Phuket transportation is vastly different from the larger cities in Thailand, such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai. A little insider knowledge goes a long way if you want to travel efficiently, safely, and get value for money.
At Phuket Lovin, we aim to give you all the best sightseeing tips and help you plan the vacation of a lifetime. We also want to ensure you’re fully informed about the more mundane parts of vacationing – i.e., transport!
From a Phuket map, you can see that the island is only 48km long, and 21km wide. Although this is a relatively small land mass, the mountains, small roads, and traffic can mean a short journey takes longer than expected.
Phuket airport is in the North, Phuket Old Town is in the South East, and most tourist hot spots are found on the coast. A bridge leads directly into mainland Thailand at the very North of Phuket (higher than the airport).
Most people fly into Phuket International Airport and then travel South to their hotel of choice (check out our article for details on the best airport transportation options here). Link
Due to the number of tourists that flock to Phuket every year, it is extremely easy to travel around the island. However, it can be wildly expensive and potentially unsafe if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here, we’ve laid out all the pros and cons of each mode of transport in this Phuket travel guide. So, read on for the ultimate guide on the ten best ways to travel around Phuket in 2023.
Tuk Tuk: Best for a Classic and Fun Experience
Advantages: a classic open-air, Thai experience
Disadvantages: expensive fares
First, the TukTuk – the classic Phuket travel experience. From the moment you touch down at the airport, get ready to hear ‘TukTuk?’ shouted at you from all angles. Although it’s not our preferred long-term travel solution, it’s an experience you must indulge in at least once in Phuket.
You’ll see TukTuks everywhere. They’re usually small, bright red trucks that can fit 5-8 people. They have an open back and usually open-air windows. Some TukTuks (particularly around the party area, Patong) are even kitted out with disco lights and speakers.
You’ll notice a few key differences if you’re used to getting TukTuks in other parts of SE Asia. Phuket TukTuks have four wheels instead of three. In truth, they look more like small songthaews.
The TukTuk is undoubtedly the most fun way to get around Phuket, but the prices are usually high. Although it should cost around 50 baht for a short journey, in reality, this is rarely the case. A short ride usually costs about 200 baht, and anything over 10 minutes (or up a hill) will significantly increase the price.
Additionally, don’t think you’ll be able to split the fare between you if you’re in a group; it’s common for the driver to charge the fee per person rather than per journey.
You may have some luck negotiating with a TukTuk driver, but they are notorious for agreeing on their prices and will not undercut each other. If you aren’t willing to pay the offered fare, it’s usually best to choose a cheaper option.
Finally, be aware of any extra side hustles they may have. You may read online that TukTuk drivers will offer you drugs, but be very wary. Firstly, don’t ask a TukTuk driver for drugs; they will be highly offended if they don’t sell drugs. If they offer you drugs, be aware that they may sell you a dangerous product that isn’t what they claim, or they may turn you into the police once you’ve handed over the money.
Navigating this issue is simple: don’t ask for drugs and say no if they’re offered.
A less sinister thing to be aware of is the ‘up-sell.’ It’s common for TukTuk drivers to encourage you to shop at a specific store (usually for pearls or jewelry). They’ll have an agreement with the owner to take a commission from anything you buy. If you don’t want to buy pearls or jewelry, a simple ‘no’ will do the trick, and they’ll take you to the agreed destination.
Public Buses: Best for Budget Travellers
Advantages: cost-efficient
Disadvantages: long journeys with multiple stops
There are two great options for people that want to travel around Phuket for cheap. The ‘blue bus’ and the ‘smart bus.’
The ‘blue bus’ is actually a fleet of songthaews (a pick-up truck converted to having a row of seats) that link Phuket town to most of the coastal beaches. They’re small, have open sides, and operate from 07:00-17:00. They frequent Phuket old town, Patong, Surin, Kamala, Karon, and more.
