Asia > Thailand > Krabi (KBV)
The Car or no Car advice for Krabi can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Krabi ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Krabi ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Krabi?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
Krabi is one of southern Thailand’s most scenic gateways, famous for limestone cliffs, island-hopping, and relaxed beach towns. Visitors often arrive asking a very practical question: should you rent a car in Krabi? The answer depends on whether you plan to base yourself in one place or explore the wider province at your own pace.
Krabi without a car 🚶♂️🚤
You can manage Krabi without renting a car, especially for shorter stays. Krabi Town itself is compact and walkable around the riverfront and night markets. Most visitors, however, stay in Ao Nang, Railay, or Klong Muang, where walking works locally and taxis or hotel transfers cover short distances.
Boat travel reduces the need for driving even further. Long-tail boats and ferries connect Ao Nang with Railay, the Phi Phi Islands, and nearby beaches. Many of Krabi’s headline experiences are water-based, and organised tours usually include transfers.
Songthaews and taxis operate across the main tourist areas, but services are informal and not always cheap for longer trips.
Limits of public transport 🚌
Public buses are limited and not designed with tourists in mind. Timetables can be unclear, and services rarely reach waterfalls, viewpoints, or quieter inland areas. If you rely only on taxis, costs can add up quickly, especially for multiple stops in one day.
When renting a car makes sense 🚗🌄
A rental car adds real freedom in Krabi. Distances are not huge, roads are generally good, and driving is straightforward by Thai standards. With a car, you can visit Emerald Pool, Hot Springs, inland temples, and quieter beaches without planning around tours or negotiating fares.
Cars are also more comfortable than scooters, especially in heavy rain or extreme heat. Rental prices are usually reasonable, particularly outside peak season.
Conclusion: should you rent a car in Krabi?
For island-hopping and resort-based stays, no. For inland sights, flexible schedules, and exploring beyond the main beaches, yes. Renting a car is not essential, but it significantly expands what you can see and do.
