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From Thung Khru to Pattaya, Thailand by bus 2023

Kim Ngân

Tháng Ba 23, 2023

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Traveling to Pattaya from Bangkok: A Comprehensive Guide

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.

Frequent and Affordable: The Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Service

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 staying in the north of Bangkok or arriving at Don Mueang airport, Morchit is a convenient option for traveling to Pattaya. Despite having a BTS station of the same name, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi for a short ride from BTS Morchit to the bus terminal. Buses from Morchit to Pattaya take around three hours and cost THB127 with Pattaya Bus company, which offers three daily departures at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm.

Upon arriving in Pattaya, buses stop at the Northern bus station, located on North Pattaya Road, just 200 meters from the Sukhumvit intersection. To reach the city center from there, you can choose from songthaews (THB40 per person), motorbike taxis, or regular taxis – just make sure to negotiate the cost of your ride in advance.

Train to Paradise: Journeying from Bangkok to Pattaya

While not necessarily the most exciting journey, it is technically possible to take a train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs at 6:55am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34am, with numerous stops along the way. The third-class fan seats only carriage may not offer breathtaking views, but it does provide plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Of all the Pattaya train stations, the most picturesque is probably Huay Yai. One advantage of taking the train is the low ticket prices, which are quite affordable.

The Taxi Option: An Easy Way to Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya

If you’re traveling with a large family or group of friends, or simply have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya can be a convenient option. Glassflower is a recommended taxi company due to their excellent service, comfortable and clean cars, competitive prices, and focus on passenger safety. They also have minivans available that can accommodate groups of up to 12 people.

Another good option is PGS, which offers smart solutions for both individual and group transfers. Their Toyota Camry is priced at THB2,200 for up to three passengers, while the roomier Toyota Commuter can accommodate up to nine passengers and costs THB2,530. All rates are all-inclusive with no extra tolls or fees for specific pickup and drop-off locations. The trip should take no more than three hours, and could be shorter depending on your starting point in Bangkok.

Your Guide to Getting from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya

If you’re flying into Suvarnabhumi, Thailand’s main airport, and heading to Pattaya as your next destination, there are several convenient bus and taxi services available. Bell Travel operates buses from the lower level of the airport near gate 8, which depart every two hours from 8am to 6pm. Their VIP24 buses are more spacious and comfortable than economy airline seats, and the entire journey takes about two hours. Upon arrival in Pattaya, passengers are taken to the Pattaya Northern bus station on Pattaya North Road. It’s worth noting that the route is extremely popular, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance. Tickets purchased on the spot may require waiting until the next but one departure. If booked ahead of time, tickets cost THB272.

For more comfort and door-to-door service, PGS also offers charters from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya. You can choose between a Toyota Camry for three passengers at THB1,980, or a Toyota Commuter that can accommodate up to nine passengers at THB2,200. The latter option offers a great price-quality ratio. Rates are all-inclusive, meaning there are no extra tolls, luggage, or drop-off charges.

Tip: If you have some time to spare before departure, check out Magic Point, a cheap Thai-style canteen located near gate 8. There, you can enjoy delicious Thai favorites like rice with chicken (khao man gai), rice with pork leg (khao kha moo), and tom yam at very reasonable prices (starting from THB40 per dish).

Explore the Vibrant Culture of Pattaya

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 destination in Thailand, often referred to as the city that never sleeps due to its round-the-clock activities. While the city has had a past reputation for prostitution and vice, it has undergone a transformation and now offers a diverse range of experiences, including food, culture, and attractions. Pattaya is now a truly independent city, attracting international package tourists, families, and weekenders from Bangkok during public holidays. With its varied offerings, Pattaya has become a popular destination for people of all walks of life.

While Pattaya may not have any rare or unique attractions, the festive and vibrant atmosphere of the city never fails to capture the hearts of its visitors. The city offers a wide range of restaurants serving authentic cuisine from all around the world, with astonishingly affordable prices, as well as delicious street food options. Visitors can choose between first-class international hotel chains and simple guesthouse rooms, elegant high-rises and traditional shophouses, modern shopping malls, and entertainment centers, and colorful night markets. In addition, there are nearby islands that transport visitors to a 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 an affordable and convenient option. With fares ranging from THB10 to THB40, depending on the distance, and several routes covering the entire city, they are an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. Blue songthaews run from the junction of South Pattaya Road and Second Road to Jomtien, from Jomtien to the Dolphins roundabout in the north, and along a Second Road-North Pattaya-Pattaya Beach Road loop. White songthaews operate along Sukhumvit Road, extending as far as Sattahip. Songthaews can also be hired as taxis, with the fare to be agreed upon before the ride.

Motorbike taxis are also widely available and affordable, providing a convenient solution to the city’s worsening traffic.

For those who prefer to drive themselves, car and motorbike rentals are available throughout the city. Scooters typically cost THB200 per day or THB2000 per month, while small cars like the Honda City can be rented for THB1000 per day. While scams related to “vehicle damage” are not common, drivers should be aware that police often stop both cars and motorbikes to check licenses, and wearing seat belts and helmets is mandatory.

While bicycles are becoming more common on Pattaya’s roads, the chaotic traffic makes it neither safe nor pleasant to navigate between speeding cars, tourist buses, and bikes.

Pattaya’s Best Kept Secrets: Hidden Gems for Accommodation

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Pattaya, personal preferences play a big role. If you’re looking for a lively nightlife with a bit of a seedy edge, centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road may suit your needs. The North and Nakluea areas are home to respectable five-star chain hotels, while Jomtien offers relatively cheap guesthouses and mid-range hotels, with an average beach suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Pratamnak is a bit off the public transport routes but boasts a tranquil and green area, as well as several lovely beaches, including Cozy Beach. However, if you’re seeking a lazy beach vacation, the Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment hotspots and could be an option for you.

Some important bus routes in Bangkok passing through tourist attractions 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.

Safety in Pattaya: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I get from Bangkok to Pattaya? There are several transportation options to get from Bangkok to Pattaya including taking a bus, hiring a private car or taxi, or taking a train. The most popular and convenient way to travel is by bus. Buses depart frequently from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (also known as Ekkamai) to Pattaya.

2. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The travel time from Bangkok to Pattaya varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. A bus journey from Bangkok to Pattaya typically takes about 2-3 hours, while traveling by private car or taxi can take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Taking the train may take longer, usually around 3-4 hours.

3. How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The cost of traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya depends on the mode of transportation you choose. A bus ticket can cost between 100-200 Thai Baht (approximately 3-6 USD), while hiring a private car or taxi can cost around 1,500-2,000 Thai Baht (approximately 45-60 USD). Train tickets can range from 31-119 Thai Baht (approximately 1-4 USD), depending on the class of travel.

4. Can I take a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya? Yes, you can hire a taxi or private car to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya. Taxis are available from Bangkok’s airports, train stations, and bus terminals, and the fare usually ranges from 1,500-2,000 Thai Baht (approximately 45-60 USD). It is important to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

5. Is Pattaya worth visiting? Pattaya is a popular beach destination known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. It is a great place to visit for those looking for a mix of relaxation and entertainment. Some of the popular attractions in Pattaya include the Sanctuary of Truth, the Pattaya Floating Market, and the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.