Pattaya Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
A pretty coastal city known for its lively nightlife, charming markets, and sandy beaches. It offers a range of water sports, cultural sites, and a sanctuary for endangered animals. Popular with tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- Population
- 120,000
- Size
- 22 square km
- Airport
- U-Tapao at 30 km – Int'l.
- Train Station
- Pattaya Station
- Est. Visit Days
- 3 days
Overview
Pattaya, a city on Thailand's eastern Gulf coast, is known for its beaches and nightlife. It offers a wide range of entertainment and activities, including water sports, golf, and shopping. However, Pattaya is also infamous for its seedy side, with a reputation for a vibrant but sometimes sleazy nightlife scene. The city can be quite crowded and hectic, especially in the central area. Additionally, Pattaya's rapid and uncontrolled urbanization has led to issues with pollution and overdevelopment in some parts.
Traffic & Transport
The city experiences moderate traffic, with peak congestion during the evening rush hours and on weekends, particularly in the central and beach areas. The most efficient means to navigate and explore the city is by motorbike taxis, which are readily available and can weave through traffic quickly. For longer distances, songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are a cost-effective option, offering fixed routes around the main areas. Renting a scooter is also a popular choice for independent travel, providing flexibility to visit various attractions at your own pace. For reliable taxi services, visitors can use the Grab app, which offers both car and motorbike options, and is known for its ease of use and availability. Additionally, the local taxi cooperatives, such as the Pattaya Taxi Service, provide metered taxi rides and can be hailed directly from the street or through hotels.
History
Originally a small fishing village, the city was significantly shaped by the Vietnam War when it became a popular destination for American servicemen. This period marked the beginning of its transformation into a tourist hotspot. The city's economy thrived on the presence of the U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield during the conflict. In the post-war years, it emerged as a center for rest and recreation, contributing to its development as a energetic coastal city. Today, it is renowned for its nightlife and beaches, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Pattaya over three days with a mix of cultural sights, relaxation, and entertainment. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
– First day: Visit The Sanctuary Of Truth, relax at Pattaya Beach, and stroll along Walking Street in the evening.
– Second day: Explore Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, then check out the Pattaya Floating Market.
– Third day: Spend the day at Coral Island (Koh Larn) for snorkeling and beach activities, return by evening.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Koh Larn at 7 km: A small island known for its clear waters and sandy beaches.
– Nong Nooch Tropical Garden at 20 km: A large botanical garden featuring themed gardens and cultural shows.
– Sriracha Tiger Zoo at 40 km: A zoo with a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and crocodiles.
– Khao Kheow Open Zoo at 50 km: A large zoo where animals roam freely in natural habitats.
– Bang Saen Beach at 50 km: A popular beach destination with seafood restaurants and water activities.
Attraction
Known for its remarkable nightlife, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions, this city offers a variety of experiences for tourists.
– Walking Street: A remarkable street famous for its nightlife, bars, and entertainment venues.
– Sanctuary of Truth: A massive wooden temple showcasing sophisticated carvings and traditional Thai architecture.
– Jomtien Beach: A quieter beach ideal for relaxation, water sports, and family activities.
– Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: A large botanical garden featuring themed gardens, cultural shows, and elephant performances.
– Art in Paradise: An interactive 3D art museum where visitors can take creative photos with optical illusions.
– Pattaya Floating Market: A market on water offering traditional Thai food, souvenirs, and cultural performances.
Activity
In Pattaya, travelers can enjoy unique experiences like water sports, cultural shows, and island hopping.
– Sanctuary of Truth: Nice wooden temple showcasing Thai craftsmanship and philosophy.
– Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden: Vast garden with themed areas, cultural shows, and elephant performances.
– Coral Island (Koh Larn): Day trip for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on white sandy beaches.
– Pattaya Floating Market: Shop and dine on boats selling local crafts and food.
– Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park: Themed water park with slides and attractions based on Cartoon Network characters.
Cuisine
The city offers a lovely food scene with a mix of traditional Thai cuisine and international Flavors, often enjoyed at beachside eateries. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Som Tum: Spicy green papaya salad with lime, chili, and peanuts.
– Tom Yum Goong: Hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal.
– Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and bean sprouts.
– Moo Ping: Grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
– Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet sticky rice served with ripe mango slices and coconut milk.
– Kanom Buang: Thai crispy pancakes filled with sweet or savory toppings.
Shopping
For a unique shopping experience, visit the Floating Market where you can buy local handicrafts, art, and souvenirs directly from vendors on boats. Central Festival Mall offers a variety of international brands and local boutiques under one roof. For a memorable gift, consider purchasing handmade Thai silk or jewelry inspired by traditional Thai designs. Another popular choice is spa products like essential oils and herbal balms, reflecting Thailand's well-known spa culture.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the Pattaya International Music Festival, which is one of Thailand's largest music events, attracting artists and attendees from around the world. The Pattaya Cultural Center showcases traditional Thai performances and cultural exhibits. Additionally, the city is known for its animated cabaret shows, including the famous Alcazar Cabaret, which features elaborate costumes and performances. Art enthusiasts can explore local and international art at the Pattaya Art Gallery.