These buses usually charge around 50 baht for a journey, although it may be more. Although there are set starting points in Phuket old town, you’ll find they rarely stick to specified routes. It’s best to talk to the driver first and clarify where you want to go.
If you’re on a tight schedule, avoid the blue bus – there’s no way of telling when it’ll turn up and how long it’ll take you to get to your destination. If you’ve got time to kill, this is an excellent way to save money on your travels.
The Phuket Smart Bus very much resembles public buses in the western world. There are set stops, a timetable, standardized pricing, and air-conditioning on board. The Smart Bus runs between Rawai (South Phuket) and the airport (North Phuket).
At the time of writing, the charge is 100 baht, and you can choose to get off at any stop along the way. The Smart Bus is the most straightforward form of public transport in Phuket for foreigners and one of the cheapest options.
You can view each route’s timetable and stops using the Smart Bus website.
Metered Taxis: Best for Convenience
Advantages: a safe and simple, no-frills, widely available option
Disadvantages: can be expensive as you’ll usually pay an inflated fee
Taxis are everywhere on the island and impossible to miss; they sport bright yellow and red colors and a large ‘Taxi’ sign on top. You can hail one of these taxis in the same way you would at home, and they often congregate on roads near popular tourist areas. Also, don’t be alarmed if they pull up to you unsolicited to offer you a lift – this is standard practice throughout Thailand.
However, agreeing on a fare with a Phuket taxi driver can be difficult; although these taxis are meant to run on a meter rate, most drivers will try to offer you a set price that will be inflated beyond what it would cost on the meter. In many cases, you’ll find the driver will haggle the fixed price they’ve offered but will not agree to take you on the meter.
Generally, you’ll be offered a fee of around 200-400 baht for a short journey, and anywhere up to 1000 baht for a long trip.
The official metered taxi rates are as follows:
- 50 baht for the first two kilometers
- 12 baht for kilometers 2-15
- 10 baht for kilometers 15 and beyond
- The fare is increased by 1 baht per minute when moving at less than 6km per hour
- An additional 50 baht is charged when booking through a call center
- An extra 100 baht is set for an airport pick up
After repeated complaints of inflated taxi fares, the government recommends you use the ‘Hello Phuket’ app to book a metered taxi.
Every taxi has a number on the side; it’s a good idea to note this down, along with the license plate number, in case you have a dispute about the service you’ve received.
Motorbike Taxi: Best for Time Efficiency
Advantages: low prices and quick journey time
Disadvantages: less safe than car transport
If you haven’t visited SE Asia before, you’ll be shocked at the number of motorbikes on the streets. However, you quickly realize how beneficial they are. While others are stuck in traffic, the locals zoom through without issue.
Mopeds are so ingrained in Thai culture that motorbike taxis are even more popular than traditional taxis. They’re far cheaper and quicker than car taxis and an excellent option if you’re a solo traveler.
You can spot a motorbike taxi because the driver will wear a colored vest (although it’s also not uncommon to have a Thai local simply offer you a ride regardless of whether they’re a licensed taxi driver).
To get a motorbike taxi, flag down a driver and agree on a price. Then, get on the back and hold on tight! You’ll notice lots of the locals ride ‘side saddle’ – we don’t recommend this. Put your legs either side of the bike and hold onto the handles on each side, by your thighs.
Be safety conscious when deciding to get a motorbike taxi. Phuket’s roads are notoriously dangerous, and you’re especially exposed when on a motorbike. Additionally, many taxi drivers won’t carry a spare helmet, so make sure you have your own, or don’t ride unless they do.
Private Taxis and Drivers: Best for Comfort and Reliability
Advantages: a safe option with great service and comfortable vehicles
Disadvantages: can be expensive for short trips
As well as official Phuket taxis, hundreds of private companies offer transport around the island. Usually, these will be grey or black cars with ‘taxi’ or ‘private taxi’ written on the side. Large Toyota Commuter vans are also very common.
