How to get from Bangkok to Phuket: all ways, distances and tips

General information about the route Bangkok – Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, attracting millions of tourists with its beaches, resorts and variety of entertainment. Bangkok , being the capital and largest city of the country, is the main starting point for a trip to Phuket. The distance between these two points is about 840 kilometers.

There are several ways to get from Bangkok to Phuket: by plane, train, bus or car. Each of them has its own characteristics, pros and cons, which we will consider in detail.

Distance between Bangkok and Phuket

The distance from Bangkok to Phuket is approximately 840 km. This makes the journey by car or bus quite long, but at the same time it opens up picturesque views of the nature of Thailand. Air travel, on the contrary, takes much less time, which makes it the most popular option for tourists.

Ways to get from Bangkok to Phuket

There are several ways to get from Bangkok to Phuket , each of which has its own characteristics. Let’s consider them in more detail.

By plane

The fastest and most convenient way to get from Bangkok to Phuket is by air. Flights between the two cities are operated daily by several airlines, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia and Nok Air.

• Travel time: About 1 hour 20 minutes.
• Airports: Depart from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) and arrive at Phuket International Airport (HKT).
• Ticket price: Depending on the season and airline, ticket prices range from 1,000 to 4,000 baht.

This method is perfect for those who value their time and want to quickly get to the coast of Phuket. Flights are regular, and due to high competition among airlines, you can find good deals, especially when booking early.

By train and bus

Another option for those who prefer land transport is to take a train to Surrat Thani and then transfer to a bus to Phuket.

• Travel time: Train – about 8-12 hours, bus – 4-5 hours.
• Route: The train departs from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok and arrives at Surrat Thani. From there, take a bus to Phuket.
• Ticket price: Train tickets vary depending on class of service (from 800 to 2000 baht), and a bus to Phuket costs around 200-400 baht.

This option allows you to enjoy the views of southern Thailand and try out local transport, but it takes longer and requires a transfer, which may not be entirely convenient.

By bus

Traveling from Bangkok to Phuket by bus is a budget option that appeals to many travelers.

• Travel time: 12-14 hours.
• Departure: Buses depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai ​​Tai Mai) or the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) in Bangkok.
• Ticket price: Depending on the bus class (VIP, 1st class, 2nd class) tickets cost from 500 to 1200 baht.

Buses to Bangkok offer comfortable accommodations for long journeys, including wide seats, air conditioning and sometimes even on-board meals. The bus journey from Bangkok to Phuket takes about 13-14 hours and passes through the picturesque landscapes of central and southern Thailand.

This option is ideal for those who want to save money on the flight and are not in a hurry. It is important to note that night flights are often chosen by travelers to avoid the heat of the day and save time.

On machines

Renting a car is a great option for those who prefer independent travel and want to explore Thailand on their own route.

• Distance: About 840 km.
• Travel time: 11-13 hours.
• Route: There are several routes from Bangkok to Phuket, the most popular one goes via Chumphon and Phang Nga.

Renting a car allows you to plan your trip flexibly, stopping at interesting places along the way. The cost of renting a car in Thailand starts from 1,000 baht per day. It is important to remember that you need an international driver’s license and take into account the traffic rules of Thailand.

How to get from Bangkok to Phuket on your own

If you prefer to plan your own travel, there are several aspects to consider when choosing transportation from Bangkok to Phuket .

1. Choice of transport: Decide what is more important to you – time or budget. Plane is the fastest way, but more expensive. Bus and train are budget options, but take more time.
2. Booking tickets: It is better to book plane tickets in advance to get good deals. For trains and buses, booking is also recommended, especially during peak seasons.
3. Preparing for the trip: If you choose to travel by car, study the route, rest stops and gas stations in advance. If you are traveling by bus or train, stock up on everything you need for a long journey – water, food, a blanket.

Pros and cons of each mode of transportation

Each way to get from Bangkok to Phuket has its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Plane: Fast and convenient, but more expensive than other options.
• Train and bus: Budget and interesting, but requires transfers and takes more time.
• Bus: Economical and comfortable, but long.
• Car: Flexibility and the ability to explore routes, but the road can be tiring.

Bangkok to Phuket Route Planning Tips

1. Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip according to Phuket weather conditions. High season from November to March offers the best weather.
2. Ticket selection: Use online platforms to compare prices and purchase tickets.
3. Preparing for Long Trips: Be sure to bring comfortable clothes and everything you need for a long trip.

Traveler Reviews of Bangkok to Phuket Trip

Tourists who have traveled from Bangkok to Phuket note that each method has its own characteristics. The plane is certainly convenient and fast, but many prefer a bus or train to save money and enjoy the views. Those who have chosen a car advise carefully planning the route and taking into account the time for rest along the way.