In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 500 kilometre distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok. 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 3 ways to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok. You can choose between the bus, flight, private transport. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $15. The fastest route is by flight (0h 50m).
Click a column header to sort. Click a row to jump to the full guide.
50m
$125
--
8h
$264
--
8h 10m
$15
--
Stay Connected
We're a small team of passionate travellers sharing what we've learned on the road. Get our best tips, route updates, and travel stories delivered to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
When you’re done taking in the nature of Mae Sot, you can board the night bus to Bangkok. The bus from Bangkok to Mae Sot is the cheapest option to travel this distance.
The only problem you may run into with such an early arrival is that you might not be able to check into your hotel room for a few hours.
Luckily, most hotels offer a holding room to drop your bags off. This way, you can already go out for some breakfast and explore the area while you wait for your room to be ready.
If you prefer to take the bus, you can check Google Maps for the local bus schedule.
Mae Sot Airport is only a 10-minute ride from the city centre. We recommend arranging a transfer through your hotel or guesthouse.
Pre-pandemic, Nok Air used to offer five flights from Mae Sot to Bangkok. The last time we checked (April 2022), there are only three flights in a day.
Flights depart at 9:55, 12:40, and 17:05 from Mae Sot and arrive at Don Mueang Airport. Airfares start from $125 for a flight that takes around 50 minutes.
From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to the city centre, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi or 50 minutes by train.
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Mae Sot to Bangkok.
Rates start from $264 for a -seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about per person. Travel time is around 8h.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the most visited cities in the world. There’s something about the constant buzz and energy floating through its streets at all hours of the day, giving it the name of the city that never sleeps!
Its main attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. But ancient temples aren't the only reason people flock to this vibrant city. From jam-packed shopping areas to mouthwatering street food and the wild nightlife of Khao San Road, there are so many things you can do in Bangkok.
Every route on GeckoRoutes is independently researched and regularly verified.
500+
ROUTES RESEARCHED
Every route is personally traveled and documented by our team, covering Southeast Asia's most popular and off-the-beaten-path connections.
Monthly
UPDATES
Routes are reviewed on a regular cycle to catch schedule changes, new operators, and price updates. Every guide shows when it was last verified.
Verified
BY TRAVELERS
Tips and corrections from our community of travelers help keep routes accurate between team visits. Your experience makes this guide better for everyone.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep GeckoRoutes free and up to date.
Carbon Footprint
This 500 km journey produces approximately 45 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.
Treat YourselfdusitD2 Samyan is one of the most unique hotels in Bangkok with its tiered appearance overlooking the city. You can take a refreshing dip in their sky swimming pool and enjoy the panoramic views. Or head to the gym and take them in whilst working up a sweat.
The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel create a bright and modern feel. The rooms are stunning, and decorated to an extremely high standard. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok.
Treat YourselfThe One Smart Living offers incredible value for money. The rooms are beautiful and feel extremely luxurious. You won't want to leave your room it's so nice!
It's a great choice if you want to be close to the airport, but not so close that you're constantly hearing planes above your head. The staff are incredibly helpful and super friendly. It's hard to fault this place.
Mid-RangeNaga Residence feels less like a hotel and more like a home — just a very beautifully designed home that's exceptionally clean. The rooms are very spacious and all of them have a private balcony overlooking the city.
There's also an onsite gym, garden and terrace area for you to enjoy. And when you venture out of the hotel there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby.
Mid-RangeIt will be hard to find another hotel in Bangkok like Phranakorn-Nornlen. This hotel is like a piece of art, with every room decorated differently and boasting a unique theme. Make sure to pick your room wisely.
The staff takes your stay here to another level. They are incredibly friendly and helpful. They'll give you great recommendations for the local neighbourhood which is full of cosy cafes and local restaurants.
BudgetAs you've probably already guessed, Greenery Hostel has a green theme both inside and outside. It actually creates a really tranquil vibe inside a busy city.
The rooms are simple but great value for money. Plus there are nice chill-out spaces throughout the hostel with a swing, games and comfy chairs. It's in a great location, close to lots of Bangkok's attractions.
Leave a Comment