Pattaya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of activities that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure-filled trip, or a cultural experience, Pattaya has something to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Pattaya.
When to Visit Pattaya
The best time to visit Pattaya is between November and February when the weather is dry and pleasant. The temperature during these months ranges from 25°C to 30°C, and the humidity is relatively low. This is also the peak season in Pattaya, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and get better deals, consider traveling during the shoulder season between March and May or September and October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but there may be occasional rain showers. June to August is the low season, with higher chances of rain and occasional storms.
How to Get to Pattaya
Pattaya is easily accessible by air, road, and rail.
By Air: The closest airport to Pattaya is U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport (UTP), which is about 40 kilometers away. However, most international travelers fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok, which is about 120 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Pattaya. Several airlines operate flights to U-Tapao Airport, including Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, and China Eastern Airlines.
By Road: Pattaya is connected to Bangkok by several major highways, including the Bangkok-Chonburi-Pattaya Motorway (Highway 7) and the Sukhumvit Road (Highway 3). The journey takes about 2-3 hours by car or bus.
By Rail: There is a regular train service between Bangkok and Pattaya, which operates four times a day. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the type of train you take.
Where to Stay in Pattaya
Pattaya offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.
Budget: If you’re traveling on a budget, you can find plenty of affordable accommodation options in Pattaya. The city has several guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels that offer basic amenities. Some popular options include Sawasdee Pattaya, Flipper House Hotel, and LK The Empress Pattaya.
Mid-Range: If you’re looking for more comfort and convenience, there are plenty of mid-range hotels and resorts in Pattaya. These properties offer modern amenities and are usually located near the beach or the city center. Some popular options include Mercure Pattaya, Amari Pattaya, and Hilton Pattaya.
Luxury: Pattaya has several luxury resorts and hotels that offer world-class amenities and services. These properties are usually located in secluded areas and offer stunning views of the ocean. Some popular options include Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, InterContinental Pattaya Resort, and Dusit Thani Pattaya.
What to Do in Pattaya
Pattaya has a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all types of travelers.
Beaches: Pattaya is known for its beautiful beaches, which offer a wide range of water sports and activities. Some popular beaches include Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach, and Wong Amat Beach.
Nightlife: Pattaya has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. Walking Street is the epicenter of the nightlife scene in Pattaya, with dozens of bars and clubs lining the street. There are also several other areas in the city that offer a lively nightlife, such as Soi Buakhao and Soi LK Metro.
Attractions: Pattaya has several attractions that are worth a visit. Some of the most popular ones include the Sanctuary of Truth, a magnificent wooden temple; Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, a beautiful botanical garden; and the Pattaya Floating Market, where you can sample local food and buy souvenirs.
Activities: There are plenty of activities to do in Pattaya, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. Some popular activities include parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can also take a day trip to nearby islands such as Koh Larn or Koh Samet.
Cultural Experiences: Pattaya has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several ways to experience it. You can visit the Wat Phra Khao Yai temple, which houses a giant Buddha statue; attend a Thai cooking class to learn how to cook local dishes; or watch a traditional Thai dance performance.
Where to Eat in Pattaya
Pattaya has a diverse food scene, with a wide range of local and international cuisine.
Street Food: Pattaya has plenty of street food stalls that offer delicious and cheap food. Some popular street food items include grilled meat skewers, Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice. Some of the best places to try street food in Pattaya include the Pattaya Night Bazaar and the Naklua Fish Market.
Local Cuisine: If you’re looking to try local Thai cuisine, there are several restaurants in Pattaya that offer authentic dishes. Some popular options include Rim Talay Seafood Restaurant, where you can try fresh seafood; Ruen Thai Restaurant, which serves traditional Thai cuisine; and Mum Aroi Restaurant, which offers a wide range of local dishes.
International Cuisine: Pattaya also has several restaurants that serve international cuisine. You can find everything from Italian and Japanese to Indian and Mexican food. Some popular options include Casa Pascal, a fine dining French restaurant; Mantra Restaurant and Bar, which serves modern Asian cuisine; and La Baguette French Bakery, which offers delicious pastries and bread.
Tips for Traveling to Pattaya
Here are some tips to keep in mind when traveling to Pattaya:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
- Bargain when shopping in local markets or street stalls.
- Carry cash with you, as some places may not accept credit cards.
- Drink bottled water to avoid getting sick.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking around at night.
- Use reputable taxi or transportation services to avoid scams.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases to communicate with locals.
Conclusion
Pattaya is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled trip, Pattaya has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to plan your trip to Pattaya. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city in Thailand!
