Flight Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 2,860–6,260
3h 30m – 6h
Bus Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 164
2h 30m
Taxi Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 1,600–10,450
1h 20m – 3h
Van Bangkok - Pattaya
฿ 200–430
2h – 3h 50m
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
Exploring Pattaya: Your Ultimate Bangkok to Pattaya Travel Guide
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 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 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.
back to menu ↑Train to Paradise: Journeying from Bangkok to Pattaya
It is technically possible to take a train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs from Bangkok at 6.55am and arrives in Pattaya at 10.34am, making numerous stops along the way. However, this journey is not a once-in-a-lifetime experience and lasts approximately four hours in a third-class carriage with fan seats only. Don’t expect breathtaking views, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities for exciting people-watching. The Huay Yai train station is perhaps the most picturesque of all the Pattaya train stations. Additionally, train tickets are incredibly affordable.
back to menu ↑The Taxi Journey: A Stress-Free Way to Travel to Pattaya
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 ↑Jet-Lagged? Let Us Help You 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 ↑Why Pattaya Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Pattaya has often been associated with its infamous red light districts, lady bars, and ladyboys soliciting for money along Beach Road. The city has earned a reputation as the “City of Sin,” where impoverished individuals seek financial support or romantic relationships from foreigners, burdened with the responsibility of supporting their extended families.
Pattaya is a renowned tourist city in Thailand, known as the “city that never sleeps” due to its lively atmosphere both day and night. Although Pattaya was once infamous for prostitution and vice, the city has undergone a transformation and now boasts a diverse range of people, cuisine, and tourist attractions. It is a city that truly offers something for everyone. Pattaya now attracts a significant number of international package tourists, families, and Bangkok residents who often flock to the city on weekends and during Thai public holidays.
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.
When it comes to getting around Pattaya, songthaews are the most popular choice. These shared pickup trucks 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 can take you as far as Sattahip. Songthaews can also be hired as taxis, but it’s important to agree on the cost of the ride before you go.
Motorbike taxis are also a common and affordable option. With traffic in the city worsening, motorbike taxis provide a convenient solution.
Renting a car or motorbike is another option, with rental shops located throughout the city. Scooters cost from THB200 per day (or THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City go for THB1000. While scams where renters are forced to pay for damage upon returning the vehicle are not common, it’s worth noting that the police often stop cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses. It’s also important to wear seatbelts and helmets.
While more bicycles are seen on Pattaya’s roads these days, the chaotic traffic makes it unsafe and unpleasant to pedal alongside speeding cars, tourist buses, and motorbikes.
back to menu ↑Find Your Home Away from Home: Best Accommodation Options in Pattaya
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Pattaya, it largely depends on your personal preferences. If you’re seeking a vibrant nightlife with a slightly edgy vibe, look for centrally located hotels and guesthouses in the area around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road. The northern part of Pattaya and Naklua feature upscale, five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien offers a range of relatively affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels. While Jomtien Beach may not be the best for swimming or sunbathing, it still offers a decent experience.
If you’re after a quieter, more secluded vacation, consider the Pratamnak area, which is very green and peaceful, and features several lovely beaches including Cozy Beach. Keep in mind that Pratamnak is a bit off the public transport routes, so it may not be the most convenient option. Lastly, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation and don’t mind being far from the city’s entertainments, the Ambassador City Hotel area could be worth considering.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Pattaya
-
What is the distance between Bangkok and Pattaya, and how long does it take to travel between the two cities? The distance between Bangkok and Pattaya is approximately 147 kilometers (91 miles). The travel time depends on the mode of transportation chosen. By car, it takes around two hours to reach Pattaya from Bangkok, while a bus or minivan can take between two and three hours depending on traffic.
-
What are the transportation options for traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options for traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya, including car, bus, minivan, and taxi. The most popular modes of transportation are buses and minivans, as they are relatively cheap and frequent.
-
What is the cost of transportation from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost of transportation from Bangkok to Pattaya depends on the mode of transportation chosen. A one-way bus ticket can cost between 100 and 150 THB (3 to 5 USD), while a one-way taxi ride can cost upwards of 1500 THB (50 USD).
-
What are some popular attractions in Pattaya that can be visited during a day trip from Bangkok? Pattaya is a popular seaside resort town in Thailand and offers a range of attractions for visitors. Some popular attractions include the Sanctuary of Truth, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, and the Pattaya Floating Market. The town is also known for its nightlife and beaches.
-
Is it necessary to book transportation in advance from Bangkok to Pattaya? While it is not necessary to book transportation in advance, it is recommended to do so during peak travel times or holidays. Buses and minivans can fill up quickly, so booking in advance can ensure a seat and save time waiting for the next available ride. Additionally, booking in advance can sometimes offer better prices.