With an extensive network across the country and affordable fares, buses are the most widely used means of transportation in Thailand. Types of buses, popular routes, ticket prices, purchasing options—discover our comprehensive guide to traveling by bus in Thailand.

Types of buses for getting around Thailand

Public buses

Also called local buses, public buses connect cities and villages within the same province or neighboring provinces. They’re intended for short distances rather than cross-country travel, making frequent stops and lacking in comfort. Public buses are the most economical option for short distances. Tickets can generally be purchased at the station or directly on the bus.

Why travel by public bus?
Public buses are ideal for very short, low-cost trips and are highly popular with locals, providing an authentic experience alongside them.

Express buses

Express buses are interprovincial and cover longer distances, unlike public buses. Despite the name, they are not the fastest buses, as they make several stops at bus stations and occasionally roadside to pick up passengers.

Express buses are more comfortable than local buses, often with reclining seats, restrooms, and air conditioning. Some companies provide snacks or meal vouchers, and they make stops at service stations for breaks.

Night trips are available on some routes to save time.

Why travel by Express Bus?
More comfortable than local buses and less expensive than VIP buses, express buses offer the best value for traveling throughout Thailand. Reservations are recommended, especially during holiday periods.

VIP Buses

VIP buses are long-distance buses connecting all provinces across the country. As the name implies, VIP buses are the most comfortable option. With three wide reclining seats per row, there’s more space and legroom. They’re equipped with restrooms, air conditioning, and various included services (snacks, water, meals, blanket, and pillow). Some companies even provide screens, outlets, and USB ports.

VIP buses make fewer stops than other types, making them the fastest option. Due to their high level of service, they’re also the most expensive but still very affordable.

Night trips are also available, ideal for maximizing travel time.

Why travel by VIP Bus?
VIP buses are the fastest and most comfortable choice. While slightly more expensive than other buses, they’re the best option for long distances or overnight travel.

Minivans

For popular tourist destinations, minivans are a quicker option as they generally make no stops and often take passengers directly to their final destination (such as a hotel).

However, this mode of transport is known for its less comfortable and sometimes “sporty” driving style, as well as limited space where luggage may be stacked. Therefore, minivans are best suited for short trips.

Why travel by Minivan?
Unless traveling short distances with a group, minivans are not always recommended for travel in Thailand.

Most popular bus routes in Thailand

Inland routes

Most long-distance routes depart from Bangkok. Popular bus routes in Thailand include:

• Bangkok - Chiang Mai
• Bangkok - Chiang Rai
• Bangkok - Sukhothai
• Bangkok - Kanchanaburi
• Bangkok - Hua Hin
• Bangkok - Pattaya
• Bangkok - Phuket
• Bangkok - Krabi
• Bangkok - Chumphon
• Bangkok - Nakhon Si Thammarat…

Combined tickets to the islands

If you’re heading to Thailand’s beautiful islands, combined tickets are available to the islands in the south. Some operators offer tickets that include both bus and ferry travel, dropping you off at the ferry terminal for the boat to your chosen island.

Popular combined ticket routes include:

• Bangkok - Koh Chang
• Bangkok - Koh Kood
• Bangkok - Koh Samui
• Bangkok - Koh Tao
• Bangkok - Koh Phangan
• Bangkok - Koh Phi Phi
• Bangkok - Koh Lipe…

Routes to neighboring countries

Some international bus routes connect Thailand with neighboring countries such as:

• Cambodia
• Malaysia
• Laos
• Myanmar (Burma)…

For these routes, you won’t need to change buses once entering the neighboring country, but you must disembark at the border checkpoint to complete customs formalities. Check visa requirements before departure.

Best bus companies for traveling in Thailand

Thailand’s bus network is operated by several companies. Here are the most popular and reputable ones to help you decide:

• The Transport Company (also called BKS)
• Greenbus (for northern Thailand routes)
• Sombat Tour (serving all of Thailand)
• Lomprayah, Songserm, and Seatran (for combined tickets to the southern islands)
• Travelmart (for routes to Cambodia)…

How much do bus trips cost in Thailand?

Ticket prices depend on the type of bus (based on comfort level) and the distance traveled. Here’s an approximate price range for some popular routes to help you budget:

Destination

Price Range

Travel time

Bangkok - Chiang Mai

€16 - €25

9 to 11 hours

Bangkok - Sukhothai

€10 - €15

6 to 8 hours

Bangkok - Kanchanaburi

 €3 - €5

2 to 3.5 hours

Bangkok - Koh Samui / Koh Tao / Koh Phangan

€24 - €45

10 to 15 hours

Bangkok - Phuket

 €19 - €35

11.5 to 15 hours

Bangkok - Pataya

€4 - €8

2 to 3.5 hours

*Prices are indicative and may vary.

Where to buy bus tickets in Thailand?

Directly at the bus terminal

You can buy bus tickets directly at the terminal for fair prices. However, advance booking isn’t always possible, so you may need to go in person the day before or the day of travel.

Where are the Bus Terminals in Thailand?
Every Thai city has its own bus terminal where you can buy tickets.

In Bangkok, there are three main terminals:

• Morchit Bus Terminal: Located in the north, serving mostly northeastern Thailand (though also providing routes to central and southern regions).
• Sai Tai Mai Bus Terminal: On the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, serving almost exclusively southern destinations.
• Ekkamai Bus Terminal: In eastern Bangkok, the smallest of the three, with routes to destinations nationwide.

For the rest of Thailand, terminals (except for public buses) are usually located on the outskirts, so plan accordingly if buying tickets in advance or reaching your final destination.

Through a Travel Agency

Tickets can also be purchased from a travel or street agency, which usually charges extra. This option might be worth considering if you’re unfamiliar with the travel process, don’t speak English, or find it difficult to communicate with locals. It can save time and help avoid stressful situations.

Online

Another option is to purchase tickets online through a tour operator such as 12Go.Asia. This allows you to compare options and schedules.

Tips for traveling comfortably by bus in Thailand

Here’s what you need to know for a pleasant bus journey:

• Bring socks, a sweater, and a scarf to stay warm as the buses are often heavily air-conditioned.
• Use earplugs for night trips if you’re sensitive to noise.
• Keep valuables in a bag close to you.
• Pack extra snacks and drinks.
• Note your bus number to easily find it during stops and don’t wander too far to avoid missing departure.
• Be patient (delays may happen).
• Show courtesy and respect to fellow passengers.

Bon voyage!

Florine Dergelet