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Pattaya, Thailand

Destination Guide

Pattaya

Thailand

Best things to do in Pattaya

16 curated attractions in Pattaya, Thailand. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

November - February

Average temp

29°C/84°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Pattaya

Pattaya is a coastal city on Thailand's eastern Gulf, known for its nightlife and beaches that pull in tourists from around the world. Originally a quiet fishing village, it underwent rapid development in the 1960s, transforming into a playground filled with bars, restaurants, and hotels dedicated to the seemingly endless stream of visitors. The city's most famous spots include Walking Street, where the party doesn’t stop, and the Sanctuary of Truth, a massive wooden temple that raises questions about whether you can actually build a city of sin and still have some culture. People come for the beaches, nightlife, and shows, making it a must-stop for those looking to experience an unapologetic tourist hub with plenty of beach access.

Who it's for

Those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, beach parties, and various entertainment options will thrive here. It's not the place for someone seeking tranquility, cultural depth, or an authentic Thai experience, as the saturation of tourists can be overwhelming.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • Most attractions in central Pattaya are within a 30-minute walk
  • Songthaews (shared taxis) operate frequently and are the easiest way to get around
  • Jomtien Beach is about 15 minutes away by taxi or songthaew
  • Traffic can get congested, so plan around peak hours
Khao Chi Chan Buddha

Khao Chi Chan Buddha

Monuments & memorials
Underwater World Pattaya

Underwater World Pattaya

Aquariums
Art in Paradise

Art in Paradise

Specialty & quirky museums
Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park

Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park

Water parks
Pattaya Floating Market

Pattaya Floating Market

Street food & night markets
Pattaya Viewpoint

Pattaya Viewpoint

Scenic viewpoints
Pattaya Elephant Village

Pattaya Elephant Village

Wildlife sanctuaries
Terminal21 Pattaya

Terminal21 Pattaya

Shopping
Pattaya Hill Top Buddha Image

Pattaya Hill Top Buddha Image

Fountains, statues & public art
Sanctuary of Truth

Sanctuary of Truth

Specialty & quirky museums
Coral Island

Coral Island

Islands
Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill)

Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill)

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Walking Street

Walking Street

Streets & neighbourhoods
Jomtien Beach

Jomtien Beach

Beaches
Pattaya Beach

Pattaya Beach

Beaches
Mini Siam

Mini Siam

Specialty & quirky museums

Where to eat in Pattaya

The places worth planning a meal around.

The Sky Gallery

The Sky Gallery

★ 4.3 · 10,673 reviews

Three Mermaids

Three Mermaids

Seafood, Thai · $$

★ 4.2 · 5,802 reviews

The Oxygen Pattaya

The Oxygen Pattaya

Thai, International · $$$$

★ 4.2 · 4,274 reviews

House of Benedict Pattaya

House of Benedict Pattaya

Modern American · $10–$25

Things to do in Pattaya

Tours, cruises and experiences, rather than places to visit.

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