Airports in Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) - Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is Bangkok's primary international gateway.
- It's one of Southeast Asia's busiest airports, handling millions of passengers annually.
- Located 25 kilometres east of the city centre, it offers convenient access to Bangkok.
- The airport boasts modern facilities, duty-free shops, and a wide array of dining options.
- BKK has excellent connectivity with international destinations worldwide.
- Passengers can enjoy services like lounges, car rental, and efficient public transport links.
- Immigration and customs processes are generally smooth at this well-organized airport.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) - Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is one of Bangkok's airports, situated about 26 kilometres north of the city centre.
- It serves as a hub for domestic and select international flights. /li>
- DMK has undergone renovations to improve its facilities and services.
- The airport offers budget-friendly travel options, including low-cost carriers.
- Passengers can find restaurants, shops, and car rental services on-site.
- Don Mueang has a history dating back to World War II and adds a unique charm to the travel experience.
- It's well-connected to central Bangkok by various transportation options.
Airlines flying to Bangkok from the UK
- British Airways
- Thai Airways
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- EVA Air
- Turkish Airlines
- Malaysia Airlines
- Oman Air
- China Southern Airlines
- Air France
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Lufthansa
What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Bangkok?
Off-Peak Seasons: Generally, the cheapest flights to Bangkok are available during the off-peak or low season, which is from May to October. However, it's also the rainy season, so consider weather preferences.
Advance Booking: Booking your flight well in advance, ideally 2-3 months before your travel date, can often yield lower fares. Airlines tend to offer better deals for early bookings.
Weekday vs. Weekend: Flights are usually more expensive on weekends, so consider flying on weekdays (Tuesday and Wednesday tend to be cheaper).
Avoid Peak Holidays: Prices tend to be higher during peak holiday seasons, like Christmas, New Year, and Songkran (Thai New Year).
Flexible Dates: Be open to flexible travel dates. Sometimes flying a day or two earlier or later can make a significant difference in ticket prices.
Use Fare Comparison Websites: Utilize fare comparison websites and apps to track and compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms. Set up fare alerts to monitor price fluctuations.
Consider Layovers: Non-stop flights are usually more expensive than those with layovers. If you're willing to spend a bit more time in transit, you can often find cheaper options.
Travel During Midweek: If you can, aim to begin your journey on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as these days are often associated with better fares.
Join Loyalty Programs: If you frequently travel to Bangkok, consider joining airline loyalty programs to accrue miles and receive special offers.
Avoid Major Events: Check for major events, conferences, or festivals in Bangkok that might increase demand and prices during certain periods.
How long is a direct and indirect flight to Bangkok from United Kingdom?
A direct flight from London (Heathrow) to Bangkok typically takes around 11 to 12 hours. Direct flights from other UK airports like Manchester, Birmingham, or Glasgow may have similar durations. Indirect flights can have a wide range of durations depending on the layover location and duration. Common layover cities for flights from the UK to Bangkok include Dubai, Doha, Singapore, and various European cities. Indirect flights with shorter layovers might take around 14 to 16 hours. Flights with longer layovers or multiple stops can extend the journey to 20 hours or more.
What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Bangkok?
The time difference between the United Kingdom and Bangkok, Thailand, typically varies due to daylight saving time changes in the UK. Here's a general guideline:
Standard Time (UK): When the UK is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), it is usually 7 hours behind Bangkok.
Daylight Saving Time (UK): When the UK observes British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT+1, the time difference with Bangkok is 6 hours.
How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Bangkok?
The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Bangkok can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the airline, the length of the layover, and how far in advance the ticket is booked. On average, you can expect to pay around £400-£600 for a return economy ticket, but prices can go up to £800 or more for peak travel periods.
Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Bangkok?
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
- London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- Manchester Airport (MAN)
- Birmingham Airport (BHX)
- Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
- Glasgow Airport (GLA)
- London Stansted Airport (STN)
- London Luton Airport (LTN)
Baggage Allowance on flights to Bangkok from the United Kingdom
Economy Class:- Most airlines permit one piece of carry-on luggage and one checked bag for economy class passengers.
- The maximum weight for a checked bag typically falls within the range of 20-30 kg (44-66 lbs).
- The maximum dimensions for a checked bag are usually around 158 cm (62 inches), which is calculated by adding the height, length, and width of the bag.
Premium Economy :- Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage and one checked bag for economy class passengers.
- The maximum weight for a checked bag typically falls within the range of 20-30 kg (44-66 lbs).
- The maximum dimensions for a checked bag are usually around 158 cm (62 inches), calculated by adding the height, length, and width of the bag.
Business Class :- Baggage allowance for business class flights can vary by airline, so check with your specific carrier for precise details.
- Generally, business class passengers are allowed more baggage than economy class passengers.
- Business class passengers typically have an allowance of two pieces of carry-on luggage and two checked bags.
- The maximum weight for each checked bag often falls within the range of 30-40 kg (66-88 lbs).
- The maximum dimensions for each checked bag are usually around 158 cm (62 inches), calculated by adding the height, length, and width.
Mini Travel Guide of Bangkok, Thailand
Best Things to Do in Bangkok
Visit the Grand Palace: Explore this iconic royal palace complex, which houses the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha).
Discover Wat Pho: Experience the serenity of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, known for its massive golden statue.
Cruise the Chao Phraya River: Take a scenic boat ride along the river, passing historic temples and modern skyscrapers.
Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market: Explore one of the world's largest markets for shopping, offering a wide range of goods, from clothing to handicrafts.
Sample Street Food: Dive into the vibrant street food scene and savour local delicacies like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and mango sticky rice.
Visit Jim Thompson House: Discover the home of the American silk entrepreneur and art collector, showcasing traditional Thai architecture and art.
