Overview Compare Flight Bus + Ferry Train + Ferry To Stay
How to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui
The island of Koh Samui is a favourite among travellers. There is a great mix of activities you can enjoy from cultural sites to extravagant parties. The beaches are famous for relaxing, snorkelling and soaking up the sun, while the restaurants and shopping areas are known for traditional Thai flavours and local fare.
The distance from Bangkok to Koh Samui is 765 km (575 miles). In this post, we compare the 3 options to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui: by flight (1hr 10m), by bus + ferry (14.5-16 hours), or by train + ferry (17.5-18.5 hours). Ticket prices range from 1 THB ($35.00) to 2 THB ($59.00).
3 ways to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui
Flying is the only direct option for the Bangkok to Koh Samui route. The journey only takes a little over 1 hour, but it’s also the most expensive option with ticket prices starting at 2 THB ($59.00). Only Bangkok Airways operate flights on this route.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to help reduce your impact on the environment.
A combined bus and ferry is the cheapest option with rates from 1 THB ($35.00). Travel time is around 14.5-16 hours, including the ferry ride. There are several buses offering trips on this route and we recommend taking a night bus so you don’t waste a day travelling.
Another alternative is a combined train and ferry ride from Bangkok to Koh Samui. Rates start from 1 THB ($38.00), but travel time is longer at 17.5-18.5 hours. While trains are more comfortable than night buses, note that this option involves several transfers.
Bangkok to Koh Samui by Flight
In just over an hour, you can reach Koh Samui from Bangkok by flight. Taking a flight not only saves you time, but also the hassle of having to arrange different transfers. The only downside to this option is that the tickets can get quite expensive.
Flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui are solely operated by Bangkok Airways. They offer multiple flights daily with one-way fares starting at 2 THB ($59.00).
Be sure to book a flight well in advance as this route is very popular and prices often rise to over 3 THB ($88.00).
Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok.
In Koh Samui, the airport is located in the northeastern part of the island. When you arrive in Koh Samui, you’ll need to arrange a transfer to your hotel.
To learn more information about this, you can read our page on Koh Samui Airport.
Bangkok to Koh Samui by Bus + Ferry
If you want to travel this distance by land, a combined bus and ferry trip from Bangkok to Koh Samui is the easiest way to go. Fares start from 1 THB ($35.00) for the 14.5-16 hours of journey.
There are several bus companies operating the Bangkok to Koh Samui route: Thai Sriram, Montanatip Tour, Krungsiam Tour, and Lomprayah.
All buses depart in the evening with the earliest bus departure at 17:00 and the last bus departure at 21:00.
Departure stations in Bangkok
There are several departure points for buses in Bangkok. Montanatip Tour and Lomprayah buses depart from Khao San Road, the most popular street with backpackers in Bangkok.
Meanwhile, Thai Sriram buses are available at Mochit Terminal, which is about a 20-30 minute taxi ride from the Bangkok centre. Krungsiam Tour buses depart from Sai Tai Mai (Southern Terminal) which is accessible by metro or taxi.
Arrival stations in Koh Samui
Buses from Bangkok will drop you off either at Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani or Thung Makham Noi Pier in Chumphon.
From these piers, you will be transferred to a ferry bound for Nathon Pier in Koh Samui.
Bus Schedule from Bangkok to Koh Samui
Each company only operates 1 trip per day, so you need to plan your trip well.
You can buy the combined bus and ferry tickets online and at the bus terminal, but we recommend booking your ticket in advance with BookAway. These bus trips from Bangkok to Koh Samui tend to sell out, especially during the peak season.
Bangkok to Koh Samui by Train + Ferry
The journey from Bangkok to Koh Samui via train and ferry takes the longest. Travel time is17.5-18.5 hours.
This option usually requires multiple transfers, as you’ll need to take a train, bus, and ferry.
The first step is to take a train ride from Hua Lamphong to Surat Thani, followed by a bus + ferry ride to Nathon Pier in Koh Samui.
You’ll find the step-by-step guide below:
Step 1: Hua Lamphong Railway to Surat Thani Railway Station by Train
The first part of the journey is boarding the train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok. This train station is just 15 minutes away from the city centre by taxi.
Trains to Surat Thani Railway Station are available daily from 07:50 until 22:05. We recommend booking a second-class sleeper train with air conditioning for a more comfortable journey.
Travel time is 12.5-13.5 hours with fares starting from 510 THB ($15.00).
Train Schedule from Bangkok to Surat Thani
You can buy your tickets at the train station, but we highly advise booking in advance as tickets sell out fast.
Step 2: Surat Thani Railway Station to Nathon Pier by Bus + Ferry
From Surat Thani Railway Station, the next part of your journey is to travel to Nathon Pier by bus and ferry.
Lomprayah is the only company that operates on this route, and it offers only one departure daily. The bus will take you to Donsak Pier in Surat Thani, where you will board a ferry to Nathon Pier in Koh Samui.
Fare starts at 780 THB ($23.00) and the journey takes 5 hours.
Bus + Ferry Schedule from Bangkok to Surat Thani
You can check with your hotel if they offer pick-up services from Nation Pier.
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Samui
UBOX Hostel - Budget Friendly
If you’re looking for a fun and social atmosphere, this is the perfect hostel! On-site swimming pool, bar and lounge area for socializing with other travelers. Extremely close to the beach, restaurants, bars and all amenities. The hostel offers very comfortable beds and is extremely clean. The hostel staff is very friendly and will assist with arranging tours and forward travel plans.
- Swimming pool
- Bar
- Social atmosphere
- Comfortable beds
Single bunk starts at $9 per night
The Rock Hostel - Budget Friendly
If you’re traveling alone but prefer a little more luxury and a quiet place then The Rock Hostel is a perfect choice. This hostel offers private beach access with lounge chairs, a swimming pool, and stunning sea views. The location is perfect, the hostel is quiet and relaxing and the staff is amazing. Treat yourself to a few days of luxury and relaxation here.
- Private beach
- Swimming pool
- Excellent location
- Extremely clean and comfortable
Single bunk starts at $15
Aforetime Beach House - Budget Friendly
This adults-only beach house located in Taling Ngam Beach comes with countless recommendations. The beds are extremely comfortable, the hostel is very clean and a small breakfast of fruit with bread and jam is provided daily. There is an on-site bar, lounge and bbq area and the beach is right next door. The host is known to be exceptionally friendly, even taking guests on tours or dropping them off at the pier on departure day.
- Extremely helpful staff
- Breakfast included
- Very comfortable beds
- Beach nearby
Single room starts at $20 per night
Palm Coco Mantra - Mid Range
Located on a hill, this hotel offers amazing sea views from your private balcony and room. The outdoor pool is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink from the on-site bar. The restaurant offers a variety of western and Thai food to choose from. This hotel is the perfect getaway for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Swimming pool
- Stunning sea views
- On-site restaurant & bar
- Extremely clean, luxury hotel
Private rooms start at $33
Pico Beach Bungalows - Budget Friendly
These beautiful beachfront bungalows, located at the Bophut area of Koh Samui, are an absolute luxury! Relish in the privacy these bungalows offer while still being just steps from the beach. There is an on-site swimming pool, bar, beachfront restaurant and a lovely terrace for guests to enjoy. Soak up the luxury, stunning views and comforts this resort has to offer.
- Beachfront
- Swimming pool
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Private bungalow
Private bungalows start at $46
Koh Samui Travel Guides
The Ultimate Koh Samui Travel Guide
10 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui
Routes from Koh Samui
Most popular routes in Thailand
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.
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.
