How to Get to Phitsanulok. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Phitsanulok

Major Airports & Routes

Flying has the fastest way to reach Phitsanulok from Bangkok.

Flight Details

Phitsanulok Airport (PHS): Main airport for the city, handling domestic flights.
Airlines: Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air offer frequent service. Main origin: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) in Bangkok.
No direct international flights. Connect via Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi BKK or Don Mueang DMK).

Seasonal Flights & Transfers

Flight availability is year-round, with price variations.

Booking & Transfers

Seasonal Prices: Peak Season (Nov-Feb) sees higher demand/prices. Low Season (May-Oct) offers more competitive pricing. Weekends/holidays are often more expensive. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.
Airport Transfers: Metered taxis (100-150 THB to city center), pre-booked private transfers, or shared pick-up trucks (songthaews) are options from Phitsanulok Airport.
Phitsanulok Airport is small with basic facilities (shops, cafes, car rental desks).

Train Travel

Phitsanulok Railway Station is a major stop on the Northern Line, connecting Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Various service classes, including overnight sleepers, are available.

Bus Connections

Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 2 is a hub for numerous routes to most parts of Thailand. Major operators offer VIP to Ordinary services.

Self-Driving Notes

An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home license is legally required. Traffic drives on the left. Thai driving can be aggressive; drive defensively.

Detailed Land Travel

Train Routes & Booking

Direct connections to Bangkok (Hua Lamphong and Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal), Ayutthaya, Lopburi.
Also to Chiang Mai, Lampang, Lamphun, and other northern cities.
Booking train tickets, especially sleepers, in advance is recommended for comfort.
Trains offer a scenic and comfortable travel option.

Bus Companies & Classes

Major operators: Pitsanulok Yan Yon, Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air, and Cherdchai Tour.
Extensive network connects Phitsanulok to Bangkok (Mo Chit 2), Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Pattaya, Phuket, and other major cities across Thailand.
Classes range from VIP (most comfortable, fewer stops) to First Class, Second Class, and Ordinary services.
Choose the class that suits your budget and comfort preference for longer journeys.

Driving & Border Information

Road Network

Roads between major cities are generally well-maintained. Inner-city roads can experience congestion during peak hours.

Safety Concerns

Be aware of speeding, sudden stops, lack of indicators, prevalence of motorcycles, large trucks, and animals on rural roads. Night driving can be hazardous.

Border Crossings

Phitsanulok is an internal city. Border crossings to Laos are further east (Nan Province), to Myanmar further west (Tak Province).

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Phitsanulok by understanding exit procedures and timings. This supports a smooth transition to your next destination.

Timing & Fees

No specific exit fees apply for departing Thailand by air, land, or sea. These fees typically are included in your ticket price.
Air Departure: For Phitsanulok Airport (PHS), arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your domestic flight's scheduled departure.
Train/Bus Departure: Arrive at the station 30 to 60 minutes before scheduled departure. Ticket checks and boarding procedures are usually straightforward.

Station Facilities

Departure points offer practical amenities for travelers.

Airport & Station Services

Phitsanulok Airport is small, with a compact waiting area and limited food/drink vendors. Do not expect extensive shopping.
Railway/Bus Stations: Both Phitsanulok Railway Station and bus terminals offer waiting areas, food stalls, and convenience stores.
These facilities support grabbing a quick meal or snack before your journey.

Driving & Rentals

Car Rental

Rent a car for independent exploration.

Car Rental Essentials

Major international rental companies (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar) operate desks at Phitsanulok Airport. Local companies also offer services. Use DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.
You need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and your home country's driver's license. Passport and credit card for deposit. Minimum age is usually 21 or 23.
Ensure comprehensive insurance is part of your rental agreement or buy additional coverage.

Motorcycle Rental

Scooters offer a flexible way to navigate the city and surrounding areas.

Scooter Details

Several shops in the city center rent scooters (typically 125cc models). Expect to pay around 200-300 THB per day.
Legally, a valid motorcycle license and an IDP specifically for motorcycles are needed. Many shops rent with just a car license or no license, but this is illegal and voids insurance.
Helmets are legally required and usually provided. Always wear one. Drive defensively and inspect the bike for damage before rental.

Other Rental Types

Bicycle Rentals

No formal city-wide bicycle sharing program exists. Some guesthouses or local shops offer bicycle rentals, typically for 50-100 THB per day.

Specialty Vehicles

Longtail boats are available for short trips on the Nan River. Hire them for sightseeing tours or quick crossings; negotiate the fare.

Accessibility Notes

Accessibility is generally limited. Public transport is not typically wheelchair accessible. Newer hotels may offer accessible rooms. Taxis/private cars are best for mobility challenges.

Smart Travel Tip

For land travel, trains offer a scenic and often comfortable option, while buses provide extensive route coverage. If driving yourself, ensure you have an IDP and exercise caution on the roads.

How to Get to Phitsanulok