Transit Options from Phuket International Airport to Patong
Patong Beach is one of the most popular locations around Phuket. Cosmopolitan and bustling, it spreads over 3km/1.8 miles and boasts scenic beachfront restaurants, cafes, and various stores. Known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand, the area is also popular at night. Indeed, its nightlife is notable as well. So, are you wondering how to get from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach? You’ll find several transit options. Thus, if comfort is a priority for you, you should settle on a Phuket airport taxi or a private airport transfer. On the other hand, if you also plan to explore other destinations besides Patong Beach, an airport rental car would be the ideal alternative. Finally, if you travel on a tight budget, you should consider catching one of the cheap, but time-consuming buses linking the airport to the beach resort destination.
| Options | Price (THB) | Price ($) | Price (€) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 780 | 22,41 | 21,18 | 70 min |
| Bus | 100 | 2,87 | 2,71 | 80 min |
Phuket Airport to Patong by Taxi
The yellow and red metered Phuket airport taxis line up at the airport’s taxi ranks, located outside the Arrivals areas (first level) of the two HKT terminal buildings (Domestic and International). Taxi counters are to be found close to the parked vehicles. Hence, passengers should head to the taxi counter, set the necessary details, and catch their cab.
Taxi scams are, unfortunately, often in Phuket. Unlicensed drivers try to scam and overcharge unsuspected tourists. Thus, you should always catch your taxi from the taxi rank, make sure that it displays the company’s logo on its doors and its license number on its interior, and check that the taximeter works properly. Moreover, you shouldn’t negotiate fixed prices with your driver unless you are certain about the exact cost of your ride.
The metered taxis at Phuket Airport charge according to their taximeter. Thus, their fares depend on traffic conditions, which vary significantly throughout the day. In any case, the taxi rates are set by the government. Hence, the initial fare is ΤΗB 50 ($1,44/€1,36), and the charge from the 2km to 15 km is THB 12 ($0,34/€0,32) per km, while for the next 15km, passengers pay THB 10 ($0,29/€0,27) per km. Additionally, a THB 100 ($2,87/€2,71) surcharge applies to airport rides. Please note that taxis can typically accommodate up to 2 passengers and limited luggage. Therefore, if you are traveling with 4–5 people, you should consider booking a 6-passenger minivan. In any case, the cost of the taxi from Phuket Airport to Patong should be around THB 780 ($22,41/€21,18), while the duration for the 41-km/25.4-mile journey should be 70 minutes, provided roads aren’t congested. During rush hours, you may need about two hours to reach your destination. Payments are primarily made in cash (in Thai baht). Most taxi drivers don’t accept bank cards. As for tipping, it is optional. You could, for example, round up the fare if you are satisfied with the provided services.
Fortunately, most taxi drivers in Phuket speak English, at least adequately.
Our Tip: Apart from the metered taxis from Phuket Airport to Patong, you’ll find limousines and taxi minibuses at HKT Airport. They offer set prices that you can negotiate before the beginning of the ride. Their counters are also located close to the taxi ranks. In addition to those options, ride-hailing companies are present at the airport in Phuket as well.
Phuket Airport to Patong by Bus
Passengers looking for an affordable way to travel from HKT Airport to Patong Beach will find one available option: the bus. Two bus lines offer connections to the popular coastal hub. Hence, Phuket Smart Bus and Phuket Bus Express (P3) head from Phuket International Airport to Patong.
