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From Rat Burana to Pattaya by train 2023

Kim Ngân

Tháng Ba 29, 2023

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Convenient and Affordable Travel Options from Bangkok to Pattaya

Pattaya, situated just 150 km south of Bangkok on the Eastern Seaboard, can be easily accessed from the capital by bus, van, or taxi. The travel time typically ranges from 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. Some buses make stops at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang on the way, while others go directly to Pattaya. You can find big buses to Pattaya at all three bus terminals in Bangkok, with all of them arriving at Pattaya Northern Bus Station. Alternatively, a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport is also available. For greater flexibility, consider taking a Bangkok-Pattaya van, which departs from various locations throughout Bangkok and some even drop you off right in the centre of Pattaya.

Bus and van tickets to Pattaya cost between THB120 and THB400. For the fastest and most luxurious way to travel, a taxi is a great option, with prices ranging from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van accommodating up to 9 passengers. One of the country’s best motorways, Motorway 7, connects Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya, making travel by bus, taxi, or private car usually smooth and hassle-free.

Smooth Sailing: Avoiding Traffic Jams on the Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Route

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 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.

All Aboard for Pattaya: Train Travel from Bangkok

In theory, 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, making multiple stops along the way. However, the journey is not particularly scenic and the third-class fan seats only carriage can be uncomfortable, so it’s not exactly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Nevertheless, it does offer ample opportunities for interesting people-watching. Of all the train stations in Pattaya, Huay Yai is probably the most picturesque. It’s worth noting that tickets for the train are very inexpensive.

From Bangkok to Pattaya: The Convenient Taxi Option

If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or a large group, taking a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya is a great option for a door-to-door experience. Glassflower is a highly recommended company, providing excellent service with clean, comfortable cars and the best prices.

They prioritize passenger safety, making them a reliable choice. Glassflower also offers minivans that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people. Another great option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry is priced at THB2,200 for three passengers, while their roomier Toyota Commuter accommodates up to 9 passengers and costs THB2,530. The rates are all-inclusive, with no additional tolls or fees for pickup and drop-off in specific locations. The journey from Bangkok to Pattaya usually takes no more than three hours, and can be even shorter depending on your starting point in Bangkok.

Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport? Head to Pattaya with Ease

If you’re arriving at Suvarnabhumi airport and heading directly to Pattaya, there are several options available to you. One convenient choice is to take a bus or taxi directly from the airport to Pattaya, bypassing the need to go to any of 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. The VIP24 buses are spacious and comfortable, making the two-hour journey to Pattaya a pleasant experience. Upon arrival in Pattaya, passengers are dropped off at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.

Note that tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be bought on the spot, but it’s a popular route, so there may be a wait for the next available bus. Advance tickets cost THB272. If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, PGS charters provide door-to-door service from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to 9 people at THB2,200.

The latter is a great value for its price and quality. Rates are all-inclusive, so there are no extra tolls, luggage or drop-off charges. While waiting for your transportation, you can also grab a bite to eat at Magic Point, a cheap Thai-style canteen located near gate 8.

Why Pattaya Continues to be a Popular Tourist Hotspot

Pattaya has gained notoriety for its red light districts, lady bars, and the presence of aggressive ladyboys who seek out unsuspecting tourists under the coconut trees along Beach Road. For years, the city has been referred to as the “City of Sin,” with stories of financially struggling individuals seeking money from foreigners or searching for love while supporting their extended families.

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 sights, the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the city never fails to captivate visitors. The city offers an array of authentic cuisine from all over the world at surprisingly affordable prices, as well as a variety of street food options. Accommodations range from first-class international hotel chains to simple guesthouse rooms, and from elegant high-rises to traditional shophouses. Visitors can indulge in modern shopping malls and entertainment centers or explore colorful night markets. The city also boasts nearby islands that transport visitors to the perfect island paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions 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 among tourists. These shared taxis are affordable, with prices ranging from THB10 to THB40 per trip depending on the distance. Several routes cover the entire city, with the most useful routes being 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. It’s also possible to hire a songthaew as a private taxi, but you’ll need to negotiate the cost of the ride beforehand.

Motorbike taxis are another ubiquitous and affordable option. With traffic in the city becoming increasingly congested, motorbike taxis provide a convenient solution.

For those who prefer to drive themselves, car and motorbike rentals are available throughout the city. Scooters can be rented for as little as THB200 per day (or THB2,000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City can be rented for around THB1,000 per day. While scams are not common, it’s worth noting that police often stop both cars and motorbikes to check drivers’ licenses, and it’s mandatory to wear a seatbelt or helmet.

While bicycles are becoming more common on Pattaya’s roads, the chaotic traffic can make cycling unsafe and unpleasant, with speeding cars, tourist buses, and motorbikes all vying for space.

Pattaya for Families: Family-Friendly Accommodation Options

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.

What to Pack for Pattaya: FAQs on Clothing and Essentials

1. How far is Bangkok from Pattaya? Bangkok and Pattaya are approximately 150 kilometers apart. The travel time between the two cities can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the traffic conditions.

2. What are the transportation options to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options available to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya, including taxis, private cars, buses, and trains. The most popular mode of transportation is by taxi or private car.

3. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya by road? The travel time by road from Bangkok to Pattaya can vary from 2 to 3 hours depending on the traffic conditions. However, during peak travel times, such as weekends or holidays, it can take longer.

4. What is the best time to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The best time to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya is during the dry season, which is from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the roads are less congested.

5. What are some popular tourist attractions in Pattaya? Pattaya is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and water sports activities. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Pattaya include Walking Street, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Pattaya Floating Market, and Sanctuary of Truth.