Traveling in Thailand often involves traveling long distances to explore its different regions. With a multitude of transportation options available, it is important to know the pros, cons, and tips to navigate easily. Here is a complete guide to optimize your travels.
Bangkok: the essential platform
Bangkok is located in the heart of the country, so the capital is often the necessary transit point for inter-regional travel. Whether you are traveling north, south and its islands or elsewhere, the metropolis is a major hub for all modes of transport.
- Why is Bangkok a must-see? The city is very well served by all means of transport, with several bus terminals, train stations, and two airports (only deep-sea ferries are lacking). Furthermore, the city is close to several major tourist destinations in the country, such as Ayutthaya and its historical park, Kanchanaburi or, Pattaya.
With roughly 2,000 km from north to south, traveling from north to south and vice versa in one go is hardly feasible except by air; it would be far too long. Even domestic flights often transit through Bangkok due to its strategic location. Direct flights between major cities are sometimes limited or even nonexistent.
Anyway, it's a good thing that the capital is relatively central to the country... and Bangkok remains for me a must-see!
For intercity travel, there's no shortage of options. To sum it up, you have the right to take the train, the bus, the plane, and even the boat to a lesser extent (since it's mainly for connecting different islands, so not over long distances), but What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Getting around Bangkok: metro, skytrain and boats
Before talking about long journeys, a word about urban transport in the capital, because you will almost certainly have to use it.
- BTS (Skytrain) : convenient for reaching modern districts (Sukhumvit, Silom, Sathorn) and avoiding massive traffic jams.
- MRT (metro) : complements the BTS well, especially for Chinatown, the central station and some residential areas.
- Airport Rail Link : connects Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center (Makkasan / Phaya Thai).
- Boats on the Chao Phraya Very convenient for visiting the temples and the old city, via the water buses. I wrote a Illustrated guide to the Chao Phraya Express.
- Boats on the khlongs in particular the Khlong Saen Saep, more “rootsy” but effective for crossing entire neighborhoods without traffic jams.
For short trips, you will also find taxis, motorcycle taxis and tuk-tuks on every street corner, but I'll come back to that later.
Book your transport and tickets in advance
In addition to the links to the main companies that I provide below for each type of transport, THE reference here to make intercity bookings (excluding air travel) is 12Go, a safe company that makes it easy to choose between different means of transport for all major destinations in Thailand.
This is the ideal solution if you feel more comfortable having your trip well-planned with your reservations in hand. I invite you to use the search box below: you can find your train, bus, or even boat tickets, or, if you don't want to book, check fares and schedules.
The plane: speed and accessibility
Domestic flights are common. The network is quite good, as many cities across Thailand have at least one airport. Low-cost carriers such as Nok Air (https://www.nokair.com/) and AirAsia (https://www.airasia.com/), you benefit from speed and security at very competitive prices.
For example, if we take the route as a reference Bangkok–Chiang MaiGiven that it's one of Thailand's must-see destinations, you can expect to pay between €50 and €80 for a round trip on average, provided you book at least a little in advance. Even for a last-minute trip, you can find a good deal. for less than 100 € in general.
In the major airlines you have this:
- Bangkok Airways, which is not low-cost so generally more expensive, but very reliable and with lounges included on some tickets.
- Thai Lion Air, the local branch of Lion Air, a low-cost carrier that operates several domestic routes from Don Muang.
- Scoot, a Singapore-based company, which mainly serves for international flights (less relevant for purely domestic flights).
- VietJet Air, based in Vietnam, which also offers several domestic connections in Thailand in addition to flights to other Asian countries.
Some airlines offer very limited connections, or conversely, some destinations are only accessible via a few airlines. A concrete example: Chumphon is served by only a few airlines (AirAsia, Nok Air). Other airports are private, such as the one at Ko SamuiBangkok Airways has exclusive rights to operate the service, which is a very good company, but this is reflected in the fares.
- Advantage:
- Fast and reliable.
- Network covering major cities (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, etc.).
- Low-cost airlines (AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, VietJet Air) with competitive fares.
