You can get from Koh Samui to Bangkok by ferry + bus, train, or flight.
The cheapest way to travel is by ferry and bus combo (starting at USD 21), the most popular option is a flight with Bangkok Airways, and the fastest way is flying, which takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Whether chasing the city buzz or reconnecting after island time, this guide will help you find the best way to make the journey.
Transportation Options
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry + Bus | 13-18 hours | USD 21-USD 50 |
| Ferry + Train | +17 hours | USD 28-USD 50 |
| Flight | 1 hour 15 minutes | ~USD 80 |
1. Ferry + Bus
Journey Duration: 13-18 hours
If you don’t want to waste time trying to find suitable land and sea travel combination, this ferry and bus ticket deal could be your best choice!
This 2-in-1 package deal combines a bus ticket with a ferry ride that will take you from Koh Samui to the heart of Bangkok. Depending on the type of bus and offer you choose, the journey can last either 12.5 hours or 17.5 hours.
Depending on your budget, you can choose between a VIP Bus, High-Speed Bus, or an Express Bus. The price ranges from USD 21 to USD 50, and different companies operate different services, so it’s best to see for yourself and get the best deal!
Once you arrive in Surat Thani with the ferry boat from Koh Samui, you’ll board an air-conditioned bus equipped with reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, snacks, and cold drinks.
We recommend you choose the bus that travels overnight, so you can get some rest and not miss a day!
Ferry+ Bus Schedule
- 02:00 PM to 07:30 AM: Ferry + VIP Bus
Total price: USD 41
- 08:00 AM to 08:30 PM: Ferry + High-Speed Bus
Total price: USD 50
- 03:30 PM to 04:20 AM: Ferry + Express
Total price: USD 21
2. Ferry + Train
Journey Duration: +17 hours
Combining an overnight train with a ferry is another affordable and exciting option.
The benefit of taking a train over a bus is that sleeper trains are more comfortable and allow a restful night. In addition, you won’t lose an entire day to travel if you take the night train.
Surat Thani is the closest train station to Koh Samui. So, you must first take a ferry from Koh Samui to get to the Surat Thani train station. In fact, if you’re not flying from the islands, any other transportation option to Bangkok will include some kind of boat.
The journey from Koh Samui to Surat Thani will take around 3 hours and cost you about USD 10. After that, you must get to the train station and catch the train.
You must take the train from Surat Thani to Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
Even though you could take a daytime train, going with an air-conditioned sleeper train is much more convenient and will make the journey more comfortable.
The trains sell drinks and food, but if you want quick, portable snacks, you’ll need to bring your own.
If you select first-class carriages, you will receive a private, two-person cabin with your own washbasin. This ticket usually costs about USD 40.
However, you can also go for a 2nd class sleeper berth starting at USD 18!
The journey takes at least 9.5 hours, but some trains can take up to 12.5 hours.
Bookaway
On Bookaway, you can check all available transportation options. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
3. Flight
Journey Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Most flights are run by Bangkok Airways, which offers several flights daily, but in recent years, more airlines have operated this route.
A one-way flight usually starts at USD 82, but flight prices and availability change depending on the season.
Flying to Koh Samui is not only faster, but it’s also the only way to get directly from the island without changing transportation along the way.
The flights are basic and don’t include any additional amenities such as food or entertainment, but since they’re also short and last only 1 hour and 15 minutes, you probably won’t miss those things too much.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus?
Yes, there is a direct transfer, including a bus, but you will first have to take the ferry to Surat Thani and board the bus there. However, this 2-in-1 deal combines the bus ticket with the ferry ride that will take you from Koh Samui to the center of Bangkok!
How do I travel without a car?
The best way to travel without a car is to travel with the ferry and bus or ferry and train by getting the affordable ticket combo.
Where does the ferry leave?
Nathon is the main ferry port on Koh Samui. Seatran and Lomprayah are the two ferry companies that primarily use the Nathon Pier.
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