Phuket Transport — Ferries, Flights & Buses

# Phuket Transport — Ferries, Flights & Buses

Phuket is the main gateway to the southern islands of Thailand, serving as a central base for beach holidays, nightlife, nature trips, or island-hopping adventures. Thanks to its excellent connectivity, you’ll find a wide range of routes and transport options, making it easy to tailor your travel to your style. Here’s a detailed look at transport in Phuket: how to get there, how to leave, and how to get around — with tips and links for booking tickets.

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## Getting To and From Phuket – All Options

Phuket is well-connected to every major destination in Thailand — by land, air, and sea. Travelers can choose between flying, taking a bus, or traveling by ferry, with each option shaping the journey in a different way.

### Flights: The Fastest and Easiest Choice

**Phuket International Airport** is located in the north of the island, about 32 km from Phuket Town and roughly 45 minutes from Patong, Kata, and Karon beaches. There are daily flights to popular destinations like [Bangkok](/routes/phuket-bangkok), [Chiang Mai](/routes/phuket-chiang-mai), [Hat Yai](/routes/phuket-hat-yai), and more across Thailand.

- **Booking platforms**: 12Go, Bookaway, Omio
- **Main advantage**: Saves valuable time — perfect if you want more beach time and less time on the road.
- **Editor’s tip**: Book early flights to avoid airport crowds, especially during the high season (November–March). Keep in mind that traffic between the airport and the main beaches can be heavy in the morning and evening.

### Buses — Affordable & Local Experience

Phuket is part of Thailand’s national bus network, with the main bus terminal (Phuket Bus Terminal 2) offering regular service to long-distance destinations such as [Bangkok](/routes/phuket-bangkok), [Krabi](/routes/phuket-krabi), [Hat Yai](/routes/phuket-hat-yai), [Chumphon](/routes/phuket-chumphon), and more.

- **Booking platforms**: 12Go, Bookaway
- **Main advantage**: Ideal for budget travelers or those wanting an authentic local experience.
- **Editor’s tip**: For overnight trips, consider booking a VIP bus — you’ll get reclining seats, proper air conditioning, blankets, and snacks. It’s cheaper than flying, but buses aren’t always as spacious as advertised.

### Ferries — The Gateway to the Islands

Phuket is a major departure point for ferries heading to popular islands like [Koh Phi Phi](/routes/phuket-koh-phi-phi), [Koh Lanta](/routes/phuket-koh-lanta), [Koh Lipe](/routes/phuket-koh-lipe), [Koh Samui](/routes/phuket-koh-samui), [Koh Phangan](/routes/phuket-koh-phangan), [Koh Tao](/routes/phuket-koh-tao), and more.

- **Booking platforms**: Direct Ferries, 12Go, Bookaway, Ferryhopper
- **Main advantage**: Stunning Andaman Sea views and a relaxed, scenic journey (weather permitting).
- **Editor’s tip**: During the rainy season (June–October), ferry cancellations are possible due to rough seas. Always check the weather forecast and have a backup plan if you’re traveling during these months.

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## Main Transport Connections from Phuket — Recommended Routes

### Phuket to Bangkok – The Main Route North

- [Phuket to Bangkok: Flight, Bus, or Train](/routes/phuket-bangkok)  
  Flights take about 1 hour 15 minutes; buses take 12–14 hours. Frequent daily flights available.

**Editor’s recommendation**: If you want a straightforward trip, flying saves you a lot of fatigue. For a more local experience, a night bus lets you see some of rural southern Thailand.

### Phuket to Koh Phi Phi – The Classic Island

- [Phuket to Koh Phi Phi: Direct Ferry](/routes/phuket-koh-phi-phi)  
  Frequent departures, about 2 hours by boat, with beautiful tropical scenery.

**Editor’s recommendation**: Book in advance, especially in peak season (December–March), as ferries fill up quickly.

### Phuket to Koh Lanta – Family-Friendly, Laid-Back Island

- [Phuket to Koh Lanta: Fast or Combined Ferry](/routes/phuket-koh-lanta)  
  Options for direct ferries or a combined short bus + ferry route. Travel time: 1.5–3 hours.

**Editor’s recommendation**: Morning ferries are usually quieter and less crowded with families.

### Phuket to Koh Lipe – Diving Paradise

- [Phuket to Koh Lipe: Seasonal Ferries](/routes/phuket-koh-lipe)  
  Mostly available November–May; 4–5 hours by ferry.

**Editor’s recommendation**: In the rainy season, check schedules carefully — cancellations are common, and you may need to stay overnight en route.

### Phuket to Krabi – Gateway to the South

- [Phuket to Krabi: Bus & Ferry](/routes/phuket-krabi)  
  Frequent buses, 3–4 hours by road. Ferries are also available in season.

**Editor’s recommendation**: If you’re short on time, the bus is faster. For a scenic route, check out the ferries during high season.

### Phuket to Koh Samui – The Upscale Island

- [Phuket to Koh Samui: Combined Bus+Ferry](/routes/phuket-koh-samui)  
  Single combined ticket, 6–7 hours total trip. Buy one ticket for the whole journey.

**Editor’s recommendation**: Ferries are comfortable, but the total time depends on your bus-ferry connection — allow for extra time between transfers.

### Phuket to Koh Phangan & Koh Tao – Parties & Diving

- [Phuket to Koh Phangan: Bus+Ferry](/routes/phuket-koh-phangan)  
- [Phuket to Koh Tao: Bus+Ferry](/routes/phuket-koh-tao)  

**Editor’s recommendation**: If you’re heading for Full Moon parties, book tickets weeks in advance as they sell out quickly.

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## Phuket Airport – Arrival & Ground Transport

Arriving in Phuket:  
- **Airport Bus to Phuket Town**: Runs every 30 minutes, stopping at key points in town and the main bus terminal.
- **Taxis**: Always available; fixed fares by destination area.
- **Private/Shared Shuttles**: Bookable in advance through 12Go or Bookaway; ideal for groups or travelers with lots of luggage.

**Editor’s tip**: During peak hours (afternoon–evening), expect traffic jams at the island entrance. Taxis are faster than shared shuttles but cost significantly more.

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## Getting Around Phuket

- **Tuk Tuk Taxis**: A colorful experience, but not always cheap — always negotiate the fare.
- **Local Bus Service (Songthaew)**: These open-air shared trucks connect towns around the island; services end by evening.
- **Scooter Rental**: Very popular for getting around, but road safety is a must. Check insurance and scooter condition before renting.

**Editor’s recommendation**: For trips between main beaches, tuk tuks or taxis are convenient. If you want independence, a scooter is a great option — but only if you feel confident riding on Thai roads.

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## Summary – Making the Right Choice

Phuket offers a wide range of transport options and easy connections in every direction: flights and buses to Bangkok and northern Thailand, ferries to nearby islands, and combined bus-ferry routes to further destinations.  
Your choice depends mainly on your budget, available time, and travel style.  
For families or those seeking comfort — flights and shuttles are recommended.  
For backpackers or those after a local experience — buses, ferries, and scooter rentals are ideal.  
Be sure to book popular routes in advance, especially in peak season.  

For quick info and bookings, use the links in this guide to choose the best route for you.  
With good planning, getting to and around Phuket can be an adventure in itself.