42 Best Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand (2026)

These best things to do in Pattaya, will keep you and your family busy, no matter how long you are in the beach city for.

Just a few hours from Bangkok, Pattaya has grown in popularity over the past few years. There are interesting things to do in Pattaya whether you are looking for culture, history or just some fun attractions, you will find something for you.

Best Things to do in Pattaya

1. Wat Phra Khao Yai – Also known as the Big Buddha hill, climb the staircase to visiting this giant Buddha which overlooks the city of Pattaya. You also get a great view and can see the smaller Buddha’s and shrines scattered along the route. 

2. The Sanctuary of Truth – For me, this is the most impressive thing to see in Pattaya. This temple is made completely of wood and is still in process of being built and has been since 1981.  

3. Pattaya Floating Market – I include this market in the historic sightseeing section very loosely. Yes, this market offers an insight into the Thailand tradition of floating markets; even though these are really only visited by tourists these days. The ‘Four Regions Floating Market’ is split into different sections, selling items from the four regions of Thailand. 

4. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden – For those that love beautiful, bright botanic gardens, this is the place for you. Covering 2.4 square kilometers, this garden has won several international worlds and has arguably some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. 

5. The Buddha Engraving at Khao Chi Chan – As the biggest engraved Buddha in the world, this engraving on a mountain on the outskirts of Pattaya does seem to get a lot of attention. If you are renting a car in the area, take a trip over and see the engraving whilst taking a stroll around the greenery. 

6. Anek Kusala Sala – This Chinese temple was originally built to build a friendship between Thailand and China and is not a museum showing over 300 pieces of Chinese artwork over two floors. 

7. Three Kingdom Theme Park (Sam Kok) – Visit Chinese pagodas and temples in this park which celebrates Buddhism and the Thai and Chinese heritage. 

8. Pratumnak Hill – Hike up to see a breathtaking view of Pattaya City and the sea. Visit at sunset to appreciate the views during the afternoon and once it gets dark and the city lights all turn on. 

9. Baan Sukhawadee – Also known as Eden House, this mansion is impressive and stunning. Take a walk around the grounds and feel like royalty, even if it is just for a few hours. 

10. Mini Siam and Mini Europe – This is a quirkier thing to do in Pattaya but we love it. Head to the outskirts of the city to visit the Mini Siam and Mini Europe attraction. Here, you’ll find mini replicas of famous landmarks from Thailand and Europe. 

11. Central Festival – This shopping mall is a popular spot for locals and expats, with lots of western stores standing alongside some popular Thailand food chains. There is also a massive cinema and bowling alley within this mall. 

12. Ang Sila Oyster Farm – Learn how oysters and mussels are bred in this unique farm experience. 

13. Sri Racha Tiger Zoo – This tiger zoo focuses on breeding and conserving wildlife such as the Bengal tiger. It also has a crocodile farm and animal shows. 

14. Silver Lake Vineyard – The New Latitude Wines are produced in the Silver Lake Vineyard along with other Thai wineries. Some vineyards offer the option to stay on the vineyard itself and many offer great wine tasting sessions. 

15. Koh Larn – Spend a day relaxing on a beach on the island of Koh Larn. Boats leave Pattaya throughout the day and there are even a handful of resorts on this tiny island too. This is one of the best beaches near Bangkok and a great escape from the city.

16. Ban Amphur Beach – The fishing village of Ban Amphur is also home to a quiet and peaceful beach. It is a lot less crowded than other beaches in and around Pattaya and there are also some great seafood restaurants along the waterfront. 

17. Koh Samet – Not too far from Pattaya is the island of Koh Samet which offers beautiful white beaches and crystal clear waters. 

18. Jomtien Beach – Although busier than the beaches above, Jomtien beach is still a great place to visit when you want to escape the crowds of Pattaya. You can find a number of watersports and activities along the beachfront as well as some great Thai restaurants. 

19. Art in Paradise – Become part of the artwork in this 3D, special effect gallery. Children LOVE this and even adults find the fun in posing with gigantic crocodiles or balancing over an endless cliff. 

20. Ripley’s Believe it or Not – Not too dissimilar from the other Ripley’s around the world, this museum is full of weird and wonderful facts from around the world in interactive, playful exhibits. I love visiting a Ripley’s Museum and this is perfect for both adults and children. 

21. Pattaya Park – As part of a beach resort, this is the only water park in Pattaya. It is perfect for families and offers a lot of slides that adults can enjoy too. Plus, the Pattaya Park Tower is a great place to head for dinner and enjoy of the city. 

22. Khao Kheow Open Zoo – This zoo is incredible; animals can roam around the grounds of the wildlife reserve and you can choose to walk or drive through the observation areas to see the animals up close. They even have a night safari to take via tram.

23. Frost Magical Ice of Siam – On the outskirts of Pattaya, you will find this frozen attraction. Walk around ice sculptures in -10 degrees, enjoy the ice slide and finish of your experience with a visit to the ice bar. 

24. Underwater World – Here, you can walk through a long, see-through tunnel, looking at over 500 different types of fish and sea creatures. You can feed Koi fish here or even swim with sharks and rays. This is definitely one of the more romantic things to do in Thailand too.

25. Cartoon Network Amazone Pattaya – This popular theme park is the perfect place to visit with family. With rides based on childhood characters and plenty of attractions, you’ll find something for everyone here. 

26. Baa Baa Black Sheep – This sheep farm allows you to cuddle baby sheep in a fun, colourful park. You can also visit ponies, piglets and birds here too.

27. Harbor Land Pattaya – Similar to the Bangkok Harbor Land, this is a massive indoor playground area, complete with climbing walls and gigantic slides. 

28. Horseshoe Point – This horse riding school offers lessons to families within the grounds of the resort. You can also visit the activities park and go swimming whilst you’re here too. 

29. Teddy Bear Museum – If you are travelling with little children (or if you want a few great selfies), the Teddy Bear Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon. The museum is actually one of the largest in Thailand and is adorned with every type, colour and size of teddy bear you can imagine. 

30. Mum Aroi – Sitting in the fishing village of Naklua, this seafood restaurant is popular with expats and locals and offers a unique dining experience. 

31. Leng Kee – This Chinese and Seafood restaurant is popular with locals and expats and can be found open 24 hours a day. 

32. Mai Sai Thong – This street vendor, next to the day market, is known as the best place in Thailand to get some Mango Sticky Rice. 

33. Pizza Plaza Pattaya – If you’re travelling with children, make sure you head to this All-You-Can-Eat pizza place where you make your own mini pizzas and cook them in ovens on your table. 

34. Caprice Restaurant and Bar – This 5-star dining is arguably the best restaurant in Pattaya. With a terrace overlooking the Ocean and an elegant, stunning interior, the 4-course menu starts at 850 baht and offers delights such as  pork neck and monkfish.

35. Yes Vegan Pattaya – This was the first 100% vegan restaurant in Pattaya, making it’s mark on the city early on. They offer Asian-fusion, planted-based dishes and prices are reasonable. 

36. The Glass House – Located on the beach, this That seafood restaurant is a great place to dine for a special occasion. Book in advanced for the best seats and enjoy! 

37. Lungsawai Seafood – Running for over 30 years, this restaurant is popular with locals because of it’s unmissable seafood dishes. Try the sea crabs and Rieow Sieow fish eggs – both amazing and super affordable. 

38. Walking Street – The infamous walking street is the place to be once the sun goes down. With bars and clubs aligning the street,  head here for decent happy hours and a busy atmosphere. 

39. Tiffany’s Cabaret – Running for 30 years, this hour performance is a popular show in Pattaya. Performed by ladyboys in stunning costumes, this show represents scenes from all over the world. 

40. Thepprasit Market – This weekend night market offers some local Thai snacks and smoothies among many, many clothing stalls. 

41. Alangkarn Cultural show – This cultural show features Thai history, traditions and culture within a 2-hour performance of song, dance and colourful costumes. 

42. Mixx Discotheque Pattaya – For those that are looking to dance the night away, this is arguably the best club in the city. You can listen to house music in the Crystal Palace room or listen to R&B and hip hop in the Rouge Club room. 

43. Enjoy the view from a rooftop bar – Take in breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand from one of Pattaya’s stunning rooftop bars. The Horizon Bar at the Hilton Pattaya is one of the most popular, offering a sleek, modern atmosphere, handcrafted cocktails, and a sunset view that’s hard to beat. For a more laid-back vibe, try the Sky Bar at Siam@Siam Design Hotel, where colorful décor and creative drinks make for a perfect evening. Watching the city lights twinkle while the waves crash below is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

44. Join a Muay Thai class or watch a fight – For something active and authentically Thai, step into the world of Muay Thai — Thailand’s national sport. Pattaya Boxing World offers nightly fights featuring both local and international fighters. It’s a thrilling experience that showcases skill, tradition, and heart. If you’d rather participate, several gyms like Fairtex or Kombat Group offer beginner classes where you can try the techniques for yourself under professional guidance. It’s an unforgettable mix of fitness, culture, and adrenaline.

