Chonburi Car Rental — from €24/day

Car Rental in Chonburi

Did you know Chonburi boasts over 160 kilometers of stunning coastline, stretching from the bustling city of Pattaya to the serene beaches of Bang Saen? To truly experience every hidden cove and vibrant market along this expansive shore, a rental car is not just a convenience – it's an absolute essential.

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Car Rental in Chonburi

Chonburi, Thailand

Where to drive

Explore Pattaya City: Just a 30-minute drive (≈35 km) south from Chonburi, Pattaya offers lively beaches, water parks, and vibrant nightlife. A car makes it easy to visit attractions like Nong Nooch Tropical Garden or the Sanctuary of Truth.
Visit Bang Saen Beach: A short 15-minute drive (≈15 km) from Chonburi city, Bang Saen is a popular local beach known for its seafood, street food, and relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for a day trip with family.
Discover Koh Si Chang Island (via ferry): Drive about 45 minutes (≈40 km) to Sri Racha pier, park your car, and take a short ferry ride to the charming island of Koh Si Chang. The island offers beautiful temples, a royal palace, and scenic viewpoints.
Journey to Rayong Province: Head south for about 1.5 hours (≈80 km) to explore Rayong's quieter beaches like Mae Rumphueng or visit the bustling Ban Phe market, gateway to Koh Samet. A car is essential for this scenic coastal drive.
Experience Khao Kheow Open Zoo: Located about 45 minutes (≈45 km) east of Chonburi, this large open zoo allows you to drive through various animal enclosures, offering a unique safari-like experience. It's a fantastic day out for all ages.
Explore Sattahip Naval Base area: Drive approximately 1 hour (≈60 km) south to discover quieter beaches like Sai Kaew Beach, known for its clear waters and naval history. Your own transport is vital for accessing these hidden gems.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Thailand, you generally need your valid national driver's license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) – which is legally required by Thai law, and your passport. Some rental companies may also ask for a credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, and some companies may require drivers to have held their license for at least one or two years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Chonburi vary by vehicle class and season. Economy cars typically start from around 700-900 THB per day, while SUVs and larger family cars might range from 1,200-1,800 THB. Premium vehicles can go upwards of 2,500 THB daily. Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons, especially from November to February, and during major Thai holidays.

Price by month, €

1000€

Jan

950€

Feb

850€

Mar

1100€

Apr

800€

May

750€

Jun

780€

Jul

820€

Aug

700€

Sep

800€

Oct

900€

Nov

1050€

Dec

Demand by month

85%

Jan

80%

Feb

65%

Mar

90%

Apr

55%

May

50%

Jun

58%

Jul

62%

Aug

45%

Sep

60%

Oct

75%

Nov

95%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Thailand, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally 60-80 km/h in urban areas, 90-120 km/h on highways, and 120 km/h on motorways. Always wear your seatbelt; children under 6 years or shorter than 135 cm must use a child seat. Headlights should be used at night and during heavy rain. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (or 0.02% for drivers who have held their license for less than 5 years).

Parking

In Chonburi, parking availability varies. In busy city centers and near popular attractions, you'll find designated paid parking lots or street parking where attendants may collect a small fee (often around 10-40 THB per hour or for a fixed period). Many shopping malls, hotels, and larger establishments offer free parking for customers. Always look for clear signage or ask if unsure, as illegal parking can result in fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel is widely available throughout Chonburi and the surrounding region at numerous petrol stations. Common types include Gasohol 91, Gasohol 95, and Diesel. Prices are displayed prominently at stations and are generally comparable across brands, fluctuating with global oil prices. Payment is usually made in cash, though many larger stations accept credit cards. Self-service pumps are less common; attendants will fill your tank for you.

Which car to choose

For most travel around Chonburi and the Eastern Seaboard, an economy or compact car with automatic transmission is highly recommended. These are easy to navigate through city traffic, sufficient for highways, and fuel-efficient. If you plan to carry more luggage, travel with family, or venture onto slightly less-paved roads (though most main roads are excellent), a compact SUV offers more comfort and space. Automatic transmission is standard and preferred by most visitors due to local driving styles.

Pros

Freedom to explore hidden beaches, local markets, and temples at your own pace, away from organized tours.
Convenient access to neighboring provinces like Rayong, Trat, and even Bangkok, allowing for flexible road trips.
Comfortable travel, especially for families with children or those carrying luggage, avoiding crowded public transport.
Opportunity to discover authentic local eateries and attractions not easily reached by other means.
Cost-effective for group travel compared to multiple taxi fares for longer distances.

Cons

Traffic in Chonburi city and Pattaya can be heavy, especially during peak hours and holidays.
Navigating can be challenging initially, particularly for first-time visitors, despite GPS availability.
Parking can be limited or require a small fee in popular areas.
Insurance coverage and understanding local rental agreements require careful attention.
The cost of fuel and potential tolls (though less frequent in Chonburi compared to Bangkok) adds to the overall expense.

Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need to rent a car in Chonburi?

You will need a valid national driver's license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), your passport, and a credit card for the security deposit. The minimum age is typically 21.

Can I pay for my rental car with cash?

While some local rental companies might accept cash for the rental fee, a credit card is almost always required for the security deposit. It's best to confirm with your specific rental provider.

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking platform. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms and conditions when you book.

Is insurance included with the rental car?

Basic third-party liability insurance is usually included by law. However, for comprehensive coverage, it is highly recommended to purchase additional Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super CDW from the rental company or through your travel insurance provider.

Where is the best place to pick up a rental car in Chonburi?

You can pick up rental cars at U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport (UTP), which is about an hour's drive from Chonburi city, or from various rental offices located within Chonburi city and Pattaya. Picking up at the airport offers immediate convenience upon arrival.

Are child seats available for rent?

Yes, most major car rental companies in Chonburi offer child safety seats for an additional daily fee. It is advisable to reserve them in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

Available cars — Chonburi