Surat Thani to Bangkok

How to Get From Surat Thani to Bangkok

3Options
1h 10mFastest
$7.70From
MaartenAbegailWritten by Maarten · Reviewed by Abegail · Updated 1 week ago

Train · Bus · Flight

Surat Thani is the mainland gateway to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. It sits 529 kilometres (329 miles) south of Bangkok. Flying is the quickest way to make the trip, taking 1h 10m. Overland, the cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok is the train at $7.70 (256 THB). The bus costs more and takes about as long, if you'd rather stay on the road.

Distance from Surat Thani to Bangkok

Surat Thani and Bangkok are about 529 km (329 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 643 km by road. The quickest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok is by taking the flight, which takes around 1h 10m.

~529 km
Distance
~643 km
Road distance
1h 10m
Fastest
COMPARE

3 ways to travel from Surat Thani to Bangkok

There are three ways to travel from Surat Thani to Bangkok. You can choose between the train, bus, and flight. The journey takes 1h 10m–9h 40m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at $7.70 (256 THB).

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Surat Thani to Bangkok by Train

9h 5m - 11h 30mFrom $7.70 (256 THB)

Taking the train is the longest option when travelling from Surat Thani to Bangkok.

Multiple trains to choose from operate daily, all offering different seats and berths. There is an early morning departure at 02:00, and the rest departs at night with the last trip at 16:28.

Prices start at $7.70 (256 THB) for a train seat. But for this long journey, we recommend taking night trains with second-class berths and an air conditioning unit for a more comfortable trip.

The train journey takes around 9h 5m - 11h 30m.

Departure and arrival station

The train departs from Surat Thani Train Station. It arrives at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station, about 9km north of the tourist centre in Bangkok.

Train schedule from Surat Thani to Bangkok

All services arrive at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station
Thai RailwayThird Class Seat Fan10h 15m
18:3219:3120:2320:5522:5023:28
From $7.70
256 THB
Thai RailwaySecond Class Seat Fan10h 15m
18:3219:3120:2320:5522:5023:28
From $13
419 THB
Thai RailwaySecond Class Sleeper Fan11h 22m
23:28
$18
595 THB
Thai RailwaySecond Class Seat9h 5m
09:0018:2520:23
From $19
622 THB
Thai RailwaySecond Class Sleeper9h 46m
18:3219:3120:2322:2422:5023:28
From $26
858 THB

Train tickets are available on Bookaway.

View train stations on map

Map of stations
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Booking Tip

We recommend booking your tickets online through BookAway. Their site is intuitive, provides a clear picture of what you can expect, and offers great customer service. If you're eyeing the best deals, you might occasionally find slightly cheaper tickets Baolau.

Surat Thani to Bangkok by Bus

9h 40m - 11h 30mFrom $19 (642 THB)

It takes approximately 9h 40m - 11h 30m to travel by bus from Surat Thani to Bangkok. We suggest taking the night bus to catch up on some sleep and save your day for seeing the sights of the capital city.

There are several bus companies that operate the Surat Thani to Bangkok route: Subphaisal, Krungsiam, Sombat Tour, Montanatip Tour & Travel, Raja Ferry, Sapthaweephol Tour and Travel, Krung Siam Tour, Bangkok Buslines and Choke Anan Tours. The earliest bus departure is at 00:30 with the last trip at 19:00.

Prices start from $19 (642 THB) for an economy bus. You can also take a VIP bus, which provides a little more space with a reclining seat and often a blanket and bottled water for comfort.

Departure and arrival station

All buses depart from Surat Thani Bus Terminal, just a 15-minute drive from Surat Thani town.

Bus schedule from Surat Thani to Bangkok

SubphaisalEconomy10h 30m
19:00
$19
642 THB
SubphaisalEconomy11h
19:00
$19
642 THB
KrungsiamVIP 32 Seats10h 40m
18:50
$20
655 THB
KrungsiamVIP 32 Seats11h 10m
18:50
$20
655 THB
KrungsiamVIP 32 Seats11h 40m
18:50
$20
655 THB

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

View bus stations on map

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

Booking Tip

Since this is a long-distance trip, the bus will make 2-3 stops along the way for bathroom and food breaks, and each stop will be approximately 10-20 minutes. You have the option to stay on the bus if you don’t want to explore the local market or restaurant.

Surat Thani to Bangkok by Flight

1h 10mFrom $24 (790 THB)

Flying from Surat Thani to Bangkok is the fastest option and sometimes only costs a little more than taking the train or bus.

Flight fares start from $24 (790 THB). However, if you book later, flight tickets tend to increase. For this option, you would also need extra time to travel from and to the airport.

If you’re staying in the city centre, you need to travel the 30 km distance to Surat Thani Airport. You can ask your hotel if they offer airport drop-off services.

When booking your flight, you can also choose a flight that arrives at either Don Muang Airport in the north or Suvarnabhumi Airport on the western side of Bangkok. Both airports are around 30 km away from Bangkok city centre and are accessible by bus, train, and taxi.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Flight tickets are available on Skyscanner.

STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a big and bustling city with each neighbourhood offering something different to the next. Covering nearly 1600 km² and offering over a thousand accommodation options, it can be slightly daunting picking where to stay. Here is a quick rundown of our favourite areas to stay in Bangkok:
  • Khao San Road — is one of the most famous areas in Bangkok, known for its party reputation. This area attracts a lot of backpackers that are looking for cheap accommodation and a place to party.
  • Sukhumvit has a more relaxed nightlife, centred around sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars as opposed to travellers dancing on tables. It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the jam-packed city, thanks to the good connections via public transport.
  • Riverside — along the Chao Phraya River, you'll find an area rich in history and culture, hosting many of the popular sights of Bangkok, including the Royal Palace and Wat Pho – the Reclining Buddha.
Check out our favourite accommodations in Bangkok:
dusitD2 Samyan
Treat Yourself

dusitD2 Samyan

dusitD2 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. 

  • One of the coolest buildings in Bangkok
  • Rooftop swimming pool
  • Onsite gym
  • Bright and modern rooms

King rooms start from $110 per night.

Check availability
The One Smart Living
Treat Yourself

The One Smart Living

The 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.

  • Great value for money
  • Close to the airport
  • Helpful staff
  • Beautiful rooms

Double rooms start from $50 per night. 

Check availability
Naga Residence
Mid-Range

Naga Residence

Naga 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. 

  • Huge rooms
  • Exceptionally clean
  • Private balcony
  • Onsite gym

Double rooms start from $37 per night.

Check availability
Phranakorn-Nornlen
Mid-Range

Phranakorn-Nornlen

It 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. 

  • Unique design and rooms
  • Incredible staff
  • Nice local neighbourhood
  • Very clean

Double rooms start from $33 per night.

Check availability
Greenery Hostel
Budget

Greenery Hostel

As 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. 

  • Great value for money
  • Relaxing chill-out areas
  • Good location
  • Free cancellation

Private rooms start from $21 per night.

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Bangkok?

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.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Surat Thani to Bangkok, roughly 529 kilometres (329 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $7.70 (256 THB). The quickest trip takes 1h 10m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Surat Thani to Bangkok?

The distance from Surat Thani to Bangkok is 529 kilometres (329 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok?

The fastest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok is by flight and takes 1h 10m.

What is the cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok?

The cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok is by train with ticket costs starting from 256 THB.

About the Authors

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Abegail
AbegailReviewer

Travel Writer

Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.

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