Krabang | About 5 minutes |
| Hua Mak | About 15 minutes |
| Makkasan | About 22 minutes |
| Ratchaprarop | About 25 minutes |
| Phaya Thai | About 30 minutes |
Remember to include extra time for buying your ticket, waiting for the train, and changing to the BTS, MRT, taxi, or another form of transport.
How Much Is the Airport Rail Link?
Airport Rail Link fares depend on the distance travelled. A journey normally costs between 15 and 45 THB.
The final fare will appear on the ticket machine after you choose your destination.
The Airport Rail Link is usually much cheaper than taking a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok.
Airport Rail Link or Taxi: Which Is Better?
Both choices can work well. The best option depends on your destination, luggage, arrival time, and number of travellers.
Choose the Airport Rail Link If:
- You want to save money.
- You want to avoid road traffic.
- You are travelling alone or as a couple.
- You have light or medium luggage.
- Your hotel is near the BTS, MRT, or an ARL station.
Choose a Taxi If:
- You have several large suitcases.
- You are travelling with young children.
- You are travelling in a larger group.
- Your hotel is far from a train station.
- You want direct door-to-door transport.
For one or two passengers with manageable luggage, the Airport Rail Link is often the most practical option. For a family or group, a taxi may be more comfortable.
Useful Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Check the nearest train station to your hotel before arriving.
- Download an offline map or connect to airport Wi-Fi.
- Buy a Thai SIM card if you need mobile internet.
- Keep your ticket until you leave your destination station.
- Watch your luggage during busy travel periods.
- Avoid blocking train doors with large suitcases.
- Allow extra time when changing to the BTS or MRT.
- Keep some Thai cash for local transport and small purchases.
Is the Airport Rail Link Easy for Tourists?
Yes. The station has English signs, route maps, ticket machines, and information screens. Many international travellers use this train every day.
The first few minutes may feel unfamiliar, but the process is simple. Follow the train signs, choose your destination, buy your ticket, and continue to the platform.
Once you reach Phaya Thai or Makkasan, you can connect with Bangkok's wider public transport network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is the Airport Rail Link at Suvarnabhumi Airport?
The Airport Rail Link station is located on Basement Level B. Follow the train signs from the airport arrival area.
Can I Bring a Suitcase on the Train?
Yes. Travellers can bring suitcases on the Airport Rail Link. Try to keep your luggage close to you and avoid blocking the doors.
Does the Airport Rail Link Go to Siam?
The Airport Rail Link does not travel directly to Siam. Take the train to Phaya Thai and change to the BTS Skytrain towards Siam.
Which Station Connects with the BTS?
Phaya Thai Airport Rail Link Station connects with the BTS Sukhumvit Line.
Which Station Connects with the MRT?
Get off at Makkasan and walk to Phetchaburi MRT Station for the MRT Blue Line.
Is the Airport Rail Link Safe?
The Airport Rail Link is widely used by local passengers and tourists. As with any public transport system, keep your bags and personal items close to you.
Final Thoughts
Taking the Airport Rail Link is a simple way to begin your Bangkok journey. It is affordable, easy to find, and not affected by road traffic.
From the arrival hall, follow the train signs to Basement Level B. Check the station map, buy your ticket, and board the train towards Bangkok.
There is no need to rush. Take your time, check the signs, and enjoy your first journey into the city.
Welcome to Bangkok
Your Thailand adventure begins as soon as you leave the airport. Travel safely, explore slowly, and discover the happiness found all around Thailand.