Explore the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Witness the unique sight of vendors selling goods from boats along the canals.
Take a Tuk-Tuk Ride: Enjoy a thrilling journey through the bustling streets of Bangkok in a traditional three-wheeled tuk-tuk.
Enjoy Rooftop Bars: Experience the city's nightlife at rooftop bars like Sky Bar or Vertigo for stunning views and cocktails.
Relax in Lumpini Park: Escape the urban chaos with a stroll or picnic in this tranquil park, home to monitor lizards and lush greenery.
Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Bangkok
Sukhumvit: Known for its upscale hotels, shopping, and vibrant nightlife, Sukhumvit is a popular area with excellent transportation links.
Siam: Ideal for shoppers, Siam boasts numerous malls and cultural attractions like the Bangkok Art and Culture Center.
Silom: A mix of business and leisure, Silom offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and the lively Patpong Night Market.
Old City (Rattanakosin): Home to historic sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, this area provides a glimpse into Bangkok's past.
Chinatown (Yaowarat): Explore a lively district filled with markets, street food, and the cultural richness of Bangkok's Chinese community.
Khao San Road: Perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, Khao San Road is a hub for nightlife, shopping, and street food.
Thonglor and Ekkamai: These adjacent neighbourhoods offer trendy bars, restaurants, and a blend of Thai and expat lifestyles.
Banglamphu: Another budget-friendly area with guesthouses, Banglamphu is close to Khao San Road and historic attractions.
Ari: A peaceful and charming neighbourhood with a local vibe, known for its cafés, boutiques, and trendy atmosphere.
Asok: A central location with a mix of business and entertainment, Asok provides easy access to shopping centres and transportation hubs.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Dry season (November to February): This is the best time to visit Bangkok as the weather is pleasant with low humidity and temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F).
Hot season (March to May): This is the hottest season in Bangkok, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and high humidity.
Wet season (June to October): This is the rainy season in Bangkok, with occasional thunderstorms and temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F).
Best Hotels to Stay in Bangkok
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: A luxurious riverside hotel with a rich history and top-notch amenities.
The Siam: A boutique and art-focused hotel offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
The Peninsula Bangkok: Known for its stunning river views, this 5-star hotel offers world-class service and facilities.
The St. Regis Bangkok: An elegant hotel in the heart of the city, known for its impeccable service and opulent rooms.
Banyan Tree Bangkok: Famous for its rooftop restaurant and bar, Vertigo, and luxurious spa.
COMO Metropolitan Bangkok: A contemporary hotel with a focus on wellness and an excellent location in the city center.
The Okura Prestige Bangkok: Offers modern luxury and panoramic views of the city from its high-rise location.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort: A peaceful oasis along the Chao Phraya River with extensive facilities and dining options.
Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok: Features a riverside location, lush gardens, and world-class dining.
Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: A grand hotel in the heart of the shopping and entertainment district, Siam Paragon.
Best Restaurants to Eat in Bangkok
Gaggan: An innovative and award-winning restaurant, offering a tasting menu of progressive Indian cuisine.
Nahm: Known for its authentic Thai flavours and modern presentation, it's consistently ranked as one of the world's best restaurants.
Bo.Lan: A fine-dining establishment focusing on traditional Thai recipes and sustainability.
Sühring: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern German cuisine with a Thai twist.
Issaya Siamese Club: Offers a blend of traditional Thai recipes and contemporary culinary techniques in a beautiful garden setting.
Jay Fai: A street food legend, renowned for its delicious crab omelette and other Thai classics.
Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar: Located on the Chao Phraya River, it offers both Thai and international dishes with stunning views.
Gaa: A modern dining experience with a creative tasting menu, perfect for food enthusiasts.
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon: A Michelin-starred French restaurant with an elegant atmosphere.
Supanniga Eating Room: Known for its traditional Thai dishes and cozy ambiance, offering a taste of local cuisine.
How to Travel Within Bangkok
BTS Skytrain: Bangkok's efficient Skytrain system has two lines, the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line, which cover many key areas in the city. It's a fast and convenient way to avoid traffic.
MRT Subway: The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system complements the Skytrain, with connections to several major destinations.
Taxis: Bangkok has a vast fleet of taxis, easily recognisable by their colourful vehicles. They are a convenient option, but make sure the driver uses the meter or agrees on a fare before starting your journey.
Tuk-Tuks: These iconic three-wheeled vehicles are popular for short trips, although fares can be negotiable.
Public Buses: Bangkok's public buses cover a wide network of routes, but the system can be complex for tourists. Look for route information and bus numbers.
Motorcycle Taxis: Motorcycle taxis are a quick way to navigate through traffic, especially for short distances. Ensure you have the appropriate safety gear.
Chao Phraya Express Boat: Travel along the Chao Phraya River on these boats, with different routes serving both sides of the river.
Taxis on Water: Water taxis and ferries provide transport along the city's canals and are an interesting way to explore Bangkok.
Rideshare Apps: Apps like Grab and Uber are available in Bangkok and can be a convenient way to book a ride.
Airport Rail Link: To get to and from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, you can use the Airport Rail Link, a dedicated train service.
Visa Requirements for Bangkok, Thailand
UK residents traveling to Bangkok, Thailand, typically require a visa if their stay exceeds 30 days. For shorter visits (up to 30 days), tourists can enter Thailand without a visa through the Visa Exemption scheme. This allows for leisure and tourism purposes. However, travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry and have a confirmed return ticket. For longer stays, a tourist visa or other appropriate visa types are necessary. It's essential to check the latest visa requirements with the Thai Embassy or Consulate in the UK before planning your trip to Bangkok.