Bangkok Area Guide

Airport Area
Bangkok is blessed with two large airports, namely Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport,
which opened on September 15
th, 2006 and Don Meuang Airport. Most passengers landing in Thailand
will arrive at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport, while a limited number of flights
are still offered at Don Meuang.
There are a large number of attractions, restaurants, shops and other facilities located near
these airports for the convenience of visitors. While a wide range of Duty Free shopping is available
at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport, shopping malls such as Seacon Square, Central Plaza and
the Bang Phli Floating Market are all just a short drive away. Visitors can also play a round or two
of golf in this area, pamper themselves at spas and dine in style at a large number of excellent restaurants.
It should be noted that Don Meuang airport is located in the Northern reaches of the city in a built
up area that includes hotels, and plenty of public services for local residents. Few tourists use this
facility however. The new Suvarnabhumi airport is further out, east of the city, surrounded by open
fields, canals, ponds and modern housing estates. Some budget hotels have sprung up in the area (part
of Samut Prakarn province), but you do have to drive at least 20-30 minutes to reach the large malls of
the area. Both light industry and residential neighbourhoods are scattered here. Those who have several
hours to kill during a transfer can realistically go shopping or even visit the much recommended Ancient
City historic themed park nearby, reckoning on an hour for total transfers/taxi rides.
How to get there?
Don Mueang Airport (ท่าอากาศยาน ดอนเมือง)
take the taxi
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (ท่าอากาศยาน สุวรรณภูมิ)
Almost all of Suvarnabhumi international Airport can be handily reached by Airport Link at Makkasan
(City Air Terminal) to Suvarnabhumi (Airport).
Don Mueang Airport
1. National Memorial
This impressive monument was built to honour the men who fought for Thailand.
Featuring the Pillar of Eternal Flame, which consists of Thai crystals at the
top of a marble pedestal, visitors can enter the octagonal building to view a
collection of murals depicting scenes from Thai history.
How to get there: Take bus no. 29, 34, 39, 59, 95, 503, 504, 510, 513, 524, 529
or 539 to the intersection of Paholyothin and Vibhavadi Rd.
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri from 09.00 am. - 03.30 pm.
Admission Fee: No entry charge
2. Royal Thai Air Force Museum
Established in 1952, this interesting and informative museum is a popular attraction
with those who have a passion for aviation history. Visitors will be treated to the
chance to view a wide range of rare exhibits, many of which cannot be seen anywhere
else in the entire world.
The museum can be found close Wing 6 of Don Mueang Airport’s domestic terminal,
which is situated on Phanonyothin Rd.. One of the highlights in the Royal Thai
Air Force Museum is the Type 10 (Hawk 3). This fighter aircraft played an important
role during the Indochina War and is the last of its kind in the world.
How to get there: Take bus no. 34, 39, 114, 185, 503, 520, 522, 543 or 543A
Opening Hours: Daily from 09.00 am. - 04.00 pm.
Admission Fee: No entry charge
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
1. King Rama IX Park
Created in 1987 to commemorate the 60th birthday of H.M. King Bumibol Adulyadej, the
large and lovely King Rama IX Park is a good place to relax and unwind. People who have
time to kill before their flight out of Suvarnabhumi Airport will be able to wander through
the six different zones of this spectacular green space, which comprise the first
comprehensive botanical garden to grace Thailand.
Upon entering the park, visitors will first be faced with the Garden of the Great King,
which is the most important area of this 200-acre park. Visitors follow paths leading
alongside carefully tended bushes, flowerbeds and lakes to view a number of impressive
monuments. One of the most interesting area for foreign visitors is the Rommaniya Garden
as it contains miniature replicas of Thailand’s geological features such as mighty mountains
and islands.
How to get there: Take bus no. 145, 206 or 207
Opening Hours: Daily from 05.00 am. - 05.00 pm.
Admission Fee: 10 Baht
2. Erawan Museum
One of Samut Prakan’s most famous and striking attractions, the Erawan Museum is
a tribute to creativity and passion. People who drive along Sukhumvit Rd. towards
Suvarnabhumi Airport will be greeted by the sight of a giant three-headed elephant,
which is believed to be the largest elephant statue in the entire world and measures
an impressive 50 meters high.
Guided tours of the Erawan Museum are conducted every half an hour and take visitors
right inside the elephant to view a rare collection of jewels and antiques from all
around Thailand. Visitors then climb inside the elephant’s stomach and are treated to
stunning views of the surrounding area from a small window located high inside the statue.
