Makkasan ARL Station
Makkasan serves as one of the key stations on Bangkok's Airport Rail Link (ARL), providing a direct and budget-friendly route between the city centre and Suvarnabhumi Airport. The journey to the airport takes approximately 25 minutes across five stops, with fares running around 45 baht — making it one of the most cost-effective options for travellers looking to avoid Bangkok's notoriously congested road traffic.
The station connects to the broader Bangkok transit network, and some visitors choose to walk from the nearby Petchaburi MRT station to access the ARL here. Trains run from early morning, and the line supports contactless credit card tap-and-go payment, which adds convenience for international travellers. Note that the direct non-stop express service to the airport no longer operates, so all trains currently make the full run of stops along the line.
Practically speaking, travellers should be prepared for limited ticketing infrastructure at this station. Some visitors have reported only a single staffed cashier and difficulty locating ticket vending machines, so arriving with extra time before a flight is advisable. Arriving during off-peak hours can help reduce any queuing delays at the ticket counter.
What's Near Makkasan ARL Station
Top-rated places within walking distance — tap any card for photos, reviews, and directions.
Sense Serene Retreat Spa - Avani Ratchada Bangkok Hotel
A hotel spa on Ratchadaphisek Road offering aromatherapy and Thai massage in a calm, upscale setting.
Above Eleven Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Nikkei sharing plates and proper cocktails 32 floors up, with a dress code that turns people away.
SWU Nightmarket
A relaxed Friday evening campus market at Srinakharinwirot University, blending student energy with local street food.
Lucy Club Bangkok
A late-opening Soi 3 bar that doesn't really start until midnight, and runs till four.
The Golden Giraffe
A live music bar on Sukhumvit 11 with a loyal following, known for quality bands spanning rock, blues, and jazz.
Levels
A polished sixth-floor bar above Soi 11, for nights out that stay social without going full club.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Makkasan ARL Station, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
- Airport 45 Baht - 25 minutes to Airport - Credit Card Tap & Go The fastest way to Airport. There used to be nonstop train to airport but they closed it. Total of 25 minutes to airport with 5 stops. Toilet is inside the station once you tap and go through the gate. Evening time is crowded but you can easily get in. Tap and go credit card facility. Google pay tap facility super easy. I tried my Google Pay Tap and entered. Loved it.
During a recent trip to Thailand, I took the airport rail link (ARL) from the station to return to Suvarnabhumi airport. I arrived in the morning, around 6:30-7:00 AM, and the train was free with very few passengers. The ticketing experience was also pleasant. The platform is located upstairs and was relatively quiet. However, finding directions to the platform was slightly challenging, and more clearly marked signboards would have been helpful.
Long Train Wait Times. Only one cashier and can't find ticket vending machine. Terrible
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 304 reviews on Google.
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Go at six in the morning, before the heat turns 15,000 stalls into an endurance test.
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
centralwOrld
Vast, air-conditioned and genuinely easy to navigate, with a top-floor food scene worth the trip alone.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Tips for Visiting Transportation
Take the Sleeper Train at Least Once
The Bangkok-to-Chiang Mai overnight train in a second-class sleeper berth is a bucket-list experience. Book at least a week ahead via 12Go.asia or at Hua Lamphong station. Upper berths are cheaper and have more headroom; lower berths have a window.
Use Grab Everywhere
Grab is the Uber of Southeast Asia and works across Thailand for cars, motorbike taxis, and even tuk-tuks in some cities. It eliminates haggling and provides fare estimates upfront. Load a Thai SIM or use eSIM to stay connected.
Rent Scooters Carefully
Always photograph the scooter's existing damage before riding off, and keep your passport — give a photocopy instead (some shops insist on the original; avoid these). Wear a helmet; police fine 500 THB for no helmet and accidents without one void insurance.
Similar Transportation Across Thailand
Bali Hai Pier
Take the 30-baht ferry, not the speedboat, unless you fancy paying for a tuk-tuk at the other end.
Samui Airport
An open-air terminal with thatched roofs and trams to the gates, more resort than airport.
Ao Ton Sai Pier
Every trip to Phi Phi starts and ends here, so plan around the boats rather than hoping for the best.
Krabi International Airport
Small, clean and calm, but the check-in queues can eat an hour you didn't budget for.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter