Flight Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 2,483
4h 10m
Bus Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 164–610
2h 30m – 3h
Taxi Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 1,600–10,450
1h 20m – 3h
Van Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 200–430
2h – 3h 50m
Bus Suvarnabhumi Airport - Pattaya
฿ 198–460
2h
Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Pattaya
฿ 1,400–27,500
1h 30m – 3h
Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Pattaya
฿ 1,800–27,500
2h – 3h
Bangkok to Pattaya: The Best Ways to Travel
Pattaya, situated just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, can be easily accessed by bus, van, or taxi. The duration of the trip varies between 2 and 3 hours and is dependent on traffic and the chosen route. Some buses stop at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang, while others go directly to Pattaya. You can take a big bus to Pattaya from any of the three bus terminals in Bangkok, with all buses arriving at Pattaya Northern Bus Station. Alternatively, you can opt for a Bangkok-Pattaya van for greater flexibility. Vans depart from various locations across Bangkok and some will take you directly to the center of Pattaya.
Bus and van tickets to Pattaya range from THB120 to THB400. If you want a quicker and more comfortable travel experience, a taxi is the best option. Prices start from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car and go up to THB4,000 for a private van that can accommodate up to 9 passengers. The journey from Bangkok to Pattaya is typically hassle-free thanks to Motorway 7, one of the best motorways in the country, which links the two cities.
back to menu ↑Frequent and Affordable: The Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Service
When it comes to traveling by bus in Bangkok, there are three major terminals to choose from: Sai Tai Mai in the south, Morchit in the north, and Ekkamai in the east. For those heading to Pattaya, however, the latter two options are the most convenient.
If you’re heading to the Eastern Seaboard, Ekkamai bus terminal is the most convenient starting point. Located right by the BTS station with the same name, it offers easy access to buses that can take you to Pattaya in just two hours. However, it’s more realistic to expect the journey to take around three hours as these buses often make detours to allow passengers to disembark in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang. Pattaya Bus company operates three buses from Ekkamai, departing in the morning (9:30 AM), afternoon (1:30 PM), and evening (5:30 PM), all at a fare of THB127.
If you’re staying in the north of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit is a convenient option for traveling to Pattaya. Despite having a BTS station of the same name, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi for a short ride from BTS Morchit to the bus terminal. Buses from Morchit to Pattaya take around three hours and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company, which offers three daily departures at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm.
Upon arriving in Pattaya, buses stop at the Northern bus station, located on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from the Sukhumvit intersection. To reach the city center from there, you can choose from songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis – just make sure to negotiate the cost of your ride in advance.
back to menu ↑From the City to the Beach: Taking the Train from Bangkok to Pattaya
While not necessarily the most exciting journey, it is technically possible to take a train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs at 6:55am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34am, with numerous stops along the way. The third-class fan seats only carriage may not offer breathtaking views, but it does provide plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Of all the Pattaya train stations, the most picturesque is probably Huay Yai. One advantage of taking the train is the low ticket prices, which are quite affordable.
back to menu ↑From Bangkok to Pattaya by taxi
If you’re traveling with a large group, family, or a lot of luggage, a taxi may be the best option for getting from Bangkok to Pattaya. One recommended company is Glassflower, which offers excellent service, comfortable and clean cars, and competitive prices.
Glassflower also has minivans available that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people. Another option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry can seat up to 3 passengers for THB2,200, while their Toyota Commuter can accommodate up to 9 passengers for THB2,530. Both options are all-inclusive, with no extra tolls or additional fees for pickup and drop-off at specific locations. The trip should take no more than three hours, depending on your starting point in Bangkok.
back to menu ↑From the Terminal to the Sand: Getting to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport
If you arrive at Suvarnabhumi airport and need to get to Pattaya, you can take advantage of the convenient bus and taxi services available. Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, with departures every two hours between 8am and 6pm. Their VIP24 buses are comfortable and roomier than economy seats on airlines. The journey takes about two hours and drops passengers off at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.
Please note that tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be purchased on the spot, but this route is extremely popular, so you may not be able to get tickets for the next bus and have to wait for the next one after that. If you book in advance, tickets cost THB272.
For even more comfort and convenience, PGS offers charter services that take you from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya directly and without hassle. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to 9 people for THB2,200. The latter is a great option in terms of price and quality. Rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no additional tolls, luggage fees, or drop-off charges.
