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From Thung Khru to Pattaya, Thailand by train 2023

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Tháng Ba 22, 2023

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How to Plan Your Trip from Bangkok to Pattaya: Travel Tips and Insights

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.

Navigating the Bangkok to Pattaya Bus Route: What You Need to Know

Pattaya-bound travelers in Bangkok have two convenient bus terminals to choose from: Morchit in the north and Ekkamai in the east. These two terminals offer frequent departures throughout the day, but seats tend to sell out quickly.

If you’re planning a trip to the Eastern Seaboard, the Ekkamai bus terminal is the ideal starting point. It’s conveniently located near the BTS station of the same name. Buses departing from Ekkamai can get you to Pattaya in as little as two hours, although it’s more realistic to expect a journey time of around three hours, as they often make stops in Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang to drop off passengers. Pattaya Bus operates three daily services from Ekkamai, departing in the morning (at 9:30 am), afternoon (at 1:30 pm), and 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. 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.

Riding the Rails: A Unique Journey from Bangkok to Pattaya

In technicality, it is feasible to take a train from Bangkok to Pattaya. Train #283 departs at 6:55 am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34 am. However, this train makes numerous stops along the way, and the journey is not a remarkable experience. Expect to spend about four hours in a third-class carriage with only fan seats, and don’t anticipate any breathtaking scenery. Nevertheless, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Of all the train stations in Pattaya, the most picturesque one is likely Huay Yai. Additionally, tickets are very 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.

Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport? Head to Pattaya with Ease

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 a reputation for its red light districts, lady bars, and the presence of ladyboys who are often aggressive in their pursuit of vulnerable individuals along Beach Road. This has led to Pattaya being known as the “City of Sin” for many years. Unfortunately, some locals have resorted to exploiting their beauty and financial circumstances to seek money from foreigners, sometimes claiming to be looking for true love while burdened with the responsibilities of an extended family.

Pattaya is a renowned tourist city in Thailand, known as the “city that never sleeps” due to its lively atmosphere both day and night. Although Pattaya was once infamous for prostitution and vice, the city has undergone a transformation and now boasts a diverse range of people, cuisine, and tourist attractions. It is a city that truly offers something for everyone. Pattaya now attracts a significant number of international package tourists, families, and Bangkok residents who often flock to the city on weekends and during Thai public holidays.

While Pattaya may not offer rare or unique attractions, the city’s festive and lively atmosphere never fails to win over the hearts of its visitors. The city boasts a wide range of restaurants serving authentic cuisine from all over the world at astonishingly affordable prices, as well as street food vendors offering cheap eats. Accommodation options range from first-class international hotel chains to simple guesthouse rooms, and from elegant high-rises to traditional shophouses. Modern shopping malls and entertainment centers coexist with colorful night markets. Visitors can also choose from nearby islands that transport them to the perfect island paradise, and a growing number of family-oriented attractions add to 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.

Experience the Best of Pattaya: Staying Near the Beach

Choosing the right accommodation in Pattaya ultimately depends on personal preferences. For those seeking a lively nightlife scene with a seedy edge, centrally located hotels and guesthouses around Soi Buakhao and between Beach Road and Second Road are ideal. Alternatively, the North and Nakluea areas boast several respectable five-star chain hotels.

Jomtien is a great option for those seeking relatively cheap guesthouses and mid-range hotels, and while the Jomtien beach is considered mediocre, it is still suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Pratamnak may be a bit off the public transport routes, but the area is very green and tranquil, with several nice beaches including Cozy Beach. The Ambassador City Hotel area is far from the city’s entertainment hotspots and may only be suitable for those seeking a lazy beach vacation.

Some important bus routes in Bangkok that pass 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 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.

Pattaya’s Dos and Don’ts: Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. How far is Pattaya from Bangkok? Pattaya is approximately 147 kilometers (91 miles) southeast of Bangkok.

2. What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya? The most convenient way to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya is by private car or taxi. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a minivan from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) or Mo Chit Bus Terminal.

3. How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Pattaya? Travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. A private car or taxi can take around 2 hours, while a bus or minivan can take between 2.5 to 3 hours.

4. What is the cost of traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya? Again, the cost depends on the mode of transportation. A private car or taxi can cost around 1,500-2,500 baht ($50-$85 USD), while a bus or minivan can cost between 100-300 baht ($3-$10 USD).

5. What are some popular things to do in Pattaya? Pattaya is known for its beaches, nightlife, and shopping. Some popular attractions include Walking Street, Jomtien Beach, Pattaya Floating Market, and Sanctuary of Truth.