Bus Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 160–410
3h – 4h
Taxi Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 1,600–11,000
1h 45m – 2h
Van Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 200–410
2h – 3h
Bus Suvarnabhumi Airport - Pattaya
฿ 320
2h
Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Pattaya
฿ 1,400–11,000
1h 25m – 2h
Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Pattaya
฿ 1,700–11,000
1h 50m – 2h 30m
Traveling between Bangkok and Pattaya: What You Need to Know
Pattaya, situated only 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, is easily accessible by bus, van, or taxi from the capital. Travel time typically ranges from 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and route, as some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang, while others offer a direct route. There are large buses available from all three bus terminals in Bangkok, with all arriving at the Pattaya Northern Bus Station, as well as a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport. For more flexibility, consider taking a Bangkok-Pattaya van, which departs from various locations throughout Bangkok and may bring you directly to the center of Pattaya. Tickets for both buses and vans to Pattaya cost between THB120 and THB400. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the fastest and most luxurious option for door-to-door travel, with prices ranging from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van accommodating up to 9 passengers.
Thanks to motorway 7, one of the best motorways in the country, transportation from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus, taxi, or private car is typically smooth and efficient.
back to menu ↑Smooth Sailing: Avoiding Traffic Jams on the Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Route
If you’re planning a trip to Pattaya from Bangkok, you’ll have three main bus terminals to choose from: Sai Tai Mai in the south, Morchit in the north, and Ekkamai in the east. However, the latter two are the best options due to their location and popularity.
If you’re heading to the Eastern Seaboard, the Ekkamai bus terminal is the most convenient starting point. It’s situated right next to the BTS station with the same name. Buses departing from Ekkamai can reach Pattaya in as little as two hours, although it’s more realistic to expect a travel time of around three hours, as they often make stops in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to drop off passengers. Pattaya Bus has three daily departures from Ekkamai: one in the morning at 9:30 am, another in the afternoon at 1:30 pm, and the last one in the evening at 5:30 pm, all priced at THB127.
If you’re staying in the north of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit bus terminal is a convenient option for traveling to Pattaya. However, despite the nearby BTS station of the same name, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi for a short ride to the bus terminal from BTS Morchit. Buses from Morchit take approximately three hours to reach Pattaya and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company. The company operates three buses a day, departing at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. Upon arrival in Pattaya, buses stop at the Northern bus station, located on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from the Sukhumvit intersection. To get to the city from there, you can choose between songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis. Be sure to negotiate the fare in advance regardless of which option you choose.
back to menu ↑Riding the Tracks: A Comfortable Journey from Bangkok to Pattaya
In technical terms, traveling by train from Bangkok to Pattaya is possible. There’s a morning train, #283, that departs Bangkok at 6:55 am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34 am. However, this train makes several stops along the way, and the journey itself is not particularly noteworthy. Expect to spend around four hours in a third-class carriage with only fan seats, and don’t anticipate any breathtaking views. However, you will have ample opportunities for interesting people-watching. Among all of Pattaya’s train stations, Huay Yai is probably the most picturesque. It’s worth noting that train tickets are quite affordable.
back to menu ↑Hop in a Cab: Tips for Taking a Taxi to Pattaya from Bangkok
If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or a large group, taking a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya is a great option for a door-to-door experience. Glassflower is a highly recommended company, providing excellent service with clean, comfortable cars and the best prices.
They prioritize passenger safety, making them a reliable choice. Glassflower also offers minivans that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people. Another great option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry is priced at THB2,200 for three passengers, while their roomier Toyota Commuter accommodates up to 9 passengers and costs THB2,530. The rates are all-inclusive, with no additional tolls or fees for pickup and drop-off in specific locations. The journey from Bangkok to Pattaya usually takes no more than three hours, and can be even shorter depending on your starting point in Bangkok.
back to menu ↑Making the Connection: Traveling from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya
If you’re arriving at Suvarnabhumi airport and heading directly to Pattaya, there are several options available to you. One convenient choice is to take a bus or taxi directly from the airport to Pattaya, bypassing the need to go to any of Bangkok’s bus terminals. Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, departing every two hours from 8am to 6pm. The VIP24 buses are spacious and comfortable, making the two-hour journey to Pattaya a pleasant experience. Upon arrival in Pattaya, passengers are dropped off at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.
Note that tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be bought on the spot, but it’s a popular route, so there may be a wait for the next available bus. Advance tickets cost THB272. If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, PGS charters provide door-to-door service from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to 9 people at THB2,200.
The latter is a great value for its price and quality. Rates are all-inclusive, so there are no extra tolls, luggage or drop-off charges. While waiting for your transportation, you can also grab a bite to eat at Magic Point, a cheap Thai-style canteen located near gate 8.
back to menu ↑Why Pattaya Is an Ideal Destination for Solo Travelers
Pattaya has gained a reputation for its red light districts, lady bars, and the presence of ladyboys who are often aggressive in their pursuit of vulnerable individuals along Beach Road. This has led to Pattaya being known as the “City of Sin” for many years. Unfortunately, some locals have resorted to exploiting their beauty and financial circumstances to seek money from foreigners, sometimes claiming to be looking for true love while burdened with the responsibilities of an extended family.
Pattaya is a well-known tourist destination in Thailand, often referred to as the city that never sleeps due to its abundance of activities available both day and night. While Pattaya was once infamous for prostitution and other vices, the city has undergone changes in recent years and now boasts a diverse array of people, cuisine, and tourist attractions. It is now considered a truly independent city and has become a popular destination for international package tourists, families, and even Bangkok residents who flock to the city on weekends and during Thai public holidays.
While Pattaya may not have any rare or unique attractions, the festive and vibrant atmosphere of the city never fails to capture the hearts of its visitors. The city offers a wide range of restaurants serving authentic cuisine from all around the world, with astonishingly affordable prices, as well as delicious street food options. Visitors can choose between first-class international hotel chains and simple guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises and traditional shophouses, modern shopping malls, and entertainment centers, and colorful night markets. In addition, there are nearby islands that transport visitors to a perfect island paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions secure Pattaya’s status as one of Thailand’s most popular vacation destinations.
When it comes to getting around Pattaya, songthaews are a popular choice. These shared taxis are affordable, with fares ranging from THB10 to THB40 depending on the distance traveled. Several routes cover the entire city, including a route from the junction of South Pattaya Road and Second Road to Jomtien, a route from Jomtien to the Dolphins roundabout in the north, and a Second Road-North Pattaya-Pattaya Beach Road loop. White songthaews run along Sukhumvit Road and can take you as far as Sattahip. Songthaews can also be hired as taxis, with the fare agreed upon before the ride.
Motorbike taxis are another affordable and ubiquitous option, particularly useful in Pattaya’s worsening traffic.
Renting a car or motorbike is also possible, with rental shops located throughout the city. Scooters cost from THB200 per day (THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City are available for THB1000. While scams where renters are charged for “damage” upon return are uncommon, it’s worth noting that police frequently stop both cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses. Additionally, wearing seat belts and helmets is mandatory.
Although more bicycles are appearing on Pattaya’s roads, the city’s chaotic traffic can make cycling unsafe and unpleasant, with speeding cars, tourist buses, and bikes sharing the roads.
back to menu ↑From Luxurious Resorts to Cozy Guesthouses: Where to Stay in Pattaya
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Pattaya, personal preferences play a big role. If you’re looking for a lively nightlife with a bit of a seedy edge, centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road may suit your needs. The North and Nakluea areas are home to respectable five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien offers relatively cheap guesthouses and mid-range hotels, with an average beach suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
Pratamnak is a bit off the public transport routes but boasts a tranquil and green area, as well as several lovely beaches, including Cozy Beach. However, if you’re seeking a lazy beach vacation, the Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment hotspots and could be an option for you.
Some important bus routes in Bangkok passing through tourist destinations you should know:
Route 02: Samrong – Sukhumvit – Central World – Pratunam – Democracy Monument – Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market.
Route 03: Phra Arthit – Samsen – Chatuchak – Northern Bus Terminal.
Route 15: Charoen Krung – Silom – Siam Square – Democracy Monument – Sanam Luang.
Route 25: Paknam – Sukhumvit – Eastern Bus Terminal – Siam Square – Hualamphong – Yaowarat – Pahurat – Wat Pho – Grand Palace.
Route 29: Hualamphong – Victory Monument – Chatuchak – Don Muang.
Route 34: Hualamphong – MBK Center – Phaya Thai – Victory Monument – Chatuchak.
Route 53: Hualamphong – Yaowarat – Pahurat – Wat Pho – Grand Palace – Sanam Luang – Phra Arthit – Samsen.
Route 59: Sanam Luang – Phaya Thai – Victory Monument – Chatuchak – Don Muang.
Route 79: Southern Bus Terminal – Taling Chan Floating Market – Democracy Monument – Siam Square – Central World – Pratunam – Fortune Town – Ratchada.
Route 503: Sanam Luang – Dusit – Wat Stewamabophit – Victory Monument – Chatuchak.
Route 508: Sanam Luang – Grand Palace – Siam Square – Sukhumvit – Eastern Bus Terminal – Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm.
Route 509: Thonburi – Democracy Monument – Victory Monument – Chatuchak – Northern Bus Terminal.
Route 511: Southern Bus Terminal – Democracy Monument – Sukhumvit – Eastern Bus Terminal – Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm.
Route 524: Wat Pho – Grand Palace – Phra Arthit – Samsen – Chatuchak.
Food and Drink in Pattaya: Answers to Your Top Questions
What is the best way to get from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several ways to get from Bangkok to Pattaya, including by bus, taxi, or private car. The most popular and convenient option is by taxi or private car, which takes around 1.5-2 hours. Buses are a cheaper option but may take longer depending on traffic.
How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost of traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya varies depending on the mode of transportation. A taxi or private car can cost between 1,000 to 3,000 Baht, while a bus can cost as little as 120 Baht. However, prices can vary depending on the time of day, type of vehicle, and travel season.
What is the distance between Bangkok and Pattaya? The distance between Bangkok and Pattaya is approximately 150 kilometers, or 93 miles.
How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time from Bangkok to Pattaya can vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. A taxi or private car usually takes around 1.5-2 hours, while a bus can take up to 3 hours.
What are some popular things to do in Pattaya? Pattaya is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and entertainment options. Some popular activities in Pattaya include visiting the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, exploring the Sanctuary of Truth temple, enjoying water sports at Pattaya Beach, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Walking Street.