How to get there: Take bus no. 102, 142, 507, 511 or 536
Opening Hours: Daily from 09.00 am. - 06.00 pm.
Admission : 150 Baht for adults, 50 Baht for children
Don Mueang Airport
1. Rajpruek Golf Course
Designed and created in 1992 by the J. Michael Poellot Golf Design Group (JMP),
this international standard 18-hole multilevel golf course is a good place to
get back into the swing of things after a long flight. This picturesque course
has been designed to incorporate a unique surface drainage system so that it stays
free from flooding, even in the monsoon season.
Visitors will be treated to first-rate service all the way at the Rajpruek Golf Course,
and the range of facilities and services available include sauna and steam rooms, an
extensive dining room, lobby lounge and golf merchandise shop.
How to get there: Take a taxi to 100 Moo 3, Vibhavadi-Rangsit Rd., Tungsonghong Laksi
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun from 06.00 am. - 06.00 pm.
Admission Fee: 1,000 Baht Tuesday to Friday, 1,663 Saturday and Sunday
Contact: Tel: 02-955-0055; Fax: 02-955-0096
2. Kantarat Golf Course
While this may not be the largest or most picturesque golf course in the whole of
Thailand, the Kantarat Golf Course is a good place to kill time while waiting for
a flight out of Don Mueang Airport. The course is owned by the Royal Thai Air Force
and consists of 18 holes, which are located between the airport’s two main runways.
Playing a round or two here is a must for those who love golf and have a thing for
aircraft as golfers will be treated to the sight of planes coming almost uncomfortably
close as they swoop in to land at the nearby runways.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Don Mueang Airport
Opening Hours: Wed-Mon from 06.00 am. - 06.00 pm.
Admission Fee: 320 Baht weekdays, 620 Baht at weekends
Contact: Tel: 02-534-3840 to 3; Fax: 02-523 6441
Goal Club Z
Visitors to Bangkok who are missing ‘the beautiful game’ can head on over to
Goal Club Z to play a match or two of footie, competing against friends or
challenging club members to a game. Goal Club Z consists of three different
courses, each of which has space for up to seven people to play on.
These indoor pitches have been specially created with artificial grass to give
an authentic feel. The clubhouse also offers a wide range of amenities for those
who want to relax and unwind for a while.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Ram Intra - At Narong Express (Toll Rd.),
Khlong Lamchiak, Bueng Khum
Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours
Admission Fee: No entry charge
Contact: 089-995-4477, 087-808-1222
Trot Around Equestrian Center
Travelers who are missing their horses back home and those who always wanted to
try horse riding but never managed to find the time will be in their element at
the Trot Around Equestrian Center. This is the perfect place for those who love
horses and this professional horse riding club offers lessons to those who have
never ridden before as well as special skill training to those who are already
comfortable on horseback.
In addition, the Trot Around Equestrian Center offers facilities such as stable
rental, grooms and horse training.
How to get there: Take a taxi along the Ekamai-Ramintra
highway to Sukabiphran 5 Rd., Watcharaphol
Opening Hours: Daily from 09.00 am. - 06.00 pm.
Admission Fee: 2,000 Baht horse rental per day
Contact: Tel: 02-948-7680, 081-410-8523; Fax: 02-948-7680
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
1. Navatanee Golf Club
Created in order to host the 1975 World Cup, the Navatanee Golf Club is home
to one of Thailand’s most famous gold courses and people travel from all over
the world to tee off on this picturesque green. Although play is restricted to
members at weekends, those who arrive during the week will be welcome to play
at their leisure as well as making use of the clubhouse’s excellent facilities.
The course was extensively renovated in 1997 and consistently receives excellent
reviews from visitors. In addition to features such as lakes and bunkers, visitors
will be able to relax in the clubhouse’s swimming pool and treat themselves to fine
dining.
How to get there: Take a taxi to 22 Navatanee Rd., Kwaeng
Kannayao, which is around 30 minutes from central Bangkok
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri from 06.00 am. - 06.00 pm.
Admission Fee: 2,000 Baht
Contact: Tel: 02-376-1034 to 6, 02-376-1693 to 5; Fax: 02-376-1685
2. Summit Windmill
Designed in 1998 by golf legend Nick Faldo, the Summit Windmill golf course is
located by Suvarnabhumi Airport. In addition to playing during the day, those who
arrive late at night will be able to take advantage of Summit Windmill’s special
night time packages, when the golf course is specially floodlit to provide plenty
of light.
This is a great place for both amateur and professional golfers to unwind for a
while, and some of the biggest names in the world of gold such as Tiger Woods have
played here.
