✅ Article updated on May 23, 2025so you'll always have the latest news!
Phuket is like that Pinterest image that's been running through your head for months: white sand beaches, turquoise sea, coconuts and scooters for hire.
If Bangkok is the great leap into Thai life, Phuket is often the next logical step, for a breather, a tan or a party (or all three).
But then, concretely, how do you get there?
Spoiler: it depends on your time, your budget and your desire for adventure?
📏 Distance between Bangkok and Phuket
Phuket is about 840 km in central Bangkok.
It's a great road trip if you want to do it by road.
By bus or car 12 to 14 hours travel time (and a few snack breaks in between).
📍 See the route on Google Maps below:
✈️ Bangkok to Phuket by plane: fast and cheap
Clearly the fastest way 1h20 flight on average.
And the good news is that there have been dozens of flights every day since Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi.
Low-cost airlines Thai Vietjet, AirAsia, Nok Air
Traditional companies : Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways
Low season return fares : approx. €80 (with baggage) on the Trip booking site
High season return fares from €110 (with baggage)
Once you arrive at Phuket airport:
Cab to Patong Approx. 600฿ (€16)
Phuket Smart Bus 100฿ (€2.70) to Patong, Kata, Kamala, etc.
You can carry out a simulation using the form below:
🚌 Bangkok to Phuket by bus: economical but long
The the cheapest optionbut also the longest.
Account 12 to 14 hours with a break halfway.
2 types of bus :
- Standard : cheap, but tight.
- VIP recommended! More space, reclining seats, air conditioning, snacks.
📍 Where to get them?
Sai Tai Mai (Southern Bus Terminal)
Rate from €25 depending on comfort.
🚂 From Bangkok to Phuket by train (then by bus): for the curious
Would you like to try out Thai trains? how to book your train tickets in Thailand).
Why not, but be aware that there's no no direct connection with Phuket.
Here's the plan of attack (in 2 stages):
- 🚋 Train Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat) → Surat Thani (9-11h)
- 🚌 Bus Surat Thani → Phuket (5-6h)
Total: about 15-17 hours travel time, but you see a bit of the country.
Train fare: around €8-20 depending on the class chosen on the 12GO booking site.
Surat Thani → Phuket bus fare: about €10 on the 12GO booking site.
You can turn this simple trip into a mini Thai road trip all the way to Phuket!
❓ FAQ - Frequently asked questions about transport to Phuket
What's the best way to get to Phuket?
The plane, if you want to save time. The VIP bus, if you want to save money.
Which airline to choose for Bangkok-Phuket?
There are many airlines offering flights to Phuket. Among the best are Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways and Thai Vietjet Air.
Can I get to Phuket by train?
No. You have to go through Surat Thani, then take a bus.
And the ferry?
No ferries between Bangkok and Phuket. Phuket is an island, but ferries tend to leave from Krabi or the surrounding islands.
HERE ARE MY BEST RESOURCES FOR A SUCCESSFUL STAY IN THAILAND.
🏨 Hosting
Trip and Agoda are ideal platforms for finding your hotel at the best price.
✈️ International and domestic flights
Trip often offers the lowest rates, as well as being a reliable platform.
🚆 Transport & excursions
12GO for anything that rolls, floats or flies.
GetYourGuide for your unique and unforgettable excursions.
📱The best mobile operator
eSIM Thailand offers virtual sim cards at excellent rates (find out more about eSIM).
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JEAN
Salut , nous sommes deux et souhaitons à notre arrivé le 10/11 à Bangkok passer une semaine a Phuket nous aimerions avoir un bus ou un véhicule pour nous rendre directement sur l’ile à partir de l’aeroport international voire en avion avec un AR Bangkok Puhket Bangkok que nous conseille tu?