Many travelers plan to visit Thailand at least once in their lives. Those in search of sun, sea and electric ambience can set course for Pattaya without question. Located 150 km from the capital Bangkok, this destination is very popular with young people in search of hedonism, with numerous bars, discotheques and beaches where you can bask in the sun all day long. But you can also admire temples and stroll through lush gardens, and the city is increasingly popular with families. Many facilities are dedicated to parents and children who want to relax and have fun. In short, Pattaya is a destination for everyone. Here are our 15 must-sees.
1. Pattaya Beach Road, beach and party
It's a must for travelers discovering Pattaya. Beach Road is a long artery, with tall palm trees lining the sea and street vendors on one side, and boutiques, shopping malls and bars on the other. It's a popular place for tourists and locals alike to shop, cool off on the beach, have a drink and party in the evening. There are several pedestrian zones, but beware: there's always traffic along Pattaya Beach Road.
2. Jomtien beach, relaxing in the sun
South of Pattaya, Jomtien Beach is one of the city's most popular beaches. And with good reason: it's a wide stretch of sand where you can spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the clear water. No problem for holidaymakers who can't keep still on their towels, you can also come here for water sports or a game of beach volleyball. This Pattaya beach is surrounded by bars and seafood restaurants. A very pleasant spot for an evening by the sea.
Did you enjoy your time on Jomtien beach? Discover Thailand's must-see beaches!
3. The Great Buddha, a spiritual place
Located on Khao Phra Tamnak hill, overlooking South Pattaya and Jomtien, the Great Buddha is a must-see when visiting the city. It is located inside the Wat Khao Phra Bat temple. At 18 m high, you'll need to climb several steps before admiring its brilliant golden color. It is also surrounded by several small Buddhas. Definitely a must-see in Pattaya, on a self-guided or guided tour. It's also an opportunity to see the local population performing rituals.
4. Pattaya's floating market, for the traditional side
There are many shopping centers and thoroughfares in Pattaya where you can enjoy a good shopping session. But one of the most authentic experiences is a boat trip to the floating market. Not too big, not too small, it's just the right size to enjoy the many stalls. It's also possible to go ashore to enjoy the stores. Clothes, fruit, vegetables, spices, Thai handicrafts, restaurants - there's everything you need to treat yourself, at a lower price. Pattaya's floating market is also regularly enlivened by concerts and traditional dance performances. Click here to book your ticket to the floating market!
For more ideas after your visit to Pattaya, be sure to check out the must-sees in Northern Thailand and the must-sees in Southern Thailand!
5. The Sanctuary of Truth, an incredible monument
The Sanctuary of Truth is an architectural masterpiece, not unlike Spain's Sagrada Familia or France's Palais Idéal by Facteur Cheval. Located just a stone's throw from the sea, construction began in 1981 and will not be completed until 2050. Nevertheless, you can already see divine, flowery details of rare finesse. The tour includes both the exterior and interior of this monument built of wood to withstand the sun and salt in the air. A whole range of tourist activities have been developed around the temple, such as feeding an elephant or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. Click here to book your ticket for the Sanctuary of Truth!
6. Walking Street, a must-see in the evening
Thailand, unforgettable parties in the land of smiles. Walking Street is the place to be for Pattaya locals and tourists alike. Closed to traffic from 6 p.m. onwards, the crowds gather here for a bite to eat, a bit of night-time shopping, a drink and an early-morning disco party. Lights are omnipresent, with screens and other neon lights drawing the eye. There are also sports broadcasts and concerts to get you in the mood. It all depends on what you're looking for on vacation, but party-goers certainly know where to go!
7. Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, a family theme park
You'll have to head south of Pattaya to enjoy a day at the Columbia Pictures Aquaverse. This park boasts a range of water attractions to keep parents and children alike entertained, with huge slides, rivers to float down and an area to practice surfing. There's also go-karting and mini-golf. Lockers are available for storing belongings, towels can be lent out and there's wi-fi on site. A team of lifeguards keeps an eye on the rides. Family fun.
Visit Columbia Pictures' first theme and water park in Thailand by booking your ticket here your admission ticket.
8. Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, a green space
On a trip to Pattaya, you shouldn't hesitate to head out of town to discover sites that leave no one indifferent. To the north of the city, the Nong Nooch Botanical Garden is a magnificent place to spend a few moments in the green. Here you'll find a variety of themed gardens. These include a French garden and a remarkable collection of exotic plants and flowers. Along the way, you'll come across various animal statues, not to mention the butterfly hill. There's no problem spending a good part of the day here: there's a restaurant and a mini supermarket on site.
9. Mini Siam and Mini Europe, miniature monuments
Mini Siam is an immense 4.5-hectare garden, decorated with miniature replicas of Thailand's must-see monuments and tourist sites. You can see a reduced version of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or the Wat Arun Temple of Dawn, but that's not all: there are also replicas of European monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as world-famous edifices such as the Statue of Liberty and the Sydney Opera House. Another great place to visit on a Pattaya holiday with children.
10. The Elephant Village, an unforgettable encounter
It's easy to be reluctant to go to this kind of place out of conviction. But Pattaya's Elephant Village is a sanctuary for ethical tourism. On the one hand, it takes in elephants that were once devoted to hard labor. Secondly, they live here as close as possible to their natural environment. Discovering this place gives you the chance to feed the pachyderms, walk with them in the jungle or watch them roll around in the mud. It's a bonding experience enjoyed by all. Click here to book your visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary in Pattaya.
11. Cabarets, show time!
Cabarets are a must in Thailand. It's an activity not to be missed on any account during a stay in Pattaya. In the halls, the "ladyboys" offer breathtaking shows, with magnificent costumes, music, lights and sumptuous decor. In the city, the Cabaret Alcazar is a veritable institution, featuring hundreds of artists. A good tip for attending a cabaret show at this legendary venue, which has been operating since 1981: book your queue-cutting ticket in advance. Click here to book your ticket for the Tiffany's Show cabaret in Pattaya.
12. Koh Larn, paradise island
Just 7 km off the coast of Pattaya, the island of Koh Larn is a little paradise on earth. A 45-minute ferry ride from the port takes you to this 4 km-long, 2 km-wide piece of land. The island is mountainous and home to magnificent beaches where you can soak up the sun and swim in the turquoise waters. These include Samae Beach, Tien Beach and Ta Yai Beach. Koh Larn is full of charming boutiques and gourmet spots where you can sample Thai and international specialties. There's also plenty to do on the water, with diving, snorkeling and kite surfing.
13. The 3D Art In Paradise museum, optical illusions
For an unusual visit to Pattaya, head for the Art In Paradise 3D Museum. Here, you can enter a world of optical illusions, with absolutely incredible trompe l'oeil! The 10 thematic galleries invite the curious to take amazing photos. Experiences include playing with giant cats, strolling through a 3D jungle and being chased by dinosaurs. The murals, with which you can interact, are a particular highlight. A must for any visitor's schedule! Book your your discounted ticket to the 3D Art in Paradise museum in Pattaya!
14. Underwater World Pattaya, a beautiful aquarium
Why not take advantage of your stay in Pattaya to learn more about marine life? Underwater World Pattaya is a fascinating aquarium where you can observe a multitude of marine species and colorful corals. Several zones are on offer, including sharks, rays, Siamese giants and coral reefs. One of the highlights is crossing the 105 m long tunnel, with numerous marine animals passing directly overhead. There's also a touch pool, much appreciated by children. Click here to book your ticket for the Underwater World Pattaya aquarium.
15. Anek Kuson Sala, temple-museum
We'll end our list of must-sees in Pattaya with a visit to this temple-museum , built in 1987. It's a Chinese temple, and you won't want to miss the many details of its exterior architecture. Then it's on to the interior to discover its incredible collection of rare objects and antiques from China. These include a large white jade statue of the goddess Guan Yi, statues of warriors and horses from the mausoleum of the emperor Qin Shi Huang, works of art and terracotta objects.
Where to stay in Pattaya?
Pattaya is a popular seaside resort for tourists and locals alike. What's more, it's within easy reach of Bangkok. So there's plenty of accommodation on offer to make the most of the sunshine and its ideal seaside location.
- Intimate Hotel Pattaya by Tim Boutique, comfort and entertainment
A magnificent 3-star hotel with beautifully decorated rooms. The establishment offers a host of facilities for optimum comfort, which you can book right here. These include a swimming pool, gym, massage salon, billiards room, restaurant and even a rooftop dance club. What's more, the Intimate Hotel Pattaya by Tim Boutique is just 200 m from Pattaya beach.
- Jomtien Plaza Residence, an ideal location
Jomtien is a perfect location for accessing the eponymous beach, much appreciated by travelers. The Jomtien Plaza Residence is a large hotel with modern rooms and balconies bookable here. Small, fully-equipped studios are also available for rent. The swimming pool is superb, the breakfast generous and you'll have access to the beach and Pattaya's liveliest districts in no time.
- Ibis Pattaya, for peace and quiet
This well-known brand boasts a higher standard of accommodation in Thailand than in France. You'll find the most comfortable rooms , without breaking the bank, in a quieter location. The beach is just 500 m away. The Ibis Pattaya has a swimming pool with deckchairs, a restaurant where you can try Thai specialties, and a happy hour bar. Click here to book your stay!
What to do in Pattaya with your family
Pattaya isn't just a city that attracts party-goers, it has also become a popular destination for families. Jomter beach is perfect for swimming and playing in the sand. There are also water parks for hours of fun, such as the Ramayana Water Park and the Columbia Pictures Aquaverse. Children will also enjoy meeting elephants in the elephant sanctuary. And let's not forget Underwater World Pattaya: what child doesn't enjoy an aquarium?
What to do in Pattaya as a couple
Have you chosen Pattaya for a romantic getaway or honeymoon? Excellent choice! A boat trip to the floating market is sure to create a romantic atmosphere. You should also check out the magnificent details of the Sanctuary of Truth, or stroll hand in hand through the exotic plants of the Nong Nooch Botanical Garden. And then, there's nothing like a getaway to the island of Koh Larn to enjoy time together on dreamy beaches, swimming and sipping a cocktail in the shade of an umbrella.
Pattaya seduced you? Now it's time to discover Bangkok's must-sees!
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