- Disadvantages:
- Less economical for short journeys.
- Some private airports (Ko Samui) have high prices and little competition.
- Tips:
- Book your tickets in advance to get the best rates.
- Allow extra time for connections in Bangkok, especially between Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports.
Bangkok's two airports
- Suvarnabhumi (BKK) As the main international airport, it serves domestic and international flights of major airlines such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways, as well as some low-cost carriers.
- Don Muang (DMK) Main hub for low-cost carriers such as AirAsia, Nok Air and Thai Lion Air. It is often the preferred airport for budget flights.
- Getting between the two airports: A free shuttle (for passengers with a plane ticket) provides the connection in approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Main destinations served by plane
- North: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang.
- Northeast: Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani.
- South : Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat.
- Islands: Ko Samui (Bangkok Airways), Phuket (which is not an isolated island in terms of access, but remains a hub for the islands in the region).
The bus: economical and flexible
The road network is extensive and generally well-maintained, making it the number 1 long distance mode of transport in Thailand (starting with domestic tourism). Still in the same example, a journey Bangkok–Chiang Mai will cost around 1,000 baht max for an average journey time of 10h30 (a little over 700 km).
Fares vary depending on the class; you'll generally find VIP, First Class, Express, or Standard buses. On the most comfortable buses, you'll have a reclining seat (sometimes almost horizontal) and ample legroom. Just like on airplanes, you'll even have a hostess: she'll ensure your comfort throughout the journey, distributing snacks, drinks, and blankets for the night—a must.
- Advantage:
- Affordable fares: between 600 and 1 THB for a long distance trip.
- Several classes available, including VIP buses offering comfort and services (reclining seats, snacks, blankets).
- High frequencies: regular departures from all major cities.
- Disadvantages:
- Long travel time.
- Some private operators drive fast and safety is not always exemplary.
- Tips:
- If you have not booked in advance, it is preferable to buy your tickets directly at the terminals to avoid agency commissions.
- Be careful with agencies offering trips departing from Khao San Road: problems with theft and other issues are regularly reported there.
There are three companies that currently stand out (among the many covering the country) for their reliability and the good overall condition of their buses (some even have individual screens like those on airlines):
- The Transport Co Ltd (public network).
- Green Bus Company (specializing in the northern region).
- Nakhonchai Air.
Except during major holiday periods (end-of-year period and Thai New Year, the Songkran (In mid-April), you can book your buses directly on site; departures are very regular, so there are rarely any problems with seats.
If you want to book your bus ticket in advance (or even just check the schedules and fares), you can use this organization: Bus Online Ticket, if not 12Go is your friend.
Main Bus Terminals in Bangkok
- Mo Chit (Northern Bus Terminal) : mainly serves the north (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai) and the northeast (Isan).
- Sai Tai Mai (Southern Bus Terminal) : for destinations to the west (Kanchanaburi) and the south (Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani).
- Ekamai (Eastern Bus Terminal) : located at the foot of the BTS Ekamai station, it serves destinations to the east such as Pattaya, Rayong and Trat (towards Ko Chang).
How to get there ?
- Mo Chit: accessible by BTS (Skytrain) to Mo Chit then taxi or local bus.
- Sai Tai Mai: Plan to take a taxi or a Grab, as it is not directly served by the metro.
- Ekamai: directly accessible by BTS (Ekamai station).
The train: picturesque but slow
The railway network is a bit of a mess in Thailand and most trains are pulled by old diesel locomotives, but it's the cheapest way to travel in Thailand.
It's also the slowest, averaging around 80 km/h. The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes approximately 13 hours. However, things have improved slightly in recent years because, for a long time, trains ran on single tracks; in other words, train schedules were calculated so that they would pass each other at stations, since it wasn't possible to do so elsewhere.
Several sections of the lines have since been doubled, improving journey times.
There are three classes of service on trains in Thailand:
- Third class : fares are unbeatable for long distances, starting from around ten euros (375 baht), but in that case, I challenge you to spend 14 hours on hard seats!
- Second class : still seats but more comfortable, so expect to pay around €15 (550 baht) per person.
