Phuket island continues to rank among the most popular tourist destinations in the world thanks to its pristine white sands, swaying palm trees, and bustling villages. This incredibly popular place in Thailand has hundreds of cool stays, a wide range of restaurants, and great nightlife. Because Phuket has so much to offer, many tourists love to visit Phuket after spending some time in Bangkok. So, how do you get from Bangkok to Phuket?
Embarking on a journey from Phuket to Bangkok is an exhilarating adventure that unveils the rich tapestry of Thailand’s landscapes and culture. Phuket can be reached from Bangkok in three different ways: by plane, bus, or train. To find out which option would work best for you, check out our guide below!
Quick Jumplinks
Where Is Phuket Located?
Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. It’s the largest island in the country and is surrounded by Phang Nga and Krabi. Aside from its gorgeous beaches, good food, and fantastic nightlife, Phuket is also known for its rich culture and stunning temples.
Find Places To Stay In Bangkok │ Places To Stay In Phuket
3 Ways To Get To Phuket From Bangkok
Bangkok To Phuket Flights
KEY INFO
| 🤑 Cost | $40+ |
| ⏰ Travel Time | 1.5 hours |
| 🪄 Tip | It’s advisable to book your flights in advance to secure the best deals, especially during peak tourist seasons. |
The quickest way to get to Phuket from Bangkok is by plane. Many airlines fly this route, which makes Phuket International Airport the second busiest airport in Thailand – right after Bangkok. If you’re looking for cheap flights, you can fly out of Don Mueang Airport, which is known as the nation’s low-cost carrier hub. Look for the best flight deals at Nok Air, Thai Smile, and Air Asia.
Suvarnabhumi Airport offers flights from Bangkok to Phuket several times a day. However, flight tickets are more expensive on the weekends and during peak season. To save money, choose evening flights or travel during low-season months (June, July).
Bangkok to Phuket Bus
KEY INFO
| 🤑 Cost | $20 for a one-way ticket |
| ⏰ Travel Time | At least 14 hours |
| 🪄 Tip | Pack essentials such as water, snacks, and a travel pillow for added comfort during the ride. |
The cheapest way to reach Phuket is by bus. However, it can take up to 16 hours, making it the longest way to travel. Although second-class buses are great, considering a VIP bus operated by Phuket Travel or Express Bus might be a good idea. They offer extra legroom, reclining, and single-row seats to make your long trip more comfortable.
Buses to Phuket depart from the Mochit Northern Bus Terminal (the popular Southern Bus Terminal is closed). At the halfway point of the trip, you’ll have a 30-minute stop to get some fresh air and grab a snack or drink. Buses tend to fill up quickly, so book your spot in advance!
Bangkok To Phuket Train
KEY INFO
| 🤑 Cost | $25+ for a train ticket, $8 for a bus ticket |
| ⏰ Travel Time | At least 14 hours (about 9 hours by train and then 5 hours by bus) |
| 🪄 Tip | Make sure to book your train tickets in advance, especially for sleeper cabins, as they tend to sell out quickly. |
There are no direct trains to Phuket, but you can take a train or a bus. Hop on a train at Hua Lamphong Station or Bang Sue Junction to Surat Thani railway station and then take a bus to reach your destination. Most trains have air conditioning, comfy seats, and a spacious cabin. Choose a first-class train with beds if you’d like to sleep during the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Phuket from Bangkok?
The distance between Bangkok Thailand and Phuket is approximately 860 kilometers (534 miles) by air.
How long does it take to travel by train from Bangkok to Phuket?
The train journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani takes approximately 8 to 12 hours, depending on the service. From Surat Thani, it’s 5 to 6 hours by bus or taxi to Phuket.
How can I find the cheapest month to fly from Bangkok to Phuket?
Skyscanner’s Cheapest Month to Fly feature can help you find the best time to fly from Bangkok to Phuket. As of now, flights are cheapest in May.
Where to stay near Phuket International Airport?
Here are the top-rated places to stay near Phuket International Airport:
- Naiyang Park Resort;
- L’esprit de Naiyang Beach Resort;
- Proud Phuket;
- Marina Express-AVIATOR-Phuket Airport;
- Himaphan Boutique Resort.
For the best prices, always book with CuddlyNest.
