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The curve of Pattaya Bay and the beach, Pattaya

No. 45 Top 100 City Destinations 2025

Pattaya-Chonburi

Thailand

A lively beach resort on the Gulf of Thailand, with islands, temples and a famous nightlife strip.

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Photo: PattayaPatrol, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Pattaya-Chonburi is No. 45 in Euromonitor International's Top 100 City Destinations Index 2025. Pattaya, in Chonburi province, is a beach resort on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 150 km south-east of Bangkok.

It is known for its beaches and nightlife, and it also has family attractions, gardens, temples and easy boat trips to nearby islands.

The carved wooden Sanctuary of Truth by the sea, Pattaya
The carved wooden Sanctuary of Truth by the sea, Pattaya. Photo: Rolf Heinrich, Köln, CC BY 3.0, source

Best time to go

November to February is the best time, with dry, slightly cooler weather; it is also the busiest season.

March to May is very hot. The rainy season runs from about June to October, with short, heavy showers.

Top sights

  • 1

    Sanctuary of Truth

    A huge temple-like building carved entirely from wood on the seafront, under construction since 1981.

  • 2

    Koh Larn

    An island with clear water and several beaches, reached by ferry from Bali Hai Pier in about 45 minutes.

  • 3

    Jomtien Beach

    A long, quieter beach south of the city centre, popular with families.

  • 4

    Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

    Extensive themed gardens south of Pattaya, with cultural shows.

  • 5

    Big Buddha Hill

    Wat Phra Yai on Pratumnak Hill has a large golden Buddha and views over the bay.

  • 6

    Khao Chi Chan

    A giant image of the Buddha outlined in gold on a limestone cliff.

  • 7

    Walking Street

    The pedestrian nightlife strip comes alive after dark with bars, clubs and seafood restaurants.

Getting there

From Bangkok, buses leave from the Eastern (Ekkamai) bus terminal and take about 2 to 2.5 hours. A taxi or transfer from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) takes about 1.5 hours.

U-Tapao International Airport (UTP), about 40 km to the south, has some domestic and international flights.

Getting around

Songthaews (pick-up trucks known as baht buses) run along fixed routes on Beach Road and Second Road for a low flat fare; ring the bell to get off.

Ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Bolt are widely used.

Practical tips

Currency
Thai baht (THB). Cards are accepted in hotels, malls and larger restaurants; carry cash for markets, street food and small shops.
Language
Thai. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Safety
Agree prices before renting jet skis or other equipment, and photograph any existing damage. The Tourist Police can be reached on 1155.
Visa & entry
Citizens of 60 countries and territories, including the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and most EU countries, can visit Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days (the earlier 60-day exemption ended on 15 September 2026). All foreign visitors must complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online at tdac.immigration.go.th within 72 hours before arrival.
Power
220 V, 50 Hz; plug types A, B, C, F and O.

Official information: Tourism Authority of Thailand (official tourism website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

Map

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