- 1st Class Sleeper AC : the preferred option because you will have a sleeper berth and air-conditioned carriages, however the price climbs to around €40 (1,500 baht).
Fortunately, major connections such as Bangkok–Chiang Mai or, Bangkok–Surat Thani They have newer carriages, especially for night trains. However, finding food on board isn't guaranteed (vendors sometimes come into the carriages at certain station stops), so bring something just in case.
On night trains, a member of staff will transform your "day" seat into a sleeper position, literally making your bed with sheets and pillow included.
One notable negative point from my experience: the air conditioning in first class trains is particularly cold, one of the reasons being that it prevents the proliferation of mosquitoes which do not like this “coolness” and therefore avoids the transfer of these between regions.
This is not a joke: bring a sweater to compensate!
Finally, one last point to emphasize about this mode of transport: while you do have curtains to maintain some privacy at night, they don't block out the light! If you're sensitive to light, it's not ideal…
- Advantage:
- Ideal for admiring the scenery during the day or in the morning, depending on your schedule.
- Economical option.
- Sleeper carriages for night journeys, which saves a hotel night.
- Disadvantages:
- Trains not very modern, with frequent delays.
- Very long travel time.
- The air conditioning, if present, is very cold.
- Not always a dining car.
Major Train Stations in Bangkok
- Hua Lamphong: the historic central station, still in service for several local and regional trains.
- Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station (Bang Sue Grand Station): the new, modern central station connected to the metro and the SRT (high-speed train). It is now the main departure point for most major connections to the north and south of the country.
- Thonburi Railway Station: Formerly an important station in the city, it is mainly used to travel to cities west of Bangkok, notably Kanchanaburi.
Future projects:
High-speed rail lines are under construction, notably between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima, promising faster journeys in the future. HOWEVER, it's a project with somewhat disastrous management, and after years of construction (with a pause during the Covid period), progress is unfortunately very limited… When it finally happens, the two cities will be connected in just 1 hour 30 minutes with a top speed of 250 km/h (and if you do the math, a cruising speed of around 170 km/h).
Interesting point : the route will serve Ayutthaya, Saraburi and Pak Chong (the latter being the starting point for the visit of the Khao Yai National Park).
— A line is currently under construction to connect to the border with Laos, from Den Chai, and will finally see the arrival of a train in Chiang Rai (accessible only by bus or plane to date).
— Other projects would include rapid links between three important airports in the region: Don Muang (Bangkok) – Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok) and U-Tapao (Pattaya/Rayong).
— The rail network is planned to be completely doubled to allow trains to pass each other without location constraints.
The boat: essential for the islands
Today only Phuket and Ko Samui have their own airport. (Krabi too, but it's not an island!). Therefore, boats remain the preferred means of transport for traveling between the islands of Thailand from the mainland and between each other.
Ferries to the Gulf of Thailand
For the Gulf of Thailand (Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao), several main companies stand out:
Lomprayah is a very popular way to travel from Chumphon to Ko Tao, without having to go all the way down to Surat Thani (Donsak). For inter-island travel within the Gulf, there is also a dedicated company: Songserm.
Most companies offer bus + ferry combinations, allowing, in particular for Ko Samui, to offer a competitive rate while simplifying your trip. You can also find such combinations on Phantip Travel or via 12GB.
I must also mention the northern part of the Gulf of Thailand, with the islands off the coast of Trat (Ko Chang, Ko Mak or Ko Kood):
- Boonsiri, the reference, with numerous connections in the region, including transfers from Bangkok and Pattaya.
- Ko Kut Expressoperating between the three main islands.
- SeudamgoThe latest arrival, modern and comfortable.
Ferries to the Andaman Sea
For the Andaman Sea, one company stands out for its wide choice of destinations:
- Tigerline (activity varies according to seasons and years).
For Ko Phi Phi there is a large ferry via the company Andaman Wave Master, which also operates some connections with speedboats.
For more general ferry booking sites:
- DirectFerries, a benchmark for this type of transport.
- Ferry Samui, for the Gulf of Thailand.
- Phuket Ferry, for his alter ego in the Andaman Sea.
Ferries are a safer option, but obviously slower. A Krabi – Ko Phi Phi crossing takes about 2 hours, compared to barely 1 hour by speedboat. For the Andaman Sea, there is a company specializing in this type of route: Bundhaya Speed Boat.
On the other hand, if the latter will make the journeys much faster, it is also more expensive:
- Approximately 1,000 baht to travel from Krabi to Ko Phi Phi (compared to 450 baht by ferry).
Speedboats are regularly criticized for their lack of safety, sometimes taking to the sea in a well-formed swell, and sometimes long journeys that are very bumpy (therefore not recommended with young children or people of a certain age).
Apart from speedboats, the famous long-tails Boat trips are also a possible option. These are much more common and popular on the Andaman coast. You'll generally find boatmen along the beaches, ready to take you on day trips between beaches and coves. They don't always carry life jackets for everyone, so don't hesitate to ask.
Main ports
- Donsak (Surat Thani): starting point for Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao.
- Ao Nang (Krabi): connection to the islands of the Andaman Sea.
- Rassada Pier (Phuket) : main pier for ferries to Ko Phi Phi and other islands.
- Ao Chalong (Phuket) : frequent departure for excursions and speedboats.
To conclude this chapter:
— If you enjoy your freedom on the water, you can also rent your own boat for the day to explore the islands. To do so, go to the Click & Boat website, specialized for that.
Be aware that outside of the islands, it's also possible to travel by boat. I'm thinking, of course, of the water bus in Bangkok (the Chao Phraya Express, which I wrote an article here) and in the Mekong River in particular (although it's more on the Laotian side, see here).
With a little searching, you can even find local connections using rivers. For example, it's possible to reach Tha Ton from Chiang Rai (and vice versa) via the Kok river (although, in this specific case, you are dependent on the water level and therefore the season).
Private transport: freedom and comfort
For those who prefer to travel at their own pace or access areas less well served by public transport, private transport in Thailand offers an ideal solution.
Car rental
Car rental is a great option for exploring rural areas, national parks or remote destinations, and is particularly suitable for families or groups who want flexibility.
- Prices: from €30 to €50 per day depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the rental.
- Available networks: major international rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) and local agencies (Thai Rent A Car, Chic Car Rent).
- Prerequisites: An international driving permit is mandatory, but only valid if you have the corresponding category on your national license. Note that processing times are long, so keep this in mind. Apart from certain mountainous regions requiring a more robust vehicle, a standard car is perfectly adequate for most journeys: the main road network is well-maintained.
- Tips:
- Opt for a car with comprehensive insurance.
- Use Google Maps or a local GPS app to navigate.
Private minivans
Private minivan services are very popular for groups wanting to see multiple locations in one day or plan a custom itinerary.
- Advantage:
- Driver included, avoiding the stress of driving.
- Comfortable for groups of 4 to 10 people.
- Possibility of adapting the stops according to your wishes (historical sites, waterfalls, beaches).
- Prices: from 2,000 to 3,500 THB per day (approximately €50 to €100) depending on distance and duration.
- Recommended service: For a French-speaking interlocutor, the reference is Kevy Transport.
Taxis, songthaews and private chauffeur services
For shorter trips or one-off excursions, private taxis and chauffeur services are a convenient option.
- grab: The Asian equivalent of Uber, very popular in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Ideal for getting around town.
- Bolt : A competitor of Grab, very popular with tourists, slightly cheaper in general but less present everywhere.
- Services with driver: Available for day trips. Prices start from 1,500 THB (approximately €40) for a half-day.
Besides "classic" taxis, you will find pickup trucks, called songthaewsThese vehicles can be hired like shared taxis for spontaneous trips or for private hire for the day. In the latter case, simply define your itinerary and, depending on the duration and distance, a price will be offered (generally in the range of 2,000 to 3,000 baht per day).
Private excursions
For those who want a more structured service, many local agencies offer private tours with a guide and driver.
- Popular options:
- Temple tour in Chiang Mai or Bangkok.
