Upon arrival in Suvarnabhumi Airport last night, I noticed the current situation regarding taxi services on the ground floor. In the pre-COVID era, there used to be plenty of taxis even late at night, and the queues would quickly diminish. However, this time, there were fewer taxis available, resulting in slower queue clearance. The regular taxi queue, in particular, was exceedingly long, and due to the scarcity of taxis, it took a while for the queue to reduce.
If you are planning to go to downtown Bangkok, I would recommend pre-booking a private car or utilizing hotel pickup services. This way, you can avoid any inconvenience caused by the limited availability of taxis.
However, if you have made a reservation at a hotel near the airport, there is a more affordable option to consider. Adjacent to the regular taxi queue, there is a small booth exclusively for short-distance travelers heading towards the vicinity of the airport. This booth does not have a queue, and you can hop into a taxi immediately. The fare is calculated using the meter, including the airport surcharge, which amounted to approximately 130 Thai Baht (equivalent to approximately 4 USD).
I had initially arranged for hotel pickup services (priced at 200 Thai Baht per person), but just before heading to Suvarnabhumi Airport, I received an email from the hotel stating that the regulations had changed, and the cost had increased to 600 Thai Baht per car. Considering that the airport was only a 10-minute drive away, this seemed quite expensive. Consequently, I canceled the pickup service and opted for a taxi instead, which turned out to be a wise decision. Initially, I felt a slight regret seeing the long regular taxi queue, but thankfully, I discovered the separate short-distance taxi area. I used the metered taxi service when returning to Suvarnabhumi Airport for my domestic flight the next morning.
For those planning to use taxi services at Bangkok Airport, I hope you find this information useful.
If you’re staying near Suvarnabhumi Airport and looking for nearby tourist attractions or activities, there are a few options that you can consider. One popular attraction is the Bangkok Landmark, the Erawan Museum. Located just a short distance away, this unique museum houses a collection of art and artifacts from Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The highlight of the museum is the giant three-headed elephant statue, which is a stunning sight to behold.
Another attraction worth visiting is the Ancient City, also known as Muang Boran. This vast outdoor museum showcases replicas of Thailand’s historical sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore various architectural styles and learn about the country’s history and culture while strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds.
If you’re interested in shopping and experiencing local culture, a visit to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market is highly recommended. This sprawling market is a shopaholic’s paradise, offering everything from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and delicious street food. With thousands of stalls to explore, you can easily spend hours getting lost in the vibrant atmosphere and discovering unique treasures.
For those seeking a serene escape from the bustling city, the Suan Luang Rama IX Park is a wonderful choice. This expansive park features lush gardens, lakes, and a variety of recreational activities. From cycling and jogging paths to paddle boating, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and immerse yourself in nature.
If you’re interested in Thai culture and traditional performances, the Siam Niramit Cultural Show is a must-see. This spectacular show takes you on a journey through Thailand’s history, showcasing vibrant costumes, music, and dance. With its grand stage and state-of-the-art special effects, the Siam Niramit Cultural Show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Lastly, if you have some time to spare, a visit to the nearby city of Pattaya could be worth considering. Located about two hours away from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Pattaya offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a range of activities such as water sports, amusement parks, and local markets.
Overall, there are several tourist attractions and activities that you can explore while staying near Suvarnabhumi Airport. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, nature, or cultural performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this part of Bangkok.