Quick Answer
Best Overall Way: Take the MRT from a Nonthaburi station (e.g., Yaek Nonthaburi 1) to Phetchaburi station, then transfer to the Airport Rail Link (ARL) at Makkasan. This is the optimal balance of speed, cost, and reliability. Total travel time: 60-75 minutes. Total cost: ~70-100 THB ($2-$3 USD). Key Transfer Point: Phetchaburi/Makkasan Station.
Fastest Way: Taxi or private car (45-90 minutes, 500-1200+ THB / $14-$33+ USD). Cheapest Way: Public Bus (e.g., Bus 166 to Victory Monument, then BTS/ARL; 1.5-2.5 hours, ~25-35 THB / $0.70-$1.00 USD).
Option 1: By MRT Subway & Airport Rail Link (Best Balance)
This is the most recommended route for most travelers, combining Bangkok's efficient metro system with the dedicated airport train. It avoids road traffic and is very cost-effective.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Start at an MRT Purple Line Station in Nonthaburi: The line runs from Khlong Bang Phai to Tao Poon. Key stations for access include Yaek Nonthaburi 1, Ministry of Public Health, or Nonthaburi Civic Center. Check the MRT website for the nearest station.
- Take the Purple Line Southbound to Tao Poon: This is the interchange station with the MRT Blue Line. Travel time: ~15-20 minutes. Fare: ~17-23 THB.
- Transfer to the MRT Blue Line at Tao Poon: Follow signs for the Blue Line (Bang Sue - Tha Phra/Lak Song). Take an Eastbound train towards Hua Lamphong (but you'll get off earlier).
- Alight at Phetchaburi Station (Exit 2): This is the crucial link. Travel time from Tao Poon: ~10 minutes. Fare: ~23 THB.
- Walk to Makkasan Station (Airport Rail Link): From Exit 2 of Phetchaburi MRT, follow the covered walkway for about 5-7 minutes to Makkasan Station (also called City Air Terminal).
- Board the Airport Rail Link (ARL) to Suvarnabhumi: Purchase a ticket (45 THB) for the 22-25 minute direct ride to the airport terminal. Trains run every 10-15 minutes from 5:30 AM to midnight.
| Leg | Route | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (THB / USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nonthaburi MRT → Tao Poon | 15-20 min | 17-23 / $0.50-0.65 | Purple Line |
| 2 | Tao Poon → Phetchaburi | 10 min | 23 / $0.65 | Blue Line, Eastbound |
| 3 | Phetchaburi Walk → Makkasan | 5-7 min | - | Covered walkway |
| 4 | Makkasan ARL → Suvarnabhumi | 22-25 min | 45 / $1.25 | Express/Commute line |
| Total | Door-to-Door | 60-75 min | ~85-100 / ~$2.40-$2.80 | Traffic-proof |
Pros & Cons:
- Pros: Unaffected by Bangkok's notorious traffic; very affordable; air-conditioned and comfortable; frequent services.
- Cons: Involves 2 transfers (Tao Poon, Phetchaburi-Makkasan walk); not ideal for those with heavy luggage (stairs, walking); last train at midnight.
Option 2: By Public Bus (The Budget Champion)
For the absolute lowest cost, public buses are the answer. However, this requires more time, patience, and familiarity with the bus system. There is no single direct bus from Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi; a combination is necessary.
Recommended Route: Bus + BTS + ARL
- Take a Bus to a BTS/MRT Interchange:
- Bus 166 (Nonthaburi - Victory Monument): This is a key route. Alight at Victory Monument, a major transport hub. Fare: ~25 THB ($0.70). Travel time: 30-60 mins (highly traffic-dependent).
- Bus 69, 517, or 524: These can take you to areas near Mo Chit BTS Station or Chatuchak Park MRT.
- Transfer to BTS Skytrain or MRT: From Victory Monument, take the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Northbound towards Mo Chit) for one stop to Phaya Thai Station.
- Take the Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai: Phaya Thai BTS is directly connected to the ARL station. Take the ARL express to Suvarnabhumi (approx. 22 mins, 45 THB).
Direct(ish) Bus Options (Longer, Cheaper):
- Bus 552: Runs from Rattanathibet Road area (in Nonthaburi) to Suvarnabhumi Airport via Bang Na-Trat Road. This is the closest to a direct bus. However, it's a long, slow local bus making many stops. Fare: ~35 THB ($1.00). Travel Time: 1.5 - 2.5+ hours. Only recommended for extreme budget travelers with ample time.
Pros & Cons:
- Pros: Extremely cheap (as low as 25 THB); operates 24/7 on some routes; offers a local experience.
- Cons: Very slow and unpredictable due to traffic; can be confusing for non-Thai speakers; often crowded and hot (non-AC buses); multiple transfers with luggage is challenging.
Option 3: By Taxi or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Convenience)
For groups, families, those with heavy luggage, or travelers on a tight schedule, a taxi or private car offers the ultimate convenience, albeit at a premium price.
Metered Taxi:
- How to Hail: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab (most reliable for foreigners) or flag down a taxi on the street. Always insist the driver uses the meter ("Meter, please?"). If they refuse, find another taxi.
- Cost: The meter will start at 35-40 THB. The total fare from Nonthaburi to BKK typically ranges from 500 to 800 THB ($14-$22 USD).
- This does not include expressway tolls (usually 50-100 THB extra, paid by passenger).
- During peak rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) or heavy rain, fares can easily exceed 1000 THB ($28 USD) due to slow-moving traffic.
- Travel Time: Highly variable. 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is standard. Allow at least 2 hours before your flight check-in time to account for severe traffic jams.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer:
Booked online via services like Klook, Viator, or hotel concierge. A standard sedan costs from 1200 THB ($33 USD) and up. Benefits include fixed price, English-speaking driver, flight monitoring, and meeting at arrivals with a sign.
When to Choose a Taxi/Transfer:
- Traveling between midnight and 5:30 AM (when trains don't run).
- You have 3 or more people (can be cost-effective vs. multiple train tickets).
- Carrying excessive or heavy luggage (e.g., surfboards, golf bags).
- You have mobility issues or are with young children.
- Your flight is very early or very late, and you value stress-free travel.
Cost & Time Comparison: Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Travel Time | Approx. Cost (THB / USD) | Transfers / Complexity | Best For | Reliability (Traffic Impact) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MRT + Airport Rail Link | 60 - 75 mins | 85 - 100 / $2.40-$2.80 | 2 transfers (1 walk) | Solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious, avoiding traffic | Very High (No traffic impact) |
| Public Bus + BTS + ARL | 90 - 150+ mins | 70 - 85 / $2.00-$2.40 | 2-3 transfers | Extreme budget travelers, no luggage, daytime travel | Low (Heavily impacted) |
| Direct Bus 552 | 90 - 150+ mins | 35 / ~$1.00 | Direct (but many stops) | Ultra-budget, immense patience, light luggage | Very Low (Heavily impacted) |
| Metered Taxi | 45 - 90 mins | 500 - 1000+ / $14-$28+ | Direct (door-to-door) | Groups, families, lots of luggage, tight schedule, night travel | Medium to Low (Fully impacted) |
| Private Transfer | 45 - 90 mins | 1200+ / $33+ | Direct (door-to-door) | Luxury, convenience, first-time visitors, corporate travel | Medium to Low (Fully impacted) |
Verdict: For most travelers, the MRT + ARL combo is the undisputed best value. The taxi wins for convenience outside train hours or with heavy bags. The public bus is for the most frugal.
Traveler Tips & Essential Advice
1. Managing Luggage on Public Transport
This is the biggest challenge. Not all MRT/BTS stations have elevators or escalators working. The walk between Phetchaburi MRT and Makkasan ARL, while covered, is long. Tip: If you have more than one rolling suitcase and a backpack, seriously consider a taxi. If you must use the train, travel outside rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM).
2. Understanding "Total Travel Time"
Always add buffer time. Google Maps' transit times are optimistic. Add:
- 10-15 mins to walk to your initial station/bus stop.
- 5-10 mins wait time for each train/bus.
- 10 mins for the Phetchaburi-Makkasan walk and ARL ticket purchase.
- A 30-60 minute "traffic buffer" if your route involves roads.
3. Payment & Tickets
- MRT: Purchase single-journey tokens or use a stored-value "MRT Plus" card. Cash only at vending machines.
- ARL: Purchase single-journey tickets or a stored-value "ARL Card". Cash or card accepted.
- Bus: Exact change in cash is required. Fare is paid upon boarding.
- Taxi: Have smaller bills (100s, 50s). Drivers often claim not to have change for 1000 THB notes.
4. Navigating During Rush Hour & Holidays
Bangkok's rush hour can double travel times for road-based options. During Thai holidays (Songkran in April, New Year), traffic is extreme, and trains are packed. Bookmark this real-time traffic map: Traffic.in.th. On such days, the MRT+ARL route is your salvation.
5. What if My Flight is Very Early or Very Late?
For flights departing before 8:30 AM or after 10:00 PM, your options narrow. The ARL stops at midnight. Your only guaranteed options are taxi or pre-booked transfer. Consider staying at an airport hotel the night before an early flight if your budget allows.
FAQs: Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport
What is the cheapest way to get from Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport?
The cheapest way is by public bus, specifically the 166 or 552 bus routes, costing only about 25-35 THB ($0.70-$1.00 USD). However, this can take 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and requires connecting via the BTS Skytrain or MRT.
What is the fastest way to get from Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport?
The fastest and most reliable way is by taking the MRT to Makkasan Station and then transferring to the Airport Rail Link (ARL). The total travel time is approximately 60-75 minutes, costing around 70-100 THB ($2-$3 USD). For door-to-door speed, a taxi or private car (45-90 mins) is fastest but significantly more expensive.
Is there a direct train from Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport?
No, there is no single direct train. You must combine services: First, take the MRT Purple Line from Nonthaburi to Tao Poon station. Then, transfer to the MRT Blue Line to Phetchaburi station. Finally, walk to Makkasan Station to board the Airport Rail Link (ARL) to Suvarnabhumi. The journey is seamless with covered transfers.
How much is a taxi from Nonthaburi to Suvarnabhumi Airport?
A metered taxi typically costs between 500 and 800 THB ($14-$22 USD), plus possible tollway fees (50-100 THB). The fare depends heavily on traffic; during rush hour, it can exceed 1000 THB ($28 USD). Always insist on using the meter. Private transfers start around 1200 THB ($33 USD).
How early should I leave Nonthaburi for a flight from BKK?
For international flights, plan to be at the airport 3 hours before departure. Therefore, you should depart Nonthaburi at least 4 to 4.5 hours before your flight time. This accounts for: 60-90 mins travel time + potential traffic delays + check-in/security queues. For domestic flights, 2.5-3 hours before departure is sufficient.
Can I use a Bangkok Rabbit Card or MRT Card for the entire journey?
Partially. You can use an MRT card for the Purple and Blue Line segments. However, the Airport Rail Link (ARL) requires a separate ticket or its own stored-value card. The BTS Rabbit Card and MRT Card are not interoperable with the ARL as of 2024. It's best to have some cash for the ARL ticket.
What is the best option for traveling with a lot of luggage?
For heavy or multiple luggage, a taxi or private transfer is highly recommended despite the cost. Using public transport involves multiple staircases (some stations lack elevators), crowded carriages, and long walks between transfers. If on a budget, take the MRT (which is generally less crowded than BTS) outside peak hours and be prepared for physical effort.
Are there any overnight or early morning options from Nonthaburi to BKK?
Yes, but options are limited. The Airport Rail Link operates from 5:30 AM to midnight. For flights between midnight and 5:30 AM, your only reliable options are taxi or pre-booked private transfer. Some public buses (like the 552) run 24/7 but are infrequent at night and less safe for solo travelers with luggage.