Over the past year or so there have been some major changes in how to get from Bangkok to Pattaya (and from Pattaya to Bangkok). From fantastic new bus companies, to the best van services, to the fastest private taxis, it has never been easier to get from one city to the other. Here’s all the latest information on buses, vans, taxis, and trains between Bangkok and Pattaya.

P.S. You can book your tickets online now and save up to 30%:

 

Buses From Bangkok to Pattaya

If you’re on a tighter budget, then a direct bus from Bangkok to Pattaya is your best option. The journey will take approximately 2-3 hours in total depending on traffic and the route taken – some bus companies stop at Chonburi, Sri Racha, or Laem Chabang along the way, while others go direct. Pricing varies from company to company, but on average a ticket will cost between 130 BHT – 300 BHT ($4 – $7) per person.

Roong Reuang Coach between Pattaya and Bangkok

There are three main bus terminals in Bangkok: the southern Sai Tai Mai, the northern Morchit, and the eastern Ekkamai – Morchit and Ekkamai tend to be the more convenient options for most people (there is also the option of a direct transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport).

Buses leave from these stations on a regular basis, and all arrive at Pattaya Northern Bus Station. To get to the city centre from here you can take a songthaew (a shared pickup truck – 40 THB / $1.2 per person), a motorbike taxi, or a normal taxi – always negotiate the cost of your ride in advance so as to get the best pricing and avoid any surprises.

A typical songthaew from Pattaya Northern Bus Station to the city centre

Note: All services can be very busy. We strongly recommend that you book your tickets in advance to avoid any disruption on the day. You can book your tickets online now and save up to 30%:

 

Vans From Bangkok to Pattaya

For a more flexible but still budget-friendly option, we recommend you take a minivan. Minivans are much smaller than buses, often accommodating a maximum of 15 people. As such, they are more comfortable, tend to be faster, and the journeys are more convenient (e.g. you can ask the driver to stop if you desperately need to go to the toilet). These added benefits are reflected in the price – a van from Bangkok to Pattaya can cost in the region of 200 THB – 350 THB ($6 – $10) per person.

Vans leave from various locations in Bangkok, and some companies take you directly into Pattaya’s city centre, saving you extra hassle.

A 12Go Transport van between Bangkok and Pattaya

Of all the many van companies operating between Pattaya and Bangkok, we would recommend 12Go Transport, which tends to be the best reviewed. Tickets cost 350 THB ($10) per person, but the modern minivans come with air con, a tv, and USB chargers, while the drivers are safe and sensible. Although you might see Wi-Fi advertised, if you do actually have a connection it will be slow and unreliable. All in all though, 12Go Transport is probably the best value for money of all van operators.

 

Taxis From Bangkok to Pattaya

If you’re looking for a bit of comfort during your trip, or if you’re coming with family / a group of friends, consider taking a private taxi which will take you door-to-door.

On average, a private taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya will cost in the region of 1,380 THB – 1,725 THB ($40 – $50). The better services offer nice comfortable cars (e.g. a Lexus 4 x 4) and the drivers will pick you up from your hotel, the airport, or any other location convenient for you, dropping you off directly at your hotel in Pattaya. You’ll have the option of stopping for toilet breaks, coffees, and even sightseeing if you wish.

Glassflower private taxi from Pattaya to Bangkok

We recommend Glassflower for their quality of service, comfortable / clean cars, and competitive pricing. For larger groups of up to 12 people, Glassflower also offer spacious minivans with more room for luggage.

 

Trains From Bangkok to Pattaya

Although a train from Bangkok to Pattaya is technically an option, it is generally the least popular way to travel: The journey can take over three hours and there are lots of stops; there is only 3rd class available with no air-conditioning; the two available trains both leave before 7 am; and the views are much to be desired.

Tickets are roughly 200 THB ($6), which is nearly the same as a minivan, so unless you are strapped for cash / want an ‘authentic Thai experience’, there are better options available.

 

 

FAQs

Q: How far is Pattaya from Bangkok?

 A: The distance from Bangkok to Pattaya is 147 kilometres or 91 miles. The journey can take around two hours depending on traffic and the mode of transportation.

Q: How do you get from Bangkok to Pattaya?

 A: To get from Bangkok to Pattaya you can either take a bus, a taxi, a minivan, or the train. The most popular way to travel is a minivan, though a private taxi is a more comfortable option.

Q: How much is a taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya?

 A: On average, a private taxi from Bangkok to Pattaya will cost in the region of 1,380 THB – 1,725 THB ($40 – $50) and takes roughly two hours depending on traffic.

Q: Is it worth to go Pattaya?

 A: If you are looking for a vibrant night life with countless bars open late into the night, then Pattaya is your ideal location.

Q: Which is better Pattaya or Phuket?

 A: Pattaya and Phuket offer very different experiences. Phuket is more suited to families, children, and couples, providing a more laid-back relaxing atmosphere. Pattaya, on the other hand, is a vibrant party destination, famous for its late nights, cheap alcohol, and red-light districts (though local authorities have recently attempted to create a more family-friendly environment in the city).

Q: Is Pattaya cheaper than Phuket?

 A: On average, Pattaya is cheaper than Phuket in terms of transportation, food, and accommodation. Phuket, however, can be experienced on a variety of budgets depending on your preferences.

Q: Is Pattaya cheaper than Bangkok?

 A: In general, Pattaya is cheaper than Bangkok – some estimates say that the cost of living in Bangkok is approximately 20% higher than in Pattaya.

Q: Why is Pattaya so popular?

 A: Pattaya is a popular beach location on the Gulf of Thailand, just two hours’ drive from Bangkok. Famous for its late nights, cheap alcohol, and red-light districts, it is a popular tourist destination for those looking for a vibrant party atmosphere.

Q: Which month is best to visit Pattaya?

 A: The best time to visit Pattaya is between the middle of November and the start of May. During these months you’ll have beautiful hot days (25°C – 40°C) with very little cloud and low humidity. The main peak season is from November to February when most beaches and other attractions are packed with visiting tourists.

Q: How many days are enough for Pattaya?

 A: You can see most of what Pattaya has to offer in 5-6 days, but it really depends on what sort of a holiday experience you are looking for.

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us and we will reply ASAP.