Passing through Phitsanulok Airport? A layover in Phitsanulok is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 50 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave PHS:
- 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 Phitsanulok takes about 50 minutes by Airport Taxi. 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.
Getting to Phitsanulok from the Airport
From PHS, the Airport Taxi gets you to Phitsanulok 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 Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Phitsanulok, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at PHS
Specific locker facilities at PHS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Phitsanulok itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Phitsanulok, we’d suggest City Center Walk and Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PHS, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Phitsanulok
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside PHS
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PHS
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PHS.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PHS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Phitsanulok or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Phitsanulok with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Phitsanulok may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.