You’ll often see these cars congregating at unofficial taxi ranks, and they’ll usually offer you a ride if you walk past. Again, they may stop next to you and offer you a ride.
They’ll give you an initial price, expecting you to request a lower fare. Usually, a driver will be happy to drive you for 50-100 baht less than their initial offer. If you ride with one of these drivers, it’s a good idea to take their card or number as they’re likely to offer you discounted rates for loyalty.
If you want a Phuket private tour guide, these drivers can be a good option. Talk to them about their prices for a day driving around the island; usually, it’ll cost around 1500 baht for half a day and 1800 baht for a full day. Make sure you talk about whether they’ll act just as a driver or an informative tour guide before you agree on a price.
This isn’t the cheapest way to get around, but it’s a good idea if you’re looking for a convenient, comfortable, and reliable experience.
Motorbike: Best for Adrenaline Junkies
Advantages: total freedom, convenience, and widely available
Disadvantages: dangerous and probable legal implications
When you get to Phuket, you’ll notice motorbike rental shops everywhere. Many tourists like to get a bike to whizz around the island, and they’re usually very cheap to rent (around 150 baht per day).
However, think carefully before getting a bike.
Firstly, can you understand Thai road signs? Also, are you familiar with the way people drive in Thailand? Have you driven a bike before?
Driving in Thailand requires extreme confidence and skill. Even then, it’s a risky decision to make. Remember, you cannot verify whether the bike is in a roadworthy condition, and it’s often difficult to ascertain whether the rental company is legitimate. Be aware that many rental companies will want to keep your passport (always a bad idea) and may charge you an excessive amount if you damage the bike.
Then, there’s your safety. If you get in an accident, there’s no way to ensure you will get adequate treatment. Moped accidents are very common, and you should be especially cautious during the rainy season.
Bear in mind that most travel insurance will not cover you to drive a moped abroad.
Finally, there are potential legal implications. Phuket police often set up road stops and check tourists. They’re looking for drunk or drug driving, incorrect licenses, lack of helmets, faulty bikes, expired visas, and more.
At a minimum, you need to have an international driver’s license (obtained in your home country) or a Thai driving license.
However, if you want to drive a moped, there are some significant advantages. You’ll save money, have total freedom, and get a great hit of adrenalin when you ride up and down the Phuket mountains!
Transport Apps: Best Overall Option for Tourists
Advantages: cost-efficient
Disadvantages: can be time-consuming to book and sometimes require a Thai sim card
Our overall favorite option for traveling around Phuket is using transport apps. These apps are reliable, convenient, safe, and cost-efficient.
The most popular transport app is Grab, the Asian equivalent of Uber. However, Grab has consolidated many popular only services into one app. Using Grab, you can order taxis, bike taxis, food, send parcels, shop, and more.
With Grab transport, you can choose from several options:
- JustGrab (cheaper fares from nearby drivers – not available at peak times)
- GrabTaxi (local taxis – variable fares)
- GrabCar (private cars – set fare)
- Rent (rent a car with a private driver for a set time)
- GrabBike (motorbike taxi at low prices)
Generally, JustGrab and GrabCar are the best options for groups. You have a set fare and a private driver. The Grab app interface is intuitive and similar to apps such as Uber.
Additionally, you can track your driver, message them, and share your live location details with a third party. Download the Grab app and look out for promo discounts – you’ll often get up to 40% off rides with Grab.
Check out the Bolt app if you want to save even more money. With Bolt, you enter your destination of choice and your preferred payment amount. Then, local taxi drivers will ‘bid’ for the job or propose a different price. You select your driver, and they come to you.
Bolt is usually the cheapest method of private transportation in Phuket, but it can take a while to find a driver.
