Are you someone looking for a break from your daily grind or want to spend some much-needed quality time with your loved ones? Then, Welcome to Pattaya, Thailand’s Eastern Gulf coast, best known for its picturesque beaches and land full of culture. If you are looking to create a core memory, then Pattaya is where you need to be.
In this guide, we take you through 23 travel tips to make your Pattaya vacation as smooth as it can be. From the ideal time to visit and how to get around to respecting their culture and keeping your pockets safe, here’s everything you need to know before you visit Pattaya.
Essential Travel Prep Before You Go
1. What time of the year is ideal to visit Pattaya in 2025?
If you are looking to see Pattaya at its finest, then November to February is when you need to be there. With comfortable temperatures and less rain, this is the best time to explore Pattaya’s breathtaking beaches and vibrant nightlife. Pattaya is at its peak with Loy Krathong, a festival of lights where everyone releases krathong, a decorated basket, into water as a ritual to let go of negativity and start