Updated: April 16, 2024
Guide on how to get around Thailand on your own, with details of each transport, prices, where to buy tickets and advice.
If you are planning your first trip to Thailand, this guide to all transportation will help you know how move through the Land of Smiles, based on my experience of living there for 3 years.
Thailand may seem like a backward country where you don't know what you're going to find, but nothing could be further from the truth.
This beautiful country is quite modern, with a developed transport infrastructure where You will not lack options to move freely and at a good price.
Without a doubt, this is one of the great secrets of its success among all types of travelers, especially among backpackers and solo travelers.
In case you don't have time to read the entire article, I recommend this search engine that shows you all transportation alternatives in Thailand.
What are the transportation options in Thailand?
In Thailand the transport options are very varied, from planes, trains, buses, boats, taxis and motorcycles.
Each one has its advantages depending on the area of the country you are going to move to.
Best of all, the prices are usually affordable, although Some means of transportation are better to reserve in advance.
Planes and airlines in Thailand
A very convenient way to get around Thailand is by plane, because you will save a lot of time and the flights are usually cheap.
Main Thai airports
Thailand has 30 airports throughout the country and the main ones, which will help you move around the country during your vacation, are:
- Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK): It is in Bangkok and is the main international airport in Thailand, where most international flights take place.
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK): Also in Bangkok, although it is an international airport, it is mainly used for domestic flights, from where several low-cost airlines operate.
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX): is the main airport in northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai. National and regional flights arrive there that will help you continue your trip through other Southeast Asian countries.
- Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI): It is the second largest airport in northern Thailand, serving mainly domestic and regional flights from China, Taiwan and Singapore.
- Sukhothai Airport (THS): it is a small airport ideal for visit the popular Sukhothai Historical Park, declared World Heritage. The main airlines operating there are Bangkok Airways and Thai Lion Air.
- Phuket International Airport (HKT): It is the second most important airport in the country, located on the island of Phuket, which will help you move around the south of Thailand and the nearby islands such as Phi Phi and the Similan.
- Krabi International Airport (KBV): It is next to Krabi town and is a popular airport for visiting the paradise islands near Krabi province.
- Koh Samui International Airport (USM): It is the only airport in the Gulf Islands of Thailand, located on the famous island of Koh Samui. It is a very picturesque airport, with a beautiful wooden terminal. But as it is a private airport that belongs to Bangkok Airways, sometimes the flights can be very expensive, an internal flight can cost more than a flight to Europe, it is just a matter of looking for flights well in advance.
- Surat Thani International Airport (URT): is the main airport in the Surat Thani region in southern Thailand. It is mainly used to connect other areas of Thailand with the islands of the Gulf of Thailand as an alternative to Koh Samui airport.
- Hat Yai International Airport (HDY): It is next to the city of Hat Yai, in southern Thailand, very close to the border with Malaysia. This airport will help you continue your trip to the island of Langkawi in Malaysia or other areas of the neighboring country.
In parentheses I have left you the IATA code of each airport, some small airports are sometimes easier to find with that code.
Map of main Thai airports
* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.
Thai and low-cost airlines
The main Thai airlines are Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways.
Furthermore, there are several budget airlines (low cost) Thai and Asian that will help you move throughout the country:
- AirAsia: is the largest low-cost airline in all of Asia with domestic and international flights.
- Thai AirAsia: is the subsidiary of AirAsia and serves both domestic and international flights.
- Nok Air: is a low-cost Thai airline focused on domestic and regional flights.
- Thai Lion Air: is Indonesia's Lion Air low-cost airline, with domestic and regional flights.
- Scoot: is a low-cost airline from Singapore, with several flights to international destinations.
- Jetstar Asia: is another low-cost airline from Singapore with international flights.
- Lion Air– This Indonesian airline has several low-cost flights from Bangkok.
- Thai Smile: this is the airline low cost of Thai Airways with domestic and regional flights.
📢 Keep in mind:
Low-cost airlines in Thailand charge for checking bags, food and other services like Ryanair and others. low cost in Europe.
They also usually have a very strict cancellation policyThat is, they do not refund your money for canceling. 😬
Therefore, I recommend you check the conditions before purchasing a flight.
Practical information about flights in Thailand
- Flight prices: Prices for internal flights are usually quite reasonable, but vary by season and airline. My recommendation is that you book flights in advance.
- Where to buy tickets: You can buy plane tickets through your favorite search engine, with a travel agency or directly with the airline. I recommend in Thailand this website link where you can see schedules, prices and make reservations for planes and any other transportation. It is also very practical for getting around the rest of Southeast Asia.
- Documentation: To fly the only thing you will need is your passport and the plane ticket that you can carry on your mobile phone, there is no need to print it.
- Flight duration: Most domestic flights in Thailand take between one and two hours. For example, the flight between Chiang Mai and Krabi is 2 hours.
- Transportation to the airport: to get to the airport you can go by taxi, public transport in most cities or with a transfer service which usually pays off very well.
Trains in Thailand
The Thai railway system is extensive, with more than 4,000 km of tracks covering almost the entire territory.
Trains are a popular way to get around, especially among Thais because it is very economical.
You will find options for all budgets depending on the type of class (first, second and third), including private compartments in sleeper cars on night trains.
A train trip in Thailand is an experience in itself, in a relaxed transportation to enjoy the landscapes and make stops.
An example is the route of the line that runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and it will allow you visit Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.
In fact, the night train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is the most popular tour among travelers more adventurous and I have a detailed article about it that you may be interested in reading. It also includes information on other forms of transportation between those two cities.
👍 Friend's tip: if you want to travel by train in Thailand, I recommend book tickets well in advance. As it is a popular transport among locals, tickets sell out quickly, especially for the night trains.
Where to travel by train in Thailand?
All train lines in Thailand leave from Bangkok, connecting with major cities such as: Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, Pattaya and Kanchanaburi.
On a tourist level, the most popular route is the one that connects Bangkok with Chiang Mai and in general it is the one that I recommend doing.
In general, trains in Thailand are slow. For example, the line that goes from Bangkok to the south with stops in Chumphon and Surat Thani, which is one of the main tourist areas of the country, is more than slow, it is agony because there are areas where it barely moves.
So, to go to the south, as a quick alternative, you have flights to the airports that I told you about above, and if you buy the tickets in advance you can get good prices and if not, as an economical alternative, there are buses.
Map of Thai train lines
Practical information for traveling by train in Thailand
- Train ticket prices: the prices are usually very cheap, but it will depend on the class you choose, my recommendation is that you at least pay for second class if you are going on a long trip, because the third class seats are very uncomfortable and there is no air conditioning.
- Where to buy the tickets?: You can buy them directly at the train stations or on the official website of State Railway of Thailand, although it is a cumbersome website and sometimes ticket sales do not work. For me, the best alternative is this website is very practical, it helps you see the schedules and make the reservation. If you have any problems or questions, the customer service is very good.
- Are the trains punctual?: Yes, departures are usually on time, but there may be delays, especially in high season or if there are bad weather conditions.
- Is there restaurant service?: Yes, there is restaurant service. There are also vendors who come up at the stops and you can buy the food and drinks you need. Another option is to buy the food and drinks you will need in advance. Note that Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the train, if a conductor sees you, he will even make you throw away a beer.
- Are there bathrooms in the carriages?: Yes, there are bathrooms that look like those on an airplane.
- How will I know where to get off?: The stops are announced over the public address system.
Buses, minibuses in Thailand
Buses are one of the most popular options for getting around Thailand, on medium and long distance routes, because it is cheap and fast.
In Thailand, the bus network is very extensive, with routes to almost any destination you want to go to, whether cities or towns.
The only disadvantage is that there are not always direct buses, sometimes you will have to make line changes, especially in the south to connect different areas.
On some routes you will find minibuses that are usually faster than large buses.
Another very good service is that of the VIP buses, which are the ones I recommend for longer routes.
These types of buses have reclining seats, air conditioning and sometimes have food service on board, Wi-Fi and a bathroom.
Practical information for getting around by bus and minibus
- Bus prices: Prices vary depending on the route and type of bus, although in general they are economical. VIPS are usually more expensive, but the comfort they offer is worth it, especially if you are taking a tour at night.
- Do I have to buy tickets in advance?: yes, it is highly recommended, especially in high season.
- Where do you buy the tickets?: to compare the tickets you will have to go to the bus station or you can use this same website which I recommended to you before. It works for all types of transport and is very good for viewing bus schedules, prices and booking tickets. Below I leave you the search engine, enter the data and it will show you all the options.
- Is there a bathroom on the buses?: There is usually a bathroom on buses, but sometimes it doesn't work or is closed. But they make stops to go to the bathroom and eat something.
Songthaew in Thailand
Another option of transport in Thailand very popular, are the songthaew, which you will find in small towns, some islands and in rural areas for short and medium tours.
The songthaew They are vans that carry passengers in the back, with seats in two rows, precisely the word songthaew It means "two rows."
In these vans the space is limited and if there are more people you will have to squeeze in so that other people can sit.
If you don't mind this detail, you will be traveling on the most authentic means of public transport in Thailand, as many places move daily.
These trucks They usually have a fixed route with fixed prices, although you can also use it for other routes. But in my experience, prices outside the fixed route are usually excessive.
I have used them mainly in Chiang Mai, where there were some that went around the old town and others that went to nearby areas.
Also, you will find them on the larger islands, such as Phuket and Koh Samui, although with quite limited routes.
In Phuket, they run tours between Phuket Town and the beaches. Then, in Koh Samui they travel through the nearest coastal areas, connecting them with the center.
Practical information for traveling songthaew
- How do I know where the stops are?: In every place you travel, I recommend that you ask a local, for example at the hotel where you are staying.
- How do I know if a songthaew is it going to my destination?: You will have to ask the driver and take the opportunity to ask him the price.
- How do I tell the driver what my destination is?: To tell the destination, use some nearby important site as a reference. The best references you can use are temples or tourist places that the drivers know them well.
- How to stop a songthaew in Thailand?: If you are waiting at the stop, when you see it coming, you stretch your arm forward, with the palm of your hand facing the ground, raise and lower your arm. It sounds curious, doesn't it? 😅 But it's the way Thais do it.
- How much does the trip cost?: That depends on the length of the tour and where you are. To give you an idea, in Chiang Mai for tours within the city I never paid more than 50 bahts, from Doi Suthep to the city it was about 80 bahts. Then, in Koh Samui the distances were much greater and I paid about 150 bahts, but they had tours that cost much more.
- How and when is it paid?: Payment is made in cash when you get off, so it is advisable that you have small bills and some coins. If there are few people you can do it from the little window of the songthaew that connects with the cabin where the driver is, especially if it rains. Although the most common thing is that you get off and go to where the driver is to pay him.
- How do I notify the driver that I want to get off?: in some songthaew There is a button on the roof to notify the driver. If not, you tell them, for example «Big Buddha stop, please«. Normally, they remember what your stop is, but don't trust them either, lest they forget.
Taxis and tuk-tuks in Thailand
You will find taxis in Thailand almost anywhere, as you would in other parts of the world.
Instead, Tuk-tuks are a mainly tourist means of transport. Although in cities like Bangkok locals can use it for very short trips, but it is not common.
These means of transportation They are the ones I least recommend using in Thailand, because that's where you'll be most at risk of being overcharged. If you can avoid them.
In fact, I have included taxis and tuk-tuks in this article about 15 Scams in Thailand and How to Avoid Them, which you may be interested in reading.
Tips for traveling by taxi in Thailand
- Taximeter: In taxis in Bangkok and other cities you will have to ask them to turn on the meter.
- Negotiate the price: In other places, such as islands or more rural areas, it is normal to negotiate the price of the tour.
- Make sure the price is clear: especially if you are traveling with more people, or doing a round trip. Although it may sound strange, you may find some smart guy who later wants to charge you per person or per trip, when you thought it was for the round trip. If it is not clear to you what price they are telling you, it will be easier if you use the mobile calculator to write the price.
- Calculate the time well: If you have to be somewhere at a specific time, travel in advance, during rush hours moving by road can be crazy both in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and on the large islands.
- Written address: The most practical way to show them where you are going is to have the address written down, and if you have it in Thai even better.
- Cash: Most taxi drivers do not accept card payment, so you will need to carry cash.
- Alternatives to taxi from the airport: from many airports you will have public transport as an alternative, you can also use Grab which I tell you about in the next point or a transfer to the hotel like the one in the link, which usually pays off very well.
Tips for traveling by tuk-tuk in Thailand
- Negotiate the price: Just as with taxis, negotiate the price and make sure it is clear how much you are going to pay. Normally, the price of a tuk-tuk is more expensive than a taxi and they are also less comfortable.
- Don't accept free rides: There is nothing free in this life, if the trip is free it is because in some way it will get something out of you. This usually happens in Bangkok, where they will take you to a jewelry or other product store.
- Cash payment: They don't usually accept cards.
Grab in Thailand
Grab is a very popular app in Thailand which works just like Uber, Lyft or Bolt and will help you order a car.
I always recommend using Grab which is a excellent alternative to a taxi or tuk-tuk Because it is cheaper, you will not encounter unpleasant surprises at the end of the trip and you avoid the language barrier.
Although, in Thailand Grab I only recommend it in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Then, in other places like some large islands you can find cars, but the prices are usually crazy.
Note that Prices vary depending on several factors such as demand, weather and time of the day.
Grab also helps you have a price reference in case you are going to use a taxi, tuk-tuk or a songthaew off your usual route.
Tips for using Grab in Thailand
- Download the app: Download the app in advance and register with a bank card with which you will make the payment.
- Starting location- Make sure the app displays your location correctly before ordering a car.
- Can I use Uber in Thailand?: No, in Thailand Uber stopped working in May 2018.
Driving a car in Thailand
One of the best ways to explore Thailand on your own is that you rent a car that will give you a lot of flexibility to visit the places you want.
But, you must keep in mind that Thailand is one of the countries with the most road deaths, because they drive fast and without too many rules.
That's why I I recommend driving in Thailand only if you have a lot of experience behind the wheel.
Recommendation for driving and renting a car in Thailand
- Driver's license: You will need an international driver's license to be able to drive legally in Thailand, which you can apply for in your country before traveling. In Spain, you can process it at DGT electronic headquarters and costs 10.51 euros.
- Compare prices: in my experience, I have found the best prices here rental car search engine. I have managed to get cars for less than 20 euros a day.
- Check the condition of the car: Check the working condition and any damage to the paint or dents so that you are not charged for things that were already present when you returned it.
- Avoid driving at night: Nighttime hours are the most dangerous to drive in Thailand because sometimes there is not enough lighting on the roads or you can encounter animals.
Driving a motorcycle in Thailand
Motorcycles and scooters are one of the best alternatives to get around the small cities of the country or the islands.
Although, If you do not have experience driving a motorcycle, it is better not to rent one to avoid disappointment.
I'm not going to go into much detail on this topic because I already wrote one How to Rent and Drive a Motorcycle in Thailand very complete. If you plan to ride a motorcycle, I recommend that you read it.
Practical information for driving and renting a motorcycle
- Do I need a driver's license for a scooter?: Yes, to legally drive a motorcycle or scooter in Thailand you need a international driving license that specifies that it is for a motorcycle, i.e. A or A1. In places that rent motorcycles they do not usually ask for a driver's license, but if you have an accident the insurance will not cover you.
- Where to Rent a Motorbike?: You will find places to rent motorcycles everywhere, that is never a problem. 😄
- Compare prices: Before deciding to rent, compare prices because there can be a lot of difference from one place to another.
- How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Motorbike?: the rental price is usually around between 200 and 300 bahts per day, but it depends on the time and place where you are.
- Don't forget the helmet: although many people go without helmets, The use of a helmet is mandatory in Thailand and in an accident it makes a difference. If they don't give you a helmet when you rent, ask for one, they are included in the rental price.
Ferries to the islands and speed boats
If you go on a trip to Thailand, you will surely get on a boat at some point.
Ferries are a very popular way to get around Thailand and especially to the islands, like the paradisiacal Phi Phi Islands, Ko Tao and many others, where it is the only way to get to or move between islands.
Ferries are large boats with great capacity, on other routes you will find speed boats that, as their name indicates, They are much faster and for fewer passengers.
⭐ You may also be interested in this article about What to do in Phi Phi: the Ultimate Guide including ways to get to the island and this other one about How to get to Koh Tao: all the alternatives.
Tips for traveling by ferry in Thailand (or speedboat)
- Where to Buy Tickets?: you can buy it directly at the port or at this website which is very practical to see schedules, prices and book tickets for boats and any means of transport.
- How much does the ticket cost?: Ticket prices vary depending on the routes and the time of year you travel.
- Port of departure: Pay close attention to where the departure port is, many ferry lines have their own port and the ports can be many kilometers from each other.
- Boat cancellations: Depending on weather conditions, boats may cancel their departures, especially during the rainy season. Therefore, if you have your flight, do not leave it until the last day and check the weather.
- Combat Motion Sickness: If you get dizzy, take some seasickness pill when traveling by speedboat and avoid sitting in the back, next to the engine, because it smells a lot like fuel and you will get more dizzy. 🤢
- Get ready for splashes on the speedboats: If the sea is rough you can end up quite wet.
- Take care of your belongings: Keep valuables with you and the suitcase or backpack that you leave on the deck of the ferries, it is better if you can secure them with a padlock or something. Although it is not common, there have been cases of theft during high season.
Rent a boat in Thailand
A great way to explore the Thai islands is by renting a boat to go on your own.
In Thailand, you can rent boats for a very good price, which will be very worthwhile for you, especially if you travel as a family or group.
One of the best places in Thailand to rent a boat is Phuket, where there are several marinas and many boats available.
For rent a boat in Thailand I recommend this search engine that has Boats in good condition and very economical.
In addition, they have boat options with or without a skipper depending on your experience, with boats for less than 300 euros per day.
If you like sailing and the sea, you cannot miss this luxury experience at a good price in Thailand.
⭐ You may also be interested in this article about 3 Best Places to Rent a Boat in Thailand.
Long-tail boat in Thailand
Long-tail boats are one of the most practical and common ways to get around Thailand on the islands.
In addition, some paint them with colorful colors that make them very beautiful, like the ones in the photo below.
Longtail boats are private vessels, although Many excursions include trips on this type of colorful boats.
Tips for traveling on a long-tail boat
- Negotiate the price: To travel on long-tail boats you have to negotiate the price, generally it is for the entire route. Likewise, it is important that during the negotiation it is clear whether they are giving you a price per person or for the entire trip.
- Compare prices: prices are usually quite standard in the same port, but it doesn't hurt to ask several boatmen for prices.
- Compare with excursions: Traveling by long-tail boat gives you the flexibility to take more or less the route you want, because you can negotiate the stops, but in my experience it is difficult to get competitive prices. If you want to pay little, it will be more cost-effective to go with an excursion.
- Get ready for the splashes: although the speed at which they go is not like fast boats, but you can get a little splashed. If you are going to take the opportunity to take photos of the beautiful landscapes, perhaps a dry mobile phone case, to prevent it from getting wet.
Final Thoughts
If you are going to travel to Thailand on your own, as you have seen throughout this article, You will not have difficulties finding means of transportation.
In case you are preparing your trip and I have left something untouched or if you have a question, leave me a comment below and I will be happy to help you.
Thailand is a beautiful country with a lot to offer and also makes it very easy with all its transportation options at a good price.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and if you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip!
More about Thailand and Southeast Asia
- 23 Tips for traveling to Thailand
- Thailand route (July or August): 14 and 21 day itinerary
- What to do in Khao Lak: 11 Plans in this Seaside Paradise
- Traveling with Pets by plane: a complete guide
- What to see in Hoi An and the surrounding area: 14 plans
Hello, my name is Andrea, I am the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I am a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler, I am passionate about good food, and I am always looking for new adventures.