You come to Thailand with loads of ideas in your head: islands, jungle, temples, beaches... and you tell yourself that everything is “not that far away”.
That's false!
Thailand is bigger than you might think, and journeys can quickly become a bit of an adventure if you don't plan ahead. But the good news is: once you understand how it works, everything becomes simple.
This guide is here to help you get around easily, without stress, without nasty surprises... and with a little more comfort.
Means of transport in Thailand
Aeroplane: the fastest
If you want to go fast, the plane is your best ally. In an hour, you can cross a good part of the country.
It's ideal for long distances like Bangkok to Krabi, Phuket or Chiang Mai.
However, not everything is perfect: certain destinations like Koh Samui can quickly drive up the bill. That's the price of speed.
Train: best value for money
The train is a bit of a smart choice. Not necessarily the fastest, but certainly one of the most pleasant.
The night train, in particular, is an experience in itself. You get on in the evening, you sleep, and you arrive at your destination in the morning. Practical, economical, and it saves you a hotel night.
The classic route: Bangkok to Surat Thani, then a ferry to the islands. And it's often much cheaper than flying direct.
Bus: cheapest
The bus is the budget solution.
It goes everywhere, costs very little... but requires a bit of patience. Journeys are longer, sometimes less comfortable, but it gets the job done.
If you're travelling casually and want to save money, it's a good option.
Ferry: indispensable for the islands
As soon as you want to join an island, you don't have a choice: it will be a boat.
Good news, everything is well organised. The ferries are regular, reliable, and easy to book.
The only thing to watch out for is the connection to your other transport. Because if you miss a ferry, the day can quickly get extended.
Book your transport easily
To easily compare and book all your journeys (train, bus, ferry, plane):
👉 12Go
Advantage
- All in one place
- Clear times
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The best journeys in Thailand
Some journeys have become classics... and there's a good reason for that.
- Bangkok → Koh Phangan : overnight train to Surat Thani, then ferry
- Bangkok to Koh Tao: same logic, simple and effective
- Bangkok → Krabi: fast plane or budget bus/train version
- Bangkok → Koh Samui: direct flight (comfortable but more expensive) or alternative via Surat Thani
The little secret many discover too late: travelling via Surat Thani often lets you save a fair bit of money.
⏱️ Journey times to anticipate
This is where many get caught out.
Distances in Thailand are deceptive. On a map, it looks close. In reality... a bit less so.
A few examples:
- Bangkok → Krabi: 1 hour by plane, but 10 to 12 hours by bus
- Bangkok → Surat Thani: approximately 10 to 12 hours by train
- Ferry to the islands: between 1h and 3h
And that's not all. We also have to add:
- the transfers
- expectations
- the small delays
Conclusion: Always plan for more than you expect.
Do not forget:
- Transfers
- Expectations
- Dimwits
To move on the spot
Once you've arrived, the scooter quickly becomes your best friend.
It's simple:
- You go where you want
- Whenever you like
- without depending on anyone
And at a very reasonable price.
But be warned, it's not a toy.
Good to know:
- International driving permit recommended
- helmet required
- routes sometimes sporty (slopes, sand, tight bends)
And above all: without a valid licence, in the event of a problem, insurance may not cover anything.
Laws and safety
In Thailand, they drive on the left. Yes, that changes everything at first.
Some important rules:
- The helmet is mandatory
- checks are frequent
- Fines fall quickly
If you don't feel comfortable, that's okay. Taxis, drivers, or private transfers are there for that.
Mistakes to avoid (very important)
It's often here that a trip tips over from “great stay” to “why did I do this”.
To avoid
- to think that everything is close
- to link journeys without a break
- booking at the last minute during high season
- Choose only the lowest price
- forgot to check matches
- rent a scooter with no experience
The right choice isn't the cheapest one. It's the one that tires you out the least.
Best time to travel
Getting around Thailand also depends on the weather.
- November to April: ideal conditions, calm sea
- May to October: more rain, sea sometimes rough
It's not a blocker, but it can change your experience, especially for ferries.
Check the weather
👉 https://www.accuweather.com/
Need help organising your travel?
If you want to avoid stress and errors, we can arrange your journeys for you with our best partners (transfers, boats, excursions all over Thailand).
Contact us here:
👉 https://lunayatravel.com/contact
Ideal if you want:
- a smooth itinerary
- save time
- avoid unpleasant surprises
Conclusion
Getting around Thailand isn't complicated... as long as you don't leave things to chance at the last minute.
With a little anticipation, you can save time, avoid stress, and truly enjoy every step of your journey.
And this, this changes everything.
The bus and the train are the most economical.
Yes, very practical and comfortable.
Yes, in high season.
Yes, but with caution.
Train + ferry remains the best compromise.
