Exploring Pattaya: Your Guide to Getting Around
Pattaya is a lively beach destination on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast that is mostly suited as an adult vacation destination. Recommended ways to get to Pattaya from Bangkok International airport is by regular metered taxi or the much cheaper option is by bus.
Taxi drivers will most likely not want to use the meter because the fee works out low, negotiate a fair fixed price. Ensure it is all the way to your designated hotel. Usually 1,000 to 1,500 baht for the larger taxi, don't pay anymore unless it it a luxury van, and don't allow your taxi to be "shared". Both services available just outside the terminal exits.
The most popular and cost-effective way to get around is by hopping on a Songthaew, locally known as a "baht bus". These shared pickup trucks operate on fixed routes and are very affordable, with fares starting as low as 20 to 30 baht. They connect major areas such as Pattaya Beach Road, Walking Street, and the more distant Jomtien Beach to the south. Simply flag one down, hop in, and press the buzzer to signal your stop and then pay the driver cash.
For greater flexibility and convenience motorbike rentals are widely available and allow you to explore Pattaya and nearby attractions to the north of Pattaya city like the Sanctuary of Truth or Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. Ensure you have a international drivers license with a motorcycle category to cover travel insurance requirements and local road laws.
If driving isn't your preference, ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt offer reliable and reasonably priced rides. Tuk-tuks and traditional taxis are also options, but always negotiate the fare or ensure the meter is used.
Walking is a great way to explore local areas like Walking Street and the Central Festival shopping district.
U-Tapao-Rayong-Pattaya International Airport (UTP)
Address: Pla, Ban Chang, Rayong, ThailandDirections: About 45 km south of Pattaya city via highway 3 by taxi or minibus from Pattaya.
Domestic flights and limited international carriers. No direct flights from Bangkok. This airport is distant from Pattaya city and is a joint civil–military public airport serving the cities of Rayong and Pattaya.
Pattaya International Airport Map
North Pattaya Bus Station
Address: Roong Reaung Coach Company. North pattaya Road.Directions: Take a taxi or tuk-tuk. North Pattaya Road before Highway 3 (main highway). Blue facade set in from main road.
Services bus routes to Bangkok every 30 to 40 minutes.
North Pattaya Bus Station Map
Pattaya Train Station
Address: Directions: Song Thaew from Pattaya city
Eastern Line from Bangkok (3rd Class-no airconditioning)
Services Monday to Friday only from Bangkok 06.55 am arriving Pattaya 10.35. Departing Pattaya 2:20pm arriving Bangkok 6:25pm.
Pattaya Train Station Map
