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.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Makkasan ARL Station, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
- 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.
Makkasan Train Station, Bangkok Makkasan Train Station is one of the quickest, most economical, and most convenient ways to reach Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Airport Rail Link runs from early morning until late at night, making it easy for travelers with any schedule — just be sure to check the timetable in advance. The station is clean, efficient, and well-connected, offering a stress-free alternative to Bangkok’s traffic. A great choice for budget-friendly and reliable airport travel.
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.
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Makkasan ARL Station: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Makkasan ARL Station worth visiting?
Makkasan ARL Station holds a 3.8★ rating from 222 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
When is the best time to visit Makkasan ARL Station?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Makkasan ARL Station located?
Makkasan ARL Station is at Makkasan, Ratchathewi, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
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
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Where to stay near Makkasan ARL Station
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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.
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Samui Airport
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Krabi's compact international gateway serving both domestic and international flights with clean facilities.
Mae Fah Luang - Chiang Rai International Airport
Chiang Rai's compact international airport offering domestic and international flights with a calm, easy-to-navigate experience.
Book trains, buses & ferries across Thailand
Compare the sleeper train, VIP buses, ferries, and budget flights side by side — live seat availability and instant e-tickets, in English.
Sponsored link — we may earn a small commission when you book, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Where to stay near Makkasan ARL Station
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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