Just landed in Bangkok and itching to explore the vibrant chaos of Koh San Road? This backpacker haven pulsates with energy, offering delicious street food, lively bars, and budget-friendly accommodation. But first things first, you need to get there from the airport.
No worries, this guide will unveil the various ways to navigate from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi Airport, BKK) to the heart of Koh San Road.
Considering the Distance:
Koh San Road is roughly 35 kilometers away from Bangkok Airport. Traffic can be unpredictable, so factor in travel time that can range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the route and time of day.
Let’s explore your transportation options!
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Taxi: The most convenient option, flagged taxis are readily available at the airport. Ensure the meter is running for a fair fare. This route might take the toll road, so discuss any additional fees beforehand. Expect to pay around 100 THB (Thai Baht) on top of the meter charge.
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Airport Link (ARL) + Taxi/Bus: This budget-friendly option combines the Airport Link train with either a taxi or a bus. The ARL whisks you towards Bangkok’s city center (Phaya Thai station) in about 30 minutes for a fare of 45 THB. From Phaya Thai, hail a taxi for roughly 80-100 THB or hop on the public bus number 59 (around 16 THB) to reach Koh San Road.
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Bus: A direct and economical choice, the S1 Airport Shuttle operates every 30 minutes and costs a fixed fare of 60 THB. The journey takes about an hour, but the terminus is a short 10-minute walk from Koh San Road.
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Private Transfer: For maximum comfort and a direct route, pre-book a private transfer. This eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport and can be ideal for families or groups with luggage. Prices vary depending on the company, but expect to pay more than other options.
Insider Tips:
- Rush hour traffic (7:30 am – 9:30 am and 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm) can significantly extend travel times. Consider these timings when planning your arrival.
- If you’re on a tight budget, the bus or ARL + bus combinations are unbeatable.
- Taxis offer door-to-door service, but ensure you use a metered taxi and agree on toll fees beforehand.
- Download a ride-hailing app like Grab for convenient taxi booking.
- Consider carrying smaller bills for easier transactions, especially on buses and public transport.
With these options at your disposal, you’ll be navigating from Bangkok Airport to the electrifying Koh San Road in no time. So buckle up, and get ready for your Bangkok adventure!
