If you’re also on this page because half of your Instagram is in Thailand and now you’re tempted to pack your bags as well, we’re here for you with the best places to visit in Pattaya and things to do in Pattaya, Thailand. Itinerary for the trip you can leave on us, people to plan this trip with without any last minute cancellation? That’s a tough spot even for us.
Situated on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya, is a vibrant beach town with pristine beaches, picturesque views and amazing historical treasures. The town is best known for its nightlife and crazy parties but that’s not all that is in this city. Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Pattaya has something for everyone.
So, this is your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Pattaya
1. The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
This majestic 105-tall wooden structure is a sight to behold. Built-in 1981, this Pattaya attraction is made entirely out of wood, without the use of even a single metal nail in its construction. Each and every inch of this museum is intricately carved with traditional Thai motifs, mythological figures and such philosophies of religion, it stands as a testament to human artistry. A fun fact about the place is that even though this is one of the biggest attractions in Pattaya and a very significant landmark, it’s actually still under construction and is set to be completed in 2025.
You can take a guided tour to understand its deeper meaning or just simply marvel at the craftsmanship but one thing is for sure add this to your list of places to visit in Pattaya.
2. Walking Street
The nightlight life that Pattaya is certainly famous for starts right here on Walking Street. Stretching from Pattaya Beach Road to Bali Hai Plaza, Walking Street becomes a pedestrian-only zone after 6:00 PM. That’s when the nightlife with neon lights so bright they’re impossible to miss, pulsating music, and an endless stream of entertainment unfolds at one of the best places to visit in Pattaya. This Pattaya attraction is certainly rated R but for people above 21, it is brimming with nightclubs, bars, music venues and so much more. Whether you’re there to soak in the atmosphere or dive into the heart of Pattaya’s party scene, Walking Street promises an unforgettable experience
3. Pattaya Floating Market
To experience the charm of traditional Thai markets, you need to visit the Pattaya Floating Market. Although nobody really needs anything additional to a market when it comes to shopping, what better than navigating through the waterways on a boat, shopping for souvenirs, and sampling local delicacies. This has to be on the list of places to visit in Pattaya. This Pattaya attraction was established in 2008 and is divided into four sections, each representing a different region of Thailand - north, northeast, central, and south.
The market is not only a place for commerce but also a cultural showcase with local products and authentic ways of life on display.
4. Coral Island (Koh Larn)
Coral Island, also known as Koh Larn, is a beautiful white beach island located in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 7 km west of Pattaya city. This Pattaya attraction is easily accessible from Pattaya beach by just a 45-minute ferry ride or a 30-minute speed boat ride, this paradise with clear emerald waters is a perfect spot for water activities in Pattaya like snorkelling, parasailing, or simply soaking up the sun. It’s a haven for those who love marine life, and coral reefs and are looking for adventurous things to do in Pattaya, Thailand.
5. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
A kaleidoscope of flora from around the world, this Pattaya attraction is a themed garden and a significant tourist attraction known for its extensive collection of tropical plants with beautifully landscaped gardens. Situated atop Huay Yai mountain, the garden has more than 2000 species of plants and is one of the largest botanical gardens in Southeast Asia.
6. Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is a unique and interactive 3D art museum known for its illusion art exhibits that combine contemporary art with modern technology, allowing visitors to become part of the artwork through three-dimensional effects. Snap quirky photos for your Instagram with 3D paintings or become part of the art in this Pattaya attraction, it's up to you but one thing is for sure, it has to be one of the things to do in Pattaya, Thailand.
7. Baan Sukhawadee
Also known as the House of Heaven, this lavish mansion is a display of luxury and architecture and was built in 2000 by a wealthy businessman during Thailand’s economic crisis. The palace is embellished with treasures, including a solid gold statue of the Guanyin Buddha, and has elaborate gardens, tours, a temple, and a restaurant. The grounds contain several large mansion-type buildings filled with beautiful artworks
It is not just a tourist attraction but also a sacred place for worship, reflecting Thai culture, heritage, and architecture.
8. Pattaya Viewpoint
One of the few places to visit in Pattaya that will leave you mesmerised with its best views, head to the Pattaya Viewpoint which is also known as Khao Pattaya Viewpoint or Pattaya Hill. Situated atop Pratumnak Hill, this Pattaya attraction offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Pattaya Bay and the city skyline. Apart from the breathtaking views, the viewpoint is also historically significant as it was a former military outpost used for monitoring the Gulf of Thailand during the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
For the beautiful sunsets from here, visitors can reach by songthaew, a shared taxi service, with an expected fare of at least 200 Baht from central Pattaya.
9. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
As suggested by the name, this museum is a trove of oddities and wonders from around the world and is a must on the list of places to visit in Pattaya. Believe It or Not, Rripley’s will really challenge your perceptions.
The museum displays over 300 bizarre items collected from around the world by Robert Ripley from the United States but the main highlight is the classic Ripley’s 'Odditorium'. It showcases 10 galleries of unusual and extraordinary exhibits. You can also enjoy a collection of waxworks, two mazes, a haunted house, a shooting ride, and a '9D' moving cinema that engages multiple senses. In the list of Pattaya tourist places, this is the one that made it huge because of the global trend in the late 90s.
10. Tiffany’s Show Pattaya
Tiffany’s Show Pattaya is a renowned world-class cabaret show and the first authentic transvestite cabaret show in South-East Asia, established in 1974. It’s known for its spectacular performances, which include special lights, stylish costumes, amazing choreography, extraordinary effects, and music. The show is a highlight of Pattaya’s nightlife and also hosts the Miss Tiffany’s Universe Beauty Pageant annually in August, promoting human rights and equality for transgender individuals in Thailand. Since this is a great attraction for tourists it makes it one of the most popular Pattaya tourist places.