Travelling from Bangkok to Pattaya is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Thailand’s eastern coastline. Located approximately 145–150 km southeast of Bangkok, Pattaya can usually be reached in 1.5–2.5 hours by road, depending on traffic and your departure point.
Whether you are arriving at Bangkok’s international airport, staying in the city centre or planning a weekend getaway, several transportation options are available. These include direct buses, trains, taxis and private transfers.
This guide explains how to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya, including routes, journey times, estimated fares and practical advice to help you choose the most suitable option.
1. Bangkok to Pattaya: Transportation at a Glance
| Transportation | Departure point | Journey time | Estimated fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public bus | Ekkamai | 2–3 hours | From THB 144 |
| Public bus | Mo Chit 2 | 2–3 hours | From THB 155 |
| Airport bus | Suvarnabhumi Airport | Around 2 hours | THB 140–190 |
| Airport bus | Don Mueang Airport | Around 2–3 hours | THB 155 |
| Ordinary train | Hua Lamphong | Around 3 hr 40 min | Around THB 31 |
| Weekend train | Hua Lamphong | Around 2 hr 30 min | Around THB 170 |
| Private taxi or car | Bangkok city centre | 1.5–2.5 hours | Around THB 1,200–1,500+ |
Fares are indicative and may change. Private transfers can cost more depending on vehicle type, pickup location and toll charges.
2. Bangkok to Pattaya by Bus
Taking a bus is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to travel between Bangkok and Pattaya. Services operate from several departure points, with Ekkamai and Mo Chit 2 being the main terminals.
Ekkamai Bus Terminal
Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal is a popular departure point for travellers staying in central Bangkok.
The terminal is conveniently located next to BTS Ekkamai Station. From there, passengers can purchase tickets and board direct buses to Pattaya.
- Route: Ekkamai → North Pattaya Bus Terminal
- Journey time: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Fare: From THB 144
- Departures: Generally hourly, from approximately 05:00 to 22:00
Buses are operated by Roong Reuang Coach. The service is suitable for travellers looking for an affordable journey without complicated transfers.
Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal
Mo Chit 2 is another option, particularly for travellers staying in northern Bangkok.
- Route: Mo Chit 2 → North Pattaya Bus Terminal
- Journey time: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Fare: From THB 155
- Departures: Generally hourly, approximately 05:00–18:00
Although the fare is slightly higher than Ekkamai, Mo Chit 2 may be more convenient depending on your accommodation.
3. Bangkok Airport to Pattaya
Travellers arriving by air can travel directly to Pattaya without visiting central Bangkok first.
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Pattaya
Suvarnabhumi Airport offers direct bus services to Pattaya.
Passengers can find bus ticket counters on Level 1, near Gate 8. Depending on the operator, services travel to North Pattaya or Jomtien.
- Journey time: Approximately 2 hours
- Estimated fare: THB 140–190
- Operating hours: Generally from early morning until evening
Check the destination carefully before purchasing a ticket, as North Pattaya and Jomtien are different arrival points.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Pattaya
Don Mueang Airport also has a direct bus service to Pattaya.
According to the airport’s published information, the service operates approximately every four hours between 06:30 and 17:30.
- Journey time: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Published fare: THB 155
- Departure: Airport service hall
The schedule is more limited than the Suvarnabhumi service, so passengers should check departure times before arriving at the airport.
4. Bangkok to Pattaya by Train
Travelling by train is an alternative for visitors who prefer a slower journey and want to experience Thailand’s railway network.
Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, rather than the main long-distance terminal at Krung Thep Aphiwat.
Two services are particularly relevant:
| Train | Departure | Arrival | Estimated fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary train 283 | 06:55 daily | 10:34 | THB 31 |
| Weekend special service | 06:45 Sat–Sun | 09:13 | THB 170 |
The ordinary train takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes and offers basic third-class seating.
The weekend service provides air-conditioned seating and a shorter journey of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Train schedules and service numbers should be confirmed with the State Railway of Thailand before departure.
5. Bangkok to Pattaya by Private Taxi or Car
A private transfer is a convenient option for travellers who prefer direct hotel-to-hotel transportation.
Most vehicles use Motorway 7, which connects Bangkok with Chonburi and Pattaya.
- Journey time: Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours
- Estimated cost: THB 1,200–1,500 or more
- Additional expenses: Tolls may apply
Private transfers are particularly useful for families, groups, passengers carrying large luggage and travellers with early or late flight arrivals.
A standard taxi is another possibility. Always confirm the fare arrangement, toll charges and final destination before starting the journey.
6. Which Transportation Option Should You Choose?
Your best option depends on your budget, departure point and travel preferences.
- Budget travellers: Choose the bus from Ekkamai, starting at THB 144.
- Airport arrivals: Take a direct bus from Suvarnabhumi Airport if the schedule suits your arrival.
- Travellers from northern Bangkok: Consider departing from Mo Chit 2.
- Train enthusiasts: Choose the ordinary or weekend train from Hua Lamphong.
- Families and groups: Consider a private car for convenient door-to-door transportation.
7. Practical Travel Tips
- Avoid Friday afternoon traffic when travelling from Bangkok to Pattaya, particularly before long weekends.
- Allow additional time during public holidays and rainy weather.
- Arrive at the bus terminal 20–30 minutes before departure.
- Keep some Thai Baht in cash for local transportation and small expenses.
- Check whether your bus arrives at North Pattaya or Jomtien.
- Arrange onward transportation from the bus terminal to your hotel before departure.
- If travelling during weekends or holidays, plan your journey in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far is Bangkok from Pattaya?
Bangkok is approximately 145–150 km from Pattaya by road. The distance varies depending on your starting point and chosen route.
2. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Most road journeys take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. Buses can take longer during rush hour and holiday periods.
3. How much is the bus from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Bus fares start from THB 144 at Ekkamai and THB 155 at Mo Chit 2.
4. Where can I catch a bus from Bangkok to Pattaya?
The main departure points are Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal and Mo Chit 2 Northern Bus Terminal.
5. Is there a direct bus from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya?
Yes. Direct buses operate from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya. Tickets are available at the airport’s transportation counters, including the Level 1 counter near Gate 8.
6. Is there a direct bus from Don Mueang Airport to Pattaya?
Yes. A direct bus service operates from Don Mueang Airport, with published fares of THB 155. Departures are limited, so check the timetable in advance.
7. Is there a train from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Yes. An ordinary daily train and a faster weekend service connect Hua Lamphong with Pattaya.
8. What is the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya?
The ordinary train is the cheapest option at approximately THB 31. However, the Ekkamai bus is generally more convenient and costs from THB 144.
9. Is it better to take a taxi or bus to Pattaya?
A bus is more economical for individual travellers. A private taxi offers greater convenience, particularly for families, groups and passengers with luggage.
10. What is the best time to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Early morning is generally a good choice. Avoid Friday afternoon and Sunday evening peak periods when traffic between Bangkok and Pattaya can become particularly heavy.
