Quick Answer
Best Overall Way: Take the official Airport Shuttle Bus (Minivan) for ~150 THB. It takes 25-40 minutes and drops you at key points in Krabi Town. Fastest Way: A metered taxi or private transfer takes 20-30 minutes for 400-600 THB. Cheapest Way: Walk to the main road and catch the public Songthaew (Bus #9) for 50-60 THB, but it's less convenient.
1. Airport Shuttle Bus (Minivan) – The Best Balance
The shared minivan shuttle is the most recommended transport for solo travelers, couples, and small groups heading to Krabi Town. It operates from a clearly marked counter inside the arrivals hall.
Key Advantages: Direct service, affordable fixed price, air-conditioned, drops you at useful stops (like the Vogue Department Store/Pier area).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | 150 THB per person (fixed). |
| Travel Time | 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and number of stops. |
| Operating Hours | Runs from approx. 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, coordinated with flight schedules. |
| Where to Buy | Counter inside Krabi Airport (KBV) Arrivals Hall. No need to pre-book. |
| Luggage | Ample space for standard suitcases and backpacks in the van. |
How it Works & Tips
After collecting your bags, proceed to the "Airport Shuttle Bus" counter. Pay the fare, and you'll be directed to the waiting van outside. The van departs once full (usually a short wait of 10-20 minutes). It makes 2-3 stops in Krabi Town; inform the driver of your destination (e.g., near your hotel) for the closest stop. Have small bills ready. For official info, check the Krabi Airport website.
2. Taxi & Private Transfer – Door-to-Door Convenience
For direct, hassle-free transport to your exact hotel, choose a taxi or pre-booked private car. This is ideal for families, groups of 3-4, or those with lots of luggage.
Metered Taxis (Airport Taxi Counter)
The safest and most reliable taxi option is from the official Airport Taxi Counter inside arrivals. You pay a fixed fare based on your destination zone. Do not follow touts offering taxies outside.
- Price to Krabi Town: 400 – 600 THB (fixed, not metered).
- To Ao Nang: 600 – 800 THB.
- Journey Time: 20-30 minutes to town.
- Vehicle: Sedan or SUV.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Recommended)
Booking online in advance via reputable platforms like Klook, Viator, or local companies offers peace of mind, especially for late arrivals. A driver will hold a sign with your name at arrivals.
Price Range: 500 – 1,200 THB, depending on car size and destination. Often similar to airport taxi fares but guaranteed.
3. Public Bus & Songthaew – The Budget Adventurer's Choice
For the ultra-budget conscious, local public transport exists, but requires a short walk from the terminal.
Public Songthaew (Local Bus #9 - White Truck)
This is the regular local transport running on Highway 4 between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, passing near the airport.
- How to Catch It: Exit the terminal, turn left, and walk for about 10 minutes to the main highway (Route 4). Look for a white pick-up truck with benches in the back and a "Krabi-Ao Nang" sign.
- Price: 50 – 60 THB per person.
- Frequency: Irregular, every 20-40 minutes.
- Major Drawback: Not suitable with heavy luggage. It can be hot, crowded, and drop you at a main road in town, not your hotel.
Verdict: Only recommended for backpackers with light luggage arriving during daylight hours who are comfortable with local travel.
4. Car & Motorbike Rental at Krabi Airport
If you plan to explore beyond Krabi Town (e.g., to the Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot), Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), or other provinces), renting a vehicle is an excellent option.
| Rental Type | Average Daily Cost | Requirements & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Car (e.g., Toyota Yaris) | 800 – 1,500 THB | Requires a valid home country license + International Driving Permit (IDP). Credit card for deposit. Full insurance is highly recommended. Compare prices on RentalCars.com. |
| Motorbike/Scooter | 200 – 400 THB | Only for experienced riders. You technically need an IDP with a motorcycle endorsement, though often not enforced. ALWAYS wear a helmet. Inspect for pre-existing damage thoroughly. |
Warning: Thai driving can be chaotic. Drive defensively. Parking in Krabi Town is limited but usually available in paid lots or hotel parking.
5. Direct to Ao Nang, Railay, or Other Beaches
Many tourists head straight to the beaches, not Krabi Town.
- To Ao Nang: Use the shared minivan from the airport (200-250 THB, 40 mins). Taxi/private transfer costs 600-800 THB.
- To Railay Beach: You must take a long-tail boat. First, take a taxi/minivan to Ao Nang Beach (30-40 mins), then a 10-minute long-tail boat to Railay (150-200 THB). Some private transfers can arrange combined van+boat tickets.
- To Koh Lanta: Pre-book a combined minivan + ferry transfer (takes ~2.5 hours, from 600 THB). Direct from the airport, sold at counters in arrivals.
Pre-booking online is highly advised for these routes, especially in high season (Nov-Apr).
