Bangkok to Phuket: All Transport Options Compared
Transport Guide

Bangkok to Phuket: All Transport Options Compared

Bangkok to Phuket is one of the most-traveled routes in Thailand, and you have several options ranging from a 1-hour flight to an overnight bus or a scenic train-and-bus combination. The right choice depends on your budget, time, and tolerance for long journeys. This guide compares every option with current prices, durations, and practical advice.

Transport Options

Overnight Bus

11–13 hours500–1,200 THB

Overnight VIP buses depart from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) and arrive at Phuket Bus Terminal 2 in Phuket Town. VIP buses (24 seats or fewer) offer reclining seats, blankets, air conditioning, snacks, and a toilet. Standard first-class buses (32 seats) are cheaper but less comfortable. Buses depart between 5 PM and 8 PM and arrive early morning around 5–7 AM.

Pros

  • Cheapest option overall — VIP buses from 800 THB, standard from 500 THB.
  • Overnight travel saves a hotel night.
  • No luggage restrictions or extra fees.
  • Direct route with minimal stops.

Cons

  • Very long journey — 11–13 hours in a bus seat.
  • Arrival at 5–7 AM means you cannot check in to hotels immediately.
  • Air conditioning on Thai buses is often set to freezing — bring a warm layer.
  • Road quality varies and delays are common during holidays.

Train + Bus Combination

14–17 hours total600–1,800 THB

There is no direct train to Phuket (the island has no railway), but you can take a train from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand station to Surat Thani (8–12 hours), then transfer to a bus or minivan to Phuket (5 hours). The overnight sleeper train is a classic Thai travel experience — second-class sleeper berths with crisp sheets, a dining car, and the rhythm of the tracks.

Pros

  • The overnight sleeper train is a memorable experience — many travelers consider it a highlight.
  • More comfortable than a bus for sleeping — you get a flat bed.
  • The scenic southern route passes through stunning countryside at dawn.
  • Train tickets are affordable: second-class sleeper 700–1,000 THB.

Cons

  • Requires a transfer in Surat Thani — no direct rail to Phuket.
  • Total journey is longer than bus (14–17 hours including connection).
  • Trains can be delayed by 1–3 hours on the southern route.
  • The Surat Thani to Phuket bus leg (5 hours) adds fatigue after the train.

Private Transfer / Car

10–12 hours8,000–15,000 THB

A private car with driver can be booked through hotels, travel agencies, or online platforms like 12Go Asia and Klook. The drive covers approximately 840 km via Route 4 (Phetkasem Road) through the scenic southern Thai countryside with stops at your chosen pace. Some travelers break the journey with an overnight stay in Khao Sok National Park or Chumphon.

Pros

  • Door-to-door convenience — pickup from your Bangkok hotel, drop-off at your Phuket resort.
  • Flexible schedule with stops for meals, viewpoints, and attractions.
  • Comfortable vehicles (sedans, SUVs, or minivans) with air conditioning.
  • Good option for families or groups (cost split 4 ways is 2,000–3,750 THB per person).

Cons

  • Most expensive option.
  • Still a very long drive (10–12 hours even without stops).
  • Requires trust in the driver's road skills on sometimes-challenging Thai highways.
  • Not practical for solo travelers due to cost.

Tips

  • For the best flight prices, book 2–4 weeks in advance and use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare across airlines.
  • Thai AirAsia from Don Mueang is consistently the cheapest carrier. Book on their website for occasional flash sales (as low as 590 THB one-way).
  • If taking an overnight bus, bring a warm jacket or blanket — Thai buses blast the AC to near-freezing temperatures.
  • The 12Go Asia website (12go.asia) compares buses, trains, and flights on one platform and handles booking in English with secure payment.
  • If combining train + bus, book the 5:05 PM or 5:35 PM sleeper train from Bangkok for a morning arrival in Surat Thani with immediate bus connections.
  • Check both Bangkok airports (BKK and DMK) when searching for flights — Don Mueang often has cheaper options but is further from central Bangkok.
  • Flying from Bangkok to Phuket and then doing a multi-destination trip (Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi) is often cheaper than overland travel.
  • During Thai holidays (Songkran in April, New Year in December), book transport at least 2 weeks in advance — everything sells out.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard first-class bus from the Southern Bus Terminal costs 500–700 THB, making it the cheapest option. However, low-cost flights booked in advance can be found for 900–1,200 THB, which is only marginally more expensive and saves 10+ hours of travel. For the best value, monitor AirAsia and Nok Air sales.

Flying. The flight takes 1 hour 20 minutes. With airport transfers and check-in, budget 4–5 hours door-to-door from central Bangkok to your Phuket hotel. All overland options take a minimum of 11 hours.

No. Phuket is an island and has no railway. The closest train station is in Surat Thani (8–12 hours from Bangkok by train), from where you take a bus or minivan to Phuket (5 hours). The total journey is 14–17 hours.

Both. Budget carriers (AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air) use Don Mueang Airport (DMK). Full-service carriers (Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai Smile) use Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). If staying in central Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi is usually closer, but Don Mueang has cheaper flights.

For the best prices, book 2–4 weeks ahead. During peak season (December–February) and Thai holidays, book 4–6 weeks ahead. Last-minute bookings (within 3 days) can be 3–4 times the advance-purchase price.

Yes, but it is a long drive — approximately 840 km (520 miles) taking 10–12 hours via Route 4. The road is well-maintained but passes through towns with slow traffic. Many travelers break the journey in Khao Sok National Park or Chumphon. Rental car (from 800 THB/day) plus fuel costs roughly 3,000–4,000 THB. An International Driving Permit is required.

Planning your journey to Phuket?

Our trip planner includes transport options, transfer bookings, and route suggestions all in one place.

Start Planning

Was this article helpful?

Get Phuket Travel Tips

Join our newsletter for insider tips, hidden gems, and exclusive itinerary ideas delivered to your inbox.

No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.