Tip: Next to the gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi where buses to Pattaya depart, there is a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point where you can enjoy mouthwatering Thai dishes like rice with chicken (khao man gai), rice with pork leg (khao kha moo), tom yam, and more at very reasonable prices (starting from THB40 per dish).
back to menu ↑Discovering the Best of Pattaya: Top Reasons to Go
Pattaya has often been associated with its infamous red light districts, lady bars, and ladyboys soliciting for money along Beach Road. The city has earned a reputation as the “City of Sin,” where impoverished individuals seek financial support or romantic relationships from foreigners, burdened with the responsibility of supporting their extended families.
Pattaya is a well-known tourist city in Thailand, earning the nickname “the city that never sleeps” due to its bustling activities both day and night. While Pattaya has had a notorious reputation for prostitution and vice in the past, the city has since undergone changes to its image, offering a diverse range of experiences from food to tourist attractions. Pattaya is now known as a truly independent city that attracts a fair share of international package tourists, families, and visitors from Bangkok who flood the city on weekends and Thai public holidays.
While Pattaya may not offer rare or unique attractions, the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the city never fails to charm its visitors. The city offers a wide range of dining options featuring authentic cuisine from all over the world, including affordable street food. Visitors can choose from first-class international hotel chains or simple guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises, or traditional shophouses. Modern shopping malls and entertainment centers coexist with colorful night markets. Pattaya also offers a selection of nearby islands that provide the perfect island paradise experience, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions help secure its status as one of Thailand’s most popular vacation destinations.
When it comes to getting around Pattaya, songthaews are the most common and affordable option. The cost of a single trip ranges from THB10 to THB40, depending on the distance traveled, and several routes cover the entire city. The most useful routes of the blue songthaews run from the junction of South Pattaya Road and Second Road to Jomtien; 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, but you should agree on the cost of the ride beforehand.
Motorbike taxis are also a popular and affordable option, particularly with traffic becoming more congested in the city.
Renting a car or motorbike is another option, with rental shops located throughout the city. Scooters can be rented for as little as THB200 per day (THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City start at THB1000. Scams where you are forced to pay for ‘damage’ after returning the vehicle are not common, but police often stop cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses. It’s important to wear seat belts and helmets, too.
While there are more bicycles on Pattaya’s roads these days, it’s not safe or enjoyable to ride amidst the chaotic traffic, which includes speeding cars, tourist buses, and motorbikes.
back to menu ↑Stylish and Trendy: Pattaya’s Best Hotels for Young Travelers
When it comes to finding the right accommodation in Pattaya, it largely depends on personal preference. If you’re seeking a lively nightlife with a slightly seedy atmosphere, centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road are the way to go. For a more upscale experience, the North and Nakluea areas offer respectable five-star chain hotels. Jomtien, on the other hand, is a haven for relatively cheap guesthouses and mid-range hotels. While the Jomtien beach is not the best for swimming and sunbathing, it’s still decent enough.
If you’re looking for a more peaceful retreat, consider Pratamnak, which is a bit off the public transport routes but boasts greenery and tranquility, as well as several beautiful beaches, such as Cozy Beach. However, if a lazy beach vacation is your primary goal, the Ambassador City Hotel area might be ideal for you, as it’s far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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.
Navigating Pattaya: Your Essential Guide to Frequently Asked Questions
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How far is Pattaya from Bangkok? Pattaya is located about 150 kilometers (93 miles) southeast of Bangkok.
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What are the transportation options from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya, including by bus, taxi, private car, or train. The most popular option is by bus, which can be easily booked online or in person at one of Bangkok’s bus terminals.
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How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time from Bangkok to Pattaya depends on the mode of transportation chosen. By bus or private car, it usually takes around 2-3 hours to reach Pattaya. By train, it takes around 3-4 hours, and by taxi, it may take slightly less or more depending on traffic.
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How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost of travel from Bangkok to Pattaya varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By bus, the fare can range from 100-300 THB ($3-10 USD), while by taxi or private car, the cost may be higher. Train fares start from around 30 THB ($1 USD) for third-class seats and go up to 400 THB ($13 USD) for first-class seats.
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What are some popular tourist attractions in Pattaya? Pattaya is known for its beaches, nightlife, and water sports activities such as parasailing and jet skiing. Some popular tourist attractions in Pattaya include the Pattaya Beach, Walking Street, Sanctuary of Truth, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and the Cartoon Network Amazone water park.