Overview Compare Bus + Ferry via Chumphon via Surat Thani Flight + Ferry To Stay
How to get from Koh Tao to Bangkok
It may be hard to leave the paradise island of Koh Tao, but at some point, it will be time to return to the capital of Thailand.
If your schedule allows, we recommend checking out the neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan or Koh Samui. If not, continue reading to find the best way to travel (back) to Bangkok and get yourself ready to explore the Capital City and all its excitement.
Bangkok is a city full of life with busy streets, excellent shopping experiences, and countless street food carts. You will discover history, culture, and beautiful sights all in this bustling city also known as ‘The City of Life’.
The distance from Koh Tao to Bangkok is 835 km (520 miles). In this post, we compare the 4 best options to travel from Koh Tao to Bangkok: by bus + ferry (11 hours), by train via Chumphon (14-14.5 hours), by train via Surat Thani (17.5-19 hours), and by flight + ferry (3-3.5 hours). Ticket costs range from 1,320 THB ($38) to 3,420 THB ($98).
4 ways to get from Koh Tao to Bangkok
Travelling by bus is the cheapest way to travel from Koh Tao to Bangkok. Travel time is 11 hours including the ferry ride and it is a bit faster than the train, but not as comfortable. The total fare starts from 1,320 THB ($38).
The train via Chumphon is a very safe and comfortable way to travel overnight from Koh Tao to Bangkok. The combined ferry and train ride costs 1,600 THB ($46) and the journey takes around 14-14.5 hours.
It is also possible to take the train via Surat Thani, but the travel time would be longer. The total fare for this option is also more expensive at 1,805 THB ($52) for a combined train, van, and ferry.
The flight is the fastest but the most expensive option. Bangkok Airways is the sole carrier for flights from Koh Samui to Bangkok. Total fare costs, including the ferry ticket, start from 3,420 THB ($98).
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to help reduce your impact on the environment.
Itinerary from Koh Tao to Bangkok
Koh Tao to Bangkok by Bus + Ferry
If you choose to travel by bus, it’s best to book a combined bus and ferry ticket. This option will save you the hassle of arranging a second transfer.
Lompraya is the only company offering bus and ferry transfers from Koh Tao to Bangkok. It has a departure once a day at 10:15. Fare starts at 1,320 THB ($38) for the 11-hour journey.
Departure and arrival stations
The first part of the trip is boarding a ferry departing from Mae Haad pier in Koh Tao. The pier is just 3 km from the centre of Koh Tao or a 10-minute drive.
The ferry will dock at Thung Makham Noi in Chumphon, where a bus or a minivan will take you to Hua Hin.
From Hua Hin, you will head to Bangkok. The bus usually drops off passengers near Khao San Road. You can ask the driver to drop you off at another stop along the way, but note that not all drivers will oblige.
Bus Schedule from Koh Tao to Bangkok
Be aware that many ferries from Koh Tao head to Surat Thani. The ferry ticket that is included in this ticket brings you to Chumphon. Surat Thani is further south and not recommended if you want to continue the journey by bus.
Koh Tao to Bangkok by Train via Chumphon
When travelling by train from Koh Tao to Bangkok, you have two options: you can go via Chumphon or Surat Thani, which are about 180 km from each other.
Surat Thani is the more popular transport hub when visiting Thailand’s southern islands. But for this route, we recommend travelling via Chumphon for a faster and cheaper journey.
Step 1: Koh Tao to Chumphon Train Station by Ferry + Bus
KP Tripadvisor and Songserm used to offer combined ferry and bus rides from Koh Tao to Chumphon daily, but they haven’t resumed their operations since the pandemic.
The last time we checked (August 2022), Lomphrayah is the only company operating from Koh Tao to Chumphon Train Station. Fares start from 950 THB ($27), and you can expect to reach Chumphon in 2 hours 45 minutes.
