Krabi on a budget
The cheaper side of the Andaman coast, and the easiest base for Phi Phi and Lanta.
Krabi province is the cheaper side of the Andaman coast: limestone cliffs, Railay's beaches and quick ferries to Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Krabi Town is the budget base, Ao Nang the beach base.
Ferries from Krabi
| Route | Price |
|---|---|
| Krabi to Koh Phi Phi, ferry | from ฿490 |
| Krabi to Koh Phi Phi, speedboat | ฿790–1,300 |
| Krabi to Koh Lanta, ferry | ฿400–500 |
Phi Phi ferry fares from Visit Thailand Today (August 2026).
Krabi Town or Ao Nang?
Krabi Town has cheaper guesthouses, a good night market and local prices, but no beach. Ao Nang is on the sea with boats to Railay, at higher prices. Many budget travellers sleep in Krabi Town and ride the local songthaew to Ao Nang for the day.
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Free and cheap things to do
- Tiger Cave Temple: over 1,200 steps to a summit with huge views. Go early.
- Railay: reachable only by boat, with beaches, viewpoints and climbing.
- Krabi Town night market: cheap food by the river.
- Island-hopping tours: compare a few operators, and check whether national park fees are included.
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When to go
November to April is best. From May to October seas get rougher and some boat trips are cancelled, but rooms are cheaper.
Questions people ask
Is Krabi cheaper than Phuket?
Usually, especially if you stay in Krabi Town. Ao Nang is closer to Phuket prices.
How much is the ferry from Krabi to Phi Phi?
Ferries start at ฿490, and speedboats cost ฿790–1,300.
Where should I stay in Krabi on a budget?
Krabi Town for the cheapest rooms, or Ao Nang if you want to be on the beach.
How do you get to Railay?
By longtail boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, as there is no road access.