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From Ekkamai to Pattaya, Thailand by train 2023

Kim Ngân

Tháng Ba 23, 2023

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Navigating the Bangkok to Pattaya Route: Tips and Tricks

Pattaya, situated just 150 km south of Bangkok on the Eastern Seaboard, can be conveniently accessed from the capital via bus, van or taxi, with a travel time of approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and the route taken. Some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha or Laem Chabang en route, while others go directly to Pattaya. Bangkok has three bus terminals, all of which offer big buses to Pattaya that arrive at Pattaya Northern Bus Station.

Alternatively, a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport is available. For more flexibility, opt for a Bangkok-Pattaya van, which departs from various locations in Bangkok and some even take you directly to the centre of Pattaya. Bus and van tickets to Pattaya are priced between THB120 and THB400. If you prefer a faster and more comfortable ride, a taxi is the way to go, with prices ranging from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van accommodating up to 9 passengers. Motorway 7, one of the best motorways in the country, links Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya, ensuring a smooth journey by bus, taxi or private car.

From Big Buses to Mini Vans: Choosing the Right Bus for Your Bangkok to Pattaya Trip

Bangkok boasts three main bus terminals: Sai Tai Mai in the south, Morchit in the north, and Ekkamai in the east. For travelers heading to Pattaya, however, the latter two options are the most convenient due to their strategic location.

If you’re planning to visit the Eastern Seaboard of Thailand, Ekkamai bus terminal is the most convenient starting point. Located right by the BTS station of the same name, buses departing from here can get you to Pattaya in as little as two hours, although three hours is a more realistic estimate due to frequent detours to allow passengers to disembark in Chonburi, Sri Racha or Laem Chabang. Pattaya Bus Company offers three daily departures from Ekkamai: one in the morning (9:30 am), one in the afternoon (1:30 pm), and one in the evening (5:30 pm), 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. Despite having a 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 to Pattaya take approximately three hours and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company, which offers three daily departures at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. Upon arriving in Pattaya, you’ll be dropped off at the Northern bus station on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from Sukhumvit intersection. From there, you can choose between songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis to get to your destination, but always negotiate the cost in advance.

The Railway Adventure: Traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya

Although it may not be the most exciting journey, it is technically possible to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya by train. Train #283 departs Bangkok at 6:55am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34am. This train makes many stops along the way and offers only third-class seating with fans. Don’t expect any breathtaking views, but the trip does provide plenty of opportunities for people-watching. The Huay Yai train station is likely the most picturesque of all the Pattaya stations. And yes, tickets are very inexpensive.

Pattaya Bound: Traveling 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.

Straight to the Beach: The Best Way to Get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya

If you’re flying into Thailand through Suvarnabhumi airport and your next stop is Pattaya, you can use bus and taxi services to get there directly without having to go through Bangkok’s bus terminals. Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, with departures every two hours from 8am to 6pm. Their VIP24 buses are comfortable and roomy, and the entire trip takes about two hours. In Pattaya, passengers are dropped off at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.

Note that while tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be bought on the spot, this route is extremely popular and tickets for the next bus may not always be available, so it’s best to book in advance for THB272.

If you’re looking for even more comfort, PGS charters offer door-to-door service from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya. Choose from a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter for nine passengers at THB2,200. The latter option provides a great price-quality ratio, and the rates are all-inclusive with no additional tolls, luggage, or drop-off charges.

Pro tip: There’s a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point right next to gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi where buses to Pattaya depart. Stop by for mouthwatering Thai favorites like khao man gai, khao kha moo, and tom yam at very reasonable prices (starting from THB40 per dish).

Why Pattaya Continues to be a Popular Tourist Hotspot

Pattaya is often associated with its red light districts, lady bars, and visible presence of ladyboys along Beach Road. The city has been given the nickname “City of Sin” for many years, with some visitors encountering individuals seeking financial gain or hoping to establish relationships with foreigners while supporting their extended families. However, there is much more to Pattaya than these stereotypes and it offers a range of attractions and experiences beyond its reputation.

Pattaya is a well-known tourist destination in Thailand, often referred to as the “city that never sleeps” due to its bustling activity day and night. While the city was once notorious for prostitution and vice, it has undergone a transformation in recent years and now offers a diverse range of attractions, food, and visitors. Known for its independence, Pattaya now attracts a broad range of international tourists, families, and even locals from Bangkok who come to enjoy the city on weekends and during Thai public holidays. With its evolving city image, Pattaya has something for everyone.

While Pattaya may not have any rare or unique sights, the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the city never fails to charm its visitors. The city offers a range of authentic cuisine from all over the world at surprisingly affordable prices, as well as cheap street food options. Visitors can choose from first-class international hotel chains or simple guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises, and traditional shophouses, modern shopping malls, and entertainment centers, and colorful night markets. Additionally, there are nearby islands that provide visitors with a glimpse of paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions solidify Pattaya’s 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.

Stay with a View: Pattaya’s Best Hotels with Scenic Views

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 that pass 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 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’s Dos and Don’ts: Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. How far is Pattaya from Bangkok? Pattaya is located approximately 147 kilometers (91 miles) southeast of Bangkok. The distance can be covered in about two hours by car or bus, depending on traffic conditions.

2. What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several ways to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya, including by private car, taxi, bus, or train. However, the most popular and convenient option is to take a bus or minivan from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (also known as Ekamai Bus Station) to Pattaya.

3. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus? The journey by bus or minivan from Bangkok to Pattaya typically takes around two hours, depending on traffic conditions. However, some buses may take slightly longer if they make multiple stops along the way.

4. How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus? The cost of a bus or minivan ticket from Bangkok to Pattaya varies depending on the type of vehicle and the operator. On average, a one-way ticket costs between 100 and 300 baht (approximately $3 to $9 USD), with VIP buses being more expensive than regular buses.

5. What are some things to do in Pattaya? Pattaya is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and entertainment options. Some popular things to do in Pattaya include visiting the Sanctuary of Truth, exploring the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, and enjoying the nightlife on Walking Street. Pattaya also offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving.