Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Krabi. Krabi Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave KBV:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Thailand. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Krabi takes about 50 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is THB. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From KBV, the Airport Shuttle Bus gets you to Krabi in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Shuttle Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What’s Worth Seeing in Krabi
Two recommendations for your time in Krabi:
Start with Wat Kaew Korawaram. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Krabi Town Riverside Walk & Khao Khanab Nam. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KBV, check out The Coral Executive Lounge (KBV) or Local Souvenir Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Krabi: Ruen Mai Restaurant and May & Mark’s Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Black Canyon Coffee or Airport Canteen / Food Court. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Budget for Your Krabi Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Krabi:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KBV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Krabi itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at KBV should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Thailand and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KBV has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Krabi genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.