Train, bus or plane? This is the best way to travel between cities in Thailand in 2025

Traveling between cities in Thailand can be both convenient and affordable, but your choice of transportation can affect both the comfort and cost of your trip. Should you take the train for a more authentic experience, the bus for budget-friendly transportation, or the plane for speed? Here we review the best options for traveling in Thailand in 2025.

1. Flight – fastest option, but not always cheapest

For those who want to minimize travel time, domestic flights are the fastest option. Flights between the largest cities, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Krabi, usually take less than two hours. Thai low-cost airlines such as Thai AirAsia, Nok Air and Thai VietJet often offers cheap tickets, especially if you book in advance.

Advantages:

• Fastest way to travel long distances
• Often affordable when booking early
• Perfect for trips to islands like Phuket or Koh Samui

Cons:

• Airports are often located outside city centers, which requires transportation
• Baggage fees may apply on low-cost airlines.
• Higher climate impact than train and bus

Tip: Use price comparison sites like Skyscanner or finding cheap flights to find the best prices. Thai Smile and Bangkok Airways often offer more inclusive services than low-cost carriers.

2. Train – perfect for longer journeys and night trains

Taking the train in Thailand is an experience in itself, especially if you travel by night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Surat Thani. The railway network in Thailand is well developed, but the trains can be slow.

Advantages:

• Cheap, especially in second and third class
• Night trains with sleeping compartments save you a hotel night
• Comfortable for longer trips

Cons:

• Slower than bus and plane
• Tickets can sell out quickly during peak season
• Not as modern as railways in Europe

Tip: Book tickets through the State Railway of Thailand or at the station in advance. For longer journeys, second class with AC and sleeper is the best choice for comfort.

3. Bus – the cheapest option for backpackers

Buses are the most common and cheapest way to travel in Thailand. The country's bus network covers the entire country, and VIP buses with comfortable seats, AC and free snacks are available on popular routes such as Bangkok - Chiang Mai and Bangkok - Phuket.

Advantages:

• Very cheap, especially in VIP buses
• Good coverage – goes to almost every city
• Often comfortable chairs and AC

Cons:

• Can be crowded on budget buses
• Risk of traffic delays
• Long journeys can be tiring

Tip: For the best buses, choose Nakhonchai Air, Green Bus or Sombat Tour. Avoid the cheapest minibuses for longer journeys.

Which means of transport suits you best?

Travel needs – Best choice Speed ​​– Flight Cheapest trip – Bus Most comfortable – Train Authentic experience – Train Eco-friendly – ​​Train/Bus

Conclusion

Thailand offers several great transportation options, and the choice depends on your travel plans and budget. Flights are the fastest but can be expensive, trains provide a classic travel experience, and buses are by far the cheapest. Whichever you choose, plan ahead to get the best price and comfort.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Thailand_becausewecan, Pixabay, original image