Layover in Bangkok, Thailand
First time in Bangkok? Got a layover and wondering how to make the most of it? Well don’t settle for just hanging out in the airport, as this vibrant city has so much to offer! Whether you’re at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Muang Airport (DMK), here’s how to turn your layover into an unforgettable mini-adventure.
Visa Requirements in Thailand
Good news for travelers! Many nationalities, including those from the U.S. and most European countries, can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 60 days, with a further 30 days available from local Thai immigration offices. If you’re not on that list, there’s a Transit Visa for up to 30 days or a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 15 days, both available at major entry points like Suvarnabhumi Airport. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date. (Always double-check current visa requirements to avoid surprises).
Minimum Layover Times in Bangkok
Timing is everything. Here’s a quick guide:
Short layover (3-5 hours): If you have arrived at a different airport than the one you will be flying out of, use this time to get across town as it can take you 60 - 90 minutes EASILY! If you’re already at the correct airport, then STAY WHERE YOU ARE and indulge in a massage or a nice meal in the terminal.
Long layover (5-7 hours): Treat yourself to a Thai massage at the airport or relax in a lounge. Don’t have a premium ticket? No problem—you can buy a one-time pass for many lounges. Another option is to book a capsule hotel. Suvarnabhumi Airport has one of the best! It’s called Avagard Capsule Hotel and it’s very close to the departures area in Terminal 1. As for Don Muang Airport, there’s an Avagard there too, but I prefer Sleep Box by Miracle.
Overnight layover: With a full night, you can explore Bangkok’s highlights. Use the Airport Rail Link for a quick, budget-friendly ride to the city center (25-30 minutes, about $1.30-$4.30). Prefer comfort? Taxis cost around $8.50-$14, including tolls.
Best Areas
Several areas of Bangkok have different vibes that set them apart from the rest of the city. A little bit of research will help you decide where to stay, where to visit and where to avoid. At 1,600 sq km and counting, Bangkok is big, and the many different areas can be bewildering – even for those who've spent years here.
The most popular areas for visitors are:
Siam
Silom
Sukhumvit
Old Town (Rattanakosin)
Chidlom-Ploenchit
Pratunam
Riverside
What to Do in Bangkok During a Layover
Bangkok’s energy is infectious, no matter when you visit. For newbies to the city, be prepared for your senses to be assaulted with exotic sights, a cacophony of noise, and smells that… well… you’ll find out. Following are our suggestions for first-timers:
Morning Temples
Start your day exploring Bangkok’s most iconic temples, but be sure to dress appropriately!
Grand Palace A must-see attraction showcasing Thai architecture and art at its finest. More Info
Wat Pho Home to the giant Reclining Buddha and an excellent traditional massage school where you an pop in for a pummeling. More Info
Wat Arun The Temple of Dawn is stunning and you can see it as you pass along the Chao Phraya River on the Orange Line Express ferry. More Info | More Info
Wat Mahathat Learn the practice of meditation from monks who live at the temple and offer free classes for both seated and walking meditation. It’s a very peaceful experience, with each session lasting for a few hours. While most classes are conducted in Thai, there are English-speaking monks to assist you. More Info
Afternoon Shopping
With more time up your sleeve, dive into Bangkok’s bustling culture.
MBK Center A sprawling shopping complex with over 2000 shops, restaurants, cafes & department stores all offering incredible bargains. MBK is also a great place to get a facial or hair cut (5th and 6th floors), or watch Muay Thai for free. More Info
Chatuchak Weekend Market The largest market in Thailand is only open the the public on the weekend. If you’re going to visit, try to plan it so you have a full day to take it all in, and be prepared to shop ‘til you drop! It’s insanely crowded for good reason and you can buy pretty much everything you can imagine, right here! More Info
Puppetry If your luggage allowance won’t allow more shopping, then check out the art of Thai puppetry; a tradition that is slowly dying out. The Artist House is one of the few places in Bangkok where you can still enjoy this unique show, every day (except Wednesdays) at 2pm, in Thonburi. And it’s FREE! More Info
Evening Action
Bangkok dazzles after sunset. Here’s what you can do:
Bangkok Flower Market Open 24 hours, Pak Klong Talad is a fresh market during the daytime, but well worth a visit. If you want to see the market in full action though, the best time to go is pre-dawn, at 3 or 4am. This is when the roadside transforms into a kaleidoscope of bright, blooming colors, as vendors receive floral goods from each flower-growing area in the country. More Info
Watch a Lady Boy Show Bangkok is famous for its transgender cabaret shows. If you only have 1 night in Bangkok, head to the popular Calypso Cabaret to see some of the most beautiful and talented katoeys in town, who dance, sing, mime and parade around a stage for 90 fun-filled minutes. More Info
Scorpion Munchies Though more of a tourist gimmick than being a true reflection of traditional Thai cuisine, you can easily find these creepy-crawly vendors at Khao San Road, Patpong Market, and Nana Plaza. Popular choices include bamboo worms, cockroaches, grasshoppers, red ants, and deep-fried scorpion. Hmmmm! Nummy!
Additional Tips for a Smooth Layover
Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but knowing basic Thai phrases like “Sawasdee” (Hello) and “Khop khun kaa” (Thank you) can be helpful.
Currency: The Thai Baht (THB) is the currency. Exchange rates are better for USD100 notes that are in good condition. Smaller vendors prefer cash, so keep some Baht handy.
Transportation: Grab (similar to Uber) and the Airport Rail Link are great options for getting around. Tuk Tuks are always a hoot, and don’t forget the river ferries. And then there’s the Skytrain (BTS) and underground (MRT) networks. You’re spoilt for choice! Just try to avoid rush hours!
Safety: Bangkok is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Pick-pockets are a thing.
Dress Code: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Hats and shoes off!
Photos: Tourism Thailand
