For travelers with a layover in Pattani, the proximity of PAN to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PAN:
First, verify that you can enter Thailand — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 50 minutes into Pattani, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Pattani on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Pattani:
Start with Pattani Central Mosque (Masjid Krue Se). The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside. Then, if time allows, make your way to Lim Ko Niao Shrine (Leng Chu Kiang Shrine). The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PAN, check out Pattani Airport Cafe & Relaxation or Local Product Kiosk (Pattani Airport) to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Pattani Airport into town:
- local transport: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Best Bites Near PAN
For food in Pattani, local travelers recommend Rim Khlong Pattani Restaurant (รà¹à¸²à¸à¸à¸²à¸«à¸²à¸£à¸£à¸´à¸¡à¸à¸¥à¸à¸à¸à¸±à¸à¸à¸²à¸à¸µ). If you have time for a second stop, Roti Deewana is another popular pick.
Back at PAN, Pattani Airport Main Cafe is the go-to. Airport Minimart / Quick Bites rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Pattani:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Pattani, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PAN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Pattani and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at PAN aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Pattani itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PAN
Long overnight layover? Your options at PAN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pattani with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Pattani may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.