Phuket is a large island, and transportation is not as convenient as in big cities. The usual modes of transport are taxis and tuk-tuks. Renting a bicycle or motorbike is also a good option.

train

There is no train station on Phuket Island. Therefore, to travel to Phuket by train, you must first arrive at Surat Thani Railway Station, the closest station to Phuket, and then take a bus to Phuket Bus Terminal. The journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani Railway Station takes 13 hours, and the journey from Surat Thani Railway Station to Phuket Bus Terminal takes 3 hours.

coach

Buses run between Phuket and Bangkok, Hua Hin, Krabi, and Phang Nga. Phuket has two bus stations: a smaller, older one in the city center, and a newer, larger one about 4 kilometers north of the city. A pink songthaew (shared taxi) can be taken between the two stations for 10 baht.

by boat

The ferry from Rassada Port connects Phuket, Phi Phi, and Krabi, operating twice a day. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours, with a one-way ticket costing 350 baht per person and a round-trip ticket costing 650 baht per person. Taking the ferry allows you to enjoy the sea breeze and is generally a pleasant way to travel.

In addition, there are speedboats to Latcha Island (45 minutes), Phi Phi Island (1-1.5 hours), the Similan Islands (about 3 hours) or other islands.

Charter boat tour

Chartering a boat or speedboat from Phuket to the surrounding islands costs between 3,000 and 60,000 Thai Baht, depending on the type of boat and the distance. Coral Island: 3,000-5,000 Thai Baht; Rachaai Island: 8,000-15,000 Thai Baht; Phi Phi Island: 15,000-25,000 Thai Baht; Phang Nga: 15,000-25,000 Thai Baht; Krabi: 20,000-30,000 Thai Baht; Similan Islands: 30,000-60,000 Thai Baht (prices are lower from November to April of the following year).

taxi

Taxis in Phuket come in various forms, including licensed taxis, songthaews and tuk-tuks, as well as hotel or private taxis. Regardless of the type of taxi you take, always prioritize safety and agree on the price before getting in (except for licensed taxis that use meters).

Self-driving or rental car

Renting a car in Phuket is very convenient; no driver's license is required, and you only need to leave your passport as collateral. The rental price for a regular sedan is approximately 1200 baht per day; the price for an SUV is 2000 baht per day, with fuel costs extra.

In addition, there are many motorcycle rental shops in Phuket, with a rental fee of about 300 baht per day.

Important notes for car rental:

Driving on Phuket's steep mountain roads requires experience; please drive safely. Obey traffic rules, wear your seatbelt while driving, and reduce speed on mountain roads and downhill sections. Always check your seatbelts and windshield wipers upon picking up the car, and remain calm in case of inclement weather. Always check the fuel gauge and odometer upon pickup. Try to refuel at large gas stations such as Shell and Esso Caltex. Avoid using the fast lane, as locals tend to drive aggressively, to prevent minor collisions. Free tourist maps are provided at the rental location.

songthaew

The price of a songthaew (shared taxi) ranges from 25 to 40 baht, depending on the distance. Songthaews do not have fixed stops and stop wherever you haile one, operating until 6:00 PM.

Tuk-tuk

For short trips (within 30 minutes), it is recommended to take a tuk-tuk. It stops whenever you call it, and you should agree on the price before getting in and try to write it down as proof.