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From Bangkok to Pattaya by bus 2023

Chi Lan

Tháng Ba 22, 2023

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Avoiding the Hassle: Stress-Free Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya

Pattaya, located just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, can be easily accessed by bus, van or taxi from the capital city. Travel time typically ranges between 2 and 3 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha or Laem Chabang on the way, while others go direct to Pattaya. Pattaya Northern Bus Station is the arrival point for all big buses to Pattaya from the three bus terminals in Bangkok, and there is also a direct transfer available from Suvarnabhumi airport. For greater flexibility, a Bangkok-Pattaya van may be a better option. Vans depart from various locations throughout Bangkok and some even take you directly to the center of Pattaya.

Ticket prices for buses and vans to Pattaya range from THB120 to THB400. Alternatively, a taxi is the fastest and most luxurious way to travel door-to-door, with prices ranging from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van that can accommodate up to 9 passengers. It’s worth noting that one of the best motorways in the country, motorway 7, connects Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya, making travel by bus, taxi or private car a smooth experience.

Navigating the Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Route: What You Need to Know

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 planning to travel to the Eastern Seaboard, starting your journey from Ekkamai bus terminal would be the most practical option. The terminal is conveniently located near the BTS station of the same name. While buses departing from Ekkamai can take you to Pattaya in as little as two hours, it’s more realistic to expect a three-hour journey, as they often make stops along the way in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to drop off passengers. Pattaya Bus offers three daily departures from Ekkamai: one in the morning at 9:30 am, one in the afternoon at 1:30 pm, and one in the evening at 5:30 pm. All tickets are priced at THB127.

If you’re staying in the north of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, the Morchit bus terminal is a convenient choice. However, it’s important to note that despite the BTS station of the same name, you will need to take a short bus or taxi ride to reach the actual bus terminal. Buses from Morchit take around three hours to reach Pattaya and are priced at THB127 with the Pattaya Bus company. There are three departures a day at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. In Pattaya, buses arrive at the Northern bus station on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from Sukhumvit intersection. From there, you can choose to take a songthaew (THB40 per person), a motorbike taxi, or a regular taxi to reach the city, but always negotiate the fare in advance.

Riding the Rails: A Unique Journey from Bangkok to Pattaya

In technical terms, it is possible to take the train from Bangkok to Pattaya. There is a morning train, #283, which departs Bangkok at 6:55am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34am. The train makes multiple stops along the way and is not a particularly memorable experience. The third-class carriages only have fan seats and there are no breathtaking views to enjoy. However, you will have the chance to observe and interact with interesting locals during the journey. Huay Yai train station is the most picturesque among all the Pattaya train stations. Additionally, tickets for the train ride are very cheap.

Pattaya Awaits: Traveling in Comfort by Taxi from Bangkok

If you’re traveling with a large family or group of friends, or simply have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya can be a convenient option. Glassflower is a recommended taxi company due to their excellent service, comfortable and clean cars, competitive prices, and focus on passenger safety. They also have minivans available that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people.

Another good option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry is priced at THB2,200 for up to three passengers, while the roomier Toyota Commuter can accommodate up to nine passengers and costs THB2,530. All rates are all-inclusive with no extra tolls or fees for specific pickup and drop-off locations. The trip should take no more than three hours, and could be shorter depending on your starting point in Bangkok.

Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya: The Easy Airport Transfer

If you’re flying into Thailand’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, and heading straight to Pattaya, you can avoid 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 to 6pm. Their VIP24 buses are comfortable and roomy, providing a more comfortable option than economy seats on most airlines. The journey takes about two hours, with passengers arriving at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.

Note that the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus route is very popular, so tickets may be sold out for the next bus, requiring a wait until the next departure. However, tickets can be purchased on the spot or in advance for THB272.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, PGS charters offer door-to-door service from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya with even more comfort. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers (THB1,980) or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to 9 passengers (THB2,200). The latter is a great option in terms of price and quality ratio, and rates are all-inclusive, with no additional tolls, luggage or drop-off charges.

Additionally, if you’re hungry before your journey, there’s a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point located next to gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi, offering mouthwatering Thai favorites such as 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).

Explore the Vibrant Culture of Pattaya

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 well-known tourist destination in Thailand, often referred to as the city that never sleeps due to its round-the-clock activities. While the city has had a past reputation for prostitution and vice, it has undergone a transformation and now offers a diverse range of experiences, including food, culture, and attractions. Pattaya is now a truly independent city, attracting international package tourists, families, and weekenders from Bangkok during public holidays. With its varied offerings, Pattaya has become a popular destination for people of all walks of life.

While Pattaya may not offer rare or unique attractions, the city’s festive and lively atmosphere never fails to win over the hearts of its visitors. The city boasts a wide range of restaurants serving authentic cuisine from all over the world at astonishingly affordable prices, as well as street food vendors offering cheap eats. Accommodation options range from first-class international hotel chains to simple guesthouse rooms, and from elegant high-rises to traditional shophouses. Modern shopping malls and entertainment centers coexist with colorful night markets. Visitors can also choose from nearby islands that transport them to the perfect island paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions add to 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.

From Luxurious Resorts to Cozy Guesthouses: Where to Stay in Pattaya

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Pattaya, it really depends on your personal preferences. If you are seeking a lively nightlife scene with a seedy edge, consider centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road.

The North and Nakluea areas offer more upscale chain hotels. Jomtien has a variety of relatively affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels, and while the Jomtien Beach is not the most impressive, it is still suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The Pratamnak area is a bit further from public transportation routes, but it is a peaceful, green area with several nice beaches, including Cozy Beach. Finally, the Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment and may only be suitable if you are looking for a quiet beach vacation.

Some important bus routes in Bangkok passing 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 Mall – 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

• 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.