Quick Answer: Best Way to Reach Ubon Ratchathani Airport
Best overall: A metered taxi or GrabCar – 15–20 minutes, 200–300 THB (6–9 USD), door-to-door comfort with air-conditioning. For budget travelers, take the Songthaew (line 5) or orange public bus – 35–55 minutes, only 15–60 THB (0.45–1.80 USD). The fastest option is a motorcycle taxi (GrabBike) – 10–15 minutes, 60–120 THB (2–4 USD), but not suitable with large luggage.
Tuk-tuk & Motorcycle Taxi: Local & Affordable
Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are the most iconic and flexible ways to travel the 5–6 km from Ubon Ratchathani city center to Ubon Airport (UBP). They are widely available near markets, hotels, and major intersections such as Thung Si Muang Park and Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal 1.
Tuk-tuk (三轮摩托车)
Price: 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) – always negotiate before boarding.
Time: 18–28 minutes depending on traffic.
Capacity: 2–3 passengers with limited luggage (1 small bag per person max).
Pros: Fun, open-air experience, easy to find, no need to book.
Cons: No air-conditioning, noise, bumpy ride, not ideal for large suitcases.
Motorcycle Taxi (GrabBike / street moto)
Price: 50–120 THB (1.50–3.60 USD) – cheapest motorized option.
Time: 10–15 minutes – fastest way to the airport.
Pros: Extremely fast, can weave through traffic, very cheap.
Cons: No luggage space (backpack only), requires balancing, not safe with children, exposed to weather.
Where to find them
- Near Thung Si Muang Park – main tuk-tuk stand.
- Around Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal 1 (Nakorn Ubon Rd).
- On Ratchathani Road near the night market.
- Via Grab app – search "GrabBike" or "GrabCar Tuk-tuk".
Safety tips
- Always agree on the tuk-tuk price before getting in – no meter.
- For motorcycle taxis, insist on a helmet (the driver must provide one).
- Avoid tuk-tuks after 10 PM in isolated areas – use Grab for safety.
- Carry small bills – drivers often cannot change large notes.
Source: Thailand Department of Land Transport – tuk-tuk fare guidelines (2024). www.dlt.go.th
Songthaew & Public Bus: Cheapest Way to Ubon Airport
For budget-conscious travelers, Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) and the orange public bus offer the most economical ride from the city center to Ubon Ratchathani Airport. These options are used by locals daily and provide a genuine Thai travel experience.
Songthaew (สองแถว) – Line 5
Price: 30–60 THB (0.90–1.80 USD) per person.
Time: 30–45 minutes depending on how many passengers are picked up along the route.
Route: Starts from Thung Si Muang Park, goes along Ratchathani Road, turns onto Chayangkun Road, and stops directly at the airport entrance.
Frequency: Every 15–25 minutes from 06:00–18:00.
Pros: Very cheap, local experience, room for small luggage.
Cons: No fixed schedule, can be crowded, roof is low for tall passengers, no air-con.
Orange Public Bus (รถเมล์สายสีส้ม)
Price: 15–25 THB (0.45–0.75 USD) – the absolute cheapest.
Time: 40–55 minutes.
Route: Departs from the old bus station (Terminal 1), passes the clock tower roundabout, and continues to the airport.
Frequency: Every 30–40 minutes, 06:30–17:30.
Pros: Cheapest possible option, air-conditioned (some buses).
Cons: Slow, limited space for luggage, not suitable for strollers, early stop at 17:30.
How to ride like a local
- Flag down any Songthaew with "สาย 5" (Line 5) written on the side.
- Press the buzzer or knock on the roof when you see the airport entrance.
- Pay the driver directly – exact change is appreciated.
- For the orange bus, wait at any designated bus stop along Ratchathani Road.
Source: Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Transport Office – local bus & songthaew routes (2024). www.ubonratchathani.go.th
| Feature | Songthaew (Line 5) | Orange Public Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 30–60 THB (0.90–1.80 USD) | 15–25 THB (0.45–0.75 USD) |
| Travel time | 30–45 min | 40–55 min |
| Air-conditioning | No (open sides) | Some buses have A/C |
| Luggage space | Limited (1 bag) | Limited (small bag) |
| Last departure | ~18:00 | ~17:30 |
Private Car & Rental: Maximum Flexibility
Renting a car or driving your own vehicle gives you complete freedom to travel between Ubon city center and the airport on your own schedule. This option is ideal for families, groups, or anyone planning to explore the wider Ubon Ratchathani region.
Car Rental in Ubon Ratchathani
Price: 800–1,500 THB (24–45 USD) per day for a compact car (e.g., Toyota Vios or Honda City).
Fuel cost (one-way): ~30–50 THB (1–1.50 USD) for the 5–6 km trip.
Parking at airport: 100–150 THB (3–4.50 USD) per day in the long-term lot.
Recommended rental agencies: Budget, Hertz, Thai Rent a Car – all have desks at Ubon Airport and city branches.
Driving directions from city center to UBP
- Start from Thung Si Muang Park – head west on Ratchathani Road (Route 2050).
- Continue straight for 2.5 km until you reach the Chayangkun Road intersection (traffic lights).
- Turn left onto Chayangkun Road (Route 212) and drive for 2 km.
- Follow the brown airport signs – the airport entrance will be on your right.
- Total distance: 5.5 km – about 12–18 minutes without traffic.
Documents required for rental
- Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit recommended).
- Passport for identification.
- Credit card for deposit (typically 5,000–10,000 THB hold).
Pros & Cons
Pros: Door-to-door flexibility, comfortable with A/C, space for luggage, no waiting.
Cons: Daily rental cost is high for a short trip, need to find parking, traffic can be tricky during rush hour (07:00–08:30 and 16:30–18:00).
Source: Thai Rent a Car – Ubon Ratchathani branch pricing (2025). www.thairentacar.com
Taxi & Hotel Transfer: Comfort & Convenience
For travelers who value simplicity, comfort, and reliability, a private taxi or pre-arranged hotel transfer is the best way to get from Ubon Ratchathani city center to the airport. This is the most recommended option for families, business travelers, and anyone with heavy luggage.
Metered Taxi / GrabCar
Price: 200–300 THB (6–9 USD) via meter or GrabCar – fixed price shown in app.
Time: 15–20 minutes door-to-door.
Booking: Use Grab app (GrabCar), ask your hotel to call a taxi, or flag one down on the street (rare in Ubon – best to book).
Pros: Air-conditioned, professional driver, luggage space, no negotiation.
Cons: More expensive than tuk-tuk or Songthaew, may need to wait 5–10 minutes for pickup.
Hotel Shuttle / Private Transfer
Price: 250–500 THB (7.50–15 USD) – often included for free at higher-end hotels.
Time: 15–25 minutes.
Booking: Arrange at the hotel front desk at least 1 hour before departure.
Pros: Very convenient, driver waits for you, fixed price, no hailing needed.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than street taxi, limited availability at budget guesthouses.
Which hotels offer free airport transfers?
- Ubon Ratchathani Hotel (4-star) – free shuttle for guests, 20-min notice.
- Laithong Hotel – complimentary transfer 06:00–20:00.
- Tohsang Khongjiam Resort (luxury) – included in premium packages.
- Most budget guesthouses can arrange a taxi for ~250 THB (7.50 USD).
When to choose a taxi or transfer
- Early morning flights (before 7:00 AM) – public transport not running.
- Late arrivals (after 9:00 PM) – tuk-tuks and buses are scarce.
- Heavy luggage (more than 1 suitcase per person).
- Traveling with elderly or young children – comfort and safety first.
- Business travelers – time efficiency and professionalism.
Source: Grab Thailand – official fare estimates for Ubon Ratchathani (Q1 2025). www.grab.com/th
Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every way to get from Ubon Ratchathani city center to Ubon Airport (UBP). Best option and Cheapest option are highlighted.
| Transport Mode | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD approx.) | Travel Time | Luggage Space | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Taxi / GrabCar | 200–300 THB | 6–9 USD | 15–20 min | ✅ Large | Best overall – comfort & speed |
| Hotel Transfer | 250–500 THB | 7.50–15 USD | 15–25 min | ✅ Large | Convenience, families |
| GrabBike (moto-taxi) | 60–120 THB | 2–4 USD | 10–15 min ⚡ | ❌ Backpack only | Fastest – solo travelers |
| Tuk-tuk | 100–200 THB | 3–6 USD | 18–28 min | ⚠️ Limited | Local experience |
| Songthaew (Line 5) | 30–60 THB | 0.90–1.80 USD | 30–45 min | ⚠️ Limited | Budget, light luggage |
| 💰 Orange Public Bus | 15–25 THB | 0.45–0.75 USD | 40–55 min | ⚠️ Limited | Cheapest – no rush |
| Rental Car (per day) | 800–1,500 THB | 24–45 USD | 12–18 min | ✅ Maximum | Flexibility, exploring region |
Note: Prices are based on 2025 data and may vary slightly depending on time of day, traffic, and exact pickup location in the city center.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights: Getting It Right
Real advice from frequent travelers and Ubon locals to make your airport transfer smooth and stress-free.
⌚ Timing matters – avoid these rush hours
Ubon Ratchathani experiences heavy traffic on Ratchathani Road and Chayangkun Road from 07:00–08:30 and 16:30–18:00 on weekdays. If your flight is during these windows, add 10–15 minutes to your journey. The airport is small, so check-in is quick – but arrive at least 60 minutes before domestic flights.
🧳 Luggage hack: Takkyubin (baggage delivery) is not available here
Unlike Japan, Thailand's Takkyubin (luggage forwarding) service is not widespread in Ubon Ratchathani. If you have heavy bags, a taxi or GrabCar is your best bet. The Songthaew and bus have very limited space – avoid them if you have more than one suitcase.
📱 Essential apps for your transfer
- Grab – book taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes with fixed prices. Works reliably in Ubon.
- Google Maps – accurate driving directions and bus route info.
- LINE MAN – local ride-hailing alternative, sometimes cheaper than Grab.
- Airport's official website – check flight status and transport info: www.ubonratchathaniairport.com
🌡️ Weather & comfort
Ubon Ratchathani is hot year-round (average 30–38°C / 86–100°F). If you choose a tuk-tuk or Songthaew, bring water, a hat, and sunscreen. The orange bus and taxis have A/C – much more comfortable during the hot season (March–May).
💵 Cash is king
Most tuk-tuks and Songthaews only accept cash. Taxis and Grab accept both cash and card (Grab also supports PromptPay and credit cards). Always carry small denominations (20, 50, 100 THB notes) for easier payment.
🏨 Ask your hotel for a card in Thai
Before you leave, ask your hotel to write the destination in Thai: "ไปสนามบินอุบลราชธานี" (to Ubon Ratchathani Airport). Show this to any driver – it eliminates confusion, especially with tuk-tuk drivers who may not speak English.
Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand – Ubon Ratchathani travel tips (2025). www.tourismthailand.org
FAQs: Everything Else You Need to Know
1. Is there a direct public transport from Ubon Ratchathani city center to the airport?
Yes, both the Songthaew (Line 5) and the orange public bus run direct routes from the city center (Thung Si Muang Park area) to Ubon Airport. No transfers are needed. The Songthaew runs every 15–25 minutes until about 18:00, and the bus every 30–40 minutes until 17:30.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Ubon Ratchathani city center to the airport?
A standard metered taxi or GrabCar costs 200–300 THB (6–9 USD). If you book through a hotel, expect 250–400 THB (7.50–12 USD). Always confirm the fare beforehand if the taxi doesn't use a meter – most drivers in Ubon are honest, but it's good practice.
3. What is the cheapest way to get from Ubon city center to Ubon Airport?
The orange public bus is the cheapest at 15–25 THB (0.45–0.75 USD) per person. The Songthaew (Line 5) is the next cheapest at 30–60 THB (0.90–1.80 USD). Both are reliable but have limited luggage space and no air-conditioning (except some buses).
4. How long does it take from Ubon Ratchathani city center to the airport by tuk-tuk?
A tuk-tuk ride takes approximately 18–28 minutes for the 5.5 km journey. The cost is 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) – always agree on the price before boarding. Tuk-tuks are a fun, open-air option but can be bumpy and loud.
5. Can I use ride-hailing apps like Grab in Ubon Ratchathani?
Yes, Grab operates fully in Ubon Ratchathani. GrabCar from the city center to the airport costs 180–280 THB (5–8 USD), and GrabBike (motorcycle taxi) costs 60–120 THB (2–4 USD). The app shows fixed prices, so there's no negotiation needed. LINE MAN is also available and sometimes slightly cheaper.
6. What is the best transport option for families with children and luggage?
For families, a private taxi, GrabCar, or hotel transfer is strongly recommended. Cost: 200–350 THB (6–10 USD), time: 15–20 minutes. These options provide air-conditioning, ample luggage space for strollers and suitcases, and child safety. Songthaews and tuk-tuks are not suitable with children due to safety and space constraints.
7. Are there any overnight transport options from Ubon city center to the airport?
Public buses and Songthaews stop running around 17:30–18:00. For early morning flights (before 7:00 AM) or late-night arrivals, your only options are taxi, GrabCar, or pre-arranged hotel transfer. Tuk-tuks may be available until about 22:00, but availability is unreliable after midnight. There is no 24-hour public transport on this route.
8. Is it easy to walk from Ubon Ratchathani city center to the airport?
Walking is not recommended. The distance is 5–6 km (3–4 miles) along busy roads (Ratchathani Road and Chayangkun Road) with limited sidewalks, no dedicated pedestrian paths, and heavy traffic. The tropical heat and humidity make it impractical, especially with luggage. Only consider walking if you are an experienced urban walker with very light luggage and plenty of water – and even then, allow at least 70 minutes.