Navigating from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the vibrant shores of Pattaya is a journey that promises adventure and scenic beauty. As you plan this exciting transition, let Mihitravel be your trusted guide in answering the pivotal question: “How to Get to Pattaya from Bangkok?” In this detailed guide, we will explore the various transportation options that ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing you to soak in the diverse experiences both cities offer. From the quickest routes to the most scenic paths, we’ve got you covered, ensuring your travel from Bangkok to Pattaya is perfect. Let’s set the wheels in motion and pave the way for an unforgettable adventure!
Embarking from Bangkok to Pattaya is a breeze, thanks to the seamless connectivity facilitated by Highway 7 (Motorway) and Highway 3 (Bangna-Chonburi route).
Step into a world of convenience as frequent long-distance buses roll out from Bangkok’s bustling Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) every half hour, promising a smooth and comfortable journey. For those seeking a dash of luxury and panoramic views, opt for a quick flight from the majestic Suvarnabhumi International Airport to the picturesque U-Tapao Airport, nestled in Sattahip, just a stone’s throw away from Pattaya. This option, while not the most time-efficient, offers an unparalleled experience of style and comfort.
Bus or Mini Van
Ideal for: Budget-Friendly Travellers
Embarking on a journey from Bangkok to Pattaya is economical and convenient when you opt for bus or minivan services, a popular choice among the locals of Bangkok. The Eastern Bus Terminal, conveniently next to the Ekkamai BTS Station on Sukhumvit Road at Soi 63 (Soi Ekkamai), is a primary hub for frequent departures to Pattaya.
Step into the comfort of air-conditioned buses that operate with remarkable frequency, departing every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily. If you find yourself closer to the Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit), you can catch buses running between 5:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. Meanwhile, the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) offers several departures throughout the day, with the first bus at 5:30 a.m. and the last at 6:30 p.m., making it a convenient option for those stationed near Khao San Road. Hop on the 511 bus on Rachdamnoen Road and alight at the terminal.
Despite the bustling traffic of Bangkok, the journey to Pattaya is relatively swift, typically taking about 2 hours. For a more personalized travel experience, many travel agencies and hotels, especially in the Khao San Road area, provide minivan services directly to your destination. Alternatively, for a door-to-door service, taxis are available, albeit at a higher price point, offering a comfortable and direct route to Pattaya.
Rented Car
Ideal for: Convenience and Flexibility
Opting to rent a car presents a fantastic opportunity to explore the scenic route from Bangkok to Pattaya at your own pace. Upon landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport, well-established car rental companies such as Budget, Hertz, and Avis are ready to cater to your needs. Conveniently, the airport is approximately 120 km northwest of Pattaya, allowing you to bypass the bustling streets of Bangkok and head straight to the tranquil seaside resort.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, secure your vehicle rental in advance through the official website of your chosen company. This way, your preferred car will be prepped and waiting for you upon your arrival at the airport, setting the stage for a comfortable and leisurely drive to the vibrant city of Pattaya.
Reaching Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport
As you step out of the arrivals hall at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you’ll be greeted by representatives offering various transportation services to destinations across Thailand, including Pattaya. These services, often in minivans or limousines, tend to be pricier despite their capacity to accommodate more passengers. If you’re seeking a more private and luxurious journey, consider opting for an airport limousine service. This can be arranged in advance or directly at the service counter on the 2nd floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on comfort, the airport’s Transport Centre offers bus services to Pattaya. With departures every two hours and a travel time of approximately 1.5 hours, this option provides both convenience and affordability. These buses, equipped with air conditioning, make their final stop at the North Pattaya Road Bus Station. From there, you can easily find additional transportation to ferry you to your hotel, marking a smooth end to your journey.
Experience Pattaya’s Wonders with a Private Sightseeing Tour
Private Tour of the Pattaya Floating Market
If you’re pressed for time but still eager to witness the vibrant allure of Pattaya, this 13-hour private sightseeing tour is your golden ticket. It promises a day packed with exploration and discovery, allowing you to soak in Pattaya’s beauty before returning to Bangkok’s bustling streets.
Your journey begins at the crack of dawn, around 7 a.m., when a friendly English-speaking driver greets you at your Bangkok hotel, ready to whisk you away in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. By 9 a.m., the vibrant city of Pattaya welcomes you, unfolding a day of adventure and cultural enrichment.
The first stop is the majestic Khao Chi Chan, also known as the Buddha Mountain, where you’ll be mesmerized by the towering 109-meter-tall Buddha image, intricately carved onto the mountainside using laser technology and adorned with gold leaf, standing as a testament to Thai craftsmanship and religious devotion.
As the journey unfolds, you’ll find yourself at the heart of the world’s largest floating market. A cultural fiesta awaits here, with captivating performances ranging from graceful Thai classical dances to thrilling martial arts demonstrations. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, vendors float by, offering a gastronomic delight of traditional local dishes, from the sweet allure of mango sticky rice to the tangy zest of papaya salad (som tum), presenting a perfect opportunity to indulge in a floating brunch.
The grand finale of your tour is a serene retreat to Jomtien Beach, a haven of tranquillity compared to its bustling counterpart, Pattaya Beach. Here, you’ll have two golden hours to immerse yourself in the soothing ambience, perhaps taking a stroll along the golden sands or simply basking in the mesmerizing views of the azure sea.
Frequently asked question
How much is taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Typically, the fare for a private taxi ride from Bangkok to Pattaya ranges between 1,380 THB and 1,725 THB ($40 – $50)
Where to catch bus in Bangkok to Pattaya?
Many locals in Bangkok prefer to travel to Pattaya by bus, with a high frequency of services originating from the Eastern Bus Terminal. Conveniently located next to the Ekkamai BTS Station on Sukhumvit Road at Soi 63 (Soi Ekkamai), this terminal operates air-conditioned buses that depart roughly every 30 minutes from 5 am to 11:30 pm daily.
Is Grab or taxi cheaper in Thailand?
Simply initiate the process by downloading the app and inputting your desired destination, akin to the procedure with Uber. While it might be slightly pricier compared to a regular taxi or tuk-tuk, the assurance of a safe, secure, and typically air-conditioned vehicle justifies the expense, especially for traversing longer distances across the city.
As the sun sets, your driver will escort you back to the comforts of your Bangkok hotel, marking the end of a day filled with awe, wonder, and the rich tapestry of Pattaya’s cultural and natural beauty, arriving by 8 p.m.
