Welcome to your ultimate guide on how to reach Pattaya, one of Thailand's top beach destinations, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions. Whether you're coming from Bangkok or directly from an airport, here's how you can make your journey to this seaside paradise.
From Bangkok to Pattaya
1. By Bus:
Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai): This is the most frequented option due to its proximity to the BTS Skytrain's Ekkamai station. Air-conditioned buses leave every 30-60 minutes from 5 am to 11 pm, offering a journey of about 2-3 hours for around 131 baht (new price). Upon arrival at North Pattaya Bus Terminal, you can hop on a songthaew or take a taxi to your accommodation.
Mochit Bus Terminal: Another option if you're closer to the northern part of Bangkok. Buses here also run frequently with a similar travel duration.
Sai Tai Mai (Southern Bus Terminal): Offers less frequent services but still viable for those in the south of the city.
2. By Taxi:
A taxi ride from Bangkok to Pattaya can be more comfortable and direct, though pricier, at about 1,500-2,000 baht. You can negotiate the price or use services like Grab for a potentially cheaper fare. The journey takes roughly 2 hours, depending on traffic.
3. By Minivan:
Minivans offer a quicker alternative to buses, taking around 2 hours. They used to depart from Victory Monument but now operate from Mo Chit Bus Terminal. The fare is slightly more expensive than the bus but provides door-to-door service. Remember, space for luggage is limited, so pack light or be prepared to pay for an extra seat.
4. By Train:
For a truly Thai experience, albeit less convenient, you can take the morning train #283 from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok. It departs at 6:55 am and arrives in Pattaya at 10:34 am, taking about 4 hours. This option is very affordable with tickets around 31 baht but involves a longer journey in third-class carriages without air conditioning.
From Airports to Pattaya
1. From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK):
Airport Bus: A bus service departs from Level 1, Gate 8, every hour from 5:30 am to 10 pm for 143 baht, dropping off at multiple points in Pattaya.
Taxi: Direct taxis are available, with fares around 1,200-1,500 baht, offering a quick 1.5-hour journey.
2. From Don Mueang Airport (DMK):
There's no direct bus to Pattaya from Don Mueang, but you can take a shuttle to Suvarnabhumi and then catch the bus from there. Alternatively, a taxi directly to Pattaya will cost about 1,200 to 1,500 baht.
3. From U-Tapao Airport (UTP):
Being the closest airport to Pattaya, a taxi ride from U-Tapao is quick, around 40-50 minutes, for approximately 1,000 baht. There's also a shuttle service to Central Pattaya for 250 baht per seat.
Getting Around Pattaya
Once in Pattaya, local transportation includes:
Songthaews (Baht Buses): Economical and widespread, these shared pick-up trucks run on fixed routes for 10 to 30 baht.
Motorcycle Taxis and Tuk-tuks: For short distances or when you need to navigate through traffic quickly.
Rental Cars and Motorbikes: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, rentals are available, but be mindful of traffic and insurance.
Final Tips
Book in Advance: For buses and minivans, booking ahead can save you from waiting times, especially during peak seasons.
Negotiate: Always negotiate fares with taxis and tuk-tuks to avoid being overcharged.
Avoid Peak Times: If possible, travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic, especially on weekends when Bangkok residents flock to Pattaya.
With these transportation options and tips, your journey to Pattaya should be as smooth as the serene waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Enjoy your visit to this dynamic city where every moment is an adventure!
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