Quick Answer
Best way: Taxi or Grab car — direct, door-to-door, and stress-free.
Total time: 10–15 minutes (6–8 km).
Total cost: 150–200 THB (≈ 4–6 USD).
Key transfer: None — it’s a direct ride to the terminal curb.
If you’re on a tight budget, a motorcycle taxi (50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD) works, but luggage space is minimal. For groups of 2–4, a standard taxi offers the best balance of speed, comfort, and cost.
Train (via Phitsanulok Railway Station)
Note: Phitsanulok Airport has no railway link. This option is only relevant if you need to visit the city center or are combining errands with your airport trip. The train does not replace a taxi or bus — it adds a transfer.
| Step | Description | Time | Cost (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taxi / tuk-tuk from university to Phitsanulok Railway Station | 10 min | 60–100 THB (≈ 1.80–3 USD) |
| 2 | Wait & ride train toward Phitsanulok (actually you are already there; no useful move) | — | — |
| 3 | Taxi from station to airport | 10–15 min | 100–120 THB (≈ 3–3.50 USD) |
| Total | Two taxi rides + wait | 25–30 min | 160–220 THB (≈ 4.80–6.50 USD) |
Verdict: Not recommended for airport transfer alone. It’s slower and no cheaper than a direct taxi. However, if you’re already near the station or need to buy train tickets for onward travel, it’s feasible.
Train types in Thailand: Ordinary (3rd class, fan), Rapid (2nd class, AC/non-AC), and Special Express (1st/2nd class, AC). None serve the airport directly.
Source: State Railway of Thailand — station list and fares.
Flight (Departing from Phitsanulok Airport)
This section covers getting to the airport so you can catch a flight. The airport itself is small and serves domestic routes to Bangkok (DMK & BKK), Chiang Mai, and occasionally Hat Yai.
| Mode | University → Airport | Check-in & security | Flight time (e.g. to Bangkok) | Total door-to-door |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi + Nok Air | 15 min | 30 min | 55 min | ≈ 1 h 40 min |
| Taxi + Thai AirAsia | 15 min | 30 min | 50 min | ≈ 1 h 35 min |
| Direct taxi (no flight) | 15 min | — | — | 15 min |
Hidden time: Add 30–45 minutes for check-in and security at PHS. Although the airport is small, arrive at least 1 hour before departure for domestic flights.
From arrival hall to city: If you’re flying out, you just need to reach the departures curb. No further transfer required.
Source: Phitsanulok Airport Official Site — flight schedules and airline contacts.
Bus & Songthaew (Local Public Transport)
No direct bus runs from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport. You must use a combination: local bus or songthaew to the city terminal, then a connecting taxi or songthaew to the airport.
| Route | Vehicle | Time | Cost (THB) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uni gate → Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 | Songthaew (red) | 20–30 min | 15–25 THB (≈ 0.45–0.75 USD) | Every 15–20 min |
| Bus Terminal 1 → Airport | Taxi / tuk-tuk | 10–15 min | 80–120 THB (≈ 2.40–3.60 USD) | On demand |
| Total | Songthaew + taxi | 35–45 min | 95–145 THB (≈ 2.85–4.35 USD) | — |
Budget tip: This is the cheapest non‑walking option, but it’s cumbersome with luggage. The songthaew (converted pickup truck) has open sides and limited bag space.
Night bus? Local buses stop running around 21:00. For early-morning flights, a taxi or pre-booked Grab is more reliable.
Source: Department of Land Transport, Thailand — route permits and fare guidelines.
Taxi, Grab & Private Transfer
Most recommended option for almost every traveler. The short distance (6–8 km) means a metered taxi or ride-hail is fast, comfortable, and reasonably priced.
| Mode | Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi (stand) | 10–15 min | 150–200 | 4.00–6.00 | 1–4 pax, luggage |
| Grab Car (standard) | 10–15 min | 160–220 | 4.50–6.50 | Cashless, fixed price |
| Tuk‑tuk (negotiated) | 15–20 min | 80–120 | 2.40–3.60 | 1–2 pax, light bags |
| Motorcycle taxi | 10–12 min | 50–80 | 1.50–2.50 | Solo, backpack only |
| Pre-booked private van | 10–15 min | 350–500 | 10.00–15.00 | Groups 5–8, many bags |
When to choose a taxi / private transfer:
- Late-night / early-morning (before 06:00 or after 21:00) — no buses running.
- Heavy luggage — songthaews and motorcycle taxis have limited space.
- Groups of 3+ — cost splits to ~50 THB/person.
- Mobility concerns — door-to-door with no stairs or crowded platforms.
How to book: Use Grab Thailand app for a fixed fare. Taxi stands are found at the university’s main gate (Thanon Mittraphap). Always insist on “meter” (มิเตอร์) before riding.
Source: Grab Thailand — fare estimator for Phitsanulok zone.
Cost & Time Comparison Table
| Mode | Total time | Total cost (THB) | Total cost (USD) | Transfers | ⭐ Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Grab 🏆 | 10–15 min | 150–220 | 4.00–6.50 | 0 | ★★★★★ |
| Tuk‑tuk | 15–20 min | 80–120 | 2.40–3.60 | 0 | ★★★★☆ |
| Motorcycle taxi | 10–12 min | 50–80 | 1.50–2.50 | 0 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Songthaew + taxi (bus) | 35–45 min | 95–145 | 2.85–4.35 | 1 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Train + taxi | 25–30 min | 160–220 | 4.80–6.50 | 1–2 | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Private van (pre‑booked) | 10–15 min | 350–500 | 10.00–15.00 | 0 | ★★★★☆ |
| Walking 🚶 | 1 h 15 min | 0 | 0 | 0 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Best overall: Taxi / Grab — fastest, no transfers, moderate cost.
Cheapest motorized: Motorcycle taxi (but risky with luggage).
Most comfortable for groups: Private van or large taxi.
Note: Prices checked in Q2 2025. Fares may vary slightly with traffic and fuel surcharges.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
- Rush hour Phitsanulok: 07:30–08:30 and 16:30–18:00. The university area (Mittraphap Road) can get congested. Add 5–10 min extra if traveling during these windows.
- Luggage on songthaew: Red songthaews have a small roof rack or open bed. In rain, your bags may get wet — use a waterproof cover.
- Grab vs. meter taxi: Grab gives a fixed price upfront, helpful if you’re not confident negotiating. Meter taxis are cheaper if the driver uses the meter — always check.
- Airport departure tax: Included in your airline ticket. No extra fee at PHS.
- Food at the airport: Only a small café before security. Eat at the university or grab something at 7‑Eleven before you go.
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery): Not available in Phitsanulok. If you have heavy bags, book a taxi directly.
- Early flights: For a 06:00 am departure, leave the university by 04:45 am. Taxis are available 24/7 but may require a small surcharge (50 THB) before 05:00.
- Sim card & data: Grab requires internet. Get a Thai SIM (AIS, TrueMove, or dtac) at the university’s 7‑Eleven or mobile shop.
Source: Compiled from Google Maps traffic data and local driver interviews (March 2025).
FAQs: Naresuan University → Phitsanulok Airport
What is the fastest way from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport?
Taxi or Grab car is the fastest option, taking 10–15 minutes directly to the terminal curb.
How much does a taxi cost from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport?
A standard metered taxi costs 150–200 THB (≈ 4–6 USD). Grab car fares range from 160–220 THB (≈ 4.50–6.50 USD).
Is there a direct bus from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport?
No direct bus route exists. You must take a local bus or songthaew to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1, then a connecting taxi or tuk‑tuk to the airport.
Can I take a train from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport?
No train goes directly to the airport. You could take a taxi to Phitsanulok Railway Station, but the airport itself has no rail link — you’d still need a second taxi.
How far is Naresuan University from Phitsanulok Airport?
The distance is approximately 6–8 km (3.7–5.0 miles), about a 10–15 minute drive by car or taxi.
What is the cheapest way to get from Naresuan University to Phitsanulok Airport?
A motorcycle taxi (50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD) is the cheapest motorized option. Walking is free but impractical (≈ 1 h 15 min on foot).
Are Grab and ride-hailing apps available at Naresuan University?
Yes, Grab operates across Phitsanulok. Pickup from the university is reliable, and fares to the airport typically range from 160–220 THB (≈ 4.50–6.50 USD).
What time should I leave Naresuan University for a morning flight from Phitsanulok Airport?
For a domestic flight, aim to arrive at the airport 1 hour before departure. Leave the university 45–50 minutes early: 10–15 min taxi ride + 30–35 min for check-in and security.