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Tourism industry in Thailand - statistics & facts

Domestic tourism, the outlook of tourism industry in thailand post covid-19 pandemic, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Foreign tourist arrivals Thailand 2015-2023

Value of tourism GDP Thailand 2017-2021

Value of tourism expenditures Thailand 2017-2021

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Current statistics on this topic.

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Share of tourism to GDP value Thailand 2017-2020

Leisure Travel

Number of international visitors Thailand 2023, by region of origin

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• Demographics of Thailand
• Tourism worldwide
• Tourism and hotel industry in Singapore
• Tourism in Malaysia

Recommended statistics

• Premium Statistic Value of tourism GDP Thailand 2017-2021
• Basic Statistic Number of quarterly foreign visitors Thailand Q1 2021-Q4 2022
• Premium Statistic Number of local tourists Thailand 2023
• Premium Statistic Size of employment in tourism sector Thailand 2017-2021

Total value of the tourism's contribution to the Gross Domestic Product in Thailand from 2017 to 2021 (in billion Thai baht)

Number of quarterly foreign visitors Thailand Q1 2021-Q4 2022

Number of international tourists in Thailand from 1st quarter 2021 to 4th quarter 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of local tourists Thailand 2023

Number of domestic visitors in Thailand from January to September 2023 (in millions)

Size of employment in tourism sector Thailand 2017-2021

Number of employees in the tourism sector in Thailand from 2017 to 2021 (in millions)

Economic impact

• Premium Statistic Direct contribution of tourism to gross domestic product Thailand 2017-2021
• Premium Statistic Indirect contribution of tourism to gross domestic product Thailand 2017-2021
• Premium Statistic Value of tourism tax Thailand 2017-2021
• Premium Statistic International tourist arrivals revenue Thailand 2023
• Premium Statistic Local tourists revenue Thailand 2023
• Premium Statistic Tourism receipts from international visitors Thailand 2020, by region of origin

Direct contribution of tourism to gross domestic product Thailand 2017-2021

Direct contribution of the tourism industry to the gross domestic product (GDP) in Thailand from 2017 to 2021 (in billion Thai baht)

Indirect contribution of tourism to gross domestic product Thailand 2017-2021

Indirect contribution of the tourism industry to the gross domestic product (GDP) in Thailand from 2017 to 2021 (in billion Thai baht)

Value of tourism tax Thailand 2017-2021

Value of tourism tax in Thailand from 2017 to 2021 (in billion Thai baht)

International tourist arrivals revenue Thailand 2023

Tourism revenue incurred from international tourist arrivals in Thailand from January to September 2023 (in billion Thai baht)

Local tourists revenue Thailand 2023

Tourism revenue incurred from domestic visitors in Thailand from January to September 2023 (in billion Thai baht)

Tourism receipts from international visitors Thailand 2020, by region of origin

Tourism receipts incurred from international tourist arrivals in Thailand in 2020, by region of origin (in billion Thai baht)

• Premium Statistic Number of international visitors Thailand 2023, by region of origin
• Premium Statistic Number of foreign visitors Thailand 2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Revenue generated from foreign visitors Thailand 2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Number of traveling locals Thailand 2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Revenue generated from traveling locals Thailand 2023, by region

Number of foreign tourists in Thailand in 2023, by region of origin (in 1,000s)

Number of foreign visitors Thailand 2023, by region

Total number of foreign visitors in Thailand from January to August 2023, by region (in millions)

Revenue generated from foreign visitors Thailand 2023, by region

Total revenue generated from foreign visitors in Thailand from January to August 2023, by region (in billion Thai baht)

Number of traveling locals Thailand 2023, by region

Total number of Thai travelers within the regions of Thailand from January to August 2023, by region (in millions)

Revenue generated from traveling locals Thailand 2023, by region

Total revenue generated from Thai travelers within the regions of Thailand from January to August 2023, by region (in billion Thai baht)

Accommodation

• Premium Statistic Share of foreign visitors to total guests of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Share of foreign visitors to total guests of accommodations Thailand 2022, by region
• Premium Statistic Advance reservation rate of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic ADR of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Popular accommodations for Thais when travelling Thailand Q2 2021

Share of foreign visitors to total guests of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022

Proportion of international tourists to total guests of the accommodations in Thailand from 2015 to 2022

Share of foreign visitors to total guests of accommodations Thailand 2022, by region

Proportion of international tourists to total guests of the accommodations in Thailand in 2022, by region

Advance reservation rate of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022

Share of 3-month advanced reservations on the total accommodation occupancy rate in Thailand from 2015 to 2022

ADR of accommodations Thailand 2015-2022

Average daily rate (ADR) of accommodations in Thailand from 2015 to 2022 (in thousand Thai baht)

Popular accommodations for Thais when travelling Thailand Q2 2021

Accommodations that Thais planned to stay at when travelling in Thailand in 2nd quarter 2021

Tourist perspectives

• Premium Statistic Estimated CI in tourism industry Thailand Q1 2023, by type of business
• Premium Statistic Opinions on lifted COVID-19 restrictions on eagerness to travel Thailand 2022
• Premium Statistic Opinions on public tourism promotions on eagerness to travel Thailand 2022
• Premium Statistic Main reasons of not wanting to travel Thailand 2022
• Premium Statistic Chosen transportations for traveling Thailand 2022
• Premium Statistic Main worries when travelling Thailand 2022

Estimated CI in tourism industry Thailand Q1 2023, by type of business

Estimated confidence index (CI) for operators in the tourism industry in Thailand in 1st quarter 2023, by type of business

Opinions on lifted COVID-19 restrictions on eagerness to travel Thailand 2022

Opinions on the ease of COVID-19 restrictions on the eagerness to travel Thailand 2022

Opinions on public tourism promotions on eagerness to travel Thailand 2022

Opinions on public tourism promotions on the eagerness to travel Thailand 2022

Main reasons of not wanting to travel Thailand 2022

Main reasons of not wanting to travel in Thailand as of June 2022

Chosen transportations for traveling Thailand 2022

Preferred means of transportations for travelling in Thailand as of June 2022

Main worries when travelling Thailand 2022

Main concerns when travelling in Thailand as of June 2022

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On February 26, 2022, the Meteorological Department announced “Heavy to very heavy rains and strong winds in the southern region”, according to announcement issue 8.

During February 26-27, 2022, an intense low-pressure cell covers Malaysia and the lower southern Thailand. In addition, the high-pressure area or intense cold air mass from China still extended to cover upper Thailand and the South China Sea. As a result, the easterly and northeasterly winds that prevailed over the Gulf of Thailand and the South became strong, causing heavy to very heavy rainfall in the South in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. People in the area should beware of the danger of heavy to very heavy rains and cumulative rains, which may cause flash floods.

The wind waves in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are quite strong. The upper Gulf of Thailand has a wave height of about 2 meters, the lower Gulf of Thailand with a wave height of 2-3 meters, in some areas with thunderstorms with a wave height of more than 3 meters, and the Andaman Sea with a wave height of 1-2 meters. On the east side, beware of strong winds blowing towards the shore.

The sailors should sail with caution, and avoid sailing in thunderstorm areas. Small boats in the Gulf of Thailand should also stay ashore during this period. Therefore, people are asked to follow the announcements from the Meteorological Department, and the information from the Meteorological Department website or call 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours a day.

In the south of Thailand, there are seasonal variations depending on which coast you happen to be on. Additionally, the southern provinces only really have two seasons: wet and dry. The Gulf Coast is dry between January and August, while the dry season on the Andaman Coast runs from November to March.

Pattaya’s Tourism Surge: A Diverse Rebound Beyond Expectations

In the thriving quarter of 2023, Pattaya unveiled a robust tourism scene, signaling a rebound from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the Free Visa policy not providing all the answers, the city’s allure as a comprehensive tourist destination, featuring a diverse range of attractions, sports, and major events throughout the year, proved instrumental in attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Ms. Urai Mukpradabthong, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Pattaya Office, shed light on the post-pandemic tourism landscape in the city. The data from the last quarter of 2023 indicated a notable influx of interest from leisure-seeking tourists, encompassing both local and foreign visitors. Although the Free Visa policy didn’t yield significant results, Pattaya managed to captivate the attention of a diverse audience.

Anticipating a total of approximately 23 million visitors in 2023, the city is on track to meet its projected numbers. The sustained appeal of Pattaya can be attributed to its multifaceted tourism offerings, boasting a blend of land and water sports, numerous tourist attractions, and a substantial international conference center. Collaborative efforts between Pattaya, the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization, and various agencies culminate in monthly events, injecting vibrancy into the tourism spectrum. The city’s accommodations, ranging from 3 to 5-star establishments, provide over 70,000 rooms to cater to the diverse needs of visitors.

Analyzing the demographics of Pattaya’s visitors, the top five contributing nations are Russia, India, China, South Korea, and Vietnam. To further leverage these key tourist groups, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya, in collaboration with Pattaya City, the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization, and tourism industry stakeholders, is planning trade shows and roadshow activities in various tourist cities. These initiatives aim to enhance Pattaya’s visibility in markets such as Europe, China, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the domestic landscape. With these strategic moves, the city anticipates welcoming over 27 million tourists in 2024, reinforcing its status as a dynamic and evolving global tourist destination.

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Pattaya’s number of tourists plummets 99% since start of January, caused by new wave of Covid-19 domestic outbreak, border closures

Chonburi –

The Chonburi provincial office and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) revealed today, March 10th, that the number of tourists has significantly dropped from 1.5 million tourists to 26 thousand in the first quarter of 2021 year over year, urging the expansion of the “We Travel Together” campaign until July.

Kajorndet Apichartrakul, Director at the Tourism Authority of Thailand at Pattaya Office, exposed the data and statistics of hotels and the tourism situation of Pattaya City in which January was considered the most financially critical month as the new wave of the Covid-19 Coronavirus had just battered Thailand and several health measures were implemented nationwide to control and restrict people from traveling across the country. Therefore, the hotel occupancy rate in the Pattaya area in January 2021 was only at 1 percent, compared to the same period in 2021.

The director told the press: “The statistic means that in January 2021, there were only 26 thousand tourists who came to visit and stay in Pattaya. Unlike in January 2020 when there were reportedly about 1.5 million tourists.”

“This is due to Pattaya having always relied on foreign tourists at a proportion of roughly 70 percent to 30 percent. As we were also promoting domestic tourism, however, the government health controls that discouraged cross-provincial travel had affected our tourism industry, as much as we knew that it was inevitable.”

Regarding the recent tourism situation, Kajorndet told reporters that it is somewhat better as the ease of the health restrictions had been gradually in effect. It is expected that the situation is likely to be gradually better by the end of this month, however, it will remain the worst tourism situation that has ever happened in the city, according to Kajorndet.

He also believed that the overall hotel occupancy must increase from 22 percent to 30 percent in order to successfully revive domestic tourism. Expanding the period of the tourist stimulus campaign like “We Travel Together” or “Half-Half” projects will potentially boost people’s purchasing power, according to his statement. He also stated that it was hoped that the Songkran festival would bring many domestic tourists to Pattaya and that officials were able to reach a balanced level of “fun vs. tradition” to attract tourists.

“Pattaya’s TAT office then proposed the Thai government to expand “We Travel Together” in Phase 3 until July because we believe that this opportunity will bring the tourist spending of Thai people back to a stabilized level until the situation has returned to normal and the country is ready to open for foreigners again,” the director concluded.

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Tourist arrivals in Pattaya nosedive 98% in Jan

PUBLISHED : 10 Mar 2021 at 18:32

WRITER: Chaiyot Phupattanapong

PATTAYA: The resort city, once a mecca for tourists, was turned into a ghost town by the Covid-19 surge as it received only 26,000 visitors in January, a 98% plunge from a year earlier.

The latest figures released by the Pattaya office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand on Wednesday showed 26,000 holidaymakers stayed at least one night in the city in January, a tiny fraction of the 1.5 million in the same period last year.

Office director Kajorndet Apichartrakul blamed the 98% plunge on the coronavirus spread that deterred interprovincial travel and instead kept holidaymakers home.

The tourism sector in Pattaya relies mainly on foreigners, who account for 70% of all arrivals. Russians are among the leading groups of foreigners selecting the city as their holiday destination.

The pandemic has maimed global travel, leaving the city and other tourist destinations in the country reliant on Thai and expatriate visitors.

Mr Kajorndet considered the January numbers abysmal, but was optimistic the outlook would improve now that the government has eased travel restrictions and plans to remove Chon Buri from the list of red zone provinces representing areas hit hard by the virus. A dozen provinces are currently flagged red by the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

Tourism figures for February have yet to be released.

Chon Buri recorded 655 infections since the new wave of Covid-19 began in mid-December, with only Samut Sakhon, Bangkok and Pathum Thani logging more cases.

The CCSA said on Monday it will evaluate the situation nationwide and consider downgrading the  restrictions currently placed on some provinces.

Provinces with more than 50 infections are designated as red zones.

Ekkasit Ngampichet, president of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, called for the easing of quarantine requirements for inoculated visitors, warning that delay of the decision could drive foreigners planning to visit the city to go to other countries.

The CCSA indicated the government would allow vaccinated arrivals to have a shorter quarantine period  than the current 14 days upon entry to the country, starting in October.

All easing measures will be tabled in talks led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha next week.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry has launched the state-subisided We Travel Together scheme to encourage people to travel around the country more to substitute for the absence of foreign tourists. The scheme ends at the end of April, and the Cabinet refused to extend  it because of rampant fraud. 

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Tourism In Thailand Statistics 2023: All You Need To Know

by GoWithGuide travel specialist: Ajitsa A.

# travelthailand

Ah, Thailand. The enchanting country that inspires visions of crystal blue waters, vibrant cuisine, awe-inspiring temples, and dizzying information spread across several tabs? Wait, one of these doesn't belong. 

Planning a tour of Thailand shouldn't be rocket science. That's why we're cutting to the good stuff with everything you need to know about the Land of Smiles. Give your search engine some much-needed rest and discover what awaits whether you decide to visit bustling  Bangkok  ,  stay tucked away in the fields of  Chiang Mai , or have a  Thai tour guide   handle your itinerary. As they say in Thailand, pai kan (let's go)!

 The Land Of Smiles: Thailand By The Numbers 

At A Glance: Top Ten Tourism Statistics In Thailand 

Thailand is the 8th most popular tourist destination in the world, thanks to its vibrant culture, mouth-watering food, and breathtaking landscapes. It's no wonder why they received 39.9 million tourists in 2019. Though they suffered a dip in 2022 with only 11.8 million tourists, they're recovering quickly.  In fact, tourism in Thailand is set to make a comeback in 2023 with an estimated 25 million tourists projected to flock to the peninsula. ​

• 25.8 million - The number of tourists that visited Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city
• Thailand   is the   8th most   popular tourist destination in the world, thanks to its vibrant culture, mouth-watering food, and breathtaking landscapes. It's no wonder why they received   39.9 million   tourists in 2019. Though they suffered a dip in 2022 with only 11.8 million tourists, they're recovering quickly. 
• In fact, Thai tourism is set to make a comeback in 2023 with an estimated   25 million   tourists projected to flock to the peninsula.
• 167 USD - The average amount of money a tourist spends per day
• 9 days - the average time tourists spend in Thailand
• 117.5 billion   USD - The amount in dollars that tourism contributed to Thailand’s GDP for 2019  
• 21.9% - The percentage that tourism and travel contributed to the nation's GDP
• 40,000 - the number of temples in Thailand 
• 3000 - The number of elephants used for tourism purposes  
• 71.8 million - Thailand’s current population, an increase 
• 0.56 - the number of tourists per resident in Thailand
•   513,115 square km (198,115 sq m) - The size of the country, meaning you've got a lot to explore! 

Why We Love Thailand   

So what makes Thailand a popular tourist destination? Let’s find out.  

The Sites - as one of the world's most visually stunning countries, Thailand's cities have the perfect blend of outdoor enchantment and architectural awe. What's Thailand's most distinctive trait? Let's take a look. 

• Bangkok - the capital city is home to amazing structures like the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun temple, and our Damnoen Saduak floating market tour   where 10,000 boats are masterfully navigated by vendors selling fresh Thai ingredients. 
• Phuket - Thailand's largest island drifts along the Andaman Sea, with nearby beaches drawing in visitors thanks to its thriving  water sports   culture. 
• Chiang Mai - Welcome to the largest city in Northern Thailand! Millions flock to this province for various reasons, including the 117 temples, and vibrant  nightlife . 
• Chon Buri - Not too far from Bangkok (80 kilometers), this seaside settlement is a  seafood lover’s   dream.
• Ayutthaya - This UNESCO  World Heritage center   is home to several ruins of the Siamese Kingdom. Touring this archaeological site takes you back to the 14th-18th century.

Travel Q&A : What is the number one best tourist destination in Thailand? The Grand Palace in Bangkok, also known as the former residence of Thailand's royal family, is one of the most frequented structures in the world, drawing in  8 million visitors   yearly.

The Food - It's no secret that Thailand is the King of street food. It's so beloved that most residents prefer eating out to cooking at home. Here are some Thai treats to add to your culinary bucket list;

• Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) - This world-famous dish has its roots in Thailand. With tender flat rice noodles, sweet sauces, umami flavor, and crispy fried eggs, it's often considered Thailand's signature meal. 
• Som Tam (Spicy Green Papaya Salad) - Popular throughout the country, this Northern Thai classic highlights the crunchy and sharp green papaya mixed with carrots, chilies, lime juice, green beans, and so much more!  
• Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (Thai green curry) - Coconut is a beloved Thai ingredient that shines bright in this savory, slightly sweet, and fragrant curry.  
• Khao Niew Mamuang (mango with sticky rice) - Cleanse your palate with this traditional sticky rice dessert. Thailand’s staple grain is enhanced with creamy condensed milk and fresh mangoes. 
• Satay (skewered meat) - You'll find some form of skewered, fire-roasted meat on every corner. From sweet and sticky pork to chicken heads, there are enough flavor combinations  to last a lifetime.  

Travel Treat : You may have seen dramatic videos on the internet highlighting Thailand’s exotic snacks, but it’s all true! Thai people take pride in knowing how to transform critters like cockroaches and grasshoppers into savory delights. Talk to your private guide about an in-depth GoWithGuide f ood tour. 

The Nature - Nowhere else will you find a landscape so diverse it houses both the second largest land mammal (Asian elephant) and the smallest one (the adorable bumblebee bat). Looking to enjoy Thailand's beautiful nature? Here's how.

• Jet Skis and Beach activities at Saigaeo
• Elephant Trekking in Phuket 
• Catamaran Yacht Ride in Pattaya
• Waterfalls & Caves in Chiang Mai  

Travel Q&A : Is Thailand one of the most visited countries? Yes! Thailand was ranked  the 8th most visited country in the world in 2019, beating out Germany and the United Kingdom. 

Who Else Loves Thailand

Okay, so everybody loves Thailand, but who can you expect to run into while touring this brilliant country? Here’s the tourist breakdown by nationality (pre-pandemic).  

• China - The Thai  Ministry of Tourism and Sports   reported that in 2019, over 11 million tourists came from mainland China, contributing to 28% of Thailand’s tourism. 
• Malaysia - Coming in is Malaysia, Thailand’s border mate with 4.2 million visitors and 10% of the tourism share. 
• India - Over 1.9 million Indian residents visited the Southeast Asian jewel in 2019. Indian visitors made up 10% of tourist shares in 2022 due to China's total lock down. 
• Korea - 1.8 million Koreans touched down in Thailand throughout 2019. 
• Laos - Neighboring Laos brought in 1.8 million visitors. 
• Japan - 1.7 million 
• Russia - 1.4 million 
• Singapore - 1.1 million 
• The United States - 1.1 million  
• Hong Kong - 1 million  

Travel Bonus : Is Thailand visa-free for U.S. citizens? Yes! No need to book appointments or go through long processes for a visa. You can travel for  up to 29 days   without one!   

Quick Thailand Travel Trends 

A speedy look at Thailand’s monthly tourist visiting trends 

• January to February - The Chinese new year is set to attract  30,000 Chinese   visitors and 500,000 international travelers (2023).
• March & April - 543,000 guests   flew in for The Songkran Festival. Most of them were from China, looking to splash in the traditional Thai new year with plenty of lighthearted water fights (2019).
• May - Thailand's monsoon season starts, decreasing tourist activity significantly, and some hotels along the coast shut down.
• June-September - This is Thailand's low season, with heavy trains affecting most day-to-day activities and tour highlights.
• October-December - As monsoon season wears off, travelers flock to enjoy Thailand's cool breezes and steady weather patterns. The peak season ranges from November to March drawing in visitors to Chiang Mai to celebrate the floating candle festival.   

This vs That - Thailand's Tourism Recovery (2019 vs 2022)  

Has tourism in Thailand recovered from the pandemic? Yes and no. Tourism was the industry hit hardest during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Thailand went from 40 million tourists in 2019 to just over  11 million   tourists in 2022. Though that's a drastic drop, it’s a rapid improvement, as the previous year saw only 428,000 visitors. Though around  25 million   travelers are expected in 2023, it will take some time before Thailand sees record highs again.

Travel Truth : The Land of Smiles is enchanting, but what are the disadvantages of tourism in Thailand? The  Thailand Development Research Institute   cites coral pollution due to littering from excessive beach parties, environmental strain from over-tourism, and troubling practices within Thailand's controversial sex tourism industry as some of the few pitfalls of the highly successful tourism industry.  

Explore Thailand responsibly and avoid adding to the negative side of tourism by hiring a  local private guide   who tailors your itinerary to match your desires while keeping local travel standards at the forefront.

Life in Thailand: What To Expect in The Land of Smiles 

You might be a guest, but Thailand is the best place to experience local living. Here are some things to keep in mind while living within this Southeast Asian jewel;

Getting Around -Transport can be tricky in bustling metropolitan areas like Phuket or Bangkok, but these methods are sure to get you where you need to go. 

• Tuk Tuk - this staple of Southeast Asian travel is so prevalent in Thailand that there are over 35,000 three-wheelers in operation. Keep your guide close as foreigners can sometimes be tricked into paying high fare prices. 

Travel Bonus - Want to add some fun to your Thai transport experience? Try our night time  Tuk Tuk tour filled with tasty street food stops along the way  

• Taxi - Taxis are plentiful in nearly all major cities, but they can be quite expensive.  
• Motorcycles - Strap in and make sure you have a helmet because these guys are fast, especially when zipping through traffic.  

Weather Check: Your Guide To Thailand’s Climate

Thailand is known for its diverse climate and blooming ecosystems that give us unique wildlife and weather. So what is the best time to visit Thailand? Let's look at what the  weather   has to say. 

• April tends to be the hottest month for those arriving in Bangkok, with average highs of 30.5°C (87°F). Overall, Thailand has annual highs of 37°C (98.6°F). This is considered the peak of Thailand’s March-May  hot season . 
• December brings about the year's lowest temperatures at 21°C (69.8°F). This is the lowest stage in Thailand's November to February cool season. 
• June-October is when the rainy/monsoon season kicks off with highs of 252 mm rainfall in September. 
• January holds the highest average for sunshine with Bangkok recording 273 hours of sunshine . 

Do’s & Don'ts  

Is Thailand friendly to tourists? Yes! There's a reason why they're known as the land of smiles. Thai people are hospitable and kind, but if you want to keep your trip hassle-free, consider these daily practices.

What To Avoid: Red Flags For Travelers

As friendly and accommodating as this nation is, the Thai government has pointed out several  safety gaps   that need attention. Here are some  red flags   you should look out for. 

• Join the Thai nightlife with caution - Though it can be an amazing experience, night touring opens you up to several tourist traps and threats, such as drug/sex trafficking, both of which have serious legal consequences. 
• Large, rowdy crowds - With civil unrest becoming common, it’s best to stay away from large, energetic crowds. A mild skirmish can become violent quickly, especially in political hot zones. Talk to your guide about where to go and where to avoid.  
• The taxi scam - As you leave your hotel, some taxi drivers might offer special tours but instead take you to places where you can purchase items from vendors. Don't get into any vehicle that your tour guide hasn't cleared as legitimate. 

Okay, if that last bit overwhelmed you, don’t freak out. You can still have a wholesome Thai adventure without the scary safety concerns and dizzying public transport maze to conquer. 

That’s where we come in. GoWithGuide’s selection of local private guides who know the nation’s ins and outs will help you bypass any confusion and avoid annoying travel downers like;

• Large tour groups 
• Unsafe tour areas 
• A rushed schedule influenced by strangers
• A heavy language barrier
• Getting lost at hectic or crowded venues  
• Embarrassing or legally damaging cultural missteps     

Ready to leave the stress behind and plan your personalized Thailand adventure? Get in touch with a Thai tour guide and put the smile back into travel planning. 

P.S. Looking to travel with companions? The more the merrier! Share this post with your friends and get them as excited about touring Thailand as you are.

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Pattaranin P.

I love to drive because i want to travelling and see what it waitting for me at the destination but i will be cool to have someone share great moment together                                                                                                                                  .

Ladies & Gentlemen, Please feel free to call me "Tom". Being a native Bangkokian, I was born, has grown up and worked in longer than 30 years. The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is mixed together between new and old, modern and traditional. No matter what kind of tourists you are, people watching lovers, history/culture learners, shopping paradise, gourmet tasty foods…, Bangkok is for sure the right spot for you to land and enjoy it, then I’m pleased to show you around and guide through it, sharing its background story not only its well-known attractions but also off the beaten paths and hidden gems. If you need to find something unique, I’m ready in taking you to its suburb and vicinity, for example, Ayutthaya, Samut Prakan and many more. Come with me and let’s marvel at the world famous Thai temples or wander among world heritage sites, breathe the fresh air along the white-sandy beach, view Thai local ways of life or visit charming old china town- or scary museum in the hospital. Whether you’re a solo traveler or in a group and any other criteria possibly have is based on what you informed me. If this is your first visit, Bangkok certainly will log you in with its magic spell and I’ll try every ways possible to let you want to come back, so let me be a part of your great journey in my hometown today. Drop me your words in need and I’ll generate a tailor-made tour according to your own interests and conditions. Thanks a lot and see you soon, Tom, ………………………………………………………………………… Credentials; - Certified and Licensed Tour Guide from The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) : A qualified tour guide, who’s legally able leading tours in Bangkok and all over Thailand since 2013. - Master Degree in Communicative English from the public university in Thailand since 2005.                                                                                                                                  

Chatthabhol J.

Sawadee everyone. i'm petch, and i am a local guide from chiang mai, north thailand. i am fluent in english and also have a tour guide license. i really enjoyed traveling and making new friends. while i travel.  i was born in ching mai, and i got to experience the tourist attractions in chiang mai and chiang rai provinces: exp, temples, national parks, local restaurants,local people, hill tribe villages, coffee shops, etc. i would love to travel to new places in thailand, explore the world, and share my experiences to help others make the right decision or schedule when they want to visit a new place. thank you so much                                                                                                                                   , plan your trip to thailand.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Pattaya

INSIDER PATTAYA ITINERARY for 2024

Pattaya is a popular east coast tourist city in the Gulf of Thailand. Since the 1980s, it has become a tourist Mecca, and the local industries and businesses reflect that – for example, it is estimated that there are more than 2000 beer bars in the city!

Pattaya is well known for its beaches, as well as its access to islands in the gulf. Add to that some theme parks, cultural tours, and thriving accommodation industry. It’s no wonder that 10m+ annual visitors are totally spoilt for choice.

It has traditionally been seen as a party town. However, in recent years, authorities have pushed efforts to develop Pattaya into a destination for families and these efforts are paying off, as this itinerary shows.

We’ve collected the best of what a vacation in Pattaya has to offer. In terms of cultural visits, scenic beauty, beach life, and even a bit of bar hopping. Out of this, we’ve designed two days of variety for you to enjoy on your Pattaya itinerary. And, hopefully, create a few lasting memories on the way.

Got more than two days to spare? No problem. We’ve added a few extra Pattaya attractions for you to consider and even thrown in a few day trips that are well worth the ticket. Here’s an awesome Pattaya guide you can follow when planning your trip.

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Best Time To Visit Pattaya

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There are three main periods to consider when planning 3 days in Pattaya. Depending on your tolerance for heat, rain, or people, you‘ll want to consider visiting at different times of the year.

Many Thailand backpackers travel to Pattaya between November and February. This is indeed high tourist season when the weather is at its most moderate. The downside is that the beaches, bars, and accommodations are likely to be packed . You should expect to pay a little more to get better options.

The crowds thin out slightly between March and May, as the mercury rises. The heat does tend to become a little stifling at times but it is quieter. That said, many tourists seem to like this, so if you’re a fan of the sun, you’ll fit right in.

The rains will be more frequent between June and October, which is when you’re likely to see Pattaya at its least crowded. The temperatures are not off-putting – it’s still fairly warm most of the time – but be prepared to spend several days in downpours over this period.

The upside is that accommodation becomes a lot cheaper. You should be able to move about a bit more on the beach, and the bars won’t be too chaotic – at least during the day. If you’re comfortable in the monsoon, this is the time for you. Just bring a good pair of rain shoes.

Here’s a breakdown of each month’s conditions to help you decide when you’d like to plan a visit in Pattaya. It should give some idea of how to further structure your Pattaya itinerary.

By far the busiest part of the city – especially for visitors – is Central Pattaya . Beach Road and its attractions draw beachgoers and holidaymakers from all over the world. The beach is a 24-hour party zone, and there are tons of water-based activities on offer. This area is the best place to stay in Pattaya to serve as a jumping-off point from which to explore nearby islands. It’s not hard to find accommodation to suit any budget here, and there’s plenty of shopping available, too.

North Pattaya is often described as slightly more “upmarket” than central Pattaya but it’s a matter of preference, really. The impression one gets is that the beaches and tourist-focused industries feel slicker, tidier and more developed. This is probably helped by the abundance of shopping centers and upmarket dealerships.

Na Klua District’s beaches are a little quieter than many of the other regions’ offerings. Palm Beach and Phra Chan are worth checking out if you prefer slightly quieter than the main Pattaya hotspots. Although these are still somewhat popular, make no mistake. That said, there are several budget options here when it comes to accommodation, perhaps because there’s less of a demand.

Pratuamnak is generally considered an area for the social elite. An abundance of luxury hotels and beach facilities, a golf course and particular prestigious landmarks can be found in the area. There is also a significant Russian expat community here. Very few of Pattaya’s hostels are situated here.

The most famous attraction in South Pattaya is Walking Street, which some say might be the busiest tourist hotspot in all of Thailand. It could be the highlight of a Pattaya itinerary, with its more than half a mile of go-go bars, beer bars, clubs, restaurants, and whatever other nightlife you can think of!

Jomtien is another popular area for tourists, partly because of its beach. At nearly four miles, it’s one of the more popular longer beaches in Pattaya and known for its picturesque sunsets. Here are our picks of the best options for accommodation in Pattaya, whether you’re looking for the best place to stay in Pattaya at a hostel, economy hotel, or a top-class affair.

Best Hostel in Pattaya – Nonze Hostel

The spacious Nonze Hostel is situated on the popular Beach Road in Pattaya and puts a lot of effort into guest privacy and security. Choose between a capsule suite, a twin capsule suite, or single capsule units. All contain a safe box, air-con, and even a personal mirror! Ask for a locker if needed. There’s a relaxation area on the second floor with a view of the beach, and a common area to socialize with other travelers!

Best Airbnb in Pattaya –  Simple but cute bungalow

It might look simple, but this Airbnb has got everything you could wish for. The bungalow is made out of wood but very clean and comfortable, with a mosquito net and fan inside. Enjoy the evening after a long day at the beach in your private balcony hammock. The beach itself is only 100m away from your home, right after the host’s restaurant where you can enjoy a nice dinner.

Best Budget Hotel in Pattaya – The Forest Pattaya

This Pattaya South hotel in the Jomtien district offers all the expected amenities including satellite channels in the rooms, a buffet or American breakfast, and a rooftop pool for those hot days! It’s very close to a night market, and just a few minutes from Pratumnak, Dongtan, Jomtien, and Cosy beaches.

Best Luxury Hotel in Pattaya –  Grande Centre Point Pattaya

This 5-star luxury hotel is situated on North Pattaya Road in Pattaya Central.  The hotel itself offers two restaurants – the indoor Waves & Wind and incredible panoramic The Sky 32 on the rooftop. Adults can also enjoy the relaxing spa and outdoor jacuzzi. The hotel is within easy reach of several popular attractions like the Alcazar Cabaret, Beach Road, and the King Power Pattaya Complex!

This is a busy city, and it can seem challenging to get around. If you’re staying in a place that’s central to most of what you’re planning to do, walking is always the best option! Should you need to move a little further away, then consider these options:

When touring Pattaya, use a Baht Bus when possible. The Baht Bus is a popular form of local transport that involves little more than some seating in the back of a pickup van. The system proved immensely popular from when it was introduced, as it only cost 1 Baht ($0.03 USD) back then. It now costs 10 Baht ($0.33 USD) but is still incredibly cheap.

There are set routes for Baht Buses, but a driver may break that route to get you where you’re going. The downside is he’ll charge you a lot extra for it, so be careful when engaging! If you know you’re on the right route, just get on and off where you need to.

If you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, you may want to try a more expensive motorcycle taxi or use a Grab Taxi app, which functions like Uber or Lyft.

For visits to Pattaya landmarks further afield, meter taxis can also be found, but many drivers would rather negotiate a rate than use their meters. Fortunately, many day trips to specific places will include transport to and from your accommodation, which makes a structured Pattaya itinerary quite convenient!

With this in mind, let’s dive into the tourist playground that is Pattaya.

Sanctuary of Truth | Mini Siam | Art in Paradise | Night Bazaar | Alcazar Cabaret Show

Our Pattaya trip itinerary begins with a respectful bow to the Buddhist and Hindu philosophies of the region. We’ll then walk around the world’s most famous landmarks and see the history of the Kingdom through its most famous historical structures. We’ll bend our minds around incredible 3D art and interactive displays and stop in for a bit of late afternoon shopping. Then we’ll take in a world-famous cabaret show in one of the country’s most impressive theatres. Let’s go!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Sanctuary of Truth

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the world’s largest wooden castle!
• Cost: USD $17
• Food nearby: The Na Klua Restaurant is close by, with a view of the sanctuary.

  Standing at nearly 350 feet, the spectacular building known as the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a religious building, intended to signify all religious philosophies that eventually lead to a single truth. It is made entirely of wood and houses contemporary art. Taoist and Confucianist philosophies are quite prevalent in the artwork.

The elaborately detailed carvings that make up the exterior face of the seaside building are a marvel to observe! Viewed from a particular angle, it looks as if the building is rising out of the sea.

Inside, a guide will take you on a tour of the building. Visitors are then free to explore and take pictures.

There are daily shows and activities to participate in, including a sight-seeing boat ride around the Sanctuary on a traditional Thai boat!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Mini Siam

• Why it’s awesome: A miniature snapshot of Thai civilization and history.
• Cost: UDS $10
• Food nearby: A small cafeteria inside serves snacks and drinks

Miniature cities are always a treat to walk around! Mini Siam was built in 1986 and is actually part of a broader attraction that includes Mini Europe (though it technically represents the rest of the world).

There are several miniature world landmarks here, including the Eiffel Tower, Altar of Heaven, St Petersburg Cathedral and more! Cross a small water feature and you enter the zone dedicated entirely to Thailand.

The buildings here offer a sort of historical snapshot of civilization in the kingdom.  All in all, more than 100 famous landmarks adorn the pretty garden at 1:25 scale.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Art in Paradise

• Why it’s awesome: One of the most unique museums you’re likely to visit.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food nearby: Try the Indian Garden restaurant close by for some spicy treats.

This amazing museum carries a whole host of interactive and 3D art that you can be a part of.

There are insane mind-bending 3D illusions to ponder. Various zones are thematically grouped, like the Safari area, where the artworks depict animals and nature. There’s also a section dedicated to classic artworks – are rather, versions of classic artworks. Let’s just say you’ll never look at these the same way again!

There’s a special section on Egypt, a colorful collection for Thailand, and an especially fascinating fantasy area that will stretch your senses! Our favorite is the dinosaur exhibit.

Insider Tip: Art in Paradise offers discounts for tickets booked online.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Pattaya Night Bazaar

• Why it’s awesome: You can find lots of everything here!
• Cost: Free, but you’ll want to shop and haggle
• Food nearby: Lots of food stalls available.

Time for a bit of shopping. It’s called a night bazaar, but in reality, it operates all day. Here, as with most markets, haggling is the name of the game. Aim to get 30-50% off the initial price. There are more than 250 stalls to browse. You’ll find shoes, clothing, jewelry, and cute homemade souvenirs.

There are so plenty of night markets in Pattaya – this one’s a great option since it’s air-conditioned, well-lit and designed well enough to allow for easier movement. So, you can get out of the heat for a moment while you’re shopping.

Keep an eye out for little trinkets, but don’t be fooled into buying a brand item. There are food options available, but the main thing you’re looking for here is the Thai-centric items that you can take home for show and tell.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Alcazar Cabaret Show

• Why it’s awesome: Allegedly the finest cabaret shows in all of Thailand!
• Cost: USD $20
• Food nearby: Mensho Tokyo Ramen bar next door is outstanding – grab a bite before or after.

Some say it’s the best transvestite cabaret show in Thailand. There’s only one way to know for sure, and that’s to see it yourself.

It is an impressive theatrical spectacle, in a 1200-seat state of the art theatre. Big budget productions employ top-quality costumes, lighting and sound. A skilled crew of 400 brings you productions that have been compared to the Lido and the Moulin Rouge.

There are several shows per day: 5 pm, 6:30 pm, 8 pm, and 9:30 pm, each running a little over an hour. This is a must-do on any Pattaya itinerary.

Insider Tip: If you can, book ahead and opt for the VIP ticket – it’s a better seat!

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Jomtien Beach | Ripley’s Believe It or Not  | Floating Market | Nong Nooch Botanical Garden | Walking Street

If you have more than one day in Pattaya, you’re in for a treat. Get to the beach early before the general crowds arrive. Today’s shopping fix comes courtesy of a market entirely built on water. Then get back to dry land for a walk through one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Finally, we’ll get to Pattaya’s most famous street, and let our hair down for a while.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Jomtien Beach

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a far quieter option than Pattaya beach!
• Cost: Free, but water activities will cost.
• Food nearby: For awesome seafood and a great sea view, try Obaroi!

Why not start the day at the beach? You’re on holiday after all. Jomtien’s four-mile stretch of beach is slightly less crowded than Pattaya beach, and if you get there early enough, you’ll enjoy plenty of open space on the sand.

The water itself is also clearer and if you are feeling peckish, you can grab a snack from one of the wandering vendors. The stretch is also the windsurfing and paragliding hub of Pattaya, so if you’re looking for some water-based adventure, this is the place for you!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Pattaya Floating Market

• Why it’s awesome: 300 000 square feet of the market on the water!
• Cost: Free, besides what you spend on shopping.
• Food nearby: The market is known for many traditional and regional That food options.

The Pattaya Floating Market is also known as the Four Regions Floating market and is divided into four sections. Each of the section – north, northeast, central and south – represent their respective regions of Thailand.

Navigate the market with a hired boat and operator or walk through the various sections for a closer look. Sample as much of the food as you can; this market is known for its myriad food options. And of course, the regular market items can be found to bargain over as well.

But be aware that this is a big market (over 300 000 square feet) so do pace yourself. You can get away from the hustle and bustle of commerce for a few minutes at the wood carving museum or the sunflower field, which are part of the market experience.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

• Why it’s awesome: This garden was ranked the 4 th Most Beautiful Garden in the world!
• Cost: From USD $10 for basic entry.
• Food nearby: Plenty of on-site restaurants and a food court.

The market is fun but requires a bit of peace and quiet afterward. The international award-winning Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is beautifully designed and has a number of divisions or areas. These include, French, European and Stonehenge gardens, an ant tower, and a flower valley.

Nong Nooch specializes in Cycads and has a dedicated science center and cycad gene bank at the facility. Kids will also love the Dinosaur Valley, where technicians continue to create molds of dinosaurs to “walk” among the gardens!

A number of other activities can be found in the garden, such as martial arts displays and religious ceremonies. And of course, there are horticulture-related exhibitions and talks happening throughout the year. We recommend you just start by taking in the extraordinary beauty of the gardens.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Walking Street

• Why it’s awesome: Thai tourist hotspots like this Defines the concept of ‘nightlife’!
• Cost: Free, except what you decide to spend.
• Food nearby: Dozens of shops, cafés, food stalls, restaurants dot the street.

We’ll finish our two-day Pattaya itinerary with the legendary nightlife of Walking Street. Almost every building along this famous long road is a club, a bar or a food vendor. The same can be said of the small streets and alleys branching off it, which makes this the social hub of the city!

There are several live music bars here, many of which are unexpectedly good. These are good places to have a beer or two and enjoy a few classics. There are LOADS of bars here to choose from and there’s a small amount of shopping options – gem shops and similar tourist-focused outlets dot the street.

Fair warning, though, this street gets busy, and seldom slows down! It’s not a good idea to overindulge and it’s best to avoid any situations that feel uncomfortable. That said, there’s plenty of tourist police about, should you feel unsure of what to do or where to go at any given time. This should be a fun finale to a 2-day itinerary in Pattaya.

You can essentially do a Pattaya walking tour of this street alone every day for a week, and you’ll discover something new each time.

Insider Tip: Local brands of beer are generally cheaper than European or American brands. Singha and Chang are especially popular.

Nonze Hostel

The spacious Nonze Hostel is situated on the popular Beach Road in Pattaya and puts a lot of effort into guest privacy and security. Choose between a capsule suite, a twin capsule suite, or single capsule units.

• Free Breakfast

Pattaya Water Park | Silver Lake Vineyard | SKY Rocket Ball Ride | Teddy Bear Museum | Underwater World

Got more than 3 days in Pattaya? We highly recommend mixing up the fun and entertainment with a taste of Thailand’s cultural offerings. We’ve looked at a few additional activities to fill your 3-day itinerary in Pattaya

Pattaya Park Water Park

• A fun day out to cool off
• Kids area make it a good stop for families
• Rides and amusement park extras are close by

The pools and waterslides will be a welcome relief from the heat. But there are a lot of reasons to consider spending a day at this seaside water park!

Your inner adrenaline junkie can try the amusement rides like the Tower shot. There’s also a spectacular tower Jump from the 56 th floor of the tower! This is a cable-suspended and harnessed zip line, offering awesome views of the surrounds, and your heart in your mouth.

Other standard amusement park rides like the demolition derby and the carousel also remain eternally popular! There’s a newer slalom roller coaster and a tower slingshot to try if you have the constitution. Note that while entrance to the park is usually around USD $5, the rides may cost extra.

Finally, at the top of the tower is a revolving restaurant if you’re feeling hungry after a long day at the poolside. The tower is reported to be the highest of its kind in Thailand and provides spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding seaside area! We probably wouldn’t recommend doing the Tower Jump after your meal.

Silver Lake Vineyard

• Get out into the beautiful countryside
• Try some locally cultivated wine
• Only 30 minutes from Pattaya central

Wine in Thailand ?! It may not be the first thing to mind when thinking of Thailand, but, yes, there is a wine scene in the Kingdom! Silver Lake’s plantation will appeal to wine lovers, offering food and events as well. It’s an unexpected entry on our list of the best places to visit in Pattaya .

In fact, the owners were inspired to create the venue when they discovered a mutual passion for music and wine. The Silver Lake activities lawn plays host to several concerts and festivals throughout the year!

Visiting Silver Lake is also a great excuse to get out into the countryside, which is serene and tranquil, compared to the hustle of Pattaya downtown.

On most days, a tour of the grounds is available as part of a wine tasting experience. The tour is taken by an electric tram. A restaurant on the premises serves a good Italian-style menu. The label offers a full range of wines to enjoy, taking special pride in a Shiraz and Chenin blanc. All the wines can be purchased at cellar door prices.

There are non-alcoholic grape juices available too, which are particularly delicious.

Teddy Bear Museum

• Take a pic with more than 2000 teddy bears
• It’s quirky and weird, but it’s a whole lot of fun to add your itinerary for Pattaya
• It’s impossible to leave this place without a smile on your face

It’s not just for kids! Or rather, it’s for kids of all ages. The Teddy Bear Museum may have seemed like a silly idea, but it has proven to be immensely popular.

There are more than 2000 teddies on display in this truly one of a kind museum! Twelve zones explore different concepts, some of which may be more “imaginative” than others. There’s a Santa Town, an Eskimo Zone, Under the Sea, an Africa Zone, and even a Dinosaur Ze\one, where teddies can be seen interacting with prehistoric monsters.

The biggest teddy in the museum is a Giant Panda standing three meters high. But the most intimidating bears are the ones to be found in the Space Zone, the Jedi teddies. (No, really!) You’re going to want to stop in at the gift shop before you leave, so you can take one home with you!

Asked at the opening of the museum why he chose such a strange theme, the owner and founder, Hyun Chul Kim, simply said: “I really like teddy bears.” Can’t argue with that!

Because of Pattaya’s high tourist and expat numbers, it has perhaps unfairly developed a reputation for being unsafe. In truth, Pattaya is no more dangerous than any tourist city, and in fact, is statistically far safer than other similar destinations around the world.

A lot of the Pattaya nightlife is adult-oriented nightlife, especially around Walking Street where sex workers operate semi-openly. It’s best to avoid overindulging until the wee hours as that may expose you to unwanted attention from criminal elements.

Violent forms of crime rarely affect tourists but it’s nonetheless advisable to avoid any situation that feels uncomfortable.

More relevant are the somewhat loose rules of the road in Thailand. Be aware of high volumes of traffic, and many drivers who don’t really worry too much about formalities!

It’s also worth taking note of some of Thailand’s social customs, so as not to offend the local people. For example, putting your feet on tables or touching someone’s head. There’s lots of handy info around about Thai customs than can save you a lot of trouble.

Beyond that, common sense should always prevail. Avoid deserted placed very late at night, and it’s best to have your wits about you, so pace your party as best you can!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Pattaya

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The options for day trips in and around Pattaya range from the scenic to the adventurous. Whether visiting temples, taking adventure-based drives, or even exploring the islands, there is something for every mood! Most of the local day trip offerings will even pick you up from where you’re staying, and deliver you back safely. Here are just a few additional things to do in Pattaya, Thailand.

Laser Buddha Mountain, Chinese Temple and Vineyard Tour

This relaxing tour’s centerpiece is a huge Buddha figure carved into a mountain! The figure was carved using a laser and is infused with gold leaf. At over 400 feet high, it’s one of the biggest depictions of Buddha in the World!

You’ll also get to see a real Chinese terracotta warrior museum and stop off at a local vineyard for a relaxing glass. The tour will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation in Pattaya.

Big Buddha Hill, Gems Gallery and 3D Museum Tour

This entire tour is the perfect photo op! An enormous statue of the Buddha sits atop Pratumnak Hill.  This is the first stop on this varied six-hour tour, which allows you to also explore the Wat Phra Yai Temple.

The next stop is Pattaya View Point, one of Pattaya’s most breathtaking locations from which to view the bay. Look in the other direction, and you’ll see the whole of Jomtien beach!

After a quick stop to view some gems and jewelry at a local gallery, it’s off to art in paradise, which is the largest 3D museum in the world.

Day Trip to Samet, Kham, Kudee and Talu Islands

If you’re a little weary of the crowded, muddy waters of Pattaya, a full-day day trip to the four islands is the remedy! A high-speed catamaran takes you out into the blue waters to snorkel and swim. You can also opt to just enjoy the silvery island beaches.

There’s plenty of time to do both, of course! Overall, you’ll have gained a taste of what each of the Kohs has to offer, and hopefully, get to see some of the rich and exotic marine life up close. The day trip includes an enjoyable and refreshing a Thai-style buffet lunch in the middle of the day, to keep your energy up.

ATV Off-Road Adventure Tour

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, try an ATV ride through the country. The focus here is on having fun, so no previous driving experience is required. You’ll receive a briefing on arrival, and from there it’s ae exciting off-road blast through the trails and paths.

After gearing up, you have a choice of a quad bike or a buggy kart, so it’s completely safe! The 17-mile course takes you through palm, pineapple and eucalyptus plantations, a few mud puddles and maybe even over a hill or two!

Best of all, there’s a delicious snack waiting for you at the end of it all, including a burger (beef, chicken or veggie), soft drinks and a Thai-licious fruit platter for dessert.

Coral Island Snorkeling

Someone thought it would be a good idea to get you to spend an entire day away from Pattaya doing holiday stuff on Koh Larn. They were right! The day starts on the pier where you kick off with a paraglide!

After a comedown walk, you’ll arrive at Coral Island (Koh Larn) where you’ll visit a picturesque viewing point, pay respect to the Buddha there, and settle down to a delicious seafood lunch. You can opt to jet ski or take the banana boat after lunch or relax on the beach into the afternoon. Finish out the day trip with a snorkel along the reef, and you’ll be a new person by the time you get back to your lodgings!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Pattaya itinerary.

What is Pattaya best known for?

It’s best known as a party town with great beaches close to Bangkok.

How can I spend 3 days in Pattaya?

Be sure to take in a mixture of culture at the local temples, sample the street food and nightlife as well as hitting the beach for some relaxation.

What can you do in Pattaya for free?

The Big Buddha is a classic place to visit in Pattaya for free and it offers some great views too.

What is the best time to visit Pattaya?

November to February are the best times when the weather is perfect but the crowds do pick up a little.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to what to do in Pattaya. Take care to stay cool and drink plenty of fluids during the hot humid days, and most of all, enjoy your time there. We hope this list of activities provides you with a wonderful multi-day itinerary for Pattaya! You can also check out our roundup of the best things to do in Pattaya  for some more inspiration!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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Thanks for the very nice article Clair. Am looking for info on Pattaya and this was really helpful. Have a great day

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"The unrelenting combination of calm and crazy!"

Pattaya tourism.

Pattaya is a coastal city in the Gulf of Thailand, located 150km southeast of Bangkok, a two-hour drive away. The beaches and islands in Pattaya offer a wide variety of watersports, snorkelling options, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, making it ideal for families, friends and couples. The nightlife in Pattaya is quite famous for being loud, flashy and handsy.

Pattaya boasts a series of picturesque beaches, each with its own unique charm. Pattaya Beach is the city's main beach, lined with a bustling promenade, water sports, and plenty of beachfront dining options. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, Jomtien Beach is a great choice. Pattaya also offers a wide array of water-based activities. You can go scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, or take a boat trip to nearby islands.  The city comes to life after dark with its vibrant and diverse nightlife. Walking Street in Pattaya is characterized by bright street lights and signs hovering over open bars, go-go bars, and women standing along the streets. Cabaret shows such as the Alcazar Show and Tiffany's Cabaret Show are also popular tourist attractions during the night. Located within a two-hour drive from Bangkok, most tourists to Pattaya come via trains, buses, or cars from the capital. Established around a wide crescent-shaped bay, Pattaya is an ideal destination for adventure lovers and party buffs. With its beautiful and serene beaches, swaying palm groves, and clear blue sky, Pattaya can make anyone fall in love with its diversity. It is not just for partygoers; it's also family-friendly. The city caters to the varied interests of its visitors, offering a plethora of tourist attractions ranging from zoos, theme parks, botanical gardens, temples, markets, illuminating streets at night, water sports activities, and relaxing tropical settings. Pattaya is divided into three zones: North, Central, and South, each offering something different. The place attracts many tourists every year to explore and enjoy the raw beauty of nature sprinkled across Pattaya.

Must Know Before You Travel to Pattaya

• Pre-booking Activities: Some popular activities and attractions in Pattaya, like island tours, water sports, and cabaret shows, can get crowded. Consider pre-booking to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Limited Ferries: Some islands off the coast of Pattaya, like Koh Larn, have limited ferry schedules. Ensure you check the ferry timings and plan your trip accordingly.
• Local Transport: Pattaya offers a variety of transportation options, including Baht buses and motorbike taxis. It's easy to get around, but make sure to agree on fares beforehand, especially for short rides. Baht buses usually cost TBH 10 per person for most routes.
• Where to Stay: Choose a hotel in the Pattaya Beach area, which makes it easier to explore the city on foot. If you want to stay at a peaceful resort, consider staying in the Jomtien Beach area.
• Bangkok to Pattaya:  There are big buses to Pattaya from all three bus terminals in Bangkok, all arriving at Pattaya Northern Bus Station. You can also opt for the Bangkok–Pattaya van, which leaves from different locations throughout Bangkok. Both of these cost between THB120 and THB400. Taxis are also available from Bangkok airport and other locations, costing between THB1,700 for a 3-passenger car to THB4,000 for a private car.
• Bangkok Airport to Pattaya: You can directly get a bus from the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Buses operate from the lower level of the airport and depart every two hours between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The tickets can be bought on the spot. You can also pre-book a taxi from a local operator, which costs less than booking a taxi from Uber or Grab.

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Tourism Statistics Thailand 2000-2023

• Tourism Statistics

Last update this page : Januari 2024.

See graph of quarterly arrivals updated at bottom of page, updated till last quarter of 2023.

Thailand has restarted its tourism industry for real in the middle of 2022, which showed arrivals of 11,153,026 people by the end of that year. Expectations were very high for 2023. Arrivals were steadily above 2 million visitors each month of the year and even passed the three million mark in December 2023. A total of 28,150,016 visitors arrived. This was an increase of 152.4% over the previous year. In the last year before Covid (2019) there were 39,916,251 visitors, so the present number is still 29.5% lower.

Despite this renewed interest in Thailand (despite geopolitical and financial crises abroad) was splendid. Nevertheless, the Thai government was not fully impressed. The revenue from tourism seems to be needed, and various measures were taken to promote the country for foreign tourists. Mainly it has become easier to get visas and allowed length of stay for citizens of many countries has been extended. See quarterly arrivals at the bottom of this page. Arrivals in the last quarter of 2023 surpassed 8 million visitors. The top 5 of countries whose inhabitants visited Thailand in 2023 (between brackets arrivals in 2019, and % change) : 1. Malaysia : 4,626,422 (4,274,458 ; + 8.2 %) : lots of day trips from the country bordering Thailand. 2. China : 3,524,095 (11,138,658) ;: - 68.4 %) 3. South Korea : 1,660,042 (1,880,465 ; -11.7 %) 4. India : 1,628,542 (1,961,069 ; -17 %) 5. Russia : 1,482,611 (1,481,837 ; +0.0005 %) Europe : 5,962,234 (6,531,220 ; -8.7%) Notes : China is clearly lagging other countries. We suspect Chinese people are traveling less in general, maybe because of the local economic situation. There was also a shooting incident in Bangkok, where a Chinese visitor was killed in a shopping mall, but we do not think this can have been a major factor. Anyway, visa are now easier for Chinese (and other) people to obtain. When reading local newspapers and listening to local news, Thailand is swamped by Russian visitors. In effect, there are about exactly the same number of visitors as before the pandemic (so relatively speaking...). European tourists have resumed visiting more than Asian tourists on average.

Tourist Arrivals last few Years before the Covid-19 Pandemic :

The number of tourists visiting Thailand increased from 35.35 million in 2017 to 38.28 million in 2018 and then 39.92 million in 2019. The increase in visitors from 2018 to 2019 was limited to 4.24 %, which actually was less than Thai authorities expected. The ever rising number of tourists arriving came to an abrupt end from March 2020 onwards. 2020 saw only a total of 6,702,396 tourists, almost all arriving in the first three months of the year. From March 2020 to end August 2020 no tourists were allowed in. Thereafter in the last three months of 2020 a total of 10,822 tourists arrived under very special stringent conditions.

Lots of people in the hospitality sector lost their jobs and/or are in dire straits. As 2020, 2021 was a dismal year with hardly any visitors arriving, but we had the 'opening' of the country as from 1 November 2021. This appears to have been an audacious move, since at the time of the announcement of the initiative, a new wave of Covid-19 (the delta strain) was hitting the country hard, much more so than during the initial infections during 2020. But it likely needed to be done, since lots of people (and a lot of smaller SME companies) have a significantly reduced income, and the government has limited resources to continue providing for them. However the impact of this relaxation of travel conditions was limited, with little effect on number of arrivals. Except for the last three months of 2021, monthly arrivals were between 5,000 and 20,000 each month, which for Thailand is a very low number. As seen in the graph before, some more tourists started coming during the last quarter of 2021. Things improved especially from the middle of 2022, when most restrictions were lifted.

In usual circumstances, tourism plays an important role in the Thai economy. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC, recently renamed from NESDB) stated begin February 2019 that Tourism accounted for 18.4 % (or close to one fifth) of the GDP of Thailand. It had risen from a level in 14.2 % of GDP just four years earlier. Thailand expected ever more income from its tourism sector. It was never enough. However, as we know now, the Covid-19 pandemic put an end to that, at least for the last few years.

A relatively recent development has been the ever increasing number of Chinese mainland visitors. They surpassed 10.5 million visitors in 2018, making up 27.5 % of the total. Their number increased further to 10.99 million in 2019, and the increased number of Chinese visitors was quite obvious on Bangkok's streets and in its shopping malls.

2022-2023 : TAKE-OFF ?

There were modestly more visitors during the first quarter of 2022. 497,693 tourists arrived. As a result of reduced restrictions for travel, both in Thailand and worldwide, the number of visitors 'skyrocketed' to 1,582,257 in the second quarter of 2022. The number of arrivals further increased to 3,608,135 in the third quarter (when travel to Thailand for all practical purposes was unrestricted) and to 5,464,991 in the fourth quarter. The 4th quarter saw a reemergence of the Covid-19 pandemic in China, but soon after restrictions in China suddenly were lifted. The 4th quarter saw only 54,146 Chinese visitors. However, they started coming in earnest during the 1th Quarter of 2023, with 517,270 arrivals. Their reappearance is already quite visible in Bangkok. Nevertheless, since December 2022 till September 2023, the number of arrivals has been a stationary or slowly increasing. However, the last quarter (especially arrivals in December increased) saw more than 8 million arrivals.

Long-Term View : Boom Years for Thai Tourism Industry

In 2001 Thailand received 10.13 million visitors. In the early years of the millenium there was a slow rise, later a very fast increase in tourists arrivals. 18 years later in 2019, we had 39.8 million visitors, so the number quadrupled in that time period.

With 10,994,721 visitors in 2019 China provided the largest number of tourists (27.6% of total), while the country hardly provided any visitors in the first years of this millenium.

Along the way, since the turn of the century there have been a number of temporary setbacks for the Thai tourism industry. You can sometimes see their effect on the number of visitors for a certain year in the graphs on this page. After a health scare, a political uncertainty, or a natural disaster, 'traditionally' the number of visitors decreases during just 2 or 3 months, and then picks up again. Memories from travelers are short.

The following occurred the past 2 decades :

• Post-Tsunami 2004
• Global recession and riots in Thailand 2009
• Riots and political uncertainty in 2010. Major flooding of a large part of Thailand and northern Bangkok end 2011.
• Political demonstrations end 2013 and ongoing into 2014. Anti-goverment demonstrations occupied most of the first half of 2014, and were followed by declaration of martial law, and a military (bloodless)
• Coup d'Etat on 22 May 2014. Bombing of the Erawan Shrine on 17 August 2015.
• Crack-down on zero-dollar (Chinese) tour groups at the end of 2016 had a significant effect on Chinese arrivals. This persisted during the first quarter of 2017, but overall the number of visitors kept on rising in 2016 and 2017.
• 2018 : boat accident in July in Phuket with 47 Chinese casualties. Chinese arrivals decreased during the subsequent months.
• Covid-19 Pandemic from early 2020 till 2023 (?)

It is safe to say that health scares and the global recession had a more pronounced impact than local political uncertainly, riots and demonstration. Thailand experiences an unstable political scene, but overall fortunately the tourism industry continued to grow with only a moderate hick-up during the first three quarters of 2014.

Tourism Industry in Thailand. Domestic Component

Data on tourism income in 2019 and arrivals by nationality and region for the same year.

Interestingly, the tourism sector does not only depend only on foreign visitors. The number of domestic tourists may actually dwarf the number of foreign tourists,but domestic tourists do spend much less per day and their trips are shorter.

Some numbers :

As noted above, the number of international arrivals increases year by year till 2019, bringing in lots of revenue. Averaged over three years from 2017 to 2019 (before Covid), the international traveler earned Thailand 49,661 Thai baht per person (let's say 50,000 baht).

The number of domestic travelers is actually much higher, and reached almost 167 million in 2019. Averaged over the same three years, a domestic traveler spends 6.389 Thai baht on his trips.

When looking at the larger picture, it is obvious that domestic travel is a very important component. From 2017 to 2019, revenue from domestic travel amounted to 35.8 % of total revenue gained from tourism. Effects are underway to revive the Thai tourist industry, after the Covid-19 crisis, by encouraging domestic travel, and giving government sponsored promotions, however with only modest success.

Quarterly Arrivals from 2013 to 2023 :

Thailand has a tourist season when more visitors arrive. As you can see below, the number of visitors is almost consistently higher during the first quarter and the last quarter of each year. This coincides with a more pleasant climate in the country ('cold' season), and less favorable weather conditions in Europe, and large parts of Asia, like China and Japan.

From the graph you may see that the beginning of 2014 (political uncertainty) saw less than expected arrivals.

A military coup was staged and martial law was declared by the Royal Thai Army on 20 May 2014. The above contributed further to a decrease in travel arrivals during 2014, spread over the first three quarters of the year. During the first 9 months of 2014 around 2,000,000 less tourists arrived in Thailand, or a decrease of -10.28% when compared with the same period of 2013. But afterwards, the tourism industry had a very good period, with substantial increases in the number of arrivals. Military rule continued for 5 years, without further adverse effects on the tourism industry. The military government was followed by a 'civilian' government under the same prime minister in 2019.

The first quarter of 2020 saw a dramatic decrease in the number of visitors. This was totally linked to the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic. A dramatic decrease to ZERO occurred in the second quarter and also in the third quarter of 2020. As mentioned, a very limited number of tourists arrived during the 4th quarter under stringent conditions.

As noted above, from the second quarter of 2020, till the third quarter of 2021 (this covers no less than 18 months), hardly any visitors came to Thailand. We estimate loss of income for the country at 75+ billion U.S. Dollar. It was decided (as in many other countries around the same time) to open for tourists again, still under stringent conditions, as of 1 November 2021.

As can be viewed below, there was a modest increase in visitors during the last quarter, especially during the month of December, which looks promising for 2022. Of the 427,869 visitors to Thailand in 2021, no less than 250,948 (58.6 %) came from Europe. Europeans may be simply dumber, less infomed, or more audacious, than people from other regions ?

The first quarter of 2022 saw further very modest improvement in the number of tourists arriving in Thailand. A total of 497,693 tourists arrived, the highest number since the first quarter of 2020, but still a far cry of the number of visitors in the years before (between 8 and 10 million visitors per quarter). The number of arrivals further improved to 1,582,257 in the second quarter of 2022. At least during the 3rd and 4th Quarter of 2022, we saw marked improvement in the arrival numbers, measuring 3.608 million visitors in the 3rd quarter, and 5.465 million visitors in the last quarter of 2022. The first quarter of 2023 saw 6,477,538 arrivals. Recovering of tourism to Thailand is on track. Possible negative factors : higher prices of airline flights, higher prices of hotels (promoted by some), poor air quality, especially in the North of Thailand, and in Bangkok, mostly in the period between December and April.

Interestingly, the second quarter usually has less visitors to Thailand than the first quarter. This trend is not clearly visible in 2023 , with visitors in the first quarter numbering 6,477,538 and in the second quarter slightly lower at 6,437,153. The third quarter saw a further modest increase in visitors to 7.09 million visitors, and in fourth quarter we passed the 8 million mark (8.095 million visitors).

Numbers show number of tourist arrivals per quarter of each year (in millions). Source data : Department of Tourism, Thailand. Since a few years data are available at website of Ministry of Tourism and Sports .

P.S. : Wikipedia has a dedicated page covering the Covid-19 Pandemic in Thailand , which we surely can not improve upon.

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Are Tourist Numbers Really Increasing in Pattaya?

Pattaya has certainly changed as a holiday destination in recent years. Gone are the days where the city was a hotspot for western men looking to find a Thai girlfriend to take back to the UK on a  UK Tourist Visa  or even a  UK Spouse Visa . Although this side of the city still exists, albeit to a lesser extent, the focus is far more on short-term holidaymakers, predominantly families and tour groups from China and Russia.

Has it worked?

The big question is whether this has worked. We are constantly told that the emphasis is on quality rather than quantity, but does this bring in the desired revenue? With the number of bars and restaurants closing their doors for good in 2019, many proprietors would need a lot of convincing. However, certain members of the Thai government still try to convince us that numbers are always increasing.

Some figures

Although there are lots of different sets of numbers available, here are some that stood out regarding tourists in Pattaya:

• Damrongkiat Phinitkarn, the Secretary of the Entertainment Industry and Tourism Association of Pattaya said tourists figures were down between 20 and 30% in 2019 compared to the previous year.
• Visitors from mainland China fell by 4.73% in the first quarter (later figures unavailable)
• Russian visitors fell by 2.99%
• Japanese visitors increased by 10.73, although this is now a relatively small group

What are the reasons?

There are some very well publicised reasons why tourism has suffered in the last twelve months. Some include:

• The strength of Thai Baht affecting most nationalities
• The boat crash in 2018 in Phuket killed several Chinese tourists
• The problems of obtaining a visa

What are people doing about it?

Sadly, many long-term tourists (those staying for 90 days or more) are staying away, and many expats are being forced to return home because their businesses have closed or they can’t meet the financial requirements for the  Thai Retirement Visa . Most of these expats want their families to return to the UK with them, and this is where we can help!

How can Thai Visa Express help?

Thai Visa Express is a team of professional immigration consultants who are always ready to assist you with your UK visa application in Thailand. We have over 15 years of experience dealing with UK visas & immigration daily, and we are regulated by the Office of Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) in the UK. We offer a free 30-minute consultation from one of our designated caseworkers,  contact us  today.

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Why not contact us and find out how we can help you with your immigration enquiry .Thai Visa Express offers consultancy for people applying for  UK Visa  or Australian visa we offer assistance with visa applications in Thailand.

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