Walking: Best for Short Distances (Obviously)
Advantages: cost-efficient
Disadvantages: time-consuming and often unfeasible
All tourist hot spots are walking-friendly. Walking through the streets of Phuket is a great experience. Be ready for locals Thai’s offering you massages, TukTuks, food, tours, and more. Regardless of whether you want the service, greet them with a friendly hello (or “Sawadee-ka / krap”).
However, be aware that small roads sometimes turn into highways without much waning. You can find yourself dodging cars, mopeds, and street food sellers with every step.
Walking along larger roads in Phuket isn’t recommended – it’s dangerous, and practically, it’s usually quite tricky.
When you’re walking on smaller roads in Phuket, make sure to keep an eye on where you’re walking. Holes in the pavement are common; some pavements are even made of paving with regularly spaced holes to act as drains!
Additionally, failing to watch where you walk could lead to encounters with snakes, dogs, cats, electricity wires, or bins waiting to be collected.
If you’re a keen hiker, find a recommended trail rather than setting off and seeing where you’ll end up!
So, can you walk around Phuket? Yes – but it’s not always easy!
Rental Car – Best for Experienced SE Asia Drivers
Advantages: cost-efficient and total freedom
Disadvantages: dangerous (even for experienced drivers)
If you want the freedom to explore the island as you wish, rental cars can be incredibly cost-efficient. However, we don’t recommend it unless you’re familiar with driving in South East Asia.
The roads are often poorly marked, road signs are in Thai, speed limits are in km, you drive on the left, and the traffic rules substantially differ from driving in the West.
If you’re confident driving in Phuket, hire a car through a recognized international company. You can book this at the airport (for a higher fee) or arrange it through international rental companies before you arrive. Taxi fares from the airport are often extortionate, so putting your family in a rental car can save lots of money.
To drive a rental car in Thailand, you need a valid driving license for your home country and an international driver’s permit obtained in your home country.
As with renting a car anywhere, ensure you closely inspect it for damage and discuss any damage before signing the rental agreement. Also, don’t forget to check with your rental company about re-fuelling the car and find out where the nearest station is.
SHA+ Transport – Best for Health Conscious Travelers
Advantages: safe and vetted transport
Disadvantages: more expensive than regular private drivers
While in Phuket, you may notice signs that say ‘SHA’ or ‘SHA+’’ on hotels, businesses, and taxis.
This is due to a project called the ‘Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration’ (SHA).
A business or driver displaying an SHA logo has met pandemic safety measures to protect customers from COVID-19. SHA and SHA Plus signs indicate that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has vetted the driver to be at minimal risk of transmitting COVID-19 to passengers.
In practice, this means they:
- Have received the correct number of vaccinations
- Provide hand sanitizer and cleaning products in the vehicle
- Avoid physical contact with passengers
- Commit to not working if they’re exposed to someone with COVID-19
- Wear a mask when required
However, as Thailand relaxes its stance on the COVID-19 risk level, you’ll notice fewer SHA logos. This does not mean that the driver hasn’t received their vaccination, simply that the TAT has stopped issuing these certifications.
Your Ultimate Guide to Phuket Transport in 2023
If you were wondering about the best way to get transport around Phuket, here are ten options for you to consider. Each has its merit, but some are clearly better options for different needs. Generally, we recommend:
- For confident drivers, solo travelers, and thrill seekers: rent a moped
- For families and couples: taxis, private drivers, and transport apps
- For budget travelers: the Phuket Smart Bus, Grab, or Bolt.
- For able-bodied travelers: walk, where appropriate (but remember suncream!)
- For vulnerable travelers: book reliable, private drivers through your hotel
- For everyone: get a TukTuk (at least once!).
Realistically, most travelers will use each of these services for different activities. This guide outlines the options available to you from the moment you touch down in Phuket to when you have to leave.
Now you’ve got an idea of what to expect, and you can start planning your itinerary of activities!
Stay with us, and we’ll help you; our next post on essential Phuket day trips is coming soon, so subscribe to our email list for all the hottest tips.
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