How to Get From Koh Samui to Bangkok
Train + Ferry · Bus + Ferry · Flight
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What are the 3 ways to travel from Koh Samui to Bangkok?
There are three ways to travel the 765 km distance from Koh Samui to Bangkok. You can choose between the train, bus, and flight.
The journey takes between 1h 15m–12h 30m and the quickest way is by flight (1h 15m). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at 644 THB ($20).
12h 30m - 17h 30m
644 THB ($20)
12h 30m - 19h 30m
892 THB ($28)
1h 15min
2,000 THB ($61)
Where to stay in Bangkok?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bangkok at the bottom of this page.
Already in Bangkok?
Onward from Bangkok
Once you're in Bangkok, here's where to next — 18 researched onward routes to pick from.
Koh Samui to Bangkok by Train + Ferry
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 around 3h 30m - 5h 45m and fares start at 391 THB ($12).
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.
Ready to book your bus?
Booking Tip
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.
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 eying the best deals, you might occasionally find slightly cheaper tickets on Baolau.
Ready to book your train?
Booking Tip
Koh Samui to Bangkok by Bus + Ferry
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 + Ferry schedule 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 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 airfare from Koh Samui to Bangkok starts from 2,000 THB ($61). 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).TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Our favourite places 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.
Treat YourselfdusitD2 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.
Treat YourselfThe 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.
Mid-RangeNaga 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.
Mid-RangePhranakorn-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.
BudgetGreenery 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.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Samui to Bangkok. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance from Koh Samui to Bangkok is 765 km.
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.
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About the Authors
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.
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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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