The Phuket Smart Bus from Phuket Airport to Patong
The public Smart Bus links the airport to Patong Beach, with available routes every 30-60 minutes (depending on the time of the day) from 08:15 am to 11:30 pm. The bus from Phuket Airport to Patong departs from the bus stop located on the Arrivals level of the Domestic terminal (first floor). Hence, domestic passengers should head to Exit 3, turn to the left, and reach the bus stop opposite Café Amazon. On the other hand, international passengers have to make their way to the Domestic terminal, situated a 5-10-minute walk from their landing terminal (International terminal). The Smart Buses to Patong are blue and white, air-conditioned, and equipped with USB ports. Moreover, they offer Wi-Fi. Overall, they take around 80 minutes to travel from HKT Airport to Patong Beach, while their ticket costs THB 100 ($2,87/€2,71). Tickets are available onboard in cash. Alternatively, you can also scan the QR code. Please note that you won’t find ticket counters for Smart Buses at Phuket Airport. In addition to the one-way tickets, day passes are also available for travelers who intend to use the Smart Bus services multiple times during their stay in Phuket.
Our Tip: You should be at the airport bus stop about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time of the bus, as buses often get crowded.
The P3 Phuket Express Bus from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach
The Phuket Express Bus (P3) also connects Phuket International Airport to Patong. The coaches are white with blue and yellow stripes and are air-conditioned and comfortable. The Phuket Airport Express also departs from the Domestic terminal (on the left side of Exit 3, Arrivals level). It has available routes from 08:45 am to 09:45 pm every 60 minutes. The traveling time from HKT Airport to Patong Beach is approximately 80 minutes (under normal traffic), and a one-way ticket costs THB 100 ($2,87/€2,71). Tickets are available from the bus stop in cash. Passengers can also scan the QR code.
Our Tip: If you travel with lots of luggage, you should keep in mind that the airport bus doesn’t offer extensive storage space.
Car Rental from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach
Visitors to the cosmopolitan Thai island often settle on an airport car rental not only for their ride from HKT Airport to Patong Beach but also for getting around during their stay in Phuket. Indeed, car rentals are the ideal way to explore the island and visit popular and also remote destinations, almost inaccessible via public buses, taxis, or tuk-tuks. Several agencies are present at Phuket International Airport, with their desks lying at the Arrivals area (first level) of both HKT terminals. Moreover, many car hire companies provide their services at the airport even though they don’t feature desks inside their premises. As a result, the provided services are sufficient, and prices tend to be competitive.
Have you just picked up your Phuket car rental? The ride from Phuket International Airport to Patong Beach should last about 70 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hours, the traveling time can be up to 110 minutes. It’s important to remember that vehicles in Phuket travel on the left side of the road. As soon as you reach Patong, you’ll have to find a parking spot. Does your hotel offer parking services? You’ll conveniently park your car at its premises. Alternatively, a few paid car parks can be found in the area, although street parking is the most common option. That being said, parking your car at the beachfront is certainly considered a long shot.
Private Airport Transfers from Phuket International Airport to Patong
Do you want to enjoy an unstressed and pleasant ride from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach? Private airport transfers provide fast and hassle-free services to the exact location of the passenger’s destination. Thus, if you book a private airport transfer from the airport in Phuket, you’ll find your driver waiting for you at the Arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. You’ll be driven to the vehicle of your choice, parked close to the terminal building, while being assisted with your luggage. A smooth and pleasant journey awaits you, during which your driver will share useful insights about the vibrant Patong Beach.
FAQs
How do I go to Patong from the airport?
Do you want to travel in comfort? You should consider booking a private airport transfer or catching a taxi for your ride from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach. On the other hand, if you plan to explore the island, an airport car rental should be the ideal transit option, whereas if saving money is the goal, a time-consuming yet cheap bus journey should be your choice.
How far is it from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach?
The distance from Phuket International Airport to Patong Beach is about 41km/25.4 miles. Thus, a car ride from HKT Airport to Patong Beach typically lasts around 70 minutes, while buses take approximately 80 minutes to reach their stop in Patong.
How much is a taxi from Phuket Airport to Patong?
Taxis at the airport in Phuket are metered (although you’ll find companies with set fares as well). Thus, the cost of the ride from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach depends on traffic levels. In general terms, under normal traffic conditions, the journey lasts 70 minutes and costs THB 780 ($22,41/€21,18), including the THB 100 ($2,87/€2,71) airport fee.