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From Saphan Sung to Pattaya, Thailand by van 2023

Kim Ngân

Tháng Ba 23, 2023

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How to Reach Pattaya from Bangkok: Tips and Advice

Located just 150 km south of Bangkok along the Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya is conveniently accessible by bus, van, or taxi. The duration of the journey, which typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, depends largely on traffic conditions and the route taken. Some buses make stops in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang, while others travel directly to Pattaya. Big buses departing from all three bus terminals in Bangkok arrive at the Pattaya Northern Bus Station, and there’s even a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport. For greater flexibility, consider taking a Bangkok-Pattaya van. These vans depart from various locations throughout Bangkok and some even drop you off in the heart of Pattaya.

Tickets for both buses and vans typically range from THB120 to THB400. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the fastest and most luxurious way to travel door-to-door. Prices vary from THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private van that can accommodate up to 9 passengers. Motorway 7, one of the best highways in the country, connects Bangkok to Chonburi and Pattaya, making transportation by bus, taxi, or private car a smooth and comfortable experience.

Frequent and Affordable: The Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Service

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 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 northern part of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit bus terminal is a convenient option to reach Pattaya. Although there is a BTS station with 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 around three hours to reach Pattaya and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company. The company operates three buses a day at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm.

Upon arrival in Pattaya, the buses stop at the Northern bus station located on North Pattaya Road, just 200m from Sukhumvit intersection. To reach the city, you can choose from songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis, but always negotiate the fare in advance.

The Railway Adventure: Traveling 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.

The Road to Pattaya: Taking a Taxi from Bangkok

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.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya: The Hassle-Free Transfer

If you arrive at Suvarnabhumi airport and need to get to Pattaya, you can take advantage of the convenient bus and taxi services available. Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, with departures every two hours between 8am and 6pm. Their VIP24 buses are comfortable and roomier than economy seats on airlines. The journey takes about two hours and drops passengers off at the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road.

Please note that tickets for the Suvarnabhumi-Pattaya bus can be purchased on the spot, but this route is extremely popular, so you may not be able to get tickets for the next bus and have to wait for the next one after that. If you book in advance, tickets cost THB272.

For even more comfort and convenience, PGS offers charter services that take you from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya directly and without hassle. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980 or a Toyota Commuter that accommodates up to 9 people for THB2,200. The latter is a great option in terms of price and quality. Rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no additional tolls, luggage fees, or drop-off charges.

Tip: Next to the gate 8 on the lower level of Suvarnabhumi where buses to Pattaya depart, there is a cheap Thai-style canteen called Magic Point where you can enjoy mouthwatering Thai dishes like rice with chicken (khao man gai), rice with pork leg (khao kha moo), tom yam, and more at very reasonable prices (starting from THB40 per dish).

Pattaya: A Destination Full of Surprises

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 have any rare or unique sights, the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the city never fails to charm its visitors. The city offers a range of authentic cuisine from all over the world at surprisingly affordable prices, as well as cheap street food options. Visitors can choose from first-class international hotel chains or simple guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises, and traditional shophouses, modern shopping malls, and entertainment centers, and colorful night markets. Additionally, there are nearby islands that provide visitors with a glimpse of paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions solidify Pattaya’s 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.

Pattaya’s All-Inclusive Resorts: A Hassle-Free Vacation Experience

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 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 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.

Safety in Pattaya: Frequently Asked Questions

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.