Public Transport in Phuket
Public transportation in Phuket is a somewhat enigmatic and not particularly popular choice for tourists. However, it is possible to travel affordably from Phuket Airport to various destinations via local buses. These buses stop at a terminal located on the street directly opposite the airport entrance. Clear signage will help you navigate your way.
This may well be the only public transport scenario that an insider would recommend. Nonetheless, let’s delve deeper into the details of public transportation in Phuket.
The Smart Bus route starts at the airport, with its final stop at Rawai Beach. The bus stop is located at the local terminal. Along its route, the Smart Bus passes by all the well-known beaches. The fare ranges from 50 to 170 baht. A transportation card can be purchased directly from the bus driver for 300 ฿ (100 ฿ is a non-refundable deposit). Note that only one passenger can use the card. In some cases, the driver may also accept cash payments.
The bus routes can be tracked via Google Maps as they are equipped with GPS sensors. The buses are comfortable, featuring air conditioning, a TV, and seat-back cards with the bus schedule and a map of Phuket.
The journey from the airport to the final stop takes approximately two hours. During the high season, a Night Smart Bus also operates between Kamala, Patong, Karon, and Kata beaches. It runs hourly from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., with fares ranging from 50 to 150 ฿.
The most authentic form of public transport in Phuket is the songthaew, which literally translates to “two benches.” It’s a modified truck with a metal roof, three long benches in the cargo area, and tarpaulin or plastic sheets covering the windows in case of rain. There are no doors — just an open entrance at the rear.
Pros:
- Affordable: fares range from 20 to 50 ฿ depending on the distance.
- Exotic and unique experience.
Cons:
- Limited capacity.
- Restricted operating hours: from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with buses running every 20–40 minutes.
- The biggest drawback is the lack of a clear schedule — routes seem to run unpredictably.
The songthaew route passes by major landmarks, including the Festival Shopping Mall, offering a chance to see some of Phuket’s attractions. Despite its quirks, it remains a budget-friendly and authentic way to explore the island.
Looking for designated bus stops is unnecessary. When you spot a blue bus, wave your hand energetically and make yourself noticeable. The conditions aboard these buses are rather spartan: wooden benches for seating, often crowded with local residents carrying bags, baskets, boxes, and more. Once aboard, be sure to confirm the bus is heading in the right direction by clearly stating your destination to the driver. For on-demand stops, inform the driver or the conductor (if there is one). Alternatively, use the bell located on the bus’s ceiling. The bus will stop as soon as traffic regulations allow. Blue buses depart from the old center of Phuket Town and follow specific routes, as listed below.
In addition to the blue buses, there are pink songthaews, with fares set at 15 ฿. These are a convenient option for sightseeing in Phuket Town, traveling to shopping malls from Ranong Road station, or reaching Rassada Pier, where ferries depart for nearby islands. Pink songthaews operate from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with services running every 20–30 minutes.
Phuket features several bus routes, though they lack traditional route numbers. Instead, the names of major beaches are displayed on the windshield, roof, or sides of the buses. Be aware that some routes are marked only in Thai, catering primarily to locals and bypassing tourist beaches and attractions.
Relevant bus routes in Phuket for tourists:
- Phuket Town –Patong
- Phuket Town – Bang Tao – Surin – Kamala
- Nai Harn – Rawai – Phuket Town
- Phuket Town – Karon – Kata
At bus stops, you may notice schedule boards and hope that the buses adhere to them:
Recently, comfortable minibuses with air conditioning have started operating from the old bus station in Phuket Town to Patong. Unlike the songthaews, the white-green minibuses run strictly on schedule: every hour from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from the bus station and from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from Patong.
Additionally, Phuket has a sightseeing “tram.” In reality, it’s a vehicle styled to look like a tram, offering a loop tour of the historic center of Phuket Town. The ride is free of charge.
Starting in 2025, construction of a full-fledged tramway system will begin on the island. Authorities believe this development will significantly simplify transportation around the island and help alleviate traffic congestion.
