What to do in Pattaya?
Located less than 2 hours from Bangkok, Pattaya is a sulphurous seaside destination but full of contrasts. Known for its nightlife, it also offers beaches, temples, paradise islands and water activities for all types of travellers.
Pattaya’s must-sees
🏖️ Pattaya Beach (Pattaya Beach)
Long strip of sand on the edge of the city, very lively. Ideal for urban vibes, jet-skiing, walks, or watching the sunset.
🌴 Jomtien Beach
10 min south, quieter, family-friendly and cleaner. Perfect for swimming or chilling away from noise.
🚤 Excursion to Koh Larn (Coral Island)
Small paradise island 30 minutes away by ferry. Dream beaches, turquoise water, snorkeling spots. Departs hourly from Bali Hai Pier.
🛕 Big Buddha Hill (Wat Phra Yai)
Giant Buddha statue on a hill with panoramic views of the bay. Easy access by tuk-tuk or on foot.
🧭 Pattaya Viewpoint (Khao Pattaya View)
Right next to the Big Buddha. Best spot to photograph the bay from above, especially at sunset.
🎨 Art in Paradise (3D museum)
Interactive museum with optical illusions. Perfect for fun photos, with family or friends.
Activities & experiences in Pattaya
💦 Sports
Jet-skiing, parasailing, paddle, banana boat… all activities are available on Pattaya Beach and Jomtien.
🎭 Shows not to be missed
- Tiffany’s Show : mythical transvestite cabaret (pro, family, ultra popular)
- KAAN Show : live cinema show with special effects and acrobatics
🐘 Elephant Sanctuary Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
Ethical center where elephants can be fed, washed and observed in a respectful setting (without walking).
Nightlife and atmosphere
🔥 Walking Street
The sulphurous heart of Pattaya. Bars, clubs, neon lights, music… everything is there. To be seen, even without consuming, to understand the atmosphere.
🍻 Soi Buakhao
More local and relaxed version, less aggressive than Walking Street. Bars, restaurants, markets.
🎶 Rooftops and lounge bars
For a more chic version: Horizon Bar (at the Hilton), The Sky Gallery or The Roof.
Practical information
📅 When to go?
Best time: November to March (dry, pleasant temperatures)
Avoid: September/October (frequent rain)
🚍 How to get there?
- 🚗 Taxi / Grab from Bangkok : 1h45 to 2h
- 🚌 Bus from Ekkamai: departures every 30 minutes
- 🚆 Slow train from Hua Lamphong Station
💰 Average budget
€25–40/day for a standard traveller
60 €/day for more comfort (rooftop, show, massage)
🟡 Beaches & nature
🟣 Shopping
🟤 Temples & Culture
🟠 Excursions
🔵 Shows
⚫ Night life
- Pattaya Beach
- Jomtien Beach
- Koh Larn
- Viewpoints
- Night Market
- Floating Market
- Terminal 21
- Big Buddha Hill
- Wat Phra Yai
- Sports
- Coral Island
- Elephant sanctuary
- Tiffany’s Show
- KAAN Show
- Art in Paradise
- Walking Street
- Sky Bar
- Soi Buakhao