Quick Answer
For most travelers, the fastest and most convenient way to get from Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) to Phitsanulok Railway Station is by metered taxi or pre-booked private transfer, taking 15-25 minutes and costing 200-400 THB. The cheapest option is a shared songthaew to the city center followed by a short tuk-tuk ride, totaling under 100 THB but taking 30-45 minutes with a transfer. There is no direct public bus.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Phitsanulok Airport
This is the most straightforward, door-to-door option, ideal for first-time visitors, families, those with heavy luggage, or arrivals during late hours.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Exit Arrivals: After collecting your bags, exit the main terminal building at Phitsanulok Airport.
- Find the Taxi Stand: The official metered taxi stand is located directly outside the arrivals hall. Look for the signage or queue.
- Agree on the Fare (or Meter): While taxis are supposed to use the meter, it's wise to confirm with the driver before getting in. You can say "Meter, please?". Alternatively, you can agree on a fixed price (usually 250-300 THB to the station or city center).
- Provide Destination: Show the driver the address or name of the railway station in Thai: สถานีรถไฟพิษณุโลก (Sathani Rot Fai Phitsanulok). Having it written on your phone is helpful.
Private Transfer (Pre-Booked)
For guaranteed service, fixed pricing, and peace of mind, especially for groups or late-night flights, booking a private car in advance is highly recommended. Services like KiwiTaxi or Booking.com's car rental service offer reliable options.
| Option | Average Cost (THB) | Travel Time | Best For | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Metered Taxi | 200 - 350 | 15-25 min | Solo travelers, couples, immediate departure | On-the-spot at airport stand |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | 600 - 1,200 | 15-25 min | Families (up to 3), groups, late-night arrivals, business travel | Online via transfer websites |
| Pre-Booked Private Van | 1,200 - 2,000 | 15-25 min | Groups of 4-10, lots of luggage | Online via transfer websites |
Local Transport: Songthaew & Tuk-Tuk (Budget Choice)
For the adventurous and budget-conscious, local shared transport offers an authentic Thai experience at a minimal cost.
Detailed Route & Instructions:
Step 1: Airport to City Center via Songthaew
- What is a Songthaew? A converted pickup truck with two benches in the back. They run on fixed routes but can be hailed like a bus.
- Finding it: Walk out of the airport terminal towards the main road (Highway 12). You will see songthaews parked or passing by. They are often white or blue.
- Route & Fare: They typically travel along Highway 12 towards the city center, passing key hubs like Bus Terminal 2 and the Old Town. Simply hail one going in the direction of the city. Fare is per person, usually 20-40 THB. Tell the driver your general destination (e.g., "Boroviharn" for the central temple area).
- Key Stop: Ask to get off near Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (Wat Yai) or Topland Plaza. From here, the railway station is a 15-minute walk or a short tuk-tuk ride away.
Step 2: City Center to Railway Station
- By Foot: If you have a small backpack, it's a pleasant 10-20 minute walk east from Wat Yai. Use Google Maps for navigation.
- By Tuk-Tuk: Hail a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) and negotiate a fare. A short trip from the city center to the station should cost 30-60 THB. Show the driver the Thai station name.
Total Budget: 50-100 THB per person. Total Time: 30-60 minutes (highly variable).
Drawbacks: No dedicated space for large luggage, exposure to weather, requires basic negotiation, and service frequency drops in the evening.
Renting a Car at Phitsanulok Airport
If you plan to explore the wider Phitsanulok province or travel onwards to Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, or Loei, renting a car provides ultimate flexibility. Major international providers like Avis, Budget, and Economy Bookings have desks at PHS airport. Driving from the airport to the railway station is simple: head north on Highway 12 towards the city, then follow signs for the city center. The station is well-signposted. Parking is available at the station for a small fee if you need to drop off a rental car there.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost (THB) | Travel Time | Transfers | Best Suited For | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered Taxi | 200 - 350 | 15-25 min | None (Direct) | Most travelers, couples, moderate luggage | ✅ BEST for Balance |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | 600 - 1,200 | 15-25 min | None (Direct) | Families, groups, late arrivals, business | ✅ BEST for Convenience/Groups |
| Songthaew + Tuk-Tuk | 50 - 100 | 30-60 min | 1 (Songthaew to Tuk-Tuk) | Solo backpackers, budget travelers, light luggage | ✅ BEST for Budget |
| Rental Car | 800 - 1,500/day + fuel | 15-25 min | None (Direct) | Travelers exploring the region | For extended travel only |
Source: Compiled from local transport authority data, traveler reports, and transfer service pricing as of 2024.
Traveler Experience & Local Tips
Essential Local Knowledge:
- Cash is King: Have plenty of small Thai Baht (THB) notes (20, 50, 100) for paying taxi, songthaew, and tuk-tuk drivers. Cards are rarely accepted for these short trips.
- Google Maps is Accurate: Use it to track your route in the songthaew or to walk from the city center to the station. You can download the offline map of Phitsanulok for backup.
- Station Amenities: Phitsanulok Railway Station has basic waiting rooms, food vendors, and ticket counters. Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your train's departure if you need to purchase a ticket on the spot.
- Luggage Storage: If you arrive early for your train, some shops near the station offer paid luggage storage services (approx. 50 THB per bag/day).
- Beware of "Fixed Price" Taxis: Some drivers at the airport may offer a fixed price significantly higher than the metered rate. Politely insist on the meter ("Meter, ka/krap") or walk to the official stand.
- Rainy Season (May-Oct): Have a rain cover for your bags if using songthaews/tuk-tuks. Taxis become the more comfortable option during downpours.
FAQs: Phitsanulok Airport to Railway Station Transport
Is there a direct bus from Phitsanulok Airport to the railway station?
No, there is no direct public bus route connecting Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) directly to Phitsanulok Railway Station. The most straightforward public option is to take a metered taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Alternatively, you can take a local songthaew (shared pickup truck taxi) or a tuk-tuk from the airport to the city center, and then walk or take another short ride to the station, but this involves a transfer.
What is the cheapest way to get from the airport to the train station?
The cheapest way is to use a combination of local transport: take a shared songthaew from the airport to the city center (Old Town area or Bus Terminal 2) for about 20-40 THB, then either walk (if you have light luggage) or take a short tuk-tuk ride (30-50 THB) to the railway station. The total cost can be under 100 THB per person.
How long does a taxi take from Phitsanulok Airport to the railway station?
The taxi ride is relatively short, taking approximately 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Phitsanulok Airport is located about 10 kilometers south of the city center, and the railway station is on the eastern side of the city center. Late-night or early-morning trips with no traffic can be on the lower end of this range.
Can I walk from Phitsanulok Airport to the train station?
It is not recommended and impractical to walk. The distance is approximately 10-12 kilometers, which would take over 2 hours on foot in often hot and humid conditions. The route involves highways not designed for pedestrians. Taking local transport is strongly advised for safety and comfort.
Are taxis available at Phitsanulok Airport upon arrival?
Yes, metered taxis are generally available at the arrivals area of Phitsanulok Airport. However, availability can be limited for late-night flights (after 10 PM). For guaranteed service, especially during odd hours or with a large group, it's recommended to pre-book a private transfer online in advance.
Is the train station within walking distance from the Phitsanulok city center?
Yes, if you are in the core of the Phitsanulok city center (near the famous Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat or Naresuan University Hospital), the railway station is within a 10 to 20-minute walk. This is convenient for travelers with light bags. Key landmarks like the Pailyn Hotel and Topland Plaza are also within walking distance of the station.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
For late-night arrivals, your safest and most reliable option is to pre-book a private airport transfer. Metered taxis might still be available, but it's not guaranteed. Avoid relying on songthaews or tuk-tuks at night as services are sparse. Have your hotel's name and address in Thai written down to show the driver.
Is it better to take a taxi or a bus for a family with lots of luggage?
For a family with significant luggage, a taxi or pre-booked private van is significantly better. Local songthaews have limited space and are not designed for large suitcases. A taxi offers door-to-door service, privacy, and space for luggage. While more expensive than public options, the convenience and comfort for a family group are worth the cost for this short transfer.