Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal is by metered or pre-agreed taxi, taking 15-20 minutes and costing 250-350 THB (~$7-$10 USD). For budget travelers, the shared airport minivan is the best value at 100-150 THB per person, taking 25-40 minutes. There is no direct public bus.
1. Taxi: The Fastest & Most Convenient Option
Taking a taxi is the most straightforward method, especially if you have luggage or are traveling in a small group (2-4 people). It's a door-to-door service.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details:
- Where to Find Them: The official taxi queue is located directly outside the arrivals hall of the small terminal.
- Fare Structure:
- Metered Fare: Insist on using the meter ("meter, please"). The fare should be around 200-250 THB, plus a potential 50-100 THB airport surcharge.
- Fixed Fare: Drivers often quote a flat rate. The standard negotiated price to the bus terminal is 250-350 THB for the entire car.
- Journey Time: 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic on Highway 12 and within the city.
- Operators: Local Phitsanulok taxi cooperatives. No major international companies operate here.
Pro Tips & Considerations:
- Always Agree on Price First: Before entering the taxi, clearly state your destination ("Bor Khet Sud Phan" - Bus Terminal) and confirm the total price.
- Small Airport Advantage: With few flights, taxis aren't always plentiful. If none are at the rank, wait 10-15 minutes or ask at the airport information counter.
- Payment: Cash only (Thai Baht). Ensure you have smaller bills. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.
2. Airport Van / Shared Minivan: The Best Budget-Friendly Choice
Shared minivans provide a balance between cost and convenience, making them the top choice for solo travelers and couples watching their budget.
In-Depth Analysis:
- Service Model: These are shared vans that wait outside arrivals. They typically depart when they have 6-10 passengers or on a loose schedule tied to flight arrivals.
- Route & Drop-off: They do not go directly to the bus terminal. The standard route drops passengers at central points in Phitsanulok city, such as the Naresuan University area or along Naresuan Road. You will then need a short (5-minute, 40-60 THB) tuk-tuk ride to the bus terminal.
- Fare: 100-150 THB per person.
- Total Door-to-Terminal Time: Approximately 25-40 minutes (van ride + wait time + tuk-tuk transfer).
What You Need to Know:
- Luggage Space: Limited. Large backpacks are usually fine, but oversized suitcases may be problematic if the van is full.
- Availability: Most reliable for arrivals coinciding with daytime flights. Service may be scarce for the last flight of the day.
- Verification: Confirm with the driver that they are going "to the city" ("bai *mueang*") and ask about the specific drop-off point.
3. Private Car Transfer: For Maximum Comfort & Groups
While not commonly advertised at the airport itself, pre-booking a private transfer is an excellent option for families, groups, or those arriving late.
Comprehensive Guide:
- How to Book: Use online platforms like KiwiTaxi, 12GoAsia, or work with your hotel in Phitsanulok to arrange a pickup.
- Cost: Significantly higher, ranging from 800 to 1,500 THB depending on the vehicle type (sedan vs. van) and service level.
- Advantages:
- Guaranteed Service: A driver will be waiting for you with a name sign.
- No Negotiation: Price is fixed and paid online.
- Direct & Efficient: Goes straight to the bus terminal or any address you specify.
- Ideal for Groups: Cost can be shared among 3-7 people, making it competitive with multiple taxis.
When It Makes Sense:
Choose a private transfer if: you have more than 3 people, are traveling with young children or elderly companions, have a lot of luggage, or are arriving on a late flight and want certainty.
4. Local Bus & Songthaew: The Challenging Adventure
This is the most local and least tourist-friendly option, involving multiple changes. Only attempt this if you are on an extreme budget, have very light luggage, and are not in a hurry.
The Reality Check:
Warning: There is no direct public bus from the airport terminal. You must first get to the main road (Highway 12).
- Walk or Hitch a Ride to the Main Road: The airport access road is about 1 km long. You may need to walk or hope a friendly local gives you a lift to the highway.
- Catch a Songthaew (Shared Pickup Truck): On Highway 12, flag down a southbound songthaew heading towards the city center. The fare is about 20-30 THB. Tell the driver "Naresuan Road" or "Clock Tower".
- Transfer to the Bus Terminal: From your city drop-off point, take a tuk-tuk or another songthaew to the Phitsanulok Bus Terminal for another 20-40 THB.
Total Time: 60+ minutes. Total Cost: 40-70 THB. Difficulty: High (language barriers, unclear schedules, heat, luggage hassle).
