In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 480 kilometre distance from San Cristobal de las Casas to Antigua. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 2 ways to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Antigua. You can choose between the minivan, bus. The most affordable option is by minivan, starting from $76. The fastest route is by bus (12h ).
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The minivan is the most common way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Antigua. Fares start from $76, and travel time is around 13-15h.
Hotels in San Cristobal de las Casas often offer shuttle rides to Antigua, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding one. But if you want to book your ride beforehand, we recommend doing so via BookAway, which offers customer support 24/7.
Some of the companies operating minivans from San Cristobal de las Casas to Antigua are Eterna Primavera, Turansa, Magic Travel, Adrenalina Tours and GuateGo. Note that minivans on this route are usually available only from Monday to Friday.
You will be picked up from your hotel in San Cristobal and dropped off at your accommodation in Antigua.
If you're looking for a more spacious ride when travelling to Antigua from San Cristobal de las Casas, book with a company that operates coaster buses. These are Kahk Bahlam and Atitrans.
With a coaster bus, the 11-12h journey from San Cristobal de las Casas to Antigua will be so much more comfortable. Bus ticket prices start from $76.
Like the minivan, a coaster bus ride includes free hotel pickup and drop-off. Note that they're also available only from Monday to Friday.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Antigua is a gorgeous city with the best-preserved colonial settlement in Central America — a great achievement considering it's an earthquake-prone area. A former capital of Guatemala, the small city's grid-like street layout and vibrant houses are among the earliest examples of urban planning.
Backdropped by Volcan de Agua, this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes the perfect destination for photography professionals and aficionados. Some of the best things to do in Antigua include hiking to the nearby Acatenango Volcano, roasting marshmallows at Pacaya Volcano, and surprisingly: eating at one of the most beautiful McDonald's in the world!
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Carbon Footprint
This 480 km journey produces approximately 43 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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