Phuket, a jewel of Thailand, offers stunning beaches and vibrant culture, while Bangkok, the capital, boasts iconic temples, bustling markets, and a rich history. The city is a popular tourist destination for its blend of modernity and tradition, its delicious street food, and its fascinating cultural attractions. The fastest way to reach Bangkok from Phuket is by air, with numerous flights available daily.

Direct flights from Phuket to Bangkok typically last around 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, flight duration may vary depending on the airline, weather conditions, and air traffic. Several major airlines offer direct routes, including Thai Airways and AirAsia, with flights operating multiple times per day, providing flexibility to travellers. Typically, no stopover is required for these direct flights.

While direct flights are common, and ideal for saving time, alternative routes with stopovers are available. Although these are less common, and will increase your overall travel time, in certain situations they are the most cost-effective solution, and therefore a great way to travel cheaper. Should you opt for this option, major international hubs such as Kuala Lumpur or Singapore could be stopover options. These would add extra travel time depending on the connection length.

To secure the best deals, the ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when airfare prices tend to be lower due to lower demand. Booking your flight well in advance, ideally 2-3 months prior to departure, often leads to better prices. Seasonal airfare trends are significantly affected by local holidays and peak seasons.

Peak travel season to Bangkok is generally between November and February when the weather is pleasant and many cultural events are held. The off-peak season falls mainly during the rainy season (July-October), when prices are more reasonable but the weather may cause some disruptions. So consider these factors when choosing your travel dates.

Bangkok enjoys a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and humid throughout the year. The hottest months are from March to May, with temperatures reaching highs of around 34°C and significant humidity. The coolest period runs from November to February, with average temperatures around 28°C, offering pleasant conditions for sightseeing. The rainy season spans from June to October; although the rain often falls in short, heavy bursts, so it doesn't hinder activities drastically. Expect high humidity throughout the year.

Phuket has two major airports currently in operation serving commercial flights. These airports are Phuket International Airport and a smaller regional airport.

Phuket International Airport

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the main airport serving the island and is one of Thailand’s busiest international airports. It boasts several terminals, handles millions of passengers annually, and is served by numerous domestic and international airlines. Opened in 1992, it has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate its ever-increasing passenger numbers.

Main airlines for this route

• Thai Airways
• AirAsia
• Bangkok Airways

Bangkok has two major international airports currently operating: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), opened in 2006, is a modern, large airport, a major hub for numerous airlines. It has multiple terminals and offers various transportation options to reach the city centre. You can take the Airport Rail Link, a fast and efficient train connecting to the city’s rail network. Taxis and private car services are also readily available outside the terminals.

Don Mueang International Airport

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), while older than Suvarnabhumi, remains a significant airport serving both domestic and international flights. It offers a more budget-friendly alternative to Suvarnabhumi. Similar to Suvarnabhumi, you can access public transportation such as buses and taxis to reach the city centre. Private car services are also available.

Bangkok is a city that truly has something for everyone. With its rich history and modern attractions, it’s a place that will fascinate and excite you. There are countless things to see and do, but here are just a few of our favourites.

• Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: Explore the opulent Grand Palace, the former residence of Thai kings, and admire the stunning Emerald Buddha temple within its grounds.
• Explore the iconic temples: Wander through the many beautiful temples of Bangkok, each with its own unique architecture and history, including Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha).
• Experience the vibrant street markets: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Bangkok’s street markets, indulging in delicious street food and browsing countless unique products. Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-see.