- Visit national parks like Erawan or Doi Inthanon.
- Day trip to the islands (Ko Samui, Ko Phi Phi).
- Prices: Prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions, starting from 5,000 THB (approximately €130) per day.
- Platforms: GetYourGuide, Viator, or specialized local agencies.
Motorcycle taxis and scooters
Practical for quick trips around town or for exploring islands, scooters and motorcycle taxis are very common.
- Advantage: flexibility and very affordable rates (from 250 THB per day for scooter rental).
- Disadvantages: Increased risk due to local traffic and driving habits.
- Tips:
- Always wear a helmet.
- Check the insurance conditions before renting.
- Make sure you're in compliance: you need an international driving permit + a motorcycle license to be fully covered.
Private transportation in Thailand offers invaluable freedom for those who want to get off the beaten track or travel at their own pace. Whether it’s through a car rental, a private van or a taxi with driver, these options adapt to all needs and budgets.
Small warning: This is especially true for two-wheelers, which are popular as a means of transport on the islands. Driving in Thailand is quite chaotic, so don't venture onto the roads without experience: it's pure recklessness. I go into more detail on this subject in my dedicated article.
Approximate travel times between some major destinations
To give you a more concrete idea, here are some examples of travel times depending on the chosen mode of transport (excluding unforeseen circumstances):
- Bangkok → Chiang Mai ~1 hour 15 minutes by plane / 10–11 hours by bus / 12–13 hours by night train.
- Bangkok → Chiang Rai : ~1 hour 20 minutes by plane / 12–13 hours by bus (via Phitsanulok or direct).
- Bangkok → Phuket ~1 hour 20 minutes by plane / 12–13 hours by bus.
- Bangkok → Krabi ~1 hour 20 minutes by plane / 10–11 hours by bus.
- Bangkok → Surat Thani (then ferries to the islands) : ~1 hour by plane / 9–10 hours by bus or train + transfer.
- Chiang Mai → Pai : approximately 3 hours by van (but with 762 turns on the odometer).
Hitchhiking in Thailand
I will end with an unusual case. Hitchhiking is not very common in ThailandGiven the generally low cost of transportation, it's not really a viable way to travel. If you're still tempted (I've seen it on the roads), be aware that hitchhiking isn't very common, so Thais don't often stop... so be patient.
That's the gist of it (even though it's quite long).
In the meantime, if you have already been to Thailand or are planning a visit, what was or will be your preferred method of travel? How do you travel?
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transportation in Thailand
Do you need to book night trains in advance?
For popular routes such as Bangkok – Chiang Mai or Bangkok – Surat Thani, YesIt's best to book in advance, especially during peak season (December–March) or major holidays (New Year, Songkran). For less busy routes, you might sometimes find a last-minute spot, but if you absolutely need a sleeper berth, book well in advance.
Are buses dangerous?
Most buses operate without problems, but some private operators drive too fast, and driver fatigue can be a factor. To minimize risks, choose the reputable companies (The Transport Co, Green Bus, Nakhonchai Air), avoid tickets bought from small agencies in Khao San, and prefer night buses that leave from official terminals.
What is the most comfortable way to travel a long distance?
If your budget allows, flying remains the most comfortable option for long distances. Otherwise, a sleeper night train (First or second class) is a good compromise: you travel lying down and save on a hotel night. VIP buses can also be comfortable, but it all depends on your tolerance for the road.
Can I rent a scooter without a motorcycle license?
In practice, many rental companies will give you a scooter in exchange for a simple copy of your passport and cash. In theory, and in terms of insurance, it's a different story: without a motorcycle license + corresponding international driving permitYou are not in compliance, and your insurance is very likely not to cover an accident. Keep this in mind before signing.
Should I avoid speedboats?
Avoid, no, but être selectifYes. If the sea is rough, you suffer from seasickness, have young children, or back problems, opt for the ferry. Speedboats are fast but more expensive and less comfortable, and some operators take a rather "sporty" approach to safety. If you choose this option, select reputable companies, get information locally, and don't push yourself if the weather is bad.