45. Catch the sunset at Khao Phra Tamnak Viewpoint – Also known as Pattaya Hill, Khao Phra Tamnak is home to one of the best viewpoints in the city. From here, you’ll see sweeping views of Pattaya Bay and the skyline, especially magical at sunset when the water glows orange and gold. A large golden Buddha statue sits at the top, and the area has a peaceful, spiritual feel. The short drive or walk up is well worth it — bring your camera for those postcard-perfect shots.

46. Relax with a traditional Thai massage – No trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in a traditional Thai massage. Pattaya has a wide range of spas, from budget-friendly parlors to luxurious wellness resorts. Try Let’s Relax Spa or Oasis Spa for a serene, high-quality experience. Whether you opt for an aromatic oil treatment or the classic stretching-style Thai massage, it’s the ultimate way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or beach hopping.

47. Explore Pattaya’s street food scene – Venture beyond the main tourist areas to discover Pattaya’s flavorful street food. Small night markets and food stalls hidden behind Beach Road or along Soi Buakhao serve local favorites like grilled pork skewers, spicy papaya salad, and mango sticky rice. The Thepprasit Night Market and Jomtien Night Market are two local favorites — vibrant, authentic, and full of delicious surprises. Grab a bite, mingle with locals, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

48. Visit the Abhakara Kiartivongse Monument – Perched on a quiet hill overlooking the city, the Abhakara Kiartivongse Monument honors Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse — known as the “Father of the Royal Thai Navy.” This scenic spot offers panoramic views of the coastline and is often much less crowded than other attractions. The peaceful surroundings and sea breeze make it a wonderful place to take a break from the bustle of central Pattaya, especially in the early morning or at sunset.

49. Take a sunset cruise or island-hopping tour – Seeing Pattaya from the water offers a totally different perspective. Many local companies run sunset cruises that include dinner, drinks, and music as you sail along the coast. For more adventure, hop on a speedboat to nearby islands like Koh Larn, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Whether you’re after a romantic evening or a full-day escape, a cruise is a must-do Pattaya experience.

50. Explore Pattaya’s countryside and nearby villages – If you have a car or motorbike, head beyond the city to discover Pattaya’s quieter side. Just a short drive inland, you’ll find lush hills, local farms, and small villages where life moves at a slower pace. Visit the Silverlake Vineyard for wine tasting, stop by Wat Yansangwararam for beautiful architecture, or stroll around Nong Nooch Tropical Garden for scenic photo spots. It’s the perfect contrast to the city’s energy — and a reminder that there’s more to Pattaya than its beaches.

Things to Know Before You go to Thailand

Best Things to Do in Pattaya FAQ

• What is Pattaya best known for?
  Pattaya is best known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and wide variety of attractions — from temples and floating markets to island trips and cultural shows.
• What are the top attractions in Pattaya?
  Popular attractions include the Sanctuary of Truth, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Pattaya Floating Market, and the Big Buddha Hill viewpoint. Many travelers also visit Koh Larn Island for a peaceful beach day.
• Is Pattaya suitable for families?
  Yes! While Pattaya is famous for its nightlife, it also has plenty of family-friendly activities such as water parks, aquariums, cultural villages, and mini-golf parks.
• What can couples do in Pattaya?
  Couples can enjoy sunset cruises, rooftop dinners, spa days, or quiet time at Silverlake Vineyard. Watching the sunset from Khao Phra Tamnak viewpoint is also a romantic favorite.
• How many days should I spend in Pattaya?
  A two- to three-day stay is ideal for seeing the highlights, but staying longer allows time for day trips, beach hopping, and a more relaxed pace.
• What’s the best time to visit Pattaya?
  The best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is dry, sunny, and cooler. This is perfect for outdoor activities and beach days.
• Are there free things to do in Pattaya?
  Absolutely! You can relax on the beach, visit temples, enjoy the viewpoints, or stroll through local markets without spending much at all.
• Can you swim in Pattaya Beach?
  Yes, but many visitors prefer nearby beaches such as Jomtien Beach or Koh Larn Island, which tend to be cleaner and quieter.
• What’s the best way to get around Pattaya?
  Songthaews (shared pick-up taxis) are cheap and convenient. For more flexibility, rent a scooter or use ride-hailing apps for short trips.
• Is Pattaya safe for tourists?
  Yes, Pattaya is generally safe for visitors. Like anywhere, use common sense: keep valuables secure, be cautious at night, and stay hydrated in the heat.

These are our favourite things to do in Pattaya, what are yours? Let us know where you like to stay and where you like to explore in Pattaya? Tell us in the comments below!