What to expect when visiting Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the most visited cities in the world. There’s something about the constant buzz and energy floating through its streets at all hours of the day, giving it the name of the city that never sleeps!
Its main attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. But ancient temples aren’t the only reason people flock to this vibrant city. From jam-packed shopping areas to mouthwatering street food and the wild nightlife of Khao San Road, there are so many things you can do in Bangkok.
2 ways to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok
There are two ways to travel the distance of 500 km (311 miles) from Mae Sot to Bangkok: by bus (9 hours) and flight (1hr 10m). The journey takes between 1h10m - 9h and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 465 THB ($13.00) for the bus.Where to stay in Bangkok?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bangkok at the bottom of this page.
Mae Sot to Bangkok by Bus
When you’re done taking in the nature of Mae Sot, you can board the night bus to Bangkok. The bus from Bangkok to Mae Sot is the cheapest option to travel this distance.
The only problem you may run into with such an early arrival is that you might not be able to check into your hotel room for a few hours.
Luckily, most hotels offer a holding room to drop your bags off. This way, you can already go out for some breakfast and explore the area while you wait for your room to be ready.
Departure and arrival station
Buses coming from Mae Sot Bus Station arrive at Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). From the terminal, it takes about an hour by bus or just 15 minutes by taxi to reach the city centre.
If you prefer to take the bus, you can check Google Maps for the local bus schedule.
Bus schedule from Mae Sot to Bangkok
Buses are equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning and an onboard toilet. While boarding, you will also be provided with a blanket and a little snack & drink.
Mae Sot to Bangkok by Flight
Mae Sot Airport is only a 10-minute ride from the city centre. We recommend arranging a transfer through your hotel or guesthouse.
Pre-pandemic, Nok Air used to offer five flights from Mae Sot to Bangkok. The last time we checked (April 2022), there are only three flights in a day.
Flights depart at 9:55, 12:40, and 17:05 from Mae Sot and arrive at Don Mueang Airport. Flight fares start from 2,465 THB ($69.00) for a 1-hour-10-minute flight.
From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to the city centre, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi or 50 minutes by train.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok
Bangkok is a big and bustling city with each neighbourhood offering something different to the next. Covering nearly 1600 km² and offering over a thousand accommodation options, it can be slightly daunting picking where to stay. Here is a quick rundown of our favourite areas to stay in Bangkok:
- Khao San Road — is one of the most famous areas in Bangkok, known for its party reputation. This area attracts a lot of backpackers that are looking for cheap accommodation and a place to party.
- Sukhumvit — has a more relaxed nightlife, centred around sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars as opposed to travellers dancing on tables. It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the jam-packed city, thanks to the good connections via public transport.
- Riverside — along the Chao Phraya River, you’ll find an area rich in history and culture, hosting many of the popular sights of Bangkok, including the Royal Palace and Wat Pho – the Reclining Buddha.
Check out our favourite accommodations in Bangkok:
dusitD2 Samyan - Treating Yourself
dusitD2 Samyan is one of the most unique hotels in Bangkok with its tiered appearance overlooking the city. You can take a refreshing dip in their sky swimming pool and enjoy the panoramic views. Or head to the gym and take them in whilst working up a sweat.
The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel create a bright and modern feel. The rooms are stunning, and decorated to an extremely high standard. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok.
- One of the coolest buildings in Bangkok
- Rooftop swimming pool
- Onsite gym
- Bright and modern rooms
King rooms start from $110 per night.
The One Smart Living - Treating Yourself
The One Smart Living offers incredible value for money. The rooms are beautiful and feel extremely luxurious. You won’t want to leave your room it’s so nice!
It’s a great choice if you want to be close to the airport, but not so close that you’re constantly hearing planes above your head. The staff are incredibly helpful and super friendly. It’s hard to fault this place.
- Great value for money
- Close to the airport
- Helpful staff
- Beautiful rooms
Double rooms start from $50 per night.
Naga Residence - Mid Range
Naga Residence feels less like a hotel and more like a home — just a very beautifully designed home that’s exceptionally clean. The rooms are very spacious and all of them have a private balcony overlooking the city.
There’s also an onsite gym, garden and terrace area for you to enjoy. And when you venture out of the hotel there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby.
- Huge rooms
- Exceptionally clean
- Private balcony
- Onsite gym
Double rooms start from $37 per night.
Phranakorn-Nornlen - Mid Range
It will be hard to find another hotel in Bangkok like Phranakorn-Nornlen. This hotel is like a piece of art, with every room decorated differently and boasting a unique theme. Make sure to pick your room wisely.
The staff takes your stay here to another level. They are incredibly friendly and helpful. They’ll give you great recommendations for the local neighbourhood which is full of cosy cafes and local restaurants.
- Unique design and rooms
- Incredible staff
- Nice local neighbourhood
- Very clean
Double rooms start from $33 per night.
Greenery Hostel - Budget Friendly
As you’ve probably already guessed, Greenery Hostel has a green theme both inside and outside. It actually creates a really tranquil vibe inside a busy city.
The rooms are simple but great value for money. Plus there are nice chill-out spaces throughout the hostel with a swing, games and comfy chairs. It’s in a great location, close to lots of Bangkok’s attractions.
- Great value for money
- Relaxing chill-out areas
- Good location
- Free cancellation
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mae Sot to Bangkok
What is the distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok?
The distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok is 500 km (311 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?
The fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by flight and takes 1hr 10m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?
The cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by bus with ticket costs starting from 465 THB ($13.00).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Bangkok Travel Guides
The Ultimate Bangkok Travel Guide
12 Best Things to Do in Bangkok
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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
