By air (fastest)
Direct flights connect Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to Krabi International Airport (KBV) in around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes. More than fifteen direct flights run daily across five-plus airlines (including Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air and Thai VietJet), which keeps fares competitive — one-way economy tickets commonly run $20-95 depending on how far ahead you book. Door-to-door, including airport procedures on both ends, budget 4-5 hours total.
By overnight bus (cheapest)
VIP and standard buses run from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, with morning and overnight departures. The journey takes roughly 10-13 hours depending on the operator, arriving at Krabi's bus terminal near Krabi Town. It's a genuinely long haul, but a reasonable option for budget travellers or anyone combining the trip with other overland stops in southern Thailand.
Train + bus combination
There's no direct train to Krabi. The workaround — an overnight train from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station to Surat Thani, then a connecting bus or minivan for the remaining 3-4 hours — takes 12-16 hours total and costs roughly the same as flying once both legs are booked. It's scenic but rarely faster or cheaper than the direct options above.
Driving yourself
The road distance is around 780km, taking 10-11 hours non-stop — most guides recommend breaking the drive with an overnight stop in Chumphon or Surat Thani rather than attempting it in one push. You'll need an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct train from Bangkok to Krabi?
No. The nearest railhead is Surat Thani, roughly 3-4 hours short of Krabi by bus or minivan from there — a train-plus-bus combination takes 12-16 hours total, longer than flying or the direct overnight bus.
What's the cheapest way from Bangkok to Krabi?
The overnight bus, with fares starting from around 600-750 THB, taking roughly 10-13 hours depending on the operator and stops.