Ferry + Bus Schedule from Koh Tao to Chumphon Train Station
The ferry departs from Mae Haad in Koh Tao and docks at Thung Makham Noi Pier. From there, a bus or a minivan will directly transfer you to Chumphon Train Station.
Step 2: Chumphon to Bangkok by Train
We recommend that you take a night train from Chumphon to Bangkok. This way, you will be well-rested once you arrive in the capital city.
Considering the ferry and bus schedule, you will have a couple of hours to have dinner and enjoy a quiet evening near the railway station before continuing your journey to Bangkok.
Fares for a 2nd class sleeping berth start at 650 THB ($18.50) and travel time is 11-11.5 hours.
See below our recommended train schedules:
Train Schedules from Chumphon to Bangkok
Aside from the 2nd class berth (A/C) tickets, you can also choose the more comfortable first-class train tickets for 1,235 THB ($35.50).
Koh Tao to Bangkok by Train via Surat Thani
In case the schedules of ferries and buses bound for Chumphon do not match your itinerary, you can also take the train from Surat Thani. But this option takes longer and is more expensive than when you travel via Chumphon.
We give a step-by-step guide below.
Step 1: Koh Tao to Surat Thani Train Station by Ferry + Bus
However, the last time we checked (August 2022), only Lomprayah operates on this route. Fare starts at 1,075 THB ($31) and travel takes around 4.5 hours.
All ferries depart from Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao and complete their journey at Surat Thani Train Station.
Check out the schedules below:
Ferry + Bus Schedule from Koh Tao to Surat Thani
Be sure to check the train schedule that aligns with your arrival time in Surat Thani.
Step 2: Surat Thani to Bangkok by Train
Upon arriving at Surat Thani Train Station, you will still have a few hours to grab dinner or explore the surrounding area before boarding a night train to Bangkok. The earliest train that departs from Surat Thani to Bangkok leaves at 10:25 and the latest is 23:14.
We recommend booking a ticket for a 2nd class A/C sleeper which starts at 730 THB ($21). Travel time is between 13 to 14.5 hours, depending on which train you pick.
The train’s last stop is at Hua Lamphong Railway Station, which is 15-30 minutes away from Bangkok city centre.
Train Schedules from Surat Thani to Bangkok
If you want maximum comfort, you can also upgrade to a more comfortable 1st class berth for 1,340 THB ($38.50).
For an overview of train options and more details, visit our page on Surat Thani to Bangkok.
Koh Tao to Bangkok by Flight + Ferry
Taking a flight from Koh Tao to Bangkok is the quickest option, but it’s also the most expensive. Koh Tao does not have an airport, so you’ll first need to head to Koh Samui.
To arrange your transport to Koh Samui Airport (USM), you need to book a ferry and van ticket. Flight tickets must be bought separately.
Step 1: Koh Tao to Koh Samui by Ferry + Taxi
Seatran Discovery used to offer combined ferry and van trips daily to Koh Samui Airport (USM). However, since the pandemic, they have not yet updated their schedule.
The last time we checked (August 2022), Lomprayah offers trips that depart at 9:30 and 11:00. Fare starts at 560 THB ($16).
The first part of the journey is boarding a ferry that departs from Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao to take you to Nathon Pier in Koh Samui. The whole trip takes 1.5-2 hours.
Upon reaching Nathon Pier, you take a taxi or book a Grab taxi to Koh Samui Airport (USM). Fares start at 360 THB ($10), and it will take about 35 minutes to reach the airport.
Be sure to book your ferry accordingly and leave some extra time for check-in at the airport.
Step 2: Koh Samui to Bangkok by Flight
Bangkok Airways is the only carrier operating flights from Koh Samui to Bangkok, and you can choose from multiple flight options daily. One-way ticket prices start at 2,500 THB ($72) and the flight takes just over 1 hour.
The earliest flight departing from Koh Samui Airport (USM) to Bangkok leaves at 08:00 with the last flight at 19:40. All direct flights land at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) airport.
For the best flight deals, check out Skyscanner:
For more information, you can read our page on how to go from Koh Samui 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.
