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From Samphanthawong to Pattaya, Thailand by van 2023

Minh Châu

Tháng Ba 23, 2023

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How to get from Bangkok to Pattaya

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.

Pattaya Awaits: A Step-by-Step Guide to Bus Travel from Bangkok

If you’re planning a bus trip from Bangkok to Pattaya, you’ll have three terminals to choose from: Sai Tai Mai, Morchit, and Ekkamai. However, the northern and eastern terminals are the most popular and easily accessible.

If you’re traveling to the Eastern Seaboard, the Ekkamai bus terminal is the ideal place to start your journey. Located conveniently next to the BTS station of the same name, you can catch a bus from Ekkamai to Pattaya in just two hours. However, it’s more realistic to expect the journey to take around three hours, as the buses often make stops along the way in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to let passengers off. Pattaya Bus offers three daily departures from Ekkamai: in the morning at 9:30am, in the afternoon at 1:30pm, and in the evening at 5:30pm, 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.

From the City to the Beach: Taking the Train from Bangkok to Pattaya

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.

The Taxi Option: An Easy Way to Travel 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.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya: The Hassle-Free Transfer

If Pattaya is your next destination after arriving at Thailand’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, you can use bus and taxi services to get directly 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, with departures every two hours from 8am until 6pm. Their VIP24 buses offer comfortable seating, much roomier than economy class on airlines, and the journey takes about two hours. In Pattaya, passengers are dropped off at Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road. Note that the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus route is very popular, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance for THB272 to avoid waiting for the next available departure.

For a more comfortable and personalized experience, PGS offers charter services that bring you directly to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to nine people at THB2,200, making it a great option in terms of price and quality. Rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no additional tolls, luggage or drop-off charges.

As a bonus tip, there’s a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point right next to gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi where buses depart for Pattaya. You can fill your stomach with delicious Thai favorites, such as 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).

Beyond the Beaches: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Pattaya

Pattaya has gained notoriety for its red light districts, lady bars, and the presence of ladyboys who are often seen soliciting under the palm trees along Beach Road. For many years, it has been referred to as the “City of Sin,” with some locals and tourists engaging in exploitative relationships with those seeking financial support or a way out of poverty. However, it’s important to recognize that Pattaya has many other aspects to offer beyond these stereotypes.

Pattaya is a well-known tourist destination in Thailand, often referred to as the “city that never sleeps” due to its bustling activity day and night. While the city was once notorious for prostitution and vice, it has undergone a transformation in recent years and now offers a diverse range of attractions, food, and visitors. Known for its independence, Pattaya now attracts a broad range of international tourists, families, and even locals from Bangkok who come to enjoy the city on weekends and during Thai public holidays. With its evolving city image, Pattaya has something for everyone.

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.

To get around Pattaya, the most cost-effective option is to take a songthaew, a type of shared taxi that costs between THB10 and THB40 depending on the distance traveled. There are several routes that cover the entire city, including 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. You can also hire a songthaew as a private taxi, but be sure to agree on the cost of the ride before getting in.

Motorbike taxis are another affordable and convenient option, especially considering the worsening traffic in the city. If you’re comfortable riding a motorcycle, this can be a good choice.

Alternatively, you can rent a car or a motorbike from one of the rental shops scattered throughout the city. Scooters start at around THB200 per day (THB2000 per month), while small cars like the Honda City are available for around THB1000. Although scams where you’re forced to pay for “damage” upon returning the vehicle are not common, be aware that police often check drivers’ licenses. Also, wearing seatbelts and helmets is mandatory.

Finally, more bicycles are appearing on Pattaya roads, but with the chaotic traffic, it’s neither safe nor enjoyable to pedal between speeding cars, tourist buses, and other bikes.

From Luxurious Resorts to Cozy Guesthouses: Where 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.

FAQs

1. How do I get from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options for traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya, including buses, taxis, and private cars. Buses are the most popular and economical way to travel, with frequent departures from several bus terminals in Bangkok. Taxis and private cars can be more expensive but offer greater convenience and flexibility.

2. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time between Bangkok and Pattaya depends on the mode of transportation you choose. Buses take about 2-3 hours to reach Pattaya, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis and private cars can take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.

3. How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost of traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Buses are the most economical option, with fares ranging from 100 to 250 baht (about $3 to $8 USD). Taxis and private cars are more expensive, with fares ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 baht (about $30 to $100 USD).

4. What are some popular things to do in Pattaya? Pattaya is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and shopping. Some popular attractions include the Pattaya Beach, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, Sanctuary of Truth, Walking Street, and the Pattaya Floating Market.

5. Is it safe to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? Yes, it is generally safe to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures, such as avoiding crowded areas at night and securing valuables. It is also recommended to use reputable transportation providers and to be aware of common scams targeting tourists.