How to get there: Take a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport to 72 Moo 14, Bangna-Trad (Km 10.5)
Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours
Admission Fee: Weekends 3,000 Baht; Weekdays 2,000 baht
Contact: Tel: 02-312-5883 to 9; Fax: 02-750-2124
Recommended Trip - Full Day Excursion
"Bangkok Countryside"
A short drive east of Bangkok takes us to Minburi, one of the city's oldest and most
interesting suburbs.
What Will we see?
Our one day tour takes you out of Bangkok and back into the Thailand of
old. A land of gentle river boats, laughing children, rice fields, green tropical landscapes
and temple after temple! Visit the bizarre temple of Phurt Udom Pol, Kamalulislam mosque
and the market town of Nong Chok. You visit a local women's cooperative, fish farms, working
rice mills, traditional Thai wooden houses and an old medicine shop. You also get a
close-up view of Thai village life. This is as real as it gets. No other tourists come out here!
What is the riding like? The ride is a gentle 40 kilometers along canal paths,
and wide dirt roads passing through paddy fields.
Departure Days : Every Monday and Thursday
Pick up Time : Daily from 06.45 am. - 05.30 pm.
Contact : Tel: 02-712-5305, 089-895-5680; Fax: 02-712-5306
Indoor Stadium Huamark & Rajamangala National Stadium
Designed by Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture, this sports stadium
was built to mark the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
As well as being the home to the Thai football team, visitors can take part in a wide
range of sports here and there are large tennis and squash courts open to members of
the general public.
Visitors who want to play sports here will have to visit during the week as rock and
pop concerts are held here at weekends and among the many bands who have played here
over the years are Pearl Jam, Take That and Sonic Youth.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Rajamangala Rd.
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri from 08.30 am. - 04.30 pm.
Admission Fee: No entry charge
Lake Nong Bon Water Sport Center
Situated on the outskirts on Bangkok, the picturesque Lake Nong Bon plays host to
a wide range of water sports, including windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. Membership
is priced at just 40 per year for adults, and the lake can be found behind the large
shopping mall of Seacon Square.
Even those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land will find plenty to do here, as
this is one of the area’s most stunning natural beauty spots. The lake covers 254 acres
and the water sports center rents out equipment to visitors.
How to get there: Take bus no. 145, 19 or 207
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.30 am. - 06.30 pm.
Admission Fee: 40 Baht
Contact: Tel: 02-328-0236
Don Mueang Airport
O Zone
This is one of the area’s most popular Thai restaurants and diners will be treated to a selection of dishes
from all over the Land of Smiles. Some of the most popular dishes here include the spicy Thai salad called
somtam, tom yam goong and pad thai.
Dress Code: Anything goes
How to get there: Take a taxi to Songprapa Rd., near Don Mueang Airport
Opening Hours: Daily from 06.00 pm. - 01.00 am.
Contact: Tel: 02-929-8854, 081-335-7706
Henry J. Bean's Bar & Grill
This warm and welcoming restaurant is the ideal place to share a meal with loved ones
and lovers of Tex-Mex food are in for a real treat. Those in search of a little liquid
refreshment will be able to choose from a selection of draught beers and cocktails and
live music is played in the evenings.
Dress Code: anything goes
How to get there: Take the free shuttle bus from Don Mueang Airport to Amari Don Mueang.
Opening Hours: Daily from 05.00 pm. - 02.00 am.
Contact: Tel: 02-566-1020; Fax: 02-566-1941
Krua Thai Airways
This large bakery is a great place to grab food on the go and the excellent chefs
here provide a wide range of puffs, pies and pasty to hungry travellers. The bakery
chefs here have all trained with Thai Airways International’s cookery school, which
has been turning out culinary delights for more than 40 years.
Dress Code: anything goes
How to get there: Take bus number 29, 59, 504 or 513
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. - 08.00 pm.
Contact: Tel: 02-973-4047 to 8
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Sala Thai Restaurant
This stylish Thai restaurant combines traditional flavours with a modern twist.
The décor inside is simply exquisite, featuring sculptures and gilded door panels,
while the dishes hail from all over Thailand. The menu has been created by award-winning
Chef Bang-on Malalek and includes dishes such as red curry, pad Thai and masaman curry.
Dress Code: Smart casual
How to get there: Take Suvarnabhumi Airport’s shuttle bus service from outside gate 4
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.30 am. – 02.30 pm. and 06.00 pm. – 10.30 pm.
Royal Dragon Chinese Restaurant
Acclaimed as the biggest restaurant in the entire world in 1992 by the Guinness Book
of World Record, eating at the Royal Dragon Chinese Restaurant is an unforgettable experience.
Not only does this stylish restaurant serve some of the best Chinese food in Bangkok, diners
are also treated to spectacular shows as they eat. Some of the performances that take place
while diners slurp their way through noodle dishes and munch duck with rice are the flying
catering man show and masked Khon dances.
Dress Code: Smart casual
How to get there: Take the BTS to the last station and then a taxi to the
Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.00 am. - 02.00 pm. and 07.00 pm. - 02.00 am.
Contact: Tel: 02-398-0037
Edu Japanese Restaurant
Located inside the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel, Edu Japanese Restaurant is one of
Bangkok’s finest Japanese restaurants, serving an excellent selection of both traditional
and contemporary dishes. Some of the most popular creations here include sushi, teriyaki
and sashimi, which are prepared in front of diners and served in a tranquil dining area.
Dress Code: Smart casual
How to get there: The restaurant is located around 50kms from Suvarnabhumi
Airport and passengers can make use of a free shuttle bus, while it is also possible to get here
by taxi from all parts of Bangkok
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.00 am. - 02.00 pm. and 07.00 pm. - 02.00 am.
Contact: Tel: 02-398-0037
Don Mueang Airport
1. Baan Kham Paya
The perfect way to relax and unwind, visitors to Baan Kham Paya are sure to receive pampering
with a range of professional spa treatments including traditional Thai massage. All the products
used here are produced by Bann Kham Paya using natural Thai herbal ingredients and are available
to purchase.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Vibhavadi Rangsit, Soi Viphavadi 20
Contact: Tel: 02-276-9870; Website: www.baankhampaya.com
2. Majesty Spa
Visitors to Bangkok who want to treat themselves to a little pampering will find what
they are looking for at the Majesty Spa, which is the ideal place to unwind and simply
let go off the stress of travelling. One of the best things about this spa is that they
provide a personal touch, with a wide range of spa treatments provided by professional
masseurs.
How to get there: The spa is situated on the second floor of Urban Square, 333 Prachachuen Rd., Thongsonghong, Laksi
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.30 am. – 09.30 pm.
Contact: Tel: 02-589-1391
Boran Massage
One of the most stylish massage parlours in the whole of Bangkok,
Boran Massage uses traditional Thai massage techniques to leave visitors
feeling fantastic. Those in search of pure pampering and a little luxury
can take advantage of one of the private VIP rooms, where professional
masseuses will soothe aching muscles.
How to get there: Boran Massage is located in the Twin Towers Hotel (near Rangsit University,
Phaholyothin Rd.) just off the Hua Lamphong MRT station
Opening Hours: Daily 08.00 am. - 08.00 pm.
Contact: Tel: 02-164-1001 to 7; Website: http://www.thetwintowershotel.com/services.php
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
1. Aromavera Spa
Combining the natural healing elements of aromatherapy and aloe vera, the
Aromavera Spa has been providing professional consultation services and
spa treatments since 1997. Overseen by spa consultant and holistic health
expert Dr. Paiboon Pilum-owad, Aromavera Spa has used its success to establish
branches all over the world. Visitors will be able to choose from a wide range
of both modern and traditional treatments, including aromatherapy body massage,
foot bath and scrub, sauna treatments and slimming massage.
How to get there: Take a taxi to 41, 75 Soi Pattanakarn 64, Pattanakarn Rd., Pravej
Contact: Tel: 02-722-0001 to 3, 02-322-9707 to 9; Website: www.aroma-vera.com
2. Bangkok Natural Spa
Offering a large number of treatment rooms and specially designed spa packages,
the Bangkok Natural Spa is a top choice for visitors to Bangkok who want to relax
and unwind for a few hours. The professional masseurs and beauty therapists here
are able to advise clients on the treatments that will best compliment them, with
some treatments designed to relax, while others revitalise and energise.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Soi Pattankarn 30
Contact: Tel: 02-319-7015 to 6; Website: www.bangkoknaturalspa.com
Poe Patana Thai Style Massage
Visitors who are suffering from the stress and strain of modern life can have their
aches and pains soothed away with a traditional Poe Patana Thai Style Massage. This
traditional massage centre offers a range of alternative products and services such
as massage, facial treatments and sauna.
How to get there: Take a taxi to 40/80-81 Srinakarin Rd., Nongbon
Contact: Tel: 02-399-1371
Don Mueang Airport
1. IT square
Featuring more than 300 different shops, this is a paradise for technology geeks as all
the shops here specialize in computers and accessories. Whether you’re looking for the
latest piece of kit at a low, low rate or want parts to vamp up your own mean machine, IT
Square is the place to go. There are also a number of service centres here, where experts
are on hand to aid and assist when things go wrong.
