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
From Bangkok to Pattaya: A Step-by-Step Guide
Located just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya is easily accessible from the capital city via bus, van, or taxi. The travel time usually ranges between 2 to 3 hours, but may vary depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. Some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang along the way, while others offer direct routes to Pattaya. There are big buses departing from all three bus terminals in Bangkok, arriving at the Pattaya Northern Bus Station. Additionally, there is a direct transfer available from Suvarnabhumi airport. For a more flexible option, travelers can choose to take a Bangkok-Pattaya van. Vans depart from various locations throughout Bangkok, with some even dropping off passengers in the center of Pattaya.
Prices for bus and van tickets to Pattaya range from THB120 to THB400. Alternatively, taxis offer the fastest and most luxurious door-to-door travel, with prices ranging from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van accommodating up to 9 passengers. Traveling by bus, taxi, or private car from Bangkok to Pattaya is usually smooth and effortless, thanks to the country’s excellent motorway 7 linking Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya.
back to menu ↑Pattaya Awaits: A Step-by-Step Guide to Bus Travel from Bangkok
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 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 staying in the north of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit bus terminal is a convenient option for traveling to Pattaya. However, despite the nearby 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 take approximately three hours to reach Pattaya and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company. The company operates three buses a day, departing at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. Upon arrival in Pattaya, buses stop at the Northern bus station, located on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from the Sukhumvit intersection. To get to the city from there, you can choose between songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis. Be sure to negotiate the fare in advance regardless of which option you choose.
back to menu ↑Choo Choo to Pattaya: Taking the Train from Bangkok
In technical terms, it is possible to take the train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs Bangkok at 6:55 am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34 am. However, the train makes several stops along the way, so don’t expect a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The third-class fan seats only carriage is not luxurious, and you won’t see breathtaking views, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Of all the train stations in Pattaya, the most picturesque is probably Huay Yai. It’s worth noting that tickets are incredibly cheap.
back to menu ↑Smooth Sailing: Tips for Taking a Taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya
If you’re traveling with a large group, family, or a lot of luggage, a taxi may be the best option for getting from Bangkok to Pattaya. One recommended company is Glassflower, which offers excellent service, comfortable and clean cars, and competitive prices.
Glassflower also has minivans available that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people. Another option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry can seat up to 3 passengers for THB2,200, while their Toyota Commuter can accommodate up to 9 passengers for THB2,530. Both options are all-inclusive, with no extra tolls or additional fees for pickup and drop-off at specific locations. The trip should take no more than three hours, depending on your starting point in Bangkok.
back to menu ↑Easy Breezy: Traveling to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport
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 Charms of Pattaya: Why You Should Visit
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 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 a popular and affordable option. One trip can cost anywhere from THB10 to THB40, depending on the distance you need to travel, and several routes cover the entire city. The blue songthaews are particularly useful for getting from the junction of South Pattaya Road and Second Road to Jomtien, from Jomtien to the Dolphins roundabout in the north, and for 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 be sure to agree on the cost of the ride beforehand.
Motorbike taxis are also ubiquitous and affordable, offering a great solution for navigating the city’s increasingly congested traffic.
If you prefer to have your own vehicle, rental shops throughout the city offer motorbikes starting from THB200 per day (or THB2000 per month) and small cars like the Honda City for THB1000. While scams where renters are forced to pay for damage upon return are not common, note that police frequently stop both cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses. Wearing seatbelts and helmets is mandatory.
Although more bicycles are now seen on Pattaya’s roads, the city’s chaotic traffic can make it unsafe and unpleasant to cycle amidst speeding cars, tourist buses, and motorcycles.
back to menu ↑Pattaya for Families: Family-Friendly Accommodation Options
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Pattaya, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are interested in a vibrant nightlife scene with a slightly seedy undertone, look for centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and the area between Beach Road and Second Road. The North and Nakluea areas feature respectable five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien offers relatively inexpensive guesthouses and mid-range hotels. While Jomtien Beach may not be the most impressive, it is still suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
For a quieter experience, Pratamnak offers a peaceful and green setting, as well as several beautiful beaches such as Cozy Beach. However, it is important to note that this area is a bit off the public transport routes. The Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment areas, making it a suitable choice only if a relaxing beach vacation is what you’re after.
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.
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.