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
Making Your Way from Bangkok to Pattaya: Transportation Options Compared
Located just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya is conveniently accessible by bus, van, or taxi. The duration of the journey, which typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, depends largely on traffic conditions and the route taken. Some buses make stops in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang, while others travel directly to Pattaya. Big buses departing from all three bus terminals in Bangkok arrive at the Pattaya Northern Bus Station, and there’s even a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport. For greater flexibility, consider taking a Bangkok-Pattaya van. These vans depart from various locations throughout Bangkok and some even drop you off in the heart of Pattaya.
Tickets for both buses and vans typically range from THB120 to THB400. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the fastest and most luxurious way to travel door-to-door. Prices vary from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van that can accommodate up to 9 passengers. Motorway 7, one of the best highways in the country, connects Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya, making transportation by bus, taxi, or private car a smooth and comfortable experience.
back to menu ↑Sightseeing on the Way: Bus Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya
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 traveling to the Eastern Seaboard, the Ekkamai bus terminal is the ideal place to start your journey. Located conveniently next to the BTS station of the same name, you can catch a bus from Ekkamai to Pattaya in just two hours. However, it’s more realistic to expect the journey to take around three hours, as the buses often make stops along the way in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to let passengers off. Pattaya Bus offers three daily departures from Ekkamai: in the morning at 9:30am, in the afternoon at 1:30pm, and in the evening at 5:30pm, 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 ↑Train Tripping: A Guide to Getting to Pattaya from Bangkok
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 ↑Smooth Sailing: Tips for Taking a Taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya
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 ↑Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya: A Convenient and Quick Journey
If Pattaya is your next destination after arriving at Thailand’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, you can easily reach Pattaya directly without having to go through Bangkok’s bus terminals by using bus and taxi services.
Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, departing every two hours from 8am until 6pm. Their VIP24 buses offer comfortable seats that are much roomier than economy class seats on airplanes. The journey takes around two hours, and passengers are dropped off at Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road. Please note that tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be purchased on the spot, but due to the popularity of the route, it’s highly recommended to book in advance. The cost of tickets is THB272 if purchased in advance. For those seeking even more comfort and convenience, PGS offers private charters from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya, with door-to-door service.
You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers (THB1,980) or a Toyota Commuter for up to nine people (THB2,200), which offers a great price-quality ratio. Rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no additional tolls, luggage, or drop-off charges. A tip for hungry travelers: Right next to the gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi, where buses to Pattaya depart, there’s a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point. You can fill up on mouthwatering Thai favorites like khao man gai, khao kha moo, and tom yam at very reasonable prices (starting from THB40 per dish).
back to menu ↑Why Pattaya Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Pattaya has a reputation for its red light districts, lady bars, and ladyboys who can be persistent in their search for companionship. Beach Road is a popular spot for these activities, with stately coconut trees serving as a backdrop. Unfortunately, this has led to Pattaya being labeled as the “City of Sin,” with some individuals taking advantage of others in search of love or companionship. However, it is important to recognize that Pattaya is a diverse city with many attractions and experiences beyond these stereotypes.
Pattaya is a renowned tourist city in Thailand, known as the “city that never sleeps” due to its lively atmosphere both day and night. Although Pattaya was once infamous for prostitution and vice, the city has undergone a transformation and now boasts a diverse range of people, cuisine, and tourist attractions. It is a city that truly offers something for everyone. Pattaya now attracts a significant number of international package tourists, families, and Bangkok residents who often flock to the city on weekends and during 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.
To get around Pattaya, the most cost-effective option is to take a songthaew, a type of shared taxi that costs between THB10 and THB40 depending on the distance traveled. There are several routes that cover the entire city, including 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 go as far as Sattahip. You can also hire a songthaew as a private taxi, but be sure to agree on the cost of the ride before getting in.
Motorbike taxis are another affordable and convenient option, especially considering the worsening traffic in the city. If you’re comfortable riding a motorcycle, this can be a good choice.
Alternatively, you can rent a car or a motorbike from one of the rental shops scattered throughout the city. Scooters start at around THB200 per day (THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City are available for around THB1000. Although scams where you’re forced to pay for “damage” upon returning the vehicle are not common, be aware that police often check drivers’ licenses. Also, wearing seatbelts and helmets is mandatory.
Finally, more bicycles are appearing on Pattaya roads, but with the chaotic traffic, it’s neither safe nor enjoyable to pedal between speeding cars, tourist buses, and other bikes.
back to menu ↑Find Your Home Away from Home: Best Accommodation Options in Pattaya
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Pattaya, it largely depends on your personal preferences. If you’re seeking a vibrant nightlife with a slightly edgy vibe, look for centrally located hotels and guesthouses in the area around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road. The northern part of Pattaya and Naklua feature upscale, five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien offers a range of relatively affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels. While Jomtien Beach may not be the best for swimming or sunbathing, it still offers a decent experience.
If you’re after a quieter, more secluded vacation, consider the Pratamnak area, which is very green and peaceful, and features several lovely beaches including Cozy Beach. Keep in mind that Pratamnak is a bit off the public transport routes, so it may not be the most convenient option. Lastly, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation and don’t mind being far from the city’s entertainments, the Ambassador City Hotel area could be worth considering.
Some important bus routes in Bangkok that pass through tourist attractions 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 Shopping 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.
Pattaya Travel Tips: FAQs for First-Time Visitors
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How do I get from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options for traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya, including buses, taxis, and private cars. Buses are the most popular and economical way to travel, with frequent departures from several bus terminals in Bangkok. Taxis and private cars can be more expensive but offer greater convenience and flexibility.
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How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time between Bangkok and Pattaya depends on the mode of transportation you choose. Buses take about 2-3 hours to reach Pattaya, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis and private cars can take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
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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 you choose. Buses are the most economical option, with fares ranging from 100 to 250 baht (about $3 to $8 USD). Taxis and private cars are more expensive, with fares ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 baht (about $30 to $100 USD).
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What are some popular things to do in Pattaya? Pattaya is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and shopping. Some popular attractions include the Pattaya Beach, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, Sanctuary of Truth, Walking Street, and the Pattaya Floating Market.
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Is it safe to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? Yes, it is generally safe to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures, such as avoiding crowded areas at night and securing valuables. It is also recommended to use reputable transportation providers and to be aware of common scams targeting tourists.