Thailand has good transport, and most trips use a mix of short flights, private transfers and ferries.
Between regions
- Bangkok to Pattaya: about two hours by road. Private transfers are the most comfortable, especially with luggage.
- Bangkok to Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai or Koh Samui: domestic flights of about one to one and a half hours. Check which Bangkok airport your flight uses: Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang.
- Phuket to Krabi: about two and a half hours by road, or a ferry via the Phi Phi Islands in season.
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train: an overnight sleeper is a fun experience if you have time.
Island ferries
Ferries and speedboats link Phuket and Krabi with Phi Phi, and Surat Thani with Koh Samui. Sea conditions on the Andaman coast are rougher from May to October, and some routes run reduced schedules.
Getting around Bangkok
- BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are fast, air-conditioned and avoid traffic.
- Ride-hailing apps work well and show prices up front.
- Metered taxis: insist on the meter.
- River boats on the Chao Phraya connect several sights, including the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
- Tuk-tuks are fun for short trips; agree the price before you get in and decline unplanned "shopping stops".
Getting around Phuket and Krabi
Distances between beaches are longer than they look and taxis can be expensive. Private transfers and day tours with transport included are usually the easiest option. Longtail boats are the way to reach Railay and nearby islands from Ao Nang.
Pattaya
Songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) run along the main roads for a small fixed fare. Ask the driver where they are going before you hop on.
Tips
- Scooters are widely rented but accidents are common; most travel insurance excludes riding without the right licence.
- Carry small notes for boats and songthaews.
- Allow time: Bangkok traffic can be heavy at rush hour.
See Thailand itinerary for a first trip: 5, 7 and 10-day plans for routes.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go