How to get there: IT Square is located in Chanwattana, on bus routes 39, 510 and 520
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. – 08.00 pm.
2. Future Park Rangsit
One of the largest shopping malls in the whole of Asia, Future Park Rangsit can be
found on Phaholyothin Rd.. This enormous venue contains branches of some of Thailand’s
leading department stores such as Big C, TOPS and Robinsons. Visitors in search of entertainment
will find an EGV cinema here as well as branches of popular Western restaurants such as
McDonalds, KFC and Burger King.
How to get there: Take bus number 39, 510 or 520
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. - 09.30 pm.
3. Zeer
One of the biggest IT shopping malls in the whole of Thailand, Zeer covers more than
80,000 square meters. In addition to hundreds of stalls selling hardware, software and
accessories, visitors will find plenty of entertainment venues here such as an ice rink,
two bowling centres, a snooker room and no fewer than five cinemas. Prices are considerably
lower than in many other parts of the world, meaning that those who want the latest technology
without having to pay through the nose for it will be in their element here.
How to get there: Zeer is located on Phaholyothin Rd. an visitors can take bus no.
29, 34, 39, 59, 95, 185, 503, 510, 513 or 520
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. - 09.00 pm.
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
1. Seacon Square
Located just 14kms from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Seacon Square shopping mall can be
found on Srinakarin Rd.. This large shopping mall was opened in 1994 by HRH Princess
Maha Chakri Sirinhorn and features a wide range of internationally recognized stores
such as Tesco and Boots as well as fast food outlets, restaurants and entertainment options.
How to get there: Seacon Square is located next to BTS Sky Train station
Onnuch. It is also possible to take bus number 145 or 206
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. – 09.00 pm.
2. Central Plaza (Bangna)
One of Thailand’s best-loved shopping malls, Central Plaza has branches all over Thailand.
The branch at Bang Na is particularly large as this is one of the area’s main shopping
malls. Consisting of eight different levels, visitors will find everything from clothes,
to electronic equipment here. The top floor also contains a large cinema, while fast food
outlets and restaurants are located on every level on Central Plaza Bang Na.
How to get there: Central Plaza Bangna is located next to BTS Sky Train station
Onnuch. It is also possible to take bus number 30, 38, 46, 48, 132, 139, 365 or 1141
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. - 09.00 pm.
3. The Paseo
One of the newest shopping malls to grace the area around Suvarnabhumi Airport and Onnuch,
The Paseo contains a wide assortment of shops and stores, with international brands such as
The Body Shop, Boots and Tesco. Those who like to shop will be able to spend several hours
browsing for bargains, while other entertainment options include visiting the cinema, karaoke
and bowling.
How to get there: The Paseo is located next to BTS Sky Train station Onnuch.
Bang Phli Floating Market
Established more than 150 years ago by Chinese traders, the traditional floating market at Bang
Phli is still going strong. Unlike some other examples in Thailand, this floating market has
managed to escape the pressures of tourism and remain close to its roots. Rather than cheap
souvenirs and Western snacks, visitors will find traditional Thai food here, as well as locally
produced fruit and vegetables and other food products. Not many Westerners make it to the Bang
Phli Floating Market, and this remains a real gem for visitors who are searching for the "real" Thailand.
How to get there: Bang Phli Floating market is located near Suvarnabhumi Airport
and visitors can take a taxi to Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai, where the market starts.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.00 am. – 05.00 pm.
Contact: Tel: 02-337-3715, 02-337-3414
Don Mueang Airport
German Country Place (Don Mueang)
This large and vibrant restaurant and brewery is popular with both local people and
Westerners as it serves reasonably priced meals and draught beer. This is a fun and
friendly atmosphere in which to relax and unwind in and as well as traditional Thai
treats the menu boasts a wide range of Western favourites such as burgers, fries and
baguettes.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Future Park Rangsit.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07.00 pm. - 02.00 am.
Admission Fee: No entry charge
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Red time Pub & restaurant

Featuring a three-zone pub, restaurant and Karaoke bar, the Red Time Pub and
Restaurant is a popular place to play. A large number of Thai people travel here
from all over Bangkok to sing at the Karaoke bar, while the restaurant serves
a wide range of Thai and Western dishes.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Srinakirin Rd.
Opening Hours: Daily from 06.00 pm. - 02.00 am.
Admission Fee: No entry charge