You can get from Bangkok to Ko Samui by bus + ferry, train + ferry, flight, or rental car + ferry.
The cheapest option to travel from Bangkok to Ko Samui is by train and ferry, which can cost as little as USD 17! This trip takes about 14 hours.
The most popular option to travel from Bangkok to Ko Samui is by bus + ferry, which costs only USD 30-USD 43 and takes about 14.5–18.5 hours.
The fastest option to travel from Bangkok to Ko Samui is by catching a flight, which takes only about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Having extensively explored Thailand’s transportation networks, I offer in-depth knowledge and tips for seamless travel across the country.
In this guide, we’ll focus on the journey from Bangkok to Ko Samui and all the best ways to travel, ensuring you have all the information for a smooth and enjoyable trip!
Transportation Options from Bangkok to Ko Samui
The following table outlines all transportation options from Bangkok to Ko Samui:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui | 14.5-18.5 hrs | $30 to 43 |
| Train + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui | ~14 hrs | $17 to 77 |
| Flight from Bangkok to Ko Samui | ~1.5 hrs | ~$150 |
| Rental Car + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui | 11-12 hrs | – |
How far is Ko Samui from Bangkok?
The distance fromBangkok to Ko Samui is about 474.3 miles or 763.3 kilometers. It takes between 11 and 12 hours to get to Ko Samui from Bangkok by car and ferry.
Getting to Ko Samui from Bangkok
1. Bus + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui
Journey Duration: 14.5-18.5 hours
For a convenient yet cost-effective journey from Bangkok to Ko Samui, consider the Bus+Ferry combo ticket!
These tickets, priced at only USD 30- USD 43, include both transportation modes that are needed to make the long journey to Koh Samui.
You will start your trip at one of the departure points in Bangkok. Your departure point depends on the operator you decide to travel with.
The main departure points are Khao San Nara Travel, Khao San Montanatip, Dang Derm Hotel, Travel Plus Southern Route Office, Starbucks near Khao San Road, Khao San Lomprayah, or the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
Most buses depart in the evening, setting you up for an overnight journey. You’ll spend about 12 hours on the road before reaching the ferry pier, where a two-hour ferry ride completes your journey to Ko Samui.
The great advantage of this option is that the ferry trip that follows is included in the price of the ticket and scheduled accordingly with the bus trip. This way, you won’t have to worry about booking everything separately and coordinating for the long journey!
Remember to book early, as this is the most popular transportation option from Bangkok to Ko Samui!
Bangkok to Ko Samui Bus + Ferry Schedule
The table below displays the bus + ferry schedule for trips from Bangkok to Ko Samui, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00pm | 09:30am | 14h 30m | $30 |  |
| 07:00pm | 10:00am | 15h | $31 | |
| 06:30pm | 09:00am | 14h 30m | $31 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:30am | 14h 30m | $31 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:30am | 14h 30m | $33 | |
| 07:00pm | 10:30am | 15h 30m | $36 | |
| 07:00pm | 01:30pm | 18h 30m | $40 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:30am | 14h 30m | $40 | |
| 09:00pm | 11:30am | 14h 30m | $43 | |
2. Train + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui
Journey Duration: ~14 hours
If you’re on a budget and have time to spare, the train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, followed by a ferry to Koh Samui, is an excellent choice.
Remember that, unlike the bus + ferry option, this one does not include both modes of transport in one ticket, so you would have to get two tickets separately and coordinate your own schedule.
You will start your adventure at Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, where you can catch a train to Surat Thani. The journey usually takes about 9 to 10 hours, with options ranging from economical third-class seats to more comfortable sleeper berths.
Tickets also range depending on the level of comfort, priced between USD 7 for a third-class train and USD 52 for a first-class sleeper train.
Upon arrival in Surat Thani, you will have to transfer to a bus that will take you to the ferry terminal, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. From there, a ferry will carry you across the beautiful waters to Koh Samui, a trip lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Ferry departures are frequent, and tickets also vary depending on the departure time and operator, but you can expect them to be about USD 10–USD 25.
You can check out the ferry schedules and book your tickets online here!
Bangkok to Surat Thani Train Schedule
The table below displays the train schedule for trips from Bangkok to Surat Thani, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03:10pm | 01:08am | 9h 58m | $7 | |
| 04:10pm | 01:49pm | 9h 39m | $9 | |
| 05:50pm | 03:47am | 9h 57m | $7 | |
| 06:50pm | 04:26am | 9h 36m | $8 | |
| 07:50pm | 05:34am | 9h 44m | $8 | |
| 08:30pm | 06:32am | 10h 3m | $7 | |
| 04:50pm | 02:20am | 9h 30m | $52 | |
3. Flight from Bangkok to Ko Samui
Journey Duration: ~1 hour 30 minutes
For those prioritizing speed, flying is undoubtedly the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui.
Flights depart from both Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, giving travelers flexibility in choosing their departure point.
The flight duration is from 1 to 1.5 hours, quickly covering the distance that other modes of transport travel in half a day or more.
Bangkok Airways operates the majority of flights to Koh Samui Airport (USM), and offers tickets priced at around USD 150.
We recommend booking a flight in advance as prices can soar, especially during peak travel seasons.
Once you land in Koh Samui, a range of transport options, including taxis and rental cars, are readily available to take you to your final destination on the island.
Opting for a flight significantly cuts down on travel time, making it an ideal choice for those with limited time or a preference for convenience!
4. Driving with a Rental Car + Ferry from Bangkok to Ko Samui
Journey Duration: 11-12 hours
Lastly, if you value flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car and taking a ferry is an excellent option to reach Ko Samui!
In Bangkok, you can rent a car from numerous agencies available at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang Airports or from downtown locations.
Rental prices typically start at USD 30 per day and can range to over USD 50. However, the price is well worth it, considering the freedom you have when it comes to moving around.
The drive to the ferry pier at Donsak in Surat Thani province takes approximately 8 to 9 hours. This route allows for stops along the way, ideal for sightseeing and experiencing the local Thai culture.
Upon reaching Donsak, car ferries to Koh Samui operate frequently throughout the day. The ferry ride takes about 1.5-2 hours and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
It’s recommended to check ferry schedules in advance and arrive early to avoid long queues.
Once you arrive in Koh Samui, having a car gives you the liberty to explore the island’s diverse attractions at your leisure. From secluded beaches to bustling markets, you can explore the island easily with your vehicle!
Best day tours in Ko Samui
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Here, you can find some of the best tours in Ko Samui.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui?
The most economical option is taking a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, followed by a bus to the ferry terminal, and then a ferry to Koh Samui. This option costs about USD 17 to USD 77.
What is the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui?
Flying is the fastest option, with flight times averaging between 1 to 1.5 hours.
Are rental cars allowed on the ferry to Koh Samui?
Yes, cars can be taken on the car ferry to Koh Samui.
What’s the best time of year to travel to Koh Samui?
The best time to visit Koh Samui is from December to February, during the dry season. However, the island enjoys a mild climate year-round, with the rainy season typically occurring from October to November.
Can I buy a combined ticket for the train and ferry to Koh Samui?
No, combined tickets are only available for the bus and ferry. If you want to travel by train, you would have to get both tickets separately.
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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