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From Bangkok to Pattaya by train 2023

Minh Châu

Tháng Ba 22, 2023

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Convenient and Affordable Travel Options from Bangkok to Pattaya

Located just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya is easily accessible by bus, van, or taxi. The duration of travel typically ranges from 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang, while others offer a direct route to Pattaya. Travelers can choose from big buses departing from any of the three bus terminals in Bangkok, with all arriving at Pattaya Northern Bus Station. Alternatively, there is a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport, or for added flexibility, a Bangkok-Pattaya van is also available. These vans leave from various locations throughout Bangkok, with some providing drop-off directly in the heart of Pattaya.

Prices for bus and van tickets to Pattaya range from THB 120 to THB 400. For a faster and more luxurious travel experience, taxis are available for door-to-door service, with prices ranging from THB 1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB 4,000 for a private van accommodating up to 9 passengers. Thanks to Motorway 7, one of the best highways in the country, traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus, taxi, or private car is typically a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Exploring Pattaya by Bus: Routes, Tickets, and Travel Tips

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 northern part of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit bus terminal is a convenient option to reach Pattaya. Although there is a BTS station with 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 around three hours to reach Pattaya and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company. The company operates three buses a day at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm.

Upon arrival in Pattaya, the buses stop at the Northern bus station located on North Pattaya Road, just 200m from Sukhumvit intersection. To reach the city, you can choose from songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis, but always negotiate the fare in advance.

All Aboard: Taking the Train 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.

Sit Back and Relax: Taking a Taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya

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.

Jet-Lagged? Let Us Help You Get to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport

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).

From Relaxation to Adventure: The Many Faces of Pattaya

Pattaya has gained notoriety for its red light districts, lady bars, and the presence of ladyboys who sometimes aggressively approach tourists along Beach Road. This has earned Pattaya the nickname “City of Sin.” Some locals, particularly those from less affluent backgrounds, may seek financial support or even romantic relationships with foreign visitors. However, it is important to note that Pattaya’s identity and attractions extend far beyond these stereotypes.

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 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 the most popular choice. These shared taxis are cheap, with fares ranging from THB10 to THB40 depending on the distance traveled, and several routes cover the entire city. Blue songthaews are particularly useful, running 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. Songthaews can also be hired as private taxis, with the fare to be agreed upon beforehand.

Motorbike taxis are another popular and affordable option, particularly with the increasing traffic in the city. Renting a car or a motorbike is also an option, with rental shops located throughout the city. Scooters typically cost THB200 per day (THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City cost around THB1000. While scams related to vehicle damage are uncommon, it’s worth noting that the police often stop cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses, and seat belts and helmets are a must.

Although bicycles are becoming more common on Pattaya roads, the chaotic traffic makes cycling between speeding cars, tourist buses, and bikes neither safe nor enjoyable.

Pattaya for Families: Family-Friendly Accommodation Options

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 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.

Money Matters: FAQs about Currency and Exchanging Money in Pattaya

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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).

4. 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.

5. 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.