Travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang with confidence. Compare buses, flights, private transfers, and ferries, including travel times, costs in THB, practical tips, and expert advice to choose the best option.
Koh Chang is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of the country’s most accessible tropical destinations. Located in Trat Province near the Cambodian border, the island can be reached from Bangkok by bus, minivan, domestic flight, private transfer, or rental car combined with a ferry.
The best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang depends on your budget, schedule, and travel style. For most travelers, the bus and ferry combination offers the best balance of affordability and convenience. Those with limited time may prefer flying to Trat, while families or groups often find a private transfer to be the most comfortable option.
This guide explains every transportation option, including travel times, estimated costs, routes, and practical tips to help you choose the most suitable journey.
Bangkok to Koh Chang Transportation Comparison
| Transportation | Total Travel Time | Estimated Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus + Ferry | 6–7 hours | THB 250–700 | Budget travelers and most visitors |
| Minivan + Ferry | 6–7 hours | THB 700–1,500 | Hotel-to-hotel convenience |
| Flight + Ferry | 3.5–5 hours | THB 2,000–4,500 | Travelers short on time |
| Private Transfer | 6–7 hours | From THB 4,000 per vehicle | Families and groups |
| Self-Drive | 6–7 hours | Fuel + ferry fees | Travelers wanting maximum flexibility |
Option 1: Bus and Ferry (Best Overall Value)
For most visitors, traveling by bus and ferry is the most practical and cost-effective way to reach Koh Chang.
The journey begins in Bangkok, where buses depart from major terminals such as Ekkamai Bus Terminal and Mo Chit Bus Terminal. Some services also depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Most buses travel directly to Ao Thammachat Pier in Trat Province, eliminating the need to transfer in Trat Town.
Route
Bangkok → Ao Thammachat Pier → Ferry → Koh Chang
Travel Time
- Bus: approximately 5–6 hours
- Ferry crossing: 30–45 minutes
- Total journey: approximately 6–7 hours
Estimated Cost
- Government bus: approximately THB 250–300
- Combined bus and ferry ticket: approximately THB 600–700
Advantages
- Most economical option
- Frequent daily departures
- Simple journey with minimal transfers
- Suitable for solo travelers and couples
Things to Know
When purchasing your ticket, confirm that the destination is Ao Thammachat Pier rather than Trat Town. This avoids an additional local transfer before boarding the ferry.
Option 2: Minivan and Ferry
Minivans provide a more direct travel experience, with many services offering hotel pickup in Bangkok and drop-off near your accommodation on Koh Chang.
Although generally more expensive than public buses, they are convenient for travelers staying outside the city center.
Route
Bangkok Hotel → Ao Thammachat Pier → Ferry → Koh Chang Hotel
Travel Time
Approximately 6–7 hours
Estimated Cost
THB 700–1,500
Advantages
- Convenient pickup and drop-off
- Fewer transfers
- Suitable for travelers carrying moderate luggage
Considerations
Minivans typically have less luggage space than full-sized buses, so they may not be ideal for travelers with multiple large suitcases.
Option 3: Fly to Trat and Take the Ferry (Fastest)
Flying is the quickest way to reach Koh Chang, although it is also the most expensive.
Flights operate between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Trat Airport (TDX). After landing, passengers travel by taxi or shared transfer to Ao Thammachat Pier before boarding the ferry.
Route
Bangkok (BKK) → Trat Airport (TDX) → Ao Thammachat Pier → Ferry → Koh Chang
Travel Time
- Flight: approximately 50 minutes
- Airport transfer: approximately 15–20 minutes
- Ferry crossing: approximately 30–45 minutes
Total door-to-door travel time is generally around 3.5–5 hours, depending on flight schedules and ferry connections.
Estimated Cost
- Flight: approximately THB 2,000–4,000
- Ferry: approximately THB 40–120
Advantages
- Fastest transportation option
- Ideal for short holidays
- Convenient for travelers already departing from Suvarnabhumi Airport
Considerations
Once airport procedures, waiting times, and transfers are included, the overall time savings compared with an early morning bus may be smaller than many travelers expect.
Option 4: Private Transfer (Most Comfortable)
Private transfers offer door-to-door service from your hotel or airport in Bangkok directly to the ferry terminal, with many services coordinating the ferry crossing as part of the journey.
This is often the preferred option for families, groups, or travelers carrying significant luggage.
Route
Bangkok Hotel or Airport → Ao Thammachat Pier → Ferry → Koh Chang
Travel Time
Approximately 6–7 hours
Estimated Cost
From approximately THB 4,000 per vehicle
Advantages
- Door-to-door convenience
- Flexible departure times
- Spacious vehicles
- Comfortable for families and groups
Option 5: Drive Yourself
Renting a car or driving your own vehicle offers the greatest flexibility, particularly if you plan to explore multiple beaches and attractions around Koh Chang.
The drive follows Highway 7, Highway 344, and Highway 3 before reaching Ao Thammachat Pier. Vehicles can be transported across the ferry.
Travel Time
Approximately 5–6 hours by road plus a 30–45 minute ferry crossing.
Ferry Fees
- Passenger: approximately THB 40–120
- Car: approximately THB 120
- Motorbike: approximately half the car fee
Advantages
- Freedom to explore the island independently
- Convenient for longer stays
- No reliance on local transportation
Considerations
Driving is recommended only for those who are comfortable driving in Thailand, particularly on highways and steep island roads.
Ferry Information
Nearly every route to Koh Chang includes a ferry crossing.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Departure Pier | Ao Thammachat Pier |
| Crossing Time | Approximately 30–45 minutes |
| Operating Hours | Approximately 6:30 AM–7:00 PM |
| Frequency | Every 30–45 minutes |
| Passenger Fare | Approximately THB 40–120 |
Schedules may vary slightly due to weather conditions, holidays, and seasonal demand.
Which Transportation Option Is Best?
Choose the Bus and Ferry if you:
- Want the best value for money
- Are traveling independently
- Prefer a straightforward journey
Choose the Flight if you:
- Have limited vacation time
- Are already at Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Prefer minimizing road travel
Choose a Private Transfer if you:
- Are traveling with children
- Have several pieces of luggage
- Value comfort and flexibility
Choose to Drive if you:
- Plan to explore the island extensively
- Want complete freedom during your trip
- Are experienced driving in Thailand
Step-by-Step Guide: The Easiest Budget Route
Step 1: Travel from Bangkok to Ao Thammachat Pier
Board a direct bus from Bangkok to Ao Thammachat Pier. Government-operated buses are among the most economical options and travel directly to the ferry terminal.
Travel time: approximately 5–6 hours.
Step 2: Board the Ferry to Koh Chang
Purchase a ferry ticket if it is not already included with your bus ticket.
- Ferry crossing: approximately 30–45 minutes
- Passenger fare: approximately THB 40–120
Step 3: Travel Around Koh Chang
After arriving on the island, transportation options include:
- Shared songthaews
- Scooter rentals
- Rental cars
- Private taxis
Songthaews are the most common way to travel between beaches and major tourist areas.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, the bus and ferry combination remains the best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang. It offers an excellent balance of affordability, reliability, and convenience without requiring airport transfers or a rental car.
Travelers with tighter schedules may benefit from flying to Trat, while families and groups often appreciate the comfort of a private transfer. Those planning an extended island stay may enjoy the flexibility of bringing or renting a car.
Whichever option you choose, planning your departure early in the day helps ensure a smooth connection with the ferry and maximizes your first day on Koh Chang.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
For most travelers, the bus and ferry combination offers the best balance of price, convenience, and travel time.
2. How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
Most journeys take approximately 6–7 hours, including the ferry crossing.
3. Can you fly directly to Koh Chang?
No. The nearest airport is Trat Airport (TDX). From there, you’ll need to travel to Ao Thammachat Pier and take a ferry to the island.
4. How much does the ferry to Koh Chang cost?
Passenger fares generally range from THB 40–120, depending on the operator and ticket type.
5. How often do ferries operate?
Ferries typically depart every 30–45 minutes between approximately 6:30 AM and 7:00 PM.
6. Is it possible to take a car to Koh Chang?
Yes. Cars and motorcycles can be transported on the ferry for an additional vehicle fee.
7. Which Bangkok airport is best for traveling to Koh Chang?
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the preferred airport because flights to Trat depart from there.
8. Is the bus or minivan better?
Buses generally provide more luggage space and a more comfortable ride, while minivans offer greater convenience through hotel pickup and drop-off.
9. Should transportation be booked in advance?
Advance booking is recommended during Thailand’s high season, public holidays, and long weekends, when buses, flights, and private transfers can sell out.
10. What is the best time of year to visit Koh Chang?
The dry season from November to February offers the best weather, calmer seas, and the most reliable ferry operations.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide:
