Arriving at Phuket airport
After customs you will find official taxi counters, transfer agencies, car rental desks and the Smart Bus stop. Private drivers who approach you in the hall often charge more: prefer an official counter or a pre-booked transfer. Also read our tips on scams in Phuket.
The official taxi
The taxi at the counter is the simplest solution, especially with luggage or on a night arrival. Estimates to Patong range from 550 to 1,000 baht depending on the guides (more like 600 to 900 baht on the meter or at the counter rate), with an airport surcharge of about 100 baht; to Kata and Karon, count a little more. One guide quotes a meter at 42.5 baht plus 35 baht per kilometre. Insist on the meter or on the fixed rate shown at the counter, and avoid drivers who do not show a tariff.
Grab and Bolt
Ride-hailing apps can drop you at the airport, but only Grab has an official pick-up zone according to one guide; another guide says you cannot be picked up elsewhere. A trip to Patong is given at around 750 to 950 baht with Grab, with Bolt said to be 20 to 30% cheaper but less available. Check the price in the app before you confirm.
The Smart Bus
The Phuket Smart Bus links the airport to Rawai via Patong, Karon and Kata. According to the guides consulted, the fare is 100 baht, payable in cash, by QR code or with a rechargeable card, on a line serving about fifteen stops. It is the cheapest option, but slow (90 minutes or more to Patong according to one guide), leaves about hourly and is not suitable for a late arrival. Check the current timetable.
The shared minibus
A shared minibus costs between 180 and 200 baht per person according to two guides: it stops at several hotels and can be long. It suits you if you are not in a hurry and stay in a served area.
The private transfer booked in advance
A private transfer booked online has a fixed price and a driver waiting for you. According to one guide, it is around 500 to 800 baht to Patong; offers vary by season and vehicle. It is the most comfortable for a family or a late arrival. Many hotels also offer a transfer: ask for the rate when you book.
Which option to choose
| Option | Price found | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Official taxi | about 600 to 900 baht to Patong | Day or night arrival, luggage |
| Grab / Bolt | about 750 to 950 baht to Patong (Grab) | Travellers who pay by card |
| Smart Bus | 100 baht | Small budget, little luggage, no rush |
| Shared minibus | about 180 to 200 baht per person | Tight budget |
| Private transfer | about 500 to 800 baht to Patong | Family, late arrival |
Indicative prices from guides and comparison sites, to be confirmed when you book.
Journey times
Durations depend on the road and the traffic. Allow about 45 to 60 minutes to Patong or Kata by car in good conditions, more at busy times. The northern beaches, such as Mai Khao and Nai Yang, are closer. For the west coast, see Kamala and Bang Tao.
Back to the airport
Allow a large margin: the road can be slow and the airport fills up in high season. Book the transfer the day before if your hotel is far away, for example in Patong, in Kata and Karon or in Rawai.
Going further
To choose your area, read where to stay in Phuket. To get around afterwards, see getting around Phuket; for your budget, travel budget for Phuket.
