Once a quiet fishing village, Pattaya has become one of the liveliest coastal cities in Thailand worth coming to. There are tons of things to see and do in Pattaya, so much so that even locals find themselves coming back. So if you’re ready to plan your next adventure, stick around, Patta-yeah? We’ve listed down all the must-see Pattaya attractions that are perfect if it’s your first time visiting. 😎
Getting to Pattaya from Bangkok
Pattaya city welcomes all tourists! | Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash
If you’re coming from Bangkok, here are some ways to make it to Pattaya. It takes approximately 2 hours to get there, so make sure to choose wisely depending on your travel style and budget.
1. Private transfer 🚙
The most convenient way to get to Pattaya is by booking a private transfer. You’ll be accompanied by a professional driver who will pick you up from your hotel or the airport of your arrival. This is perfect if you plan to travel late at night or very early in the morning since this service is available 24/7. Prices start at 39.35 AUD.
2. Shared transfer 🚐
Another great option to get to Pattaya is to join a shared transfer. This is the most cost-efficient option, yet it’s still comfortable. You’ll be riding either a bus or a van, so you need not worry about how to stow your luggage. Prices start at 6.40 AUD.
3. Customized tour 🧭
If you’re not planning on staying long in Pattaya, you can always book a customized tour. Through this tour, you’ll be picked up from Bangkok and escorted throughout your stay as you explore Pattaya's attractions. You can choose to book this tour for 1 to 3 days, which is perfect if you don’t want to worry about getting around. For only 202.75 AUD, planning your trip would be easy peasy.
Must-see Pattaya attractions in the city
Here are some of the best Pattaya city attractions you couldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first time visiting. We recommend staying at least 2-3 days to really see all of the highlights.
1. Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth looks beautiful in real life AND in pictures | Photo by Klook User Jessel ****
The Sanctuary of Truth is one of the most iconic Pattaya attractions. Beyond learning about Thai culture and philosophies, the building itself is impressive, as it was built entirely from wood, with no metal nails! Every detail is so intricate; you’re sure to find yourself in awe. 🤩
2. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
One of the themed areas in Nong Nooch Tropical Garden features dinosaurs. | Photo by Klook User Umeed *******
Next on your list of things to see in Pattaya should be the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, the largest botanical garden in Southeast Asia! There are so many unique sections in this massive garden (it spans 240+ hectares), you’re sure to discover lots of pretty sights to see. 🍃
Check this guide on what to expect when visiting Nong Nooch Tropical Garden if you’d like to learn more.
3. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
A tourist feeding an elephant at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary | Photo by Klook User Nikki ******
For animal lovers, seeing an elephant in real life is a must-do when visiting Thailand. Luckily, Pattaya has its own Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, where you can feed them and have a mud spa with them. 🐘
In Thailand, elephants are highly regarded as they hold an important place in their culture and symbolize loyalty. It’s always important to approach them with respect and follow the staff’s guidance when interacting with them.
4. Pattaya Floating Market
A glimpse of the Pattaya Floating Market | Photo by Klook User Barna ****
Have you ever seen a market on water? Another famous landmark among Pattaya city attractions is the Pattaya Floating Market. It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies like BBQ crocodile! If you’d like to feel the soul and culture of Pattaya, then you can’t miss out on this. 🐊
5. Ocean Sky Cruise
The view from the Ocean Sky Cruise | Photo by LEE *******
For priceless views of the Pattaya sunset and skyline, the Ocean Cruise gives you just that. Aboard, you’ll be feasting on a sumptuous dinner with entertainment for a fun-filled start of the night. 🌃
Attractions outside of Pattaya city
Pattaya is also a great takeoff point to other nearby tourist areas. Aside from city attractions, there are lots of islands and beaches in Pattaya worth visiting. Here are some of them:
1. Koh Larn
The many water sports activities you could try out in Koh Larn | Photo by Klook User
Beaches in Pattaya city are lively and busy, so if you're looking for something more laid-back, we recommend taking a day tour to Koh Larn (a.k.a. Coral Island). You can also try out different water activities such as parasailing, sea walking, or riding a jet ski or a banana boat. Its white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters will make you never want to leave! 🪸
Make sure to book a half or full day tour!
2. Samae San Island
Find Nemo while snorkelling on Same San Island | Photo by Klook User
Another option is to explore Samae San Island’s rich underwater life through a "Nemo" snorkeling tour. This experience is perfect for kids who want to try and get into snorkeling, as the waters aren’t too deep and you’re sure to see schools of fish. Don’t forget, just keep swimming! 🐡
3. Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Si Racha
A kid tourist feeding a white tiger at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo | Photo by Klook User อรพิน ******
If you’d like to meet furry locals, then visiting the Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a great idea. Only around an hour away from Pattaya, it’s a family-friendly place where you can learn more about the animals and even feed them! 🦜
Areas to stay in Pattaya
The lively Pattaya beach! | Photo by Ashwani Verma on Unsplash
Pattaya Beach Road
If you’re coming to Pattaya for the nightlife and parties, it’s best to stay along Pattaya Beach Road. It’s also close to all the major attractions like the Sanctuary of Truth and Pattaya Floating Market.
Jomtien Beach
For something more laid-back, you should stay within Jomtien Beach. It’s also perfect for families with kids since it has a more wholesome vibe. The water here is also very clear, perfect for swimming or water sports.
Wong Amat Beach
If you’re feeling fancy, Wong Amat has lots of luxury accommodations for a posh escape. It’s also known to be clean and a great choice for families.
FAQs
What are the top attractions in Pattaya that first-time visitors should not miss?
Some Pattaya attractions you can’t miss out on are the Sanctuary of Truth, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and the Pattaya Floating Market. For a unique experience, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is always worth a shot, while something fun would be the Ocean Sky Cruise with great views of the sea and some quality entertainment.
Are there attractions in Pattaya suited for families with kids?
Yes! Pattaya is surprisingly kid-friendly. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden has themed areas and easy walking trails, while Samae San Island’s snorkelingsnorkelling tours are ideal for beginners, especially children, with the ease of seeing fish. The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and nearby Khao Kheow Open Zoo are also great for educational experiences and interactions with local animals.
What is the best area or beach in Pattaya to stay for easy access to major attractions?
Pattaya Beach Road is the most convenient if you want to be close to nightlife and major attractions. There are also other great options like Jomtien Beach and Wong Amat Beach, but booking a stay at Pattaya Beach is sure to place you near all the action.
How much time should you allocate to visit Pattaya’s main attractions?
Two to three full days are enough to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
Are there day trips from Pattaya to other nearby attractions that are worth including?
Absolutely! Koh Larn and Samae San Island are great for island hopping, while the Khao Kheow Open Zoo is quite popular and perfect for animal lovers.
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