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
Navigating the Bangkok to Pattaya Route: Tips and Tricks
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.
back to menu ↑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, 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 ↑Discover the Beauty of Thailand: Taking the Train from Bangkok to Pattaya
In technicality, it is feasible to take a train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs at 6:55 am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34 am. However, this train makes numerous stops along the way, and the journey is not a remarkable experience. Expect to spend about four hours in a third-class carriage with only fan seats, and don’t anticipate any breathtaking scenery. Nevertheless, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Of all the train stations in Pattaya, the most picturesque one is likely Huay Yai. Additionally, tickets are very affordable.
back to menu ↑A Comfortable Ride: Taking a Taxi to Pattaya from Bangkok
If you’re traveling with a large group or have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya might be the best option. We recommend the company Glassflower for their excellent service, clean and comfortable cars, affordable prices, and emphasis on passenger safety.
They even offer minivans that can accommodate up to 12 people. Another great option is PGS, which offers both individual and group transfers. You can choose their Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB2,200, or opt for the roomier Toyota Commuter that can accommodate up to nine passengers at THB2,530. All rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no additional tolls or fees for pickup and drop-off at specific locations. The journey should take no more than three hours, and could be less depending on your starting point in Bangkok.
back to menu ↑From the Runway to the Beach: Traveling from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya
If your next destination after arriving at Thailand’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, is Pattaya, you can take advantage of bus and taxi services to travel directly from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya without having to go to Bangkok’s bus terminals. 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 much roomier than economy seats on airlines. The entire journey takes about two hours, with passengers arriving at Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road. While tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be purchased on the spot, it’s a popular route, so it’s advisable to book in advance for THB272. Otherwise, you may have to wait for the next but one departure.
For a more comfortable, door-to-door experience, PGS offers charters from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter accommodating up to 9 people for THB2,200, which offers great value for money. The rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no extra tolls, luggage fees, or drop-off charges.
Tip: There’s a cheap Thai-style canteen, Magic Point, right next to gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi where buses to Pattaya depart. You can refill your stomach with mouthwatering Thai favorites, including rice with chicken (khao man gai), rice with pork leg (khao kha moo), tom yam, and more at very moderate prices starting from THB40 per dish.
back to menu ↑Discovering the Best of Pattaya: Top Reasons to Go
Pattaya is often associated with its red light districts, lady bars, and ladyboys who can be quite aggressive in their pursuit of customers along Beach Road. This reputation has earned Pattaya the nickname “City of Sin,” where impoverished women seek money and sometimes even love from foreign visitors while supporting their extended families. However, Pattaya has much more to offer beyond these stereotypes, and visitors who take the time to explore will discover a rich culture and diverse community.
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 have any rare or unique sights, the festive atmosphere of the city never fails to capture the hearts of its visitors. The city offers a wide variety of restaurants serving authentic cuisine from all over the world at surprisingly affordable prices, as well as delicious street food options. Visitors can choose from luxurious international hotel chains or simpler guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises or traditional shophouses, and modern shopping malls or colorful night markets. In addition, there are nearby islands that transport visitors to a perfect island paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions that secure 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.
back to menu ↑Stay Like a Local: Charming Homestays and Hostels in Pattaya
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Pattaya, it ultimately depends on personal preferences. If you’re seeking a lively nightlife with a seedy edge, look for centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and the area between Beach Road and Second Road. The North and Naklua areas feature respectable five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien is known for relatively cheap guesthouses and mid-range hotels. While the Jomtien beach may not be exceptional, it is still suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
Pratamnak is a bit secluded from public transport routes, but it is a lush and tranquil area with several lovely beaches, including Cozy Beach. On the other hand, the Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment hub and is suitable only for those seeking a lazy beach vacation. Ultimately, there are a variety of options available for all types of travelers, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts.
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.
Pattaya’s Culture and Customs: Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.