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
Bangkok to Pattaya: The Best Ways to Travel
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.
back to menu ↑Sightseeing on the Way: Bus Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya
Bangkok has three bus terminals for travelers to choose from: Sai Tai Mai in the south, Morchit in the north, and Ekkamai in the east. For those headed to Pattaya, the latter two are the best options due to their location and popularity.
If you’re heading to the Eastern Seaboard, the Ekkamai bus terminal is the most convenient starting point. It’s situated right next to the BTS station with the same name. Buses departing from Ekkamai can reach Pattaya in as little as two hours, although it’s more realistic to expect a travel time of around three hours, as they often make stops in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to drop off passengers. Pattaya Bus has three daily departures from Ekkamai: one in the morning at 9:30 am, another in the afternoon at 1:30 pm, and the last one in the evening at 5:30 pm, all priced at THB127.
If you’re in the northern part of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, the Morchit bus terminal is a convenient option. Although there is a BTS station with the same name, you’ll need to take a short bus or taxi ride from BTS Morchit to reach the terminal. Buses from Morchit to Pattaya take around three hours and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company, with three daily departures at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. Upon arrival in Pattaya, the bus will stop at the Northern bus station, located on North Pattaya Road just 200 meters from Sukhumvit intersection. To reach the city from there, you can choose from songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis, but be sure to negotiate the fare in advance.
back to menu ↑All Aboard for Pattaya: Train Travel 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 ↑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.
back to menu ↑Start Your Vacation Right: How to Get to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport
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).
back to menu ↑Escape to Paradise: The Appeal 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 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.
Getting around Pattaya is easy with songthaews being the prime choice. These shared taxis are cheap, with fares ranging from THB10 to THB40 depending on the distance you travel, and several routes cover the entire city. Blue songthaews are the most useful, with routes 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 also work as hired taxis, and you must agree on the cost of the ride before you go.
Motorbike taxis are another affordable and ubiquitous option, especially with city traffic getting worse. Renting a car or motorbike is also possible, with rental shops located throughout the city. Scooters cost from THB200 per day (from THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City go for around THB1000. Although scams where renters are forced to pay for “damage” after returning the vehicle are uncommon, police often stop both cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses, and seat belts and helmets are mandatory.
While more bicycles are seen on Pattaya roads these days, the chaotic traffic makes it neither safe nor pleasant to pedal between speeding cars, tourist buses, and other bikes.
back to menu ↑Comfort and Convenience: Choosing the Right Area 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 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 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.
Planning Your Pattaya Trip: Commonly Asked Questions
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How far is Pattaya from Bangkok? Pattaya is approximately 147 kilometers (91 miles) southeast of Bangkok.
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What are the transportation options to get from Bangkok to Pattaya? The most common transportation options are by taxi, bus, or private car. There are also minivans and shared taxis available for hire. Some people prefer to rent a car and drive themselves.
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How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time depends on the mode of transportation and the traffic conditions. On average, it takes around 2 to 3 hours by car or taxi, and around 2.5 to 3.5 hours by bus.
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How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost varies depending on the mode of transportation and the type of service you choose. A taxi ride can cost anywhere from 1,500 to 2,500 baht ($50 to $80 USD), while a bus ticket typically costs between 100 and 300 baht ($3 to $10 USD). Minivans and shared taxis are generally cheaper options.
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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, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling in a foreign country, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to choose a reputable mode of transportation and avoid traveling alone at night.