Distance: ~150 km (1.5–2 hours)
Cost: ~1,500–2,000 THB (one way)
Best for: Convenience, direct travel
Options:
- Bolt / Grab (ride-hailing apps) – Cheaper than regular taxis.
- Hotel transfer – Many hotels arrange private pickups.
- Metered taxi – From Bangkok, negotiate a fixed price (~1,500 THB).

🚌 By Bus (Cheapest Option)

From Bangkok:
- Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Eastern Bus Terminal) – Buses leave every 30–60 mins (6:00 AM–11:00 PM).
- Mor Chit (Northern Bus Terminal) – Less frequent but also available.
Cost: ~120–150 THB (2–2.5 hours)
Drop-off: Pattaya North or Jomtien Bus Station

🚐 By Minivan (Faster but Cramped)

From: Victory Monument (Bangkok) or Ekkamai
Cost: ~180–200 THB (~2 hours)
Drop-off: Pattaya city center
Warning: Some minivans drive aggressively.

🚆 By Train (Slow but Scenic – Not Recommended for Most Travelers)

From: Bangkok Hua Lamphong Station (now moved to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal)
Cost: ~30–50 THB (4+ hours, slow and infrequent)
Drop-off: Pattaya Train Station (far from city center)

2. From Airports to Pattaya

✈️ From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) → Pattaya

🚗 Private Taxi / Grab: ~1,500–2,000 THB (1.5 hours)
🚌 Airport Bus (Bell Travel Service):
- Cost: ~300 THB (includes drop-off at hotel)
- Schedule: Every 2 hours (8:00 AM–10:00 PM)
🚐 Shared Minivan: ~250–300 THB (1.5 hours)

✈️ From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) → Pattaya

🚗 Private Taxi / Grab: ~1,800–2,200 THB (2 hours)
🚌 Bus + Minivan Combo:
- Take A1/A2 bus to Mor Chit Bus Terminal → Then bus/minivan to Pattaya.
🚐 Direct Minivan (Roong Reuang Coach): ~300 THB (2.5 hours)

3. From Other Cities to Pattaya

From Hua Hin / Cha-Am

🚗 Private transfer: ~3,000–3,500 THB (3.5–4 hours)
🚌 Bus: No direct route; best to go via Bangkok.

From Koh Samet / Rayong

🚢 Ferry + Bus: Take a ferry to Ban Phe Pier → then bus/minivan to Pattaya (~1.5 hours).

From Phuket / Krabi / Other Southern Cities

✈️ Fly to U-Tapao Airport (UTP) – Then taxi to Pattaya (~30 mins).
🚌 Bus via Bangkok – Long journey (12+ hours), better to fly.

History of Pattaya: From Fishing Village to Tourist Hotspot

Pattaya’s transformation from a quiet fishing village into Thailand’s most famous beach resort city is a fascinating story. Here’s a look at its history:

Early Beginnings (Pre-1960s) 🎣

Pattaya (พัทยา) was originally a small fishing community inhabited by Thai and Chinese families.
The name “Pattaya” may come from “Phra Tha Ya”, meaning the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the start of the rainy season.
Life revolved around fishing, coconut farming, and salt production.

The Vietnam War & the Birth of Tourism (1960s) ✈️

Pattaya’s modern history began during the Vietnam War (1955–1975).
American soldiers stationed at U-Tapao Airbase (near Sattahip) visited Pattaya for R&R (rest and relaxation).
Bars, guesthouses, and entertainment venues sprang up to cater to soldiers, marking the start of Pattaya’s nightlife scene.
After the war ended, budget travelers and backpackers began replacing soldiers.

Tourism Boom (1970s–1990s) 🏖️

The Thai government promoted Pattaya as a tourist destination in the 1970s.
Infrastructure improved—roads, hotels, and beaches were developed.
Walking Street became the center of nightlife, attracting international visitors.
By the 1980s–90s, Pattaya was known for:
- Beach tourism (Jomtien, Koh Larn)
- Nightlife & adult entertainment
- Golf resorts & international hotels

Modern Pattaya (2000s–Present) 🌆

Pattaya shifted from a backpacker and nightlife hub to a family-friendly and luxury destination.
New attractions were built:
- Sanctuary of Truth (1981–present, still unfinished)
- Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark (2014)
- Terminal 21 Shopping Mall (2018)
Russian and Chinese tourists became major visitor groups.
Problems & Challenges:
- Overdevelopment & pollution concerns
- Reputation for sex tourism (though efforts have been made to diversify)

Key Events in Pattaya’s History

Year	Event
1961	First major hotel (Nipa Lodge) opens
1978	Pattaya becomes an official city
1980s	Koh Larn (Coral Island) becomes a tourist hotspot
2009	Political riots (Red Shirts vs. government)
2010s	Rise of Russian tourism, luxury condos
2020s	Post-COVID recovery, focus on family tourism

Pattaya Today

Main Industries: Tourism, real estate, nightlife, fishing
Visitor Demographics: Russians, Chinese, Indians, Europeans, Middle Easterners
Future Plans:
- High-speed rail link to Bangkok (planned)
- More luxury resorts & family attractions
- Beach cleanup & environmental projects

Fun Facts About Pattaya’s History

The first European tourists in the 1960s were mostly hippies and backpackers.
Walking Street was originally just a simple beachfront road before becoming an entertainment hub.
Pattaya was not heavily affected by the 2004 tsunami (unlike Phuket).

Here’s a complete guide to Pattaya’s top landmarks and attractions, categorized for easy planning:

🏝️ Beaches & Islands

Pattaya Beach – The bustling main beach with water sports and nightlife.
Jomtien Beach – A quieter, family-friendly stretch with beachfront dining.
Koh Larn (Coral Island) – Pristine beaches like Tawaen and Samae, perfect for snorkeling.
Naklua Beach – Local vibe with seafood shacks and fewer tourists.

🕌 Cultural & Spiritual Landmarks

Sanctuary of Truth – Stunning hand-carved wooden temple by the sea.
Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill) – Iconic golden Buddha with panoramic views.
Wat Yansangwararam – Massive temple complex blending Thai, Khmer, and Chinese styles.
Wat Khao Phra Bat – Serene hilltop temple with a giant white Buddha.

🎭 Entertainment & Shows

Tiffany’s Show – World-famous cabaret with glittering costumes.
Alcazar Cabaret – Rival show with Vegas-style performances.
Art in Paradise – Interactive 3D illusion museum (great for kids).
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – Oddities and quirky exhibits.

🌿 Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden – Botanical wonderland with cultural shows and elephants.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo – Safari-style zoo with tigers, giraffes, and night tours.
Ramayana Water Park – Thrilling slides and lazy rivers.
Flight of the Gibbon – Zipline through rainforest canopies.

🛍️ Markets & Shopping

Walking Street – Neon-lit nightlife hub (18+ after dark).
Thepprasit Night Market – Weekend market for cheap clothes, food, and souvenirs.
Pattaya Floating Market – Boat-filled market with regional Thai snacks.
Terminal 21 – Themed mall with global-inspired floors.

🎢 Unique Experiences

Cartoon Network Amazone – Water park with cartoon-themed rides.
Underwater World – Walkthrough aquarium with sharks and rays.
Mini Siam – Miniature replicas of global landmarks.
Silver Lake Vineyard – Scenic wine estate with grape plantations.

🚤 Day Trips Near Pattaya

Koh Samet – Idyllic island with powdery beaches (2.5 hours away).
Koh Si Chang – Quiet island getaway with royal palaces.
Mueang Boran (Ancient City) – Open-air museum of Thailand’s iconic structures.

📍 Must-See Landmarks for Photos

📸 Pattaya Viewpoint – The “Pattaya City” sign overlooking the bay.
📸 Bali Hai Pier – Colorful boats and gateway to Koh Larn.
📸 Pattaya Hill (Khao Pattaya) – Sunset views over the skyline.

Pattaya offers various transportation options to explore the city, from cheap local rides to private taxis. Here’s a complete guide to getting around Pattaya:

1. Baht Bus (Songthaew) – CHEAPEST & MOST COMMON 🚐

What? Converted pickup trucks with benches, running fixed routes.
Routes:
- Pattaya Beach Road ↔ Second Road (one-way loop).
- Jomtien ↔ Naklua (different routes, ask before boarding).
Fare: 10 THB per person for short rides (up to ~3km), 20-30 THB for longer trips (e.g., Jomtien to Walking Street).
How to Use?
- Flag one down, hop on, press the buzzer to stop.
- Pay when getting off (cash only).
- Private hire? Negotiate (usually 100-200 THB for a short trip).
Best for: Budget travelers, short distances.

2. Motorbike Taxis (Win) – FAST BUT RISKY 🏍️

What? Orange-vested riders offering quick rides.
Fare: 30-100 THB depending on distance (e.g., 50 THB for Beach Road to Central Festival).
Pros: Avoids traffic, good for solo travelers.
Cons: No helmets (often), risky in rain/peak traffic.
Best for: Short urgent trips when baht buses are full.

3. Taxis (Metered & Private) – CONVENIENT BUT EXPENSIVE 🚖

Regular Taxis (Metered): Rare in Pattaya; most refuse meters.
Private Taxis/Grab:
- Grab (app-based): Reliable, fixed prices (~150-300 THB for cross-city trips).
- Hotel Taxis: Overpriced (300-500 THB for short trips).
Best for: Groups, late-night rides, AC comfort.

4. Motorbike Rental – FLEXIBLE BUT DANGEROUS 🛵

Cost: 200-400 THB/day (automatic scooters).
Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) + passport deposit.
Risks: Heavy traffic, high accident rates, police fines (no license).
Best for: Confident riders exploring outskirts (Koh Larn, Silver Lake).

5. Car Rental – FOR DAY TRIPS 🚗

Cost: 800-1,500 THB/day (small car).
Pros: Freedom to visit Khao Kheow Zoo, Nong Nooch, or Rayong.
Cons: Parking can be tricky, Thai driving habits chaotic.
Best for: Families/groups planning excursions.

6. Boats & Ferries – TO KOH LARN (CORAL ISLAND) ⛴️

Public Ferry (30 THB, 45 mins): Departs from Bali Hai Pier.
Speedboat (300-500 THB, 15 mins): Faster but pricier.
Private Longtail Boat (~1,500 THB): For groups/island hopping.

7. Bicycle – FOR SHORT DISTANCES 🚲

Rental: Some hostels/guesthouses offer free bikes.
Best areas: Jomtien, Naklua (quieter roads).

Pattaya is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury malls to bustling street markets. Here’s your ultimate guide to shopping in Pattaya:

🛍️ Shopping Malls (Air-Conditioned & Modern)

Terminal 21 Pattaya ✈️
- Theme: Airport-inspired with floors like Paris, Tokyo, and London.
- What to Buy: Fashion, cosmetics, souvenirs, and great food at Pier 21 Food Court.
- Highlight: The giant runway slide and photo spots.
Central Festival Pattaya Beach 🏖️
- Largest mall in Pattaya, right next to the beach.
- What to Buy: International brands (Zara, H&M), electronics, Thai designer stores.
- Highlight: Open-air section with sea views and live music.
Mike Shopping Mall 🛒
- Budget-friendly market-style mall near Walking Street.
- What to Buy: Cheap clothes, souvenirs, knockoff brands.
Royal Garden Plaza (The Avenue) 🌴
- Older but central mall with Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and a cinema.
- What to Buy: Mid-range fashion, sports shops, Boots pharmacy.

🎪 Markets & Street Shopping (Bargain Hunting)

Thepprasit Night Market 🌙 (Weekends only)
- Best for: Cheap clothes, shoes, accessories, and Thai street food.
- Tip: Bargain hard (start at 50% of the asking price).
Pattaya Floating Market 🛶
- Touristy but fun with boat vendors selling snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Try: Coconut ice cream, Thai desserts.
Pattaya Night Bazaar (Near Walking Street)
- Good for: T-shirts, handicrafts, fake watches, and leather goods.
Naklua Fish Market 🐟 (Morning market)
- Local vibe: Fresh seafood, dried fish, and Thai snacks.

👜 Luxury & Specialty Shopping

Harbor Mall (Pattaya Waterfront) ⛵
- Upscale mall with luxury brands and yacht views.
King Power Duty-Free 🛃

Discounts on perfumes, alcohol, and high-end cosmetics (need passport for tax-free shopping).

Antique & Furniture Shops (Naklua Road) 🪑

Thai teakwood furniture, silk, and handicrafts.

🎁 Best Souvenirs to Buy in Pattaya

Thai Silk (From shops like Jim Thompson in Central Festival)
Local Snacks (Dried mango, coconut chips, durian candy)
Elephant Pants & Hippie Clothes (Thepprasit Market)
Handicrafts (Wood carvings, soap flowers)

Pattaya

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Food In Pattaya

Pattaya Landmarks

1. From Bangkok to Pattaya

🚗 By Private Car / Taxi

🚌 By Bus (Cheapest Option)

🚐 By Minivan (Faster but Cramped)

🚆 By Train (Slow but Scenic – Not Recommended for Most Travelers)

2. From Airports to Pattaya

✈️ From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) → Pattaya

✈️ From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) → Pattaya

3. From Other Cities to Pattaya

From Hua Hin / Cha-Am

From Koh Samet / Rayong

From Phuket / Krabi / Other Southern Cities

Explore some the beautiful pictures of Pattaya