5. Cost & Time Comparison: Choose Your Best Option
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (per vehicle/person) | Travel Time | Convenience / Key Consideration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (Private) | 250 - 350 THB (car) | 15-20 min | Most convenient, door-to-door, minimal wait. | Couples, small groups, those with luggage, urgency. |
| Airport Shared Van | 100 - 150 THB (person) | 25-40 min* | Best value. Requires short tuk-tuk transfer from city drop-off point. | Solo travelers, budget-conscious couples. |
| Private Pre-booked Transfer | 800 - 1,500 THB (car/van) | 15-20 min | Stress-free, meet & greet. Most expensive per vehicle. | Families, large groups, late arrivals, special needs. |
| Local Songthaew + Tuk-tuk | 40 - 70 THB (person) | 60+ min | Least convenient. Multiple changes, walking, language dependent. | Adventurous backpackers with light luggage on a strict budget. |
* Includes wait time for van to fill up and transfer to tuk-tuk.
6. Essential Traveler Tips & Insider Experience
Money & Preparation:
- Get Thai Baht at the Airport: Withdraw or exchange a small amount (at least 1000 THB) at the airport ATM or exchange counter. Taxis and vans are cash-only. According to Bangkok Bank, ATMs are widely available in Thailand.
- Have Small Bills: Drivers often cannot change 1000 THB notes for a 250 THB fare. Break large notes at the airport shop.
At the Bus Terminal (Phitsanulok Bor Khet Sud Phan):
- Buy Tickets in Advance if Possible: For popular routes like to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, especially on Fridays or Sundays, buy your onward bus ticket as soon as you arrive to secure your preferred time.
- Terminal Facilities: The terminal has basic amenities: food stalls, convenience stores, and waiting areas. It can be busy and chaotic.
General Advice:
- Stay Flexible: Flight delays can happen. Don't book a tight onward bus connection; allow at least 2-3 hours between your flight arrival and bus departure.
- Consider Staying a Night: Phitsanulok is a gateway to Sukhothai Historical Park. If you arrive late, consider staying overnight at a hotel near the bus terminal (like Amarin Phitsanulok Hotel) and exploring before moving on.
FAQs: Your Phitsanulok Airport Transfer Questions Answered
Is there a direct bus from Phitsanulok Airport to the city bus terminal?
No, there is no direct public bus route connecting Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) directly to the main Phitsanulok Bus Terminal. Travelers must use a combination of taxi, airport shuttle van, or local songthaew to reach the city center or the bus terminal.
What is the cheapest way to get from Phitsanulok Airport to the bus terminal?
The absolute cheapest way is to take a local songthaew (shared pickup truck taxi) from the airport road to the city center (Naresuan Road area) for about 20-30 THB, then transfer to a local tuk-tuk or another songthaew to the bus terminal for another 20-40 THB. However, the most convenient budget option is the shared airport van.
How much is a taxi from Phitsanulok Airport to the bus station?
A private taxi from Phitsanulok Airport to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal typically costs between 250 and 350 Thai Baht (THB) for the entire car. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Always agree on the price before getting in or insist the meter is used.
Is the airport van (shuttle) available upon arrival at PHS?
Yes, shared minivan shuttles to the city center usually wait outside the arrivals hall. They depart when full or on a semi-regular schedule. The fare is around 100-150 THB per person. Confirm the drop-off point with the driver, as it may be at a central hotel or street, not directly at the bus terminal.
How long does the transfer take?
The transfer time varies significantly by mode of transport:
- Taxi/Private Car: 15-20 minutes.
- Airport Van: 25-40 minutes (including potential stops).
- Public Songthaew + Tuk-tuk: 40-60+ minutes (including waiting and transfer time).
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
Phitsanulok Airport has limited late-night flights. If you arrive on the last flight, your only reliable options are a pre-booked private transfer or a taxi. The airport van service may have ended. It's advisable to book accommodation in Phitsanulok for the night and proceed to the bus terminal the next morning.
Can I walk from Phitsanulok Airport to the city or bus terminal?
It is not recommended and impractical to walk. The airport is located about 7-8 kilometers south of the city center, and the walk would take over 1.5 hours along roads with inconsistent or no sidewalks, in potentially hot weather. The bus terminal is further within the city.
Where can I buy bus tickets from Phitsanulok to other destinations?
Tickets for buses to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and other destinations are purchased directly at the Phitsanulok Bus Terminal (Bor Khet Sud Phan). You can buy them at the ticket counters inside the terminal. For popular routes, especially during weekends or holidays, it's wise to book a day in advance. Some services, like BusOnlineTicket, also offer online booking.