Overview Compare Flight Bus + Ferry Train + Ferry To Stay
How to get from Koh Samui to Bangkok
The distance from Koh Samui to Bangkok is 765 km (575 miles). In this post, we compare the 3 options to travel from Koh Samui to Bangkok: by flight (1hr 15m), by bus + ferry (12.5-17.5 hours), or by train + ferry (15.5-19.5 hours). Ticket prices range from 1,080 THB ($31) to 2,000 THB ($57).
Flying is the only direct option for this route. The journey only takes a little over 1 hour, but it’s also the most expensive option at 2,000 THB ($57).
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to help reduce your impact on the environment.
Tickets for a combined bus and ferry ride start at 1,135 THB ($32.50) and the journey takes 12.5-17.5 hours. If you’re willing to spend a few more dollars, you can book a quicker option to travel from Koh Samui to Bangkok in just 12.5 hours.
The journey by train takes between 15.5 to 19.5 hours but offers the advantage of getting a good night of sleep in the sleeper train. Note that this option requires several transfers, but it is the cheapest option with combined fares from 1,080 THB ($31). We suggest taking sleeper trains over sleeper buses as trains are more comfortable than buses.
Itinerary from Koh Samui to Bangkok
Koh Samui to Bangkok by Flight
When you’ve had your fill of Koh Samui and want or need to head back to Bangkok, the fastest option is to book a direct flight from Koh Samui to Bangkok.
All flights are run by Bangkok Airways, which offers several flights daily. A one-way flight from Koh Samui to Bangkok starts at 2,000 THB ($57).
All flights depart from Koh Samui Airport (USM) and arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. This airport is about 30 km from the Bangkok centre and you can take a bus, taxi, or train to go to the city.
For detailed info on this airport, check out our article about Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Koh Samui to Bangkok by Bus + Ferry
If you don’t want to pay for an expensive flight, a combined bus and ferry ride from Koh Samui to Bangkok is a good alternative. It requires more time to travel, but it is also a lot cheaper at 1,150 THB ($33).
The three companies that operate from Koh Samui to Bangkok are Montanatip Tour, Krungsiam Tour, and Lomprayah. There are 3 departures daily at 08:00, 14:00, and 15:00.
The whole journey will take 12.5-17.5 hours, so be sure to plan ahead and choose which schedule is best for you.
Departure Station
The first part of the journey is a ferry ride from Nathon Pier 3, which is a 30-minute drive from the centre of Koh Samui. You can ask your hotel to book a ride for you to the pier.
Lomprayah, one of the other operators on this route, offers hotel pick-up service and will directly bring you to the pier.
The ferries will bring you to Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani, where you will board a bus that will take you to Bangkok.
Bus schedules from Koh Samui to Bangkok
Since this is long-distance travel, make sure to book night buses so that you won’t lose all of your valuable daytime. Travelling during the night will allow you to rest for tomorrow’s adventure in Bangkok.
Arrival Station
Krungsiam Tour buses will bring you to Bangkok Southern Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). From there, you can take a 20-30 minute taxi to Bangkok city centre.
Meanwhile, buses by Lomprayah and Montanatip Tour will complete the journey at Khaosan Road, a famous street for backpackers. From there, you can get to Bangkok city centre in just 5 minutes.
Koh Samui to Bangkok by Train + Ferry
The advantage of taking a train compared to a bus is that sleeper trains are more comfortable and you can get a good night of rest. By taking the night train, you won’t waste a complete day travelling.
The nearest train station from Koh Samui is in Surat Thani. To reach the Surat Thani train station, you will first have to take a combined ferry and bus/van from Koh Samui. The earliest schedule is 5:00 in the morning and the latest is 17:00 in the evening.
Step 1: Koh Samui to Surat Thani Train Station by Ferry + Bus
The combined ferry and bus journey from Koh Samui to Surat Thani takes at least 2 hours and fares start at 350 THB ($10).
Departure and arrival stations
The ferry departs from either Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Pier. If you are coming from the centre of Koh Samui, it will take you about 35 minutes to reach either pier. You will arrive at Donsak Pier in Surat Thani, where a bus or minivan will take you to Surat Thani Train Station.
There are multiple schedules per day, so it’s better to check the schedule below to book the best time for your trip.
Ferry + Bus Schedule from Koh Samui to Surat Thani Train Station
When booking a ferry and bus or minivan ticket, make sure that the schedule you booked is aligned with your train booking.
Step 2: Surat Thani to Bangkok by Train
From Surat Thani train station, you will have to take the train to Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok. There are multiple departures daily from morning until evening.
For a comfortable journey, we recommend tickets for a 2nd class A/C sleeper berth which starts at 730 THB ($21). Travel time is about 13.5-14.5 hours.
Here are our recommended trains:
Train Schedule from Surat Thani to Bangkok
The quoted prices are for 2nd class sleeper berths. However, if you want the most comfortable experience, you can also book a 1st class berth for 1,340 THB ($38.50).
For more info, visit our page on Surat Thani to Bangkok.
Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok
Here Hostel
If you’re looking for a fun social atmosphere then Here Hostel is the place for you! Enjoy relaxing by the pool in the garden area or enjoying a drink with travelers from around the world. Why take the stairs when you can use the indoor slide to travel between floors, this place is full of fun, energy, and laughter. Located less than 1km from Khao San Road, this is the perfect hostel if you’re looking to have a great time in Bangkok!
Dorm rooms start at $16 per night
Hom Hostel & Cooking Club
Located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, between Nana and Ploen Chit BTS stations, this hostel is the perfect location in the Sukhumvit area. The hostel offers a garden area, a rooftop terrace and an on-site kitchen for guests to cook their own food or take part in the daily cooking classes. There is also a restaurant and bar on-site if you’d prefer someone else cook for you, as well as buffet breakfast included each day. Extremely clean and very friendly staff are top priorities for this hostel.
Single bed in dorm rooms start at $15 per night
Lamphuhouse Bangkok
If you’re looking to be near the excitement of Khao San Road but still enjoy some peace and quiet, this guesthouse is absolutely perfect. A delicious breakfast is included in your stay and the restaurant is open 24/7 for your convenience. A lovely garden area to relax in the afternoons and very comfortable beds in rooms will make for a great stay. Just 300m to Khao San road, this guest house is walking distance to many sights including the Grand Palace and the Golden Mountain Temple.
Rooms start at $19 per night
Mam’s House
Just 700m from Khao San road and sitting along the river is Mam’s House. The staff here will welcome you with open arms and help you in any way that they possibly can. The rooms are huge, the beds are comfortable and it’s extremely clean. There is a cafe on the ground floor of the hotel, street food along the riverbank and countless restaurants, bars and shops just steps away. Locally owned and operated by Mam, this hotel is all about customer service and making sure you have the best stay possible. Perfect location, great views and all the comforts you need!
Rooms start at $26 per night
Blue Chang House
Cozy, comfortable, and ideal location! This guest house is less than 1km from Khao San Road and offers all the comforts you need. It is within walking distance to numerous Temples, Wats and attractions throughout Old Town. On-site bar to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights from the terrace or a lovely garden area to enjoy to relax in if you need some quiet time. The staff is known to be exceptionally welcoming and happy to assist with all guest requests. Located in a quiet area so you will be sure to get a good night's rest after exploring the Capital City!
Rooms start at $40 per night
Bangkok Travel Guides
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About the author(s)
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.
