26 Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand – Explore Smartly with the Best Travel Guide!

The best places to visit in Pattaya Thailand includes eastern Gulf coast just 150km southeast of Bangkok has transformed from a quiet fishing village into one of Thailand's most vibrant coastal destinations. Once a rest and recreation spot for American soldiers during the Vietnam War in the 1960s, Pattaya has evolved dramatically over the decades into a world-class beach destination that welcomes millions of visitors annually.

Today's Pattaya offers an intriguing blend of beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, thrilling entertainment, and natural wonders that cater to every type of traveler - from luxury seekers and adventure enthusiasts to families and cultural explorers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to Thailand or traveling with others, Pattaya is actually one of the Best Place to Visit in Thailand for First Timers because it has everything you could want in one location. With its year-round tropical climate and accessibility, Pattaya has become Thailand's premier seaside resort city, second only to Bangkok in visitor numbers.

This complete guide on Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand will take you through the must-visit attractions, unforgettable experiences, and hidden gems that make Pattaya a standout destination on Thailand's tourism map. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to discover more, here's everything you need to know about the best places to explore in this dynamic coastal paradise.

26 Top Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand

Pattaya boasts an impressive array of attractions that showcase both Thailand's rich cultural heritage and its modern entertainment innovations. These places to visit in Pattaya form the backbone of any well-planned itinerary.

The most beloved attractions in Pattaya combine natural beauty, cultural significance, and uniquely Thai experiences, making them must-visits for any traveler. The top 26 places to visit in Pattaya Thailand are as follows:

1. The Sanctuary of Truth

This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand that will blow your mind! It's a huge wooden temple that's 105 meters tall (that's really, really tall!). The coolest part? The whole thing is made of wood with no metal nails at all! People have been building it since 1981 and they're still working on it. When you visit this amazing place, you'll see beautiful wood carvings that tell stories from Thailand, China, Cambodia, and India.

The whole building sits right by the ocean, so you get amazing sea views too. Inside, every single piece of wood tells a story about life, the universe, and ancient wisdom. You'll see carvings of gods, angels, and mythical creatures. The detail is incredible - some carvings are so tiny and perfect, you'll wonder how human hands made them! There are also live cultural shows where you can watch traditional Thai dancing and even Thai boxing demonstrations.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Buy tickets online before you go - it's about 100-200 baht cheaper than at the gate
• Go early morning (opens at 8 AM) for smaller crowds and cooler weather
• Bring your own water - drinks inside are expensive
• Students get 50% off with valid ID
• Kids under 110cm tall enter free!

First-Timer Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes - lots of walking and some stairs
• Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees (it's a religious place)
• Don't touch the carvings - the oils from hands can damage the wood
• Guided tours in English happen every hour and are worth it to understand the stories
• Best photo spots are from the beach side during golden hour (5-6 PM)
• Allow at least 2 hours for your visit

2. Pattaya Floating Market 

Want to see one of the most fun Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand? The floating market is super cool! It's huge - about 100,000 square meters. People sell things from boats and little shops by the water. The market has four parts, each showing a different area of Thailand. You can buy yummy Thai food, watch traditional shows, and take a boat ride. Here you'll also find Famous Things to Buy in Thailand like handmade crafts, silk scarves, and traditional Thai snacks. It's one of those famous places to visit in Pattaya Thailand that feels like you've gone back in time.

Each section of the market is like visiting a different part of Thailand. The Northern section has hill tribe crafts and warm clothes. The Northeastern part sells spicy papaya salad and sticky rice. Central Thailand area has royal crafts and fancy items. The Southern section offers coconut products and seafood. You can take a traditional long-tail boat ride through the canals (200 baht for 20 minutes) or walk on the wooden bridges. There are also cultural shows happening all day - from traditional music to puppet shows and even monkey performances!

Money-Saving Tips:

• Entrance fee is 200 baht, but you can sometimes find discount coupons at hotels
• Food is cheaper than in hotels - try boat noodles for only 40-50 baht!
• Bargain for souvenirs - start at 50% of asking price
• Share a boat ride with other tourists to split the cost
• Go on weekdays for better prices (weekends are more expensive)
• Bring cash - most vendors don't take cards

First-Timer Tips:

• Download a translation app - many vendors don't speak English
• Best time to visit is 10 AM - 2 PM when all vendors are active
• Try the coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell - it's amazing!
• Watch your step on wet wooden walkways
• Don't buy from the first stall - walk around and compare prices first
• The market is partly outdoors, so bring sunscreen and a hat
• Free parking if you eat at their restaurant (keep receipt)

3. Art in Paradise 

This is one of the modern Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand that kids and adults love! It's a 3D art museum where you become part of the pictures. You can take the coolest photos here - it looks like you're surfing on a huge wave or hanging from a cliff! With over 150 paintings, it's one of the top places to visit in Pattaya Thailand for Instagram-worthy shots.

The museum has 10 different zones, each with its own theme. There's an underwater world where you can "swim" with sharks, a safari zone where you "ride" elephants, and even a zone where you look like you're falling off buildings! The artists use special techniques to make flat paintings look 3D when you take photos from marked spots on the floor. You can spend hours here trying different poses - wrestling with a crocodile, escaping from a dinosaur, or floating in space. The air conditioning inside is super cold, which is perfect after walking in the hot Pattaya sun!

Money-Saving Tips:

• Buy tickets online for 100 baht discount (regular price 500 baht for foreigners)
• Look for combo tickets with other attractions like Ripley's Museum
• Kids under 100cm tall enter free
• No time limit once inside, so go early and stay as long as you want
• Bring your own snacks - the cafe inside is pricey
• Group discounts available for 10+ people

First-Timer Tips:

• Located on Second Road near Tesco Lotus - easy to find
• Charge your phone/camera fully - you'll take LOTS of photos!
• Best times are weekday mornings (less crowded for photos)
• Look for the footprint marks on the floor - that's where to stand for the best 3D effect
• Wear bright colored clothes - they show up better in photos
• Don't be shy - the sillier your pose, the better the photo!
• Ask staff to help take photos - they know the best angles
• Takes about 2-3 hours if you want to try every painting

4. Walking Street 

When the sun goes down, Walking Street becomes one of the most exciting best places to visit in Pattaya Thailand. This 1-kilometer street closes to cars at 6 PM and turns into a party! There are restaurants, bars, shops, and street shows. Even if you're not into nightlife, it's worth seeing early in the evening for dinner and the bright neon lights. It's definitely one of the must-visit places in Pattaya Thailand.

Walking Street is like a mini Las Vegas in Thailand! The whole street lights up with neon signs in every color. You'll see street performers doing magic tricks, playing music, and even fire shows. There are seafood restaurants where you pick your fish from tanks, international food from Indian to Italian, and lots of Thai street food stalls. Yes, there are many adult entertainment venues, but there's also regular bars with live bands, sports bars showing football games, and dance clubs playing everything from hip-hop to techno. The energy here is unlike anywhere else in Thailand!

Money-Saving Tips:

• Happy hours are usually 6-8 PM with drinks half price
• Street food is way cheaper than restaurants - try grilled seafood for 50-100 baht
• Avoid touts offering "free shows" - there's always a catch
• Beer from 7-Eleven costs 40 baht vs 100+ baht in bars
• Set a budget before you go - it's easy to overspend here!
• Share a taxi back to your hotel with other tourists

First-Timer Tips:

• Exit at Beach Road end for easier taxi access
• Go early (6-8 PM) for a family-friendly experience with just dining and street shows
• Keep your valuables secure - pickpockets work in crowds
• Don't take photos of people without asking (some charge for photos)
• Negotiate taxi fare BEFORE getting in - no meter at night
• If you're not interested in adult venues, just smile and say "no thank you"
• The street gets VERY crowded after 10 PM on weekends
• Watch out for ladyboys who might grab you for photos (they expect tips)
• ATMs on the street charge high fees - get cash before you go

Visit the 4 Must-Do Experiences in Pattaya

To really enjoy your trip, these Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand give you the true Pattaya experience:

These special places show you the real heart of Pattaya - from peaceful gardens to island adventures. Each spot offers something unique that you can't find anywhere else in Thailand. Whether you love nature, beaches, or culture, these attractions will make your Pattaya trip unforgettable and give you stories to share back home!

1. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden 

This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand that's like stepping into a fairy tale! It's a massive 500-acre garden with different themed areas. You can see a French garden, elephant shows, and traditional Thai dancing. The gardens are so pretty and well-kept, making it one of the best sightseeing places in Pattaya Thailand.

2. Koh Larn (Coral Island) 

Looking for clean beaches? Koh Larn is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for beach lovers! It's a small island just 7 kilometers from Pattaya. The water is super clear and the beaches are way cleaner than the main Pattaya beach. You can get there by speedboat in 15 minutes or take the cheaper ferry that takes 45 minutes. This island is one of the Pattaya Thailand top attractions for swimming and water sports.

3. Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan) 

This is one of the peaceful Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand. There's a huge Buddha image carved into the mountain - it's 130 meters tall and covered in gold! It was made in 1996 for the old king's special celebration. When you need a break from the busy beaches, this is one of the Pattaya Thailand tourist attractions that gives you peace and quiet.

4. Pattaya View Point on Pratumnak Hill 

Want to see all of Pattaya from up high? The viewpoint is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for amazing photos! It's on a hill between Pattaya and Jomtien beaches. You can see the whole bay, the beaches, and the islands. Sunset time is the best - the sky turns orange and pink! It's one of those places to visit in Pattaya Thailand that shows you how beautiful the city really is.

Top Sights in Pattaya That You Shouldn't Miss Visiting

Besides the super famous spots, these Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand are also really cool:

Sometimes the best memories come from places that aren't in every guidebook. These hidden gems and unique attractions give you a different side of Pattaya. You might be the only one from your group who visits these spots, which makes them extra special. They're less crowded but just as amazing as the famous places!

1. Mini Siam 

This is one of the unique Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand where you feel like a giant! They have tiny versions of famous buildings from Thailand and around the world. You can see mini versions of Thai temples and even the Eiffel Tower! Everything is 25 times smaller than real life. It's one of the fun Pattaya Thailand vacation places for taking silly photos.

2. Wat Yansangwararam  

Looking for spiritual Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand? This royal temple is beautiful and peaceful. Built in 1976, it mixes Thai, Chinese, and Indian styles. While not as well-known as some famous temple in thailand locations, this one is special because it's under royal care. There's a pretty lake with Chinese buildings and you can see a copy of Buddha's footprint. It's one of those visit-worthy places in Pattaya Thailand where you can relax and learn about Buddhism.

3. Bottle Art Museum 

This is one of the most unusual Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand! An artist named Pieter Bots makes tiny models inside glass bottles. Some have ships, some have temples - all super detailed! Some pieces took him over a month to make. It's one of those where to go in Pattaya Thailand spots that makes you say "How did he do that?"

4. Silverlake Vineyard 

Who knew you could visit a vineyard in Pattaya? This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for wine lovers! You can taste wine, walk through the grape fields, and take photos with the pretty windmill. The views of Buddha Mountain from here are amazing too. It's one of the best travel places in Pattaya Thailand for a romantic day and definitely makes the list of Places to Visit in Thailand for Couples who want something special.

Top 5 Family-Friendly Attractions to Visit in Pattaya, Thailand

Traveling with kids? These Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand are perfect for families. If you're looking for Places to Visit in Thailand with Family, Pattaya has tons of kid-friendly options:

1. Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark

This is one of the most fun Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for kids! It's the first Cartoon Network water park in Asia. Your kids can meet characters from their favorite shows while going down water slides and playing in pools. With over 150 water attractions, it's one of the top Pattaya must-see tourist spots for families.

2. Underwater World Pattaya

Want to see fish without getting wet? This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand where you walk through a tunnel under the water! Fish and sharks swim all around you. Kids can touch starfish in special pools and watch feeding time. It's one of the educational Pattaya Thailand top destinations for learning about sea life.

3. Ramayana Water Park

This huge water park is one of the newest Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand. It's the biggest water park in Thailand with 21 slides! There's something for everyone - scary slides for brave people and calm pools for little kids. They even have a floating market inside! It's one of those Pattaya Thailand tourism places that needs a whole day to explore.

4. Pattaya Sheep Farm

This cute farm is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand where kids can feed sheep! The sheep are friendly and kids love petting them. There are also pretty gardens and places to take photos. It's one of the simple but fun places in Pattaya Thailand to visit with young children.

5. Harbor Land Pattaya

When it's too hot outside, this is one of the indoor Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for families. It has playgrounds, trampolines, and games. Parents can drink coffee while kids play safely. It's one of those best sightseeing places in Pattaya Thailand when you need air conditioning!

Top 9 Night Attractive Places to Visit in Pattaya

Pattaya really comes alive at night! Here are the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand after dark:

1. Tiffany's Show

This famous show is one of the must-see Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand at night. The performers wear beautiful costumes and dance to music from around the world. The show has been running since 1974 and it's really spectacular!

2. Alcazar Show

Another amazing cabaret show that's one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for entertainment. The costumes are super sparkly and the dancing is professional. Both tourists and locals love this show.

3. Mimosa Pattaya

This pink village is one of the prettiest Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand at night. It looks like a little French town with shops, restaurants, and shows. Everything is lit up beautifully after dark.

4. Horizon Rooftop Bar

For grown-ups, this is one of the fancy Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand. It's on the 34th floor of the Hilton hotel. You can drink cocktails while looking at the whole city below. The view is incredible!

5. Terminal 21 Shopping Mall

This airport-themed mall is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for shopping and eating. Each floor looks like a different country! At night, all the lights make it look extra cool.

6. Ripley's Believe It or Not!

This weird and wonderful museum is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand that stays open late. You can see strange things from around the world, watch 4D movies, and go through a haunted house!

7. Muay Thai Boxing

Want to see real Thai boxing? The stadium is one of the authentic Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for sports fans. The fighters do traditional dances before fighting and the crowd gets really excited!

8. Pattaya Night Bazaar

This outdoor market is one of the Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for shopping at night. You can buy clothes, souvenirs, and try yummy street food. Don't forget to bargain for good prices!

9. Magic Eye 3D Museum

Open until late, this is another one of the fun Best Places to Visit in Pattaya Thailand for photos. The special lights at night make the 3D pictures look even cooler! It's perfect for groups and one of the best Places to Visit in Thailand with Friends who love taking funny pictures together.

Best Tours and Activities to Visit in Pattaya

Organized tours provide convenient ways to experience Pattaya's diverse attractions with expert guidance.

1. Half-Day Tours in Pattaya

When time is limited, these efficient tours deliver maximum experiences:

1. Nong Nooch Garden Half-Day Tour – Explore the botanical gardens, cultural shows, and elephant performances with transportation and guide included.
2. Coral Island Half-Day Speed Boat Tour – Perfect for morning or afternoon visits to Koh Larn's beautiful beaches with snorkeling opportunities and beachside relaxation.
3. Sanctuary of Truth Half-Day Tour – Gain deeper appreciation of this architectural marvel with expert commentary on the symbolism and craftsmanship behind the wooden structure.
4. Pattaya City and Viewpoint Tour – A comprehensive orientation covering Pattaya's highlights, viewpoints, and cultural attractions in a condensed timeframe.
5. Floating Market and Miniature Park Combo Tour – Experience two unique attractions with guided explanations of Thai regional cultures and famous landmarks.

2. Top Private and Luxury Places to Visit in Pattaya

For discerning travelers seeking exclusivity:

• Private Island Hopping by Luxury Speedboat – Charter a vessel to explore multiple islands at your own pace with personalized itinerary and catered meals.
• Sunset Dinner Cruise on Bali Hai – Sail along the coast on a luxury catamaran with fine dining, open bar, and live entertainment as the sun sets over the gulf.
• Helicopter Tour of Pattaya Coastline – Gain a bird's-eye perspective of Pattaya's geography and landmarks during an exhilarating aerial tour.
• Private Thai Cooking Class with Market Visit – Learn authentic Thai cuisine with a personal chef, including selecting ingredients from local markets and dining on your creations.
• Golf at Siam Country Club – Play at Thailand's oldest championship golf course where many professional tournaments are held, with luxurious clubhouse facilities.

3. Sports in Pattaya

Adrenaline seekers will find plenty of thrills:

1. Pattaya Bungy Jump – Leap from a 60-meter tower over a lake for Thailand's most famous bungy experience, operated since 1989 with perfect safety record.
2. Flight of the Gibbon Zipline – Navigate 26 platforms and multiple ziplines through the canopy of nearby forests, simulating the movement of Thailand's native gibbons.
3. ATV Off-Road Adventures – Explore rugged terrain on all-terrain vehicles through jungle paths, streams, and hills in guided convoy tours.
4. Flyboard at Jomtien Beach – Experience the sensation of flying above water using water-propelled boots connected to a jet ski, offering unique aerial acrobatics.
5. Skydiving at Thai Sky Adventures – Experience tandem jumps with certified instructors offering views of the entire Eastern Seaboard from 10,000 feet.

Where Can You Go Kayaking in Pattaya,Thailand?

Explore Pattaya's coastline from water level:

1. Bang Saray Kayaking – Paddle through calm waters exploring fishing villages and mangrove forests with chances to spot local wildlife.
2. Naklua Mangrove Conservation Park – Navigate narrow waterways through protected mangrove ecosystems with guided commentary on ecological importance.
3. Koh Si Chang Island Kayaking – Take a day trip to this nearby island offering sea caves, hidden beaches, and clear waters perfect for kayaking adventures.
4. Sunset Kayaking at Jomtien Beach – Experience the coast transformed by golden hour lighting with evening paddling tours offering cooler temperatures.
5. Wong Amat Beach Kayaking – This northern Pattaya beach offers rental services and calmer waters suitable for beginners and families.

Best Nature and Wildlife Places to Visit in Pattaya

Connect with Thailand's natural heritage:

• Khao Kheow Open Zoo – This 2,000-acre zoological park houses over 8,000 animals in naturalistic habitats with night safari options and close-encounter programs.
• Sriracha Tiger Zoo – Home to over 200 tigers and thousands of crocodiles, the zoo offers educational shows demonstrating the relationship between these predators.
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Pattaya – An ethical elephant experience focusing on retired working elephants, allowing interaction without riding.
• Underwater World Marine Conservation – Beyond the aquarium displays, specialized tours focus on conservation efforts and marine ecosystem protection.
• Pong National Forest Hiking Tours – Guided treks through preserved woodland with opportunities to spot indigenous plants, birds, and smaller wildlife.

Best Destinations to Visit Near Pattaya in Thailand

These nearby attractions offer rewarding day excursions:

1. Ancient City of Ayutthaya – This UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thailand's former capital (1350-1767), features magnificent temple ruins showcasing Siamese architecture. The 80km journey from Pattaya takes approximately 2 hours by car.
2. Sriracha and Koh Si Chang – Visit the famous Sriracha Tiger Zoo (origin of the famous hot sauce) before taking a ferry to Koh Si Chang island with its royal summer palace, Chinese temple, and quiet beaches. Located just 25km north of Pattaya.
3. Bang Saen Beach – This university town beach offers a more authentic Thai beach experience with seafood restaurants and family atmosphere, located 50km north.
4. Khao Kheow Wildlife Complex – This extensive natural preserve encompasses a zoo, botanical garden, and adventure park with ziplines through the forest canopy, located 45 minutes from Pattaya.
5. Rayong and Man-Made Beach – Explore pristine beaches, a mangrove preservation center, and superb seafood dining in this less touristy coastal province 65km southeast.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its status as a world-renowned beach destination, Pattaya offers a fascinating mix of traditional Thai charm and modern leisure. Its strategic location allows travelers to enjoy both the dynamic energy of Bangkok and the serene beauty of Thailand’s eastern seaboard, making it a perfect hub for exploration.

With a wide range of places to visit in Pattaya - from tranquil beaches and cultural landmarks to amusement parks and lively nightlife - the city caters to every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for family adventures, cultural experiences, or a fun-filled holiday, Pattaya promises unforgettable memories and continues to welcome visitors with warm Thai hospitality and ever-evolving attractions.

How to Book Your Visit to Pattaya in Thailand Easily?

Ready to explore the top places to visit in Pattaya? Frenzy Holidays ensures a smooth and enriching travel experience from start to finish. You can visit us at Haware Centurion, S07/34, Nerul East, Sector 19A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706. For bookings or more information, call +91 7400453140, email [email protected], or visit www.frenzyholidays.com.

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Pattaya, Thailand - FAQs