How to Reach Pattaya: Best Routes and Travel Tips
If you are planning a weekend or a longer holiday, knowing how to reach Pattaya is essential to start your trip on the right note. Reaching Pattaya is easy, as there are various travel options available. The city is well connected by road, rail, and air. Coming from Bangkok, a couple of hours away, you can use a taxi, bus, or train. If you are traveling internationally, you can fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Pattaya is easily accessible from there. However, you may prefer to fly directly to U-Tapao International Airport for a shorter trip. We will look at the best ways to reach Pattaya, and then guide you through what to do and how to navigate your way around when you get here, regardless of your preferred means of travel.
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Ways to Reach Pattaya
1. By Road (From Bangkok)
Traveling by road from Bangkok to Pattaya is one of the most popular and convenient options. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can choose between a private car, taxi, bus, or shared minivan. Private cars and taxis offer a comfortable and direct route. At the same time, buses and minivans are budget-friendly alternatives with regular departures from major locations in Bangkok, such as the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and Mo Chit Bus Terminal. Buses and minivans typically take 2 to 2.5 hours, with several services available throughout the day. For a slightly more relaxed journey, private taxis can be booked in advance for a more personalized experience. Traffic can sometimes be heavy, especially during peak hours, so it’s best to plan your travel accordingly. Road travel provides the flexibility to stop for rest breaks or sightseeing along the way.
2. By Train
Taking the train from Bangkok to Pattaya is a scenic and unique option, though less frequent than buses or taxis. Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station and take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Pattaya. While this might be slower compared to other options, it provides a comfortable, air-conditioned experience. The train journey offers a relaxing way to enjoy the countryside views. However, train services are not as frequent as buses, so it’s important to check schedules in advance. The train station in Pattaya is located around 3 km from the city center, requiring a short taxi ride or a songthaew (shared pickup truck) to your destination. This is a good option if you prefer a slower, more leisurely journey with a local feel.
3. By Air
Flying to Pattaya is an option for those coming from international destinations or other parts of Thailand. The nearest major airport to Pattaya is Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, about 120 km away. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or minivan directly to Pattaya in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, for those already in Thailand, U-Tapao International Airport is a closer option, located just 30 km from Pattaya. U-Tapao serves both domestic and a limited number of international flights. After landing at either airport, taxis, and shuttle services are readily available to take you to your hotel or preferred destination within Pattaya. Although flying is not the most common way to reach Pattaya from Bangkok, it can be a convenient option for those with tight schedules or arriving from other cities in Thailand.
Travel Tips and Recommendations on How to Reach Pattaya
1. Book in Advance: If you’re opting for a taxi or private car service, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can help you secure better rates and ensure availability.
2. Check Traffic Conditions: Traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during rush hours. Use navigation apps to check real-time traffic conditions before you depart. Leaving early can help you avoid delays.
3. Choose the Right Time: If you’re traveling by bus or minivan, consider traveling during off-peak hours. Early mornings and late evenings typically experience less traffic, making for a quicker journey.
4. Stay Hydrated and Snack Up: Whether traveling by road or train, it’s wise to carry water and light snacks, especially if you’re on a longer journey. While services may be available, having your supplies can save time and ensure you have what you prefer.
5. Utilize Public Transport: If you’re on a budget, using buses or shared minivans can be an economical option. They are comfortable and frequently depart, making them a reliable choice for travel between Bangkok and Pattaya.
6. Pack Your Entertainment: For longer journeys, especially by train or bus, consider bringing entertainment like books, music, or download shows to keep yourself occupied.
7. Keep Your Valuables Secure: As with any travel, ensure that your belongings, especially valuables, are secure during your journey, particularly in shared transport settings.
8. Local Currency: Have some Thai Baht on hand for small purchases or services, especially if you’re using local transport like Songthaews or marketplaces along the way.
9. Plan Your Arrival: Upon reaching Pattaya, familiarize yourself with local transport options for getting around. Songthaews, taxis, and motorbike taxis are widely available for local travel.
10. Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected during your trip. This facilitates more accessible navigation and communication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to reach Pattaya is simple and offers a range of travel options catering to various budgets and preferences. Whether you choose to travel by road, train, or air, each method provides a unique experience. Road travel offers flexibility and convenience, with taxis, buses, and private transfers being popular choices. For those people who like an extra scenic route to reach the area, the train serves as a fun ride, although the flying path to Suvarnabhumi or U-Tapao Airport gives one ready access from Thailand’s other destinations or even beyond its borders. So, properly planned and prepared, transport going to Pattaya will be safe and enjoyable enough.
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People also ask about How to Reach Pattaya
1. How do I get to Pattaya from Bangkok?
You can easily travel from Bangkok to Pattaya by car, bus, or taxi. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Buses and vans depart from various terminals in Bangkok, including the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai). There are also private taxis available for a more comfortable and direct route.
2. Is there a direct flight to Pattaya?
Pattaya does not have an airport. The nearest airport is U-Tapao International Airport (Rayong-Pattaya International Airport), about 30-45 minutes away from Pattaya. You can take a flight to U-Tapao from Bangkok or other major cities. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shuttle to reach Pattaya.
3. Can I take a train to Pattaya?
Yes, you can take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Pattaya. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. There are limited daily services, so check the schedule in advance.
4. What is the best way to travel from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya?
The best way to travel from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya is by taking a private taxi, a shared minivan, or a direct airport bus. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
5. How to reach Pattaya from Bangkok by shuttle?
Yes, there are shuttle services available from major locations in Bangkok to Pattaya. These shuttles are usually shared vans that depart regularly from places like the Ekkamai Bus Terminal, Suvarnabhumi Airport, or Pattaya’s main bus terminal. The trip takes around 2 hours.
6. How far is Pattaya from Bangkok and how to reach it?
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Pattaya is approximately 147 kilometers (91 miles) southeast of Bangkok. The drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on the route and traffic.
7. How to reach Pattaya by car?
Yes, renting a car is a convenient option for reaching Pattaya. You can rent a car from Bangkok or other locations and drive along the expressway, which will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Pattaya.
8. Are there bus services to Pattaya?
Yes, several bus services are operating between Bangkok and Pattaya. The Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) are the main terminals offering buses to Pattaya. The journey takes about 2 hours.