7 days in Pattaya, Thailand: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Meet Pattaya, Thailand: A vibrant seaside city that boasts a mesmerizing blend of bustling nightlife, beautiful sandy beaches, and cultural attractions. Nestled on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, this lively city offers a stunning tropical getaway for beach lovers, partygoers, and adventure seekers alike. From basking in the sun on Pattaya Beach, exploring the colorful nightlife on the famous Walking Street, to visiting the alluring Sanctuary of Truth, there’s never a dull moment in Pattaya.
Things to consider before arriving in Pattaya
Affordable: Pattaya is relatively inexpensive, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers.
Welcoming atmosphere: The locals are friendly and accommodating to tourists, making it easy to navigate and feel welcomed.
Noisy and crowded: Pattaya can be loud and packed with tourists, especially around the city’s famous nightlife spots.
Party Enthusiasts: Those who love nightlife and a vibrant party scene will absolutely adore Pattaya.
What to bring with you
– Light, breathable clothing: The tropical climate in Pattaya can be hot and humid, so opt for clothes that keep you cool and comfortable.
– Sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from sunburn and pesky mosquitoes with these essentials.
– Swimwear and a beach towel: With beautiful beaches at your disposal, you’ll definitely want to spend some time swimming and sunbathing.
Best time of the year to visit
The best time to visit Pattaya is during the “cool” season from November to February. During this time, the weather is more pleasant, with lower humidity and temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is also minimal compared to the rest of the year.
How to get into Pattaya
1. Flying into U-Tapao Airport: While the airport is relatively small and serves a limited number of airlines, it is conveniently located just 40 km (25 miles) from Pattaya. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city.
2. From Bangkok: The most popular way to reach Pattaya is traveling from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can either hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Pattaya, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 – 2 hours.
3. Train: A scenic option is to take the train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station. The journey takes around 3 hours and offers stunning views of Thailand’s countryside. Keep in mind that the train service to Pattaya operates only once a day, so plan your trip accordingly.
7-day City Guide Trip to Pattaya, Thailand
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
Start your trip by hitting the beach! Pattaya is known for its beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters, so rent a sunbed and relax. In the evening, head to Walking Street, where you can find plenty of bars, restaurants, and market stalls.
Day 2: Visit the Sanctuary of Truth and Tiffany’s Show
Head to the Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning wooden temple that features intricate carvings and overlooks the ocean. In the evening, check out Tiffany’s Show, a famous cabaret show featuring beautiful, talented transgender performers.
Day 3: Day Trip to Koh Larn
Take a ferry to Koh Larn, a nearby island paradise with gorgeous beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Spend the day lounging on the beach or exploring the island’s temples and caves.
Day 4: Explore Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Mini Siam
Visit Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, a massive botanical garden filled with exotic plants and animals, and watch cultural performances like traditional Thai dance. Later, check out Mini Siam, a park that features miniature models of famous landmarks from around Thailand and the world.
Day 5: Visit the Big Buddha and Elephant Village
Take a trip to the Big Buddha, a stunning temple featuring a giant, golden Buddha statue that stands 18 meters tall. Afterward, head to Elephant Village, where you can ride and feed elephants and learn about these majestic animals.
Day 6: Day Trip to Pattaya Floating Market and Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Visit Pattaya Floating Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try delicious local cuisine like spicy papaya salad and grilled seafood. Later, head to Khao Kheow Open Zoo, an environmentally-friendly park with over 300 animal species.
Day 7: Relaxation, Shopping and Departure
Spend your final day enjoying a massage at a spa or shopping for unique souvenirs like Thai silk scarves or teak wood carvings before heading to Pattaya’s airport for your flight home.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Pattaya
After enjoying Pattaya’s colorful culture and stunning beaches, why not check out some of Thailand’s other beautiful cities?
Chiang Mai
Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a charming city known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and stunning natural scenery. Take a cooking class, visit Doi Suthep temple, or relax in one of the city’s many spas.
Koh Samui
Head to Koh Samui, a tropical island located off Thailand’s eastern coast. Known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, Koh Samui is a perfect place to relax and enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Don’t miss the Fisherman’s Village Night Market for a taste of local cuisine.
