Passing through Surat Thani Airport? A layover in Surat Thani is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave URT:
- 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 Surat Thani takes about 75 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus/Minivan. 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 Surat Thani from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Surat Thani Airport into town:
- Airport Shuttle Bus/Minivan: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Luggage Storage at URT
Specific locker facilities at URT aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Surat Thani itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Surat Thani Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Surat Thani might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Surat Thani.
What to See and Do in Surat Thani
If you head into Surat Thani, here are two things worth checking out:
Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Talat San Jao (Morning Market) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at URT, check out URT Airport Souvenir Shop or Black Canyon Coffee (Airport Branch) to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Surat Thani
If you make it into town, Crossroads Restaurant (at Bandon Hotel) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Ko J (à¹à¸à¸).
Inside URT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Canteen/Food Court is your main option. Black Canyon Coffee (Airport Branch) works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at URT, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Surat Thani itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Thailand that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at URT include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Surat Thani is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Surat Thani.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.