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

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