A comprehensive guide to Bangkok's primary airports

Bangkok features two international airports, both situated at a similar distance from the city center but in opposite directions. They vary in size, facilities, and the types of travelers they cater to. This guide will assist you in determining which airport best suits your needs.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Bangkok's newer and larger airport, accommodating a significant number of international arrivals as well as domestic flights. While a stylish new satellite terminal has opened, passengers must first clear security at the Main Terminal and then take an underground train to reach it. Due to potentially longer wait times and this transfer, it's crucial to arrive at the airport with ample time.

Both terminals feature a variety of premium shopping, lounge, and dining options, along with impressive artworks and sculptures. If you decide to travel through Suvarnabhumi, utilize Dinogo flights and flight status tracker to keep informed.

Location

Situated approximately 16 miles east of downtown Bangkok, the drive to the airport can take between 30 to 60 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak traffic, it can take nearly two hours, prompting me to prefer the spacious and convenient Airport Rail Link, which reaches central Bangkok in less than 30 minutes.

Common flights from BKK

Over 100 airlines operate from Suvarnabhumi Airport, offering a wide spectrum of both low-cost and full-service carriers for domestic and international travel. However, it primarily serves as Bangkok’s main hub for full-service airlines, catering to higher-fare flights. This is the airport to choose if you're traveling far from Thailand or if you hold loyalty to a major airline alliance and wish to benefit from associated program perks.

While BKK is renowned for international flights, it also serves as the base for the national carrier, Thai Airways. In addition to this airline, several others offer numerous domestic and regional flights from BKK. If you're only passing through on a layover with one of these airlines, consider staying at one of the hotels near BKK for easy access to the airport.

Layover relaxation

If you have some extra time during a layover or arrive early at BKK, you're in for a treat. Suvarnabhumi Airport boasts a selection of luxurious lounges. While many are exclusive to certain airlines and require premium tickets for entry, day passes can be purchased at Miracle Lounges, subject to availability.

These upscale lounges offer not only supreme comfort but also made-to-order dining options alongside traditional buffet and bar selections – and the day pass rates are significantly more affordable than elsewhere.

BKK is one of the few airports where I find the lounge experience worth the cost, as the amenities provided are of exceptionally high quality for very reasonable prices. It's wise to book ahead to increase your chances of securing a desired spot.

A perk for Priority Pass members: all Miracle Lounges at BKK are accessible with your membership.

Shopping in and out of the airport

Suvarnabhumi boasts a wide array of shops in its duty-free zone and beyond, offering a better selection and quality than DMK. If you find yourself with a couple of hours, it’s easy to spend that time browsing or picking up souvenirs. However, for layovers of four hours or more, I suggest seeking out a more distinctive shopping experience.

I enjoy visiting the nearby Market Village shopping mall for a more authentic local shopping vibe compared to the airport or Bangkok's tourist-centric malls, which often lean towards Western brands. Remember to allow at least two hours to return to the airport for security checks and reaching your gate, so plan your shopping time wisely.

To reach Market Village, take the Airport Rail Link to Ploenchit station, then grab a taxi. While you could take a cab directly from the airport, I highly recommend using the Rail Link to minimize time spent in traffic, especially on your way back to the airport.

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage, you can store it in the lockers at BKK to avoid hauling it around all day. Venturing out during a layover can be a great way to pass the time, but make sure you understand the implications of leaving the airport during a layover first.

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Despite being Bangkok's smaller airport, Don Mueang International Airport still serves 30 million travelers each year. If you opt to fly from the US to Bangkok, Dinogo can keep you informed on your journey.

Location

DMK is located roughly 15 miles north of downtown Bangkok. However, this short distance can often translate to over an hour on the road due to the city’s infamous traffic. Unlike BKK, DMK lacks a straightforward public transport link to the city center. While it is possible to use a combination of the SRT Red Line and the metro, this option can still take around an hour and is not particularly user-friendly. Therefore, although DMK is slightly closer to downtown, it usually takes longer to get there.

If you're traveling to the northern parts of the city, flying into DMK will get you there much faster. And if you choose to navigate the local traffic yourself, be sure to familiarize yourself with Bangkok car rentals beforehand.

Typical flights from DMK

DMK features a wide range of airlines, with low-cost and budget carriers being the most prominent. If you’re looking to travel around the region on a budget, you’ll discover numerous flights from smaller, regional airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Scoot. While these budget airlines are favored for shorter domestic and regional trips, they also offer various international flight options.

This airport is ideal for low-cost connecting flights, and finding hotels near DMK is easy if you have an overnight layover.

Be aware that low-cost carriers often impose additional fees for extras like luggage, so it’s essential to understand the differences between carry-on and checked bags and adhere to your airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid unexpected charges.

Layover lounging

While DMK may be the smaller airport, it still offers several lounges where you can buy day passes for access. Both terminals feature lounges with cozy seating and complimentary snacks and drinks. Although they lack the grandeur of BKK’s luxurious lounges, you’ll still find a comfortable environment.

Dining at Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Even with affordable lounge access at DMK, I suggest stopping by Magic Food Park for a quick bite, especially if you’re just connecting. Here, you’ll discover local Thai dishes that highlight incredibly budget-friendly Bangkok street food. Even if you’ve spent ample time in the city, it’s a perfect spot for one last taste of local flavors before departing.

Choosing between Bangkok airports

If you're still unsure about which Bangkok airport suits you best, use this straightforward comparison to highlight the essential factors and help you decide.

Before you take off

With all the details about Bangkok’s airports in hand, be sure to check out the Dinogo Thailand guide prior to your trip to the capital.

For a thorough compilation of expert advice and resources to navigate airports worldwide, Dinogo’s extensive airport guide provides everything you require.

How this guide was developed

As a seasoned traveler, I average around 120 flights annually and have dedicated nearly a decade to researching various airlines and airports. Bangkok has served as a key hub for many of my journeys across Southeast Asia, allowing me to personally experience both airports multiple times. Drawing on my extensive knowledge of these airports and insights from other Dinogo experts, I have created this detailed guide.