Bangkok is a city of contrasts and connections. Skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old temples, and lively markets coexist with gleaming shopping centres. Travelling through this vibrant capital can feel daunting at first, but it quickly becomes effortless with the help of the city’s efficient public transport system.
Among the many ways to move around Bangkok, from tuk-tuks and motorbikes to river boats and buses, one stands out for its convenience, comfort, and perspective: the Bangkok BTS Skytrain.
For guests of akyra Bangkok 11, located at 64 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, the Skytrain offers the perfect way to explore the city like a local. Just a short ride from Makkasan Station or Phetchaburi MRT Station, you can connect to the Sukhumvit Line, the route that defines modern Bangkok.
Bangkok’s Skytrain System
The BTS, officially known as the Bangkok Mass Transit System, is a network of elevated trains that glide smoothly above the city streets. It is clean, air-conditioned, and punctual, offering travellers a chance to see Bangkok from a new angle as it weaves past temples, shopping malls, and neighbourhoods brimming with life.
The BTS consists of two main lines:
- The Sukhumvit Line, which runs from Mo Chit in the north to Kheha in the east.
- The Silom Line, which connects National Stadium to Bang Wa in the west.
Both lines meet at Siam Station, the central interchange and one of the busiest transport hubs in the city.
For visitors staying near Sukhumvit, the BTS is the most efficient way to explore. Trains arrive every five to eight minutes, and services begin at 6 am and continue until midnight.
Travel on the Sukhumvit Line
The Sukhumvit Line runs along Bangkok’s main artery of modern life, linking residential areas, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. It is not just a mode of transport; it is an experience in itself.
From the bustling energy of Asok to the sophisticated calm of Phrom Phong and the youthful vibrance of Siam, each station reveals a different face of the city. Travelling along the line gives visitors the chance to experience Bangkok’s diversity, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
Asok BTS Station
Asok is one of Bangkok’s most dynamic stops, known for its perfect blend of business, dining, and entertainment. The area buzzes with local energy during the day and transforms into a lively social hub at night.
- Terminal 21
One of the city’s most imaginative shopping centres, Terminal 21, sits right beside Asok Station. Each floor is themed after a famous world city — from Tokyo to Paris — creating a unique experience as you shop, dine, or explore. It is a favourite among locals and travellers alike.
- Food and Flavour,/li>
The area is also famous for its street food, where you can find everything from grilled chicken skewers to freshly cut tropical fruit. Try a bowl of Thai noodle soup or a serving of sweet coconut pudding as you wander the streets.
- Nightlife and Rooftop Views
After dark, Asok lights up with rooftop bars offering breathtaking views across Bangkok. Octave Rooftop Bar and nearby venues provide the perfect setting to enjoy the city skyline with a cool drink in hand.
Phrom Phong BTS Station
A few stops away, Phrom Phong captures the elegance of Bangkok’s modern culture. It is home to some of the city’s most refined shopping, dining, and leisure destinations.
- EmQuartier and Emporium
Two landmark shopping centres, EmQuartier and Emporium, sit directly opposite each other, linked by a glass skywalk. Inside, you will find international fashion houses such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada alongside boutique Thai designers. Even if you are not shopping, the architecture and atmosphere are well worth a visit.
- Relaxation and Recreation
Behind the malls lies Benchasiri Park, a peaceful green space that offers a welcome break from the bustle of the city. Locals come here to jog, practise Tai Chi, or relax under the trees.
- Food Scene
Phrom Phong is also one of Bangkok’s best food districts, with restaurants serving everything from authentic Thai dishes like Som Tum and Pad Thai to Italian and Japanese cuisine. It is a fantastic area for a relaxed evening meal or a casual lunch between adventures.
Thong Lo BTS Station
Moving along the Sukhumvit Line, Thong Lo is a favourite among locals and expatriates alike. Known for its creativity and cosmopolitan spirit, it is a place where tradition and trend meet seamlessly.
- Cafés and Boutiques
This neighbourhood is filled with independent cafés, concept stores, and boutique galleries. You will find coffee roasted on-site, handcrafted pastries, and spaces that blend art, design, and conversation.
- Wellness and Beauty
Thong Lo is also a haven for wellness. Visitors can spend an afternoon enjoying a spa treatment, yoga class, or even a beauty session at one of the many luxury salons. It is a place to slow down and recharge before continuing your journey.
- Evening Scene
As the sun sets, Thong Lo comes alive with its renowned nightlife. Iron Faries, a bar known for its imaginative design and live jazz, and Sing Sing Theatre, inspired by 1930s Shanghai, offer unforgettable nights out in true Bangkok style.
Siam BTS Station
At the centre of it all lies Siam, where the Sukhumvit and Silom lines meet. Siam is Bangkok’s cultural and commercial hub — a place where locals shop, meet friends, and enjoy weekend outings.
- Shopping and Entertainment
Siam Station connects directly to Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, two of the largest malls in Asia. Inside, you will find world-class restaurants, luxury boutiques, and entertainment for all ages. Beneath Siam Paragon lies Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia, filled with colourful marine life and interactive exhibits.
- Urban Views
For those seeking a memorable evening, Red Sky Bar at Centara Grand is a must-visit. Located above CentralWorld, it offers panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline — a perfect way to see the city sparkle at night.
Mo Chit BTS Station
The northern end of the Sukhumvit Line brings you to Mo Chit, home to one of Bangkok’s most famous attractions: the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
Spread across 30 acres and home to more than 8,000 stalls, Chatuchak is a treasure trove of everything imaginable. From handmade crafts and vintage clothing to plants and art, the market captures the creative soul of Bangkok.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, filled with music, conversation, and the aroma of street food. Take your time wandering through the lanes, sampling local snacks, and chatting with friendly vendors. A scoop of coconut ice cream in its shell is a refreshing reward after a day of exploration.
Makkasan BTS Station
Closer to akyra Bangkok 11, the area around Makkasan Station provides an intriguing blend of transport, history, and community.
Makkasan serves as a major transport hub. The Airport Rail Link (ARL) station here connects directly to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, making it easy for travellers to move between the city and their flights. The station is also linked by a covered walkway to Phetchaburi MRT Station, providing smooth access to Bangkok’s underground network.
- Local Neighbourhood Feel
Historically, Makkasan developed around the railway workshops of the State Railway of Thailand. Even today, the area retains its old-Bangkok character, with narrow alleys, traditional shophouses, and a sense of community. Morning markets often appear near the station, where vendors sell fresh produce and local delicacies to early commuters.
- Nearby Attractions
Although Makkasan itself is quieter than areas like Siam or Asok, it is ideally placed for exploring nearby attractions. The Pratunam District and Platinum Fashion Mall, both known for affordable shopping, are within a short ride of each other. For nightlife, RCA (Royal City Avenue), one of Bangkok’s main clubbing zones, is nearby.
- Dining and Relaxation
The area around Soi Sukhumvit 11 is famous for its restaurants, rooftop bars, and international cuisine. Guests at akyra Bangkok 11 can stroll to Above Eleven, a renowned rooftop venue offering stunning city views and Peruvian-Japanese dishes — a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Using the BTS
Travelling on the BTS is easy once you understand a few simple basics.
- Tickets and Cards
Single-journey tickets can be purchased at vending machines or ticket counters in every station. Machines usually accept coins, so keeping small change is useful.
For longer stays, consider the Rabbit Card, a rechargeable smart card that allows quick and convenient travel without waiting in queues. Top it up and tap through the gates.
- Operating Times
The first trains begin service around 6 am, and the last departures are close to midnight. Trains run frequently, every five to eight minutes.
- Peak Hours
Morning and evening rush hours (7 to 9 am and 4 to 7 pm) can be busy, especially in central areas. If possible, travel outside these times for a more relaxed experience.
The system is safe, efficient, and well signposted in both Thai and English. Announcements on trains are clear, making it simple for visitors to navigate.
Connecting Beyond the BTS
Bangkok’s transport network is highly interconnected, allowing you to combine the BTS with other systems to reach nearly any destination.
Bangkok’s transport network is interconnected, allowing travellers to move smoothly across the city.
- MRT Underground: Accessible from Asok and Phetchaburi Stations, ideal for reaching cultural and business districts.
- Airport Rail Link: Connects Phaya Thai and Makkasan to Suvarnabhumi Airport.
- River Boats: For a scenic experience, take express boats along the Chao Phraya River, offering views of temples and heritage sites.
These connections make it possible to explore every corner of Bangkok without relying on road traffic.
Along The Sukhumvit Line
The beauty of the Sukhumvit Line lies not only in where it goes, but in what it reveals. Each stop is a story, a glimpse of how Bangkok balances modernity with tradition. From early-morning monks collecting alms to rooftop bars glowing at night, the line captures the soul of the city.
Travelling on the BTS allows you to experience Bangkok the way locals do: connected, curious, and always on the move.
Staying Near the Sukhumvit Line
For travellers wanting comfort and convenience, akyra Bangkok 11 offers the perfect base. Situated in Soi Sukhumvit 11, it is close to both Makkasan BTS Station and Phetchaburi MRT Station, giving you direct access to the Sukhumvit Line and beyond.
The hotel combines boutique charm with modern design. Each room is crafted for rest and restoration, featuring circadian lighting, breathable bedding, and blackout curtains for undisturbed sleep. After exploring the city, unwind with a wellness-inspired meal or a quiet drink overlooking the canal.
At akyra Bangkok 11, you are never far from Bangkok’s rhythm, yet always close to calm.
Sustainable Travel
Travelling by BTS is one of the most sustainable ways to explore Bangkok. It reduces congestion, saves energy, and lowers emissions.
This aligns perfectly with akyra Bangkok 11’s commitment to sustainable hospitality. The hotel integrates eco-conscious practices, from energy efficiency to waste reduction, encouraging guests to travel responsibly and thoughtfully.
Exploring by train, walking to nearby attractions, and supporting local businesses are all small steps that make a positive difference.
BTS Tips
- Frequency: Every 5–8 minutes
- Operating Hours: 06:00–00:00
- Best Travel Times: Mid-morning or late evening
- Payment Options: Cash or Rabbit Card
- Accessibility: Lifts and escalators at most stations
- Language: Announcements in Thai and English
- Safety: Clean, secure, and suitable for all ages
Experience Bangkok from Above
The BTS Sukhumvit Line is more than a train route; it is a journey through Bangkok’s identity. From the lively streets of Asok to the cultural pulse of Siam and the local charm of Makkasan, every stop reveals something new.
For guests of akyra Bangkok 11 Hotel, the Skytrain offers both convenience and inspiration. Within minutes, you can glide from the quiet sophistication of your hotel to the city’s most exciting destinations.
Discover Bangkok from above, travel thoughtfully, and embrace the adventure that unfolds at every station. With akyra Bangkok 11 as your base, the city is truly at your feet.
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