Krabi Airport to City Center: Cost & Time Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (per trip) | Travel Time | Best For | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle Minivan | 150 THB (per person) | 25-40 mins | Solo travelers, couples, budget-minded | High (direct from terminal) |
| Metered Taxi (Airport Counter) | 400 – 600 THB (per car) | 20-30 mins | Families (3-4), groups, those with heavy luggage | Very High (door-to-door) |
| Pre-booked Private Transfer | 500 – 1,200 THB (per car) | 20-30 mins | Late arrivals, families, anyone wanting certainty | Very High (pre-arranged, meet & greet) |
| Public Songthaew (Bus #9) | 50 – 60 THB (per person) | 30-50 mins | Ultra-budget backpackers, light packers | Low (requires walk, no schedule) |
| Car Rental | 800 – 1,500 THB (per day) | 20-30 mins (to town) | Travelers planning extensive exploration | Varies (gives freedom) |
Bottom Line: For most, the Shuttle Minivan (150 THB) offers the best value. For guaranteed ease, a Pre-booked Transfer is worth the extra cost.
6. Essential Traveler Tips & Warnings
Money & Payment
- Have Thai Baht (THB) cash ready for shuttles, taxis, and songthaews. While some taxi counters/car rentals accept cards, cash is king for drivers and small services.
- Use the ATMs in the arrivals hall for a better exchange rate than currency exchange booths.
Luggage & Logistics
- If going straight to islands like Phi Phi or Lanta, buy a combined transfer+ferry ticket at the airport for a seamless journey.
- Krabi Airport is small and efficient. You can be in a taxi or shuttle within 15-20 minutes of landing.
Seasonal & Safety Advice
- High Season (Nov-Apr): Pre-book private transfers and rental cars. Wait times for shuttles can be longer.
- Low Season/Rainy Season (May-Oct): Services run less frequently. Ferry schedules to islands can be affected by weather.
- Only use official transport counters. Politely decline offers from unsolicited touts inside or outside the terminal.
- For reliable local travel advice, refer to the Tourism Authority of Thailand website.
FAQs: Getting from Krabi Airport to Town
What is the best way to get from Krabi Airport to Krabi Town?
For most travelers, the Airport Shuttle Bus (Minivan) is the best overall option. It's affordable (around 150 THB), relatively quick (25-40 minutes), and drops you at popular spots in Krabi Town. For door-to-door convenience, a metered taxi or pre-booked private transfer is best, though more expensive.
Is there a direct bus from Krabi Airport to Krabi City Center?
Yes, there is a direct Airport Shuttle Bus (Minivan) service. It departs from right outside the arrivals hall. There is no public city bus (local bus number 9) that goes directly from the airport terminal. You must walk ~10 minutes to the main highway to catch it, which is not recommended with luggage.
How much is a taxi from Krabi Airport to town?
A metered taxi from Krabi Airport (KBV) to Krabi Town costs between 400 and 600 THB, depending on exact destination and traffic. The journey takes 20-30 minutes. Always insist on using the meter or agree on a firm price before getting in. Official airport taxis operate from a counter inside arrivals.
How do I get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang?
To get to Ao Nang (a popular beach area, not the main town), you have three main options: 1) Shared Minivan: (~200-250 THB, 40 mins). 2) Private Taxi/Transfer: (~600-800 THB, 30 mins). 3) Airport Shuttle + Local Songthaew: Take shuttle to Krabi Town, then a songthaew to Ao Nang (~100 THB extra). Pre-booking a transfer is highly recommended for Ao Nang.
Is Grab available at Krabi Airport?
Yes, the Grab ride-hailing app operates at Krabi Airport. However, pickup is not allowed directly at the terminal. You typically need to walk to the designated parking area or nearby hotel for pickup. Prices are comparable to metered taxis. Having a local SIM card for data is essential to use this option.
What is the cheapest way from Krabi Airport to the city?
The absolute cheapest way is the public Songthaew (local bus #9), costing about 50-60 THB. However, you must walk ~10 minutes from the terminal to the main road (Highway 4) to catch it, it has no fixed schedule, and can be crowded. For a balance of cost and convenience, the Airport Shuttle Bus at 150 THB is the recommended budget choice.
Can I rent a car at Krabi Airport?
Yes, several international and local car rental companies (like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and local providers) have desks at Krabi Airport arrivals. Renting a car is a great option if you plan to explore Krabi province extensively (e.g., Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool, remote beaches). Prices start from ~800-1000 THB per day. Ensure you have a valid International Driving Permit.
What if my flight arrives at Krabi Airport late at night?
For late-night arrivals (after 10:00 PM), your options are limited. The Airport Shuttle Bus may have stopped. Your safest and often only reliable choices are: 1) Pre-booked Private Transfer (highly recommended). 2) Official Airport Taxi (the counter operates for most arriving flights). Avoid unofficial taxis touting outside. Always have some Thai Baht cash ready.