Pattaya Day Trip from Bangkok by Private Driver: Flexible Itinerary and Costs
Updated: Oct 16
Pattaya is around 150 km southeast of Bangkok, about two hours by road, which makes it a comfortable day trip with a private car. The city has far more attractions than you can fit into one day, so the best plan picks one theme and two or three main stops. Your driver waits while you visit and can adapt the route to the weather and traffic.
Getting there
Leave Bangkok around 07:30 to 08:00 to arrive by mid-morning. The return trip in the evening can be slower on Fridays and Sundays, so build in a buffer if you have dinner plans in Bangkok.
Pick your style of day
Landmarks
Sanctuary of Truth – a huge temple-like structure carved entirely from wood, under construction since 1981.
Pattaya City Viewpoint (Pratumnak Hill) – the classic view over Pattaya Bay.
Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill) – a large golden Buddha with views over the coast.
Gardens and families
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden – landscaped gardens and cultural shows south of the city. Plan half a day.
Underwater World Pattaya or the Ramayana Water Park for children.
Jomtien Beach for a quieter late-afternoon walk.
Islands
Koh Larn – about 30 to 45 minutes by ferry from Bali Hai Pier. Your driver drops you at the pier and meets you on your return. Check ferry times and weather on the day.
A sample one-day itinerary
07:30 – Pickup in Bangkok
09:45 – Sanctuary of Truth
12:00 – Lunch by the sea
13:30 – Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
16:30 – Pattaya City Viewpoint
17:30 – Return to Bangkok
Private car or private tour?
With a private car you choose the stops and pay attraction tickets yourself. A private tour adds pre-arranged tickets and a fixed plan. Read Bangkok to Pattaya: private car vs private tour and what a Pattaya day trip costs.
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing (October 2026), the Pattaya one-day car with driver starts from THB 4,100 per car. If you only need to get there, the Bangkok to Pattaya one-way transfer starts from THB 2,800 per car. Attraction tickets, ferry fares, parking and food are paid separately. Check the service pages for current pricing.
Tips
Book popular shows and attractions in advance during high season (November to February).
Bring swimwear if Koh Larn or a beach stop is on the plan.
Tell us about luggage if you plan to stay overnight rather than return.
Frequently asked questions
Is one day enough for Pattaya?
For two or three main attractions, yes. If you want the islands and the city, consider an overnight stay. See Pattaya day trip vs overnight stay.
Can we stop at Bang Saen or other beaches on the way?
Yes, a private driver can add stops along the route. Additional time may change the price.
Book your trip
Check live prices on the Pattaya one-day car with driver page or contact us to plan a custom route.
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