Are you wondering what to do in Pattaya for a week? This busy city has a lot to offer all kinds of tourists. As someone who enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures, I can declare with certainty that Pattaya is a must-visit location for anybody searching for a fantastic journey. Here’s a week’s worth of Pattaya activities, from discovering its rich culture and vibrant nightlife to eating its delicious street cuisine.
So grab your passport and get ready; learning everything there is to know about this magnificent city is waiting!
When To Make The Trip
Knowing the right time to visit Pattaya can make your trip more enjoyable. The city offers different experiences throughout the year, largely influenced by changes in weather and tourist influx. Thanks to the moderate climate, November to February is popular for tourists. However, expect this period to be bustling with activity, with crowded beaches and accommodations.
If you prefer less crowded and don’t mind the rising temperatures, consider visiting between March and May. It might get hot, but you’ll enjoy the quiet.
Frequent rains characterize the period between June and October, but it’s when you’ll find Pattaya the least crowded. It’s still fairly warm during this time, and while you might have to contend with a few days of heavy downpours, you’ll find accommodations more affordable. The beaches are less crowded, and the city’s vibrant nightlife is calmer during the day.
If you’re fine with the monsoon season, pack a sturdy pair of rain boots and head over to Pattaya during this period.
Where To Stay in Pattaya
Pattaya is a lively city with diverse accommodation options for various preferences and budgets. Central Pattaya, known for its 24-hour party zone and bustling Beach Road, is popular with visitors who enjoy beach activities and nightlife. It’s also the perfect spot for exploring nearby islands.
For a slightly more upscale experience, consider staying in North Pattaya. This area is characterized by tidy beaches, shopping centers, and upmarket dealerships, providing a more polished tourist experience.
Are you seeking a quieter ambiance? The beaches in the Na Klua District might just be what you’re searching for. While still quite popular, Palm Beach and Phra Chan offer a calmer atmosphere compared to the main Pattaya hotspots, and the area boasts several budget-friendly accommodation options.
For those seeking luxury, Pratuamnak is the go-to area. Home to luxury hotels, beach facilities, a golf course, and prestigious landmarks, it’s considered an area for the social elite. Be aware, though, there are very few hostels in this area.
South Pattaya is famous for its Walking Street, a bustling tourist hotspot filled with go-go bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s an exciting area that could highlight your Pattaya itinerary.
Lastly, Jomtien is notable for its long, beautiful beach, known for picturesque sunsets. This popular tourist area is worth considering when planning your stay in Pattaya.
What To Do In Pattaya For A Week
I know you can’t wait to start, so here’s a rundown of what you can do in Pattaya for a week.
Day 1: Get To Know The City
Start your adventure with a city tour to familiarize yourself with Pattaya. Begin your day at Pattaya Viewpoint on Pratumnak Hill, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the city’s skyline and the crescent bay. Take memorable pictures and enjoy the cool breeze from the hilltop.
Next, visit the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) on the same hill. The temple is home to an 18-meter-tall golden Buddha statue, the largest in the region. It’s a peaceful place, and you can learn about Buddhist rituals.
Later, head to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. This museum is home to unique, strange, and fascinating exhibits worldwide. It’s both an educational and fun activity.
For lunch, enjoy local Thai cuisine at one of the city’s numerous restaurants. Try some classic dishes like Pad Thai or Tom Yum Goong.
In the afternoon, you can visit Pattaya Floating Market for some local shopping experience. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs, local crafts, and try street food.
Finish your day by relaxing along Walking Street, the city’s famous nightlife hub. It’s bustling with energy and offers several entertainment options, including bars, nightclubs, and street performances. Remember, Walking Street is best enjoyed after sunset!
Day 2: Explore The Beaches
Pattaya is famous for its beautiful beaches, so we’ll dedicate day two of your week-long trip to exploring them. Start at Pattaya Beach, the city’s main beach in the city center. Its three-kilometer-long coastline with palm trees is perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely stroll. You’ll find lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, and water sports activities here. Try parasailing or jet skiing for a thrilling experience!
Next, head to Jomtien Beach, quieter and more family-friendly than the bustling Pattaya Beach. The six-kilometer-long sandy beach is a great spot for picnics, swimming, or just lounging on the beach. If you’re into windsurfing or kitesurfing, this is the place for you, as it’s known for its steady winds.
After having lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants on Jomtien Beach, make your way to Coral Island or Koh Larn. You can take a speedboat from Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya. The island offers crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. It’s a paradise for snorkelers and divers with its rich marine life.
Cap off your day with a beautiful sunset at Wong Amat Beach in North Pattaya. It’s one of Pattaya’s cleanest and most tranquil beaches, ideal for a peaceful evening. Don’t forget your camera to capture this stunning view!
Day 3: Island Hopping
Pattaya is surrounded by several beautiful islands, so it’s a must to explore them during your week-long stay. You can book a day trip or overnight tour to visit some of these islands.
Start with Koh Samet, the closest island to Pattaya and one of the most popular among tourists. It offers stunning beaches, crystal clear water, and many water sports activities. You can also visit Koh Samet National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
Next, head to Koh Chang, the second-largest island in Thailand. Known for its lush greenery and white sandy beaches, it’s a favorite spot for nature lovers. The island offers several trekking trails through its rainforests.
Finally, don’t miss a visit to the famous Phi Phi Island. It’s a bit further from Pattaya, but it is worth the journey. The islands are renowned for their stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and perfect snorkeling spots.
Day 4: Experience Thai Culture
For Day 4, immerse yourself in the rich Thai culture and history. Start your day with a visit to the Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning wooden temple filled with intricate carvings. It’s a beautiful representation of Thai craftsmanship and philosophy.
Next, head to the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. This 600-acre botanical garden showcases a range of themed gardens, plus cultural and traditional performances like Thai boxing, sword fighting, and folk dances.
In the afternoon, visit the Pattaya Elephant Village, where you can see these gentle giants up close. You can learn about their daily lives, feed them, and even take a ride. Just be sure this sanctuary practices ethical treatment of the animals.
Then, experience Thai culinary delights by taking a Thai cooking class. Learn how to prepare classic Thai dishes from local chefs using fresh ingredients. You’ll have a fantastic time cooking and tasting your own authentic Thai meal.
End your day with a traditional Thai massage. You can find numerous massage parlors throughout Pattaya, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soothe your muscles after a day of exploration. This day of cultural immersion will give you a deeper understanding of Thailand’s unique culture and traditions.
Day 5: Theme Parks and Water Activities
Get your adrenaline pumping on day 5 by visiting one of the thrilling theme parks or engaging in water activities in Pattaya. Start with Cartoon Network Amazone, a fun-filled water park based on popular cartoon characters. It offers exhilarating rides, slides, and wave pools suitable for all ages.
Next, visit Pattaya Park Tower, the city’s iconic landmark known for its observation deck and revolving restaurant. You can also try bungee jumping from the tower for a unique experience.
In the afternoon, head to Ramayana Water Park, one of the largest water parks in Southeast Asia. It offers over 50 exhilarating water slides and activities suitable for all age groups.
For a more laid-back experience, go parasailing at Pattaya Beach or take a boat ride to the nearby islands. You can also try your hand at fishing or scuba diving for an exciting day on and under the water.
End your day with an evening of cabaret shows at Alcazar Cabaret or Tiffany’s Show. These world-renowned performances showcase Thailand’s famous ladyboys in a glamorous and entertaining show. It’s a unique cultural experience you won’t want to miss!
Day 6: Explore The City’s Surroundings
On your sixth day in Pattaya, step out of the city and experience the beauty of its surroundings. Start your day with a trip to the Khao Chi Chan Buddha, known as the “Buddha Mountain.” This 130-meter-tall image of Buddha is carved into a giant cliff and is inlaid with gold – it’s truly a sight to behold!
Next, head to Silverlake Vineyard, situated at the foot of Khao Chi Chan. This beautiful vineyard offers scenic views, wine tastings, and a serene atmosphere. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility away from the city’s bustle. Try the locally produced wines and take a leisurely stroll around the vineyard.
In the afternoon, visit the Sriracha Tiger Zoo, home to hundreds of Bengal tigers, crocodiles, and other animals. You can watch tiger shows, feed baby tigers, and take photos with them.
Then, continue your journey to the Viharn Sien Temple, a unique Chinese temple housing a vast collection of Chinese art and antiquities. This place is also known as the “Temple of a Thousand Buddhas,” and it’s a great spot to learn about Chinese-Thai history and culture.
To cap off your day, head to Pattaya View Point on Pratumnak Hill, the best place to enjoy panoramic views of Pattaya City and the bay, especially during sunset. This is one of the most photographed spots in Pattaya, so remember your camera!
Day 7: Shop and Relax
Wind down your week-long adventure in Pattaya with a relaxed day of shopping and pampering. Start with a visit to Central Festival Pattaya, the city’s largest mall. You’ll find many shops, from international brands to local boutiques, making it the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs or clothing. There’s also a cinema, and plenty of eateries for when you need a break from shopping.
After lunch, head over to the Pattaya Floating Market. It’s an amazing place that seems like a little world on water. The market is divided into sections, each representing the four major regions of Thailand: North, Northeast, Central, and South. You’ll find everything from food, clothing, art, and handcrafted souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and try out delicious Thai street food.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to a spa session. Many wellness centers are offering a variety of treatments and spa packages. Opt for traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy, or a refreshing facial treatment to relax and rejuvenate.
End your final evening by walking along Pattaya Walking Street, the city’s famous nightlife hub. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of street performances, and try some tasty street food before bidding farewell to this vibrant and exciting city.
With so many activities and experiences, one week in Pattaya will leave you unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of Thailand’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I do in North Pattaya?
North Pattaya is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. While here, you can visit attractions like the Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning teakwood structure featuring intricate carvings. For adventure enthusiasts, there’s Mini Siam and Mini Europe, where you can see miniature versions of famous world monuments.
Q: How can I plan a Thailand itinerary, including Chiang Mai and Koh Samui?
Starting in Bangkok, explore the city, including the Grand Palace, then take a flight to Chiang Mai. In Chiang Mai, enjoy its famous temples and night bazaars, then fly to Koh Samui. Explore the island’s beautiful beaches and waterfalls, and take a boat tour to the nearby Angthong National Marine Park.
Q: What activities are available at Khao Sok National Park?
Khao Sok National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring lush rainforests, majestic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear lakes. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, canoeing, and rafting. Don’t miss a chance to stay overnight in a floating bungalow on the stunning Cheow Lan Lake.
Q: What’s the best way to enjoy Southern Thailand islands like Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi?
You can take ferry rides between these stunning islands. Enjoy the serene beaches on Koh Lanta, visit the Lanta Animal Welfare, and explore the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. On Koh Phi Phi, you can enjoy snorkeling, visit Maya Bay, where “The Beach” was filmed, and hike up to the viewpoint for panoramic island views.
Q: What are the must-see spots in Koh Phangan?
Famous for its Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan offers more than just parties. You can explore beautiful beaches like Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan Noi, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, hike to Khao Ra for stunning views, and explore the local night markets for delicious street food.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has given you a glimpse into Pattaya’s diverse and exciting activities and sights. Thus, explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful city and create your own unique adventure. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. Engage with the friendly locals, sample the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture and history.
I promise that you won’t regret visiting Pattaya, and it will leave you with unforgettable experiences that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. Safe travels, my friends!