Bangkok Airport Train — ARL Guide
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Bangkok City — Updated 2026
The Airport Rail Link (ARL) is the fastest and most reliable way to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok. The City Line runs every 10–15 minutes, costs just THB 15–45 (about $0.50–$1.30), and reaches Phaya Thai in 28–30 minutes — where it connects directly to the BTS Skytrain covering Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, and Asok. It is far faster than a taxi during peak hours when the expressway can take 90+ minutes.
Stations & Journey Times
| Station | From Airport | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Suvarnabhumi Airport | 0 min | Underground station, below departures |
| Lat Krabang | ~8 min | Eastern suburbs |
| Ban Thap Chang | ~12 min | Eastern suburbs |
| Hua Mak | ~16 min | Eastern Bangkok |
| Ramkhamhaeng | ~20 min | University area |
| Makkasan | ~26 min | Connect to MRT Blue Line |
| Phaya Thai | ~30 min | Connect to BTS Skytrain (all city) |
The last station, Phaya Thai, is the BTS interchange. Most hotel areas (Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam) require 1–3 more BTS stops.
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Train vs Taxi vs Grab
| Option | Cost | Peak Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Rail Link | THB 15–45 | 28–30 min | Best value — Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam |
| City Express (direct) | THB 150 | 15 min | Fastest — Phaya Thai only |
| Metered taxi | THB 300–500 + toll | 45–90+ min | Door to door, traffic dependent |
| Grab | THB 350–550 | 45–90+ min | Convenient, fixed price |
| Public bus (556/552) | THB 30–50 | 90–120 min | Budget only, slow |
FAQ
Where is the Airport Rail Link at Suvarnabhumi?+
The ARL station is in the basement (B level) of the main terminal building. Take the elevator or escalator down from Arrivals (Level 2). Follow signs for "City Rail Link" or "Airport Train" — it's clearly signposted throughout the terminal.
What is the difference between City Line and Express trains?+
The City Line stops at all 8 stations and costs THB 15–45 depending on distance. The Express train (when running) goes directly to Phaya Thai in 15 minutes for THB 150. As of 2026 the Express service is limited — check at the station for current schedule.
How do I connect to BTS or MRT from the Airport Rail Link?+
At Phaya Thai station, there is a direct walkway to the BTS Skytrain (Phaya Thai station on the Sukhumvit/Silom Line). At Makkasan station, there is an underground connection to the MRT Blue Line (Phetchaburi station). Both connections are covered.
Does the ARL train run 24 hours?+
No. The Airport Rail Link operates from approximately 06:00 to midnight. For early morning or late night arrivals, a taxi or Grab is necessary. Taxis are always available at the dedicated taxi rank in front of the terminal (first floor).
Can I use a Rabbit Card or transit card on the ARL?+
The Airport Rail Link uses its own ticketing system — you cannot use the BTS Rabbit Card or MRT stored-value card on the ARL. Buy a token at the ARL ticket machine in the basement. Machines accept cash and cards.
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