How to Get to Pattaya from Bangkok Transport Guide
Hi Traveler, have you ever wondered how to get to Pattaya from Bangkok the easiest way? This guide covers every option: bus, minivan, taxi, and airport transfers, so you can pick the right one for your budget and schedule.
We have made this trip many times, living nearby, and we will walk you through exactly what to expect step by step.
Quick Comparison: Best Ways to Get from Bangkok to Pattaya
Here is a simple overview so you can decide fast.
| Option | Cost (THB) | Time | Departure Point | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus AC | 133 | 2.5–3 hrs | Ekkamai or Mo Chit | Every 30–60 min |
| Minivan | 180–250 | 2–2.5 hrs | Ekkamai | Every 15–30 min |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 1,800–3,000 | 1.5–2.5 hrs | Anywhere | On demand |
| Airport Bus (BKK / DMK) | 150–200 | 2.5–3.5 hrs | Suvarnabhumi / Don Mueang | Every 1–2 hrs |
All buses and minivans drop off at North Pattaya Bus Terminal (Terminal 1). Save this table as a screenshot before you leave.
Ekamai Bus Terminal : Best Option for Most Travelers
If you are staying near Sukhumvit or can hop on the BTS, Ekkamai Bus Terminal is the easiest starting point. It is clean, air-conditioned, and the counter staff speak enough English to help.
Operators like Pattaya Bus run modern AC coaches. Tickets start at 133 THB (~$3.80 USD).
Practical details:
- Price: 133 THB
- Schedule: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM, every 30 minutes
- Duration: Around 2.5 hours average
- Location: Ekkamai BTS Station
- Arrives: North Pattaya Bus Terminal 1
Best time to travel: Avoid the 4–7 PM rush hour traffic on Sukhumvit heading out of Bangkok can add 30–45 minutes.
If you need somewhere to stay near Ekkamai before or after your trip, check our Charming Resident Ekkamai review.
Bus from Mo Chit : Better for Northern Bangkok
If you are staying near Chatuchak Market or coming from Don Mueang Airport, Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal is a smart choice.
Prices are similar 143 THB Buses run every hour from 6:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Take MRT to Mo Chit station, then a short walk or shuttle to the terminal.
Arrives at the same North Pattaya Bus Terminal.
Minivan : Fastest Budget Option
Minivans shave about 30 minutes off the bus journey. If you are in a hurry, this is the best low-cost choice.
- Price: 180–250 THB
- Capacity: 12 passengers
- Departure: When full, roughly every 15 minutes during the day
- Departs from: Ekkamai area
A local tip sit front right for the best views and quickest exit when you arrive. Minivans sometimes drop passengers closer to their destination rather than the main terminal, so ask the driver when you board.
One thing to know: minivan drivers in Thailand tend to drive aggressively. If you are prone to motion sickness, the bus may be a more comfortable choice.
Taxi or Private Transfer : Comfort for Groups and Late Nights
For groups or late-night arrivals, a Grab taxi or private van makes the most sense. Total cost runs 1,800–3,000 THB for the whole vehicle.
- Travel time: 1.5 hours without traffic
- Best app: Grab (metered taxis rarely take long-haul trips)
- Tip: Check Facebook travel groups or hostel notice boards to share the cost splitting four ways can bring it under 1,000 THB per person
This is also the easiest option if you are travelling with heavy luggage or young children.
From Bangkok Airports to Pattaya
Bus from Suvarnabhumi to Pattaya
The Bell Travel Service bus runs direct to Pattaya at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
- Price: 150 THB
- Schedule: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM, every 1.5 hours
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic
- Taxi alternative: Around 2,000 THB direct
If you are arriving late at night, a private taxi or Grab is your only option. For more information about Suvarnabhumi transportation options, read our full Bangkok Airport to City Center guide.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Bus service is also available from Don Mueang to Pattaya for around 200 THB, departing every 1–2 hours. Check the transport desk in the arrivals hall for the current schedule. Travel time is similar around 3 hours including Bangkok traffic.
The Train Option (Not Practical for Most)
A train runs from Krungthep Apiwat to Pattaya Station, but it only runs twice weekly and arrival times are inconvenient. You also need a taxi from Pattaya Station to reach most hotels. We do not recommend this unless you specifically want the train experience.
Where to Go Once You Arrive in Pattaya
Once you arrive at North Pattaya Bus Terminal, songthaews run south along Beach Road and Jomtien Road for 10–20 THB.
Here are some places to start exploring:
- Jomtien Beach Pattaya quieter beach great for families and couples
- Pattaya Beach Guide full overview of all Pattaya beaches
- Koh Larn One Day Trip from Pattaya the most popular island day trip
- Free Attractions in Pattaya best places that cost nothing
FAQ : Getting from Bangkok to Pattaya
How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus?
Around 2.5 hours from Ekkamai in normal traffic. Allow 3 hours if you are travelling during evening rush hour.
What is the cheapest way to get to Pattaya from Bangkok?
The Ekkamai AC bus for 133 THB is the cheapest reliable option. Ordinary buses from Mo Chit start at 143 THB.
Is there a direct bus from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya?
Yes. Bell Travel Service runs a direct bus from Gate 4 arrivals for 150 THB, departing every 1.5 hours between 7 AM and 8 PM.
Watch our full Thailand travel video playlist for more tips:
If you have a question, feel free to DM me here on IG @snny.travel.blog. Also you can join our travel community on Discord where travelers share real-time tips.
Also you can check this link to view the map.
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