Pattaya is a straightforward trip from Bangkok with frequent options by bus, van, train, and taxi/private transfer, plus direct transfers from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Most trips take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
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At a glance
- Cheapest option shown: $5
- Fastest option shown: 1h 15m
- Earliest departure shown: 5:00 AM
- Latest departure shown: 10:00 PM
- Departures per day shown: 716
- Modes on this route: train, bus, flight, taxi, van
Quick decision guide (what we’d choose)
Our rule: choose based on your priority — price, flexibility, comfort, or speed. Prices and times can change by date and availability, so treat the numbers below as examples.
| Option | Best for | Example prices (USD) | Example prices (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Best budget + simple | $4.17–$4.46 | THB 127 |
| Van / Minivan | More pickup points + flexibility | $4.77–$6.05 | THB 120–THB 400 |
| Train | Local vibe over speed | $5.41 | — |
| Taxi / Private transfer | Door-to-door comfort | $33.41 | THB 1,700–THB 4,000 |
| BKK Airport → Pattaya (direct bus) | Landing and going straight | — | THB 272 |
1) Bus (our default recommendation for most travelers)
If you want the simplest “Bangkok to Pattaya” plan at a low cost, we recommend the bus. It’s popular, so booking ahead is smart when you’re traveling on a fixed schedule.
Ekkamai → Pattaya
- Why we like it: easy access via the BTS Ekkamai.
- Timing: some services can be close to ~2 hours, but we plan around ~3 hours to account for traffic and stops.
- Example departures + fare: 9:30 / 13:30 / 17:30 at THB 127.
Morchit → Pattaya
- Best if: you’re in North Bangkok or connecting from the Don Mueang area.
- Getting to the terminal: you may need a short taxi/bus connection from BTS Morchit.
- Example departures + fare: 9:00 / 13:00 / 17:00 at THB 127 (around ~3 hours).
Arriving in Pattaya
Buses arrive at the Northern Bus Station (North Pattaya Road), around 200m from the Sukhumvit intersection. For onward transport, a common option is a songthaew (example: THB 40 per person), or you can take a motorbike taxi/taxi. We recommend agreeing on the fare before you go.
2) Van / Minivan (best for flexibility)
We recommend vans if you want more departure points around Bangkok and more timetable flexibility. Some van services also drop off closer to central Pattaya.
- Ticket range: THB 120–THB 400 (typical range shown)
- USD examples on the schedule: $4.77–$6.05
3) Train (only if you’re ok trading speed for the experience)
Train is an option, but it’s typically slower. One example route is an early morning train departing Bangkok at 6:55 and arriving Pattaya at 10:34 (many stops, roughly four hours). Another schedule example shows a train option priced at $5.41.
4) Taxi / Private transfer (fastest + easiest)
If you want door-to-door comfort (especially with luggage or a group), we recommend booking a taxi/private transfer.
Vehicle-size examples range from THB 1,700 (car) up to THB 4,000 (private van up to 9 pax). Typical travel time is often 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and where you start in Bangkok.
- USD example on the schedule: $33.41
- Taxi price note: you may also see ranges like THB 1,000–THB 1,500 depending on how the taxi fare is arranged.
Private transfer examples (THB)
- Bangkok → Pattaya: Toyota Camry (3 pax) THB 2,200; Toyota Commuter (9 pax) THB 2,530
- Suvarnabhumi → Pattaya: Toyota Camry (3 pax) THB 1,980; Toyota Commuter (9 pax) THB 2,200
- All-in pricing note: examples are shown as all-inclusive (no extra tolls/luggage/drop-off charges).
Landing at Suvarnabhumi (BKK)? Go directly to Pattaya
If Pattaya is your next stop after landing, we recommend going directly instead of detouring into Bangkok first.
A direct bus option runs from the lower level near gate 8, with departures every two hours from 8am to 6pm and a trip time of about two hours.
Tickets can be bought on the spot, but if you want the next departure, booking ahead is the safer play. A booking example price shown is THB 272.
What travelers report (quick reality check)
This route shows an overall rating of 4.4 from 2,706 reviews. Our recommendation: quickly scan reviews for your chosen operator and departure time before booking, especially for notes on comfort, vehicle condition, and luggage fees.
FAQ
How long does it take from Bangkok to Pattaya by taxi?
A typical taxi/private car trip often falls in the 1.5–2.5 hour range, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
Is it OK to wear shorts in Pattaya?
Yes — shorts are generally accepted in Pattaya. For religious sites, we recommend dressing more modestly (cover knees and shoulders).
Is shopping better in Bangkok or Pattaya?
Bangkok tends to offer a broader variety (malls + markets). Pattaya is more compact and often focused on souvenirs and beachwear.
Book Bangkok to Pattaya (our recommended page)
To compare bus vs van vs train vs taxi by time and price on one screen, use this link:
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
