Getting around Thailand
31 routes between the places people actually travel between. Each covers every mode that runs it, with journey times, fares and the trade-off that decides it — the cheap option is often an overnight bus, and whether that is a saving or a wasted day depends on what you are doing at the other end.
Fares move. Treat them as the right order of magnitude rather than today's price, and check with the operator before committing to a connection.
From Bangkok
- to AyutthayaTrain from Bang Sue Grand Station — cheapest (฿20 for ordinary train), most frequent, and arrives directly in the historic city. Perfect for a day trip.
- to Chiang MaiFlight for speed (especially from Don Mueang on a budget carrier). Overnight sleeper train for the experience and value — book 1st or 2nd class sleeper via the SRT Ticket booking website.
- to Hua HinBus from Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) for the best combination of price, comfort, and frequency. Train is a scenic, relaxed alternative — particularly the morning services.
- to KanchanaburiBus from Mo Chit — cheapest, most frequent, and most direct option to Kanchanaburi town centre.
- to Khao YaiJoining a day tour is the easiest option for first-time visitors. Independent travellers can take the bus to Pak Chong.
- to Koh ChangCombined minivan + ferry is the most popular option. Book from Khao San Road or Ekkamai Bus Terminal.
- to Koh PhanganFly to Surat Thani on a budget carrier, then Lomprayah catamaran to Koh Phangan. Best balance of cost and journey time. The overnight bus + ferry combo is the top budget option.
- to Koh SamuiFlying via Surat Thani on a low-cost carrier is the best value — significantly cheaper than direct Bangkok Airways flights, only 1–2 hours longer total journey time.
- to Koh TaoOvernight train to Chumphon + Lomprayah catamaran — the most popular route for independent travellers. Book a 2nd-class sleeper on the 18:30 or 19:30 train to arrive in Chumphon for the morning ferry.
- to KrabiFlight from Don Mueang on AirAsia or Thai Lion Air — the fastest and most practical option, with fares often comparable to the bus when booked in advance.
- to PattayaBus from Ekamai (Eastern Bus Terminal) — cheapest, most frequent, and drops you centrally in Pattaya. Take the BTS to Ekamai first.
- to PhuketFlight is the clear winner for almost all travellers — cheap, fast, and frequent. Book 2–4 weeks ahead for fares under ฿800 from Don Mueang.
- to SukhothaiBus is the most practical option. The Bangkok Airways flight is worth considering if time is limited.
From Phuket
- to Koh LantaSpeedboat in season (Oct–Apr) for speed and the option to stop at Phi Phi. Minivan + ferry year-round.
- to Koh Phi PhiSpeed boat from Rassada Pier — the standard option for most visitors. Book the morning departure (around 8:30–9am) to maximise time on the island.
- to KrabiMinivan door-to-door for convenience. Bus from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 for best value. Consider the ferry via Phi Phi as a scenic detour in high season.
- to Similan IslandsSpeedboat day trip is the standard for most visitors. Liveaboard for serious divers.
From Krabi
- to Ao NangSongthaew is the local and cheapest way. Grab or taxi if you have heavy bags or are arriving at night.
- to Koh LantaMinivan + ferry is the standard and cheapest option year-round. Speedboat is faster but seasonal.
- to Koh Phi PhiSpeedboat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town in dry season (Oct–Apr). Ferry year-round for budget travellers.
From Chiang Mai
- to Chiang RaiGreen Bus from Arcade Bus Terminal — reliable, comfortable, direct, and the best value at ฿149–260. Book tickets online to guarantee a seat in peak season.
- to PaiMinivan for convenience and speed. Motorbike for adventure if you're an experienced rider.
- to SukhothaiBus or minivan from Chiang Mai Arcade. The route passes beautiful Northern Thailand countryside.
From Koh Samui
- to Koh PhanganLomprayah or Seatran catamaran from north Samui piers — fast (30 minutes) and reliable. Multiple departures make it easy to fit around your schedule.
- to Koh TaoLomprayah direct catamaran from Maenam or Na Thon Pier — fastest and most reliable. Book 1–2 days ahead in peak season as boats fill quickly.
- to Surat ThaniRaja car ferry for budget travel or if bringing a vehicle. Catamaran if connecting to onward trains or buses.