Bangkok to Krabi: Complete Guide to Transportation Options in 2025
Krabi, the jewel of southern Thailand, attracts travelers with its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs. Located about 780 km from Bangkok by road, this province is an ideal destination for a beach getaway or an island adventure to places like Ao Nang or Koh Phi Phi. Whether you’re a tourist in a hurry or a traveler on a budget, there are several options available to you to connect Thailand’s vibrant capital to this Andaman gem: plane, bus, train combined with a transfer, or private car. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to get from Bangkok to Krabi in 2025, with prices, durations, and tips to make your ride as enjoyable as possible.
Why travel from Bangkok to Krabi?
Bangkok, with its frenetic energy and golden temples, contrasts with Krabi’s natural serenity. While the capital is a cultural and urban hub, Krabi offers an escape to postcard-worthy scenery, perfect for relaxation or activities like rock climbing and diving. The route between the two is well-connected, whether you prefer the speed of a flight or the authenticity of an overland journey . Here are the top options for reaching Krabi from Bangkok in 2025, suitable for all budgets and schedules.
Transportation Options from Bangkok to Krabi
Plane: the fastest choice
Flying is by far the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Krabi, with a flight time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Krabi has an international airport (KBV) located 15 km from the city center, well connected to Bangkok via two airports: Don Mueang (DMK) for low-cost airlines and Suvarnabhumi (BKK) for traditional airlines.
- Price : Between 1,000 and 3,000 baht (€25-75) one-way, depending on the season and anticipation. Low-cost flights (Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air) are often less than 1,500 baht if booked early. Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways, which are more upscale, sometimes exceed 2,000 baht.
- Duration : 1h20 flight, plus 1-2h for formalities and transfer (taxi or minivan to Krabi Town or Ao Nang, 100-600 baht).
- Advantages : Huge time saving, comfort, high frequency (10-15 daily flights).
- Disadvantages : Higher cost, need to arrive at the airport 1 hour before departure.
Once at Krabi Airport, a taxi to Krabi Town costs around 350 baht, and a shared minivan to Ao Nang costs 150 baht per person.
Bus: the economical option
For those on a tight budget or those who like to travel slowly, the bus is a reliable solution. Buses depart mainly from Bangkok’s South Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) and arrive at Krabi Bus Terminal, 5 km from the city center.
- Price : 600-1,200 baht (€15-30), depending on comfort. Standard buses cost around 600-800 baht, while VIP (reclining seats, air conditioning) reach 1,000-1,200 baht.
- Duration : 12 to 14 hours, with evening departures (18:00-21:00) to arrive early in the morning.
- Pros : Affordable, many airlines (Lignite Tour, Sombat Tour), comfortable VIP seats.
- Cons : Long, sometimes uncomfortable if the bus is basic, frequent stops.
From the Krabi Terminal, a songthaew (20 baht) or taxi (100-150 baht) takes you into the city. Book via 12Go.asia or directly at the terminal to guarantee a place, especially in high season (November-February).
Train + Bus/Ferry: the combined option
Thailand does not have a direct train line to Krabi, but a combination train + bus is popular. Take an overnight train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station (or Krung Thep Aphiwat since 2023) to Surat Thani, and then a bus or minivan to Krabi.
- Price :
- Train: 500-1,200 baht (€12-30) depending on the class (2nd class fan at 500 baht, air-conditioned berth at 1,000-1,200 baht).
- Bus/Minivan: 200-300 baht (€5-8).
- Total: 700-1,500 baht (€17-38).
- Duration : 10 hours by train (departure 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., arrival 5 a.m. to 7 a.m.) + 2 hours by bus, i.e. about 12-14 hours in total.
- Pros : Scenic experience, comfortable berths, less monotonous than a direct bus.
- Disadvantages : Transfer necessary, schedules to be coordinated.
In Surat Thani, minivans are waiting for passengers at the train station for Krabi (departure as soon as they are full). Book the train on the Thai Railways (railway.co.th) website and the transfer via a local agency or on site.
Private car or rental: total freedom
Renting a car or hiring a private driver is perfect for those who want to explore along the way or travel in a group.
- Price :
- Rental: 1,200-2,000 baht/day (€30-50) + petrol (about 500 baht for 780 km).
- Private driver: 4,000-6,000 baht (€100-150) for the trip.
- Duration : 10-12 hours, depending on stops and traffic.
- Advantages : Flexibility, possible stops (e.g. Hua Hin, Chumphon), comfort.
- Cons : High cost, fatigue if you drive, tolls (50-100 baht).
Agencies like Avis or Budget in Bangkok rent reliable cars. The road (AH2 then Route 4) is well maintained, but be careful at night or in the rain.
Comparison of options
| Option | Price (baht) | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airplane | 1,000-3,000 | 1h20 + transfer | Speed, comfort |
| Bus | 600-1,200 | 12-14h | Budget, night |
| Train + Bus | 700-1,500 | 12-14h | Adventure, experience |
| Car | 1,700-6,000 | 10-12 pm | Freedom, groups |
Practical travel tips
- Bookings : Book flights early (via Skyscanner or the airlines’ websites) for the best prices. Buses and trains fill up in high season (November-February).
- Opening hours : Flights leave all day (6am-10pm), buses and trains especially in the evening. Check the schedules on 12Go.asia or at the terminal.
- Luggage : Buses and trains have limited space – travel light. Low-cost flights often charge for checked baggage (200-500 baht).
- Arrival : From Krabi airport or terminal, a songthaew (20-50 baht) or taxi (100-350 baht) takes you to your hotel.
What to do on the way?
With a car or the train + bus, take advantage of the stops:
- Hua Hin (3 hours from Bangkok): Beach and night market.
- Surat Thani : Gate to Koh Samui or Koh Phangan if you deviate.
A typical day from Bangkok to Krabi
Imagine: you take an AirAsia flight 7 hours from Don Mueang (1,200 baht). At 8:20 am, you land in Krabi, take a minivan (150 baht) and arrive in Ao Nang at 9 am for a coffee (80 baht). Around 11am, a boat to Railay (100 baht) takes you exploring. Return at 4pm for a seafood dinner (200 baht). Total budget: about 1,730 baht for an efficient day.
In conclusion, going from Bangkok to Krabi in 2025 is simple and varied. The plane offers speed, the economy bus, the adventure train, and the freedom car. With these options, you’re ready to connect the capital to the Andaman paradise stress-free. So, which way will you choose for your trip?
