Travel Guide: Bangkok To Phuket Island

Phuket Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for its pristine white sands, palm trees, and bustling villages. It is located in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand and is about 860 km from Bangkok. There are several ways to get from Bangkok to Phuket, including by plane, bus, train, car, or a combination of these. The fastest way to travel between the two places is by plane, with a flight time of about 1 hour 25 minutes, and tickets starting from $22. Low-cost airlines such as AirAsia and NokAir operate from Don Mueang Airport, while other airlines such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways fly from Suvarnabhumi Airport. The cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Phuket is by bus, with tickets starting from $19, but the journey can take up to 16 hours. Another option is to take a train to Surat Thani and then a bus to Phuket, with the total journey time being around 16 hours as well.

Travel by plane

Flying is the quickest way to get to Phuket Island from Bangkok, with a flight time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Bangkok Airports

Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. Suvarnabhumi Airport is the larger and newer of the two, handling most international flights. Don Mueang Airport is older and smaller, catering mostly to domestic flights and some international flights from low-cost airlines.

Phuket Airport

Phuket International Airport is located in the northern part of the island, about 30 minutes from Phuket Town and 45-60 minutes from the beach areas.

Airlines

Several airlines fly this route, including Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Thai Smile, Thai Lion Air, Vietjet Air, and AirAsia.

Ticket Prices

Ticket prices vary depending on the airline and class. One-way fares can be found for under $25, and round-trip tickets can cost around $40. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best deals.

Travel Time

The flight time from Bangkok to Phuket is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Advantages of Flying

Flying is the fastest way to travel between Bangkok and Phuket, saving almost a full day of travel time compared to a bus or train ride.

Disadvantages of Flying

None specifically mentioned.

Travel by bus

Travelling by bus from Bangkok to Phuket is a fairly safe and budget-friendly option. The journey takes between 13 and 16 hours, and tickets cost a minimum of $19. Buses depart from the Mochit Northern Bus Terminal and arrive at the Phuket Bus Terminal.

There are several types of buses to choose from, including regular, second-class, and VIP buses. Regular buses are the cheapest option, but VIP buses offer extra legroom, reclining seats, and single-row seats for added comfort during the long trip. You can also opt for a shuttle bus, which offers a similar level of comfort to VIP buses but may be more expensive.

It is recommended to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a travel pillow for the journey. Buses tend to fill up quickly, so it is advisable to book your ticket in advance.

If you're looking for a scenic journey and don't mind a longer travel time, then travelling by bus from Bangkok to Phuket is a great option. You'll get to admire the beautiful Thai countryside and roadside views as you make your way to the island.

Travel by train

Travelling by train from Bangkok to Phuket Island is a two-stage journey. There are no direct trains from Bangkok to Phuket, so you must take a train to Surat Thani and then a bus to Phuket.

Stage 1: Bangkok to Surat Thani by Train

Bangkok's main railway station is Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also known as Bang Sue Grand Station). Around eight or nine trains leave Bangkok for Surat Thani each day. The journey takes between 8 and 12 hours, and you can travel during the day or overnight. Ticket prices range from 5 to 45 USD and can be booked online or bought at the train station. Sleeper berths are available on most trains, and it is recommended to choose a seat or berth in an air-conditioned carriage.

Stage 2: Surat Thani to Phuket by Bus

Buses to Phuket depart from outside Surat Thani Railway Station. There are several buses to choose from, with departure times between 06:40 and 14:10. The bus journey takes around 4.5 to 6 hours, and tickets start from 10 USD. The bus will arrive at Phuket Bus Terminal 2 or Phuket Bus Terminal 1, which is in the centre of Phuket Town.

Overall Journey Time and Cost

The total journey time for the train-bus combination is around 13 to 18 hours. The cost of the journey ranges from 15 to 45 USD.

Travel by car

If you're looking for the ultimate freedom and flexibility to travel from Bangkok to Phuket, renting a car is a great option. This mode of transport is ideal for those who prefer independence and the thrill of a road trip.

The distance between Bangkok and Phuket is approximately 520-525 miles, and the road trip will take you on a journey through varied landscapes, offering opportunities to explore off-the-beaten-path locales. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, but you can make it longer or shorter depending on the number of stops you make along the way.

In Thailand, highways are well-maintained and signposted, making navigation straightforward for confident drivers. When renting a car, you'll need to provide an International Driver's Permit or a Thai driver's license. Car rental agencies are readily available in Bangkok and Phuket, with options ranging from economy cars to larger SUVs.

Prices for car rentals vary, but you can often find deals starting at around USD 30 per day. It is recommended to book your car rental in advance to secure the best deal and ensure the availability of your preferred vehicle.

When planning your road trip, keep in mind the potential additional costs such as insurance, fuel, and one-way drop-off fees if you decide not to return the car to Bangkok. Always review your rental agreement carefully, and consider obtaining an international driving permit if required.

So, if you're ready to hit the road, pack some snacks, create a playlist, and get ready for a memorable journey through the heart of Thailand!

Travel by taxi

Phuket is located off the west coast of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea. Although it is an island, it is connected to the mainland via a bridge, making travel to and from the island relatively easy. The distance between Bangkok and Phuket is about 840-860 kilometres (525-534 miles).

Taxis are available for travel from Bangkok to Phuket. This option is ideal for those who value comfort, privacy, and a personalised schedule. You can book a private taxi directly from your hotel in Bangkok or at a designated pick-up point. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours.

When booking a private taxi, consider the size of your group and the amount of luggage to ensure a comfortable ride. Most taxi services offer a range of vehicle options, from standard cars for solo travellers or couples to larger vans for families or groups.

While travelling by taxi is pricier than some other modes of transport, it offers a convenient and exclusive experience. The door-to-door service eliminates the hassle of using public transportation or managing luggage across multiple stops.

The cost of a private taxi from Bangkok to Phuket varies depending on the vehicle type and the number of passengers. For example, a standard car for 1-2 passengers may cost around USD 338, while a VIP minivan for 1-9 passengers may be priced at USD 422.

Other Travel Options

In addition to travelling by taxi, there are several other options for getting from Bangkok to Phuket:

• Plane: The quickest way to travel between the two locations is by plane, with a flight time of about 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Bangkok's two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, offer numerous daily flights to Phuket, with ticket prices ranging from USD 40 to over USD 200.
• Bus: Taking a bus is the cheapest option, with tickets costing between USD 18 and USD 36. However, the journey can be long, taking anywhere from 12 to 17 hours.
• Train and Bus: For the most affordable option, consider taking a night train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, followed by a bus to Phuket. The entire journey will take around 15 to 16 hours, and tickets can be purchased for as little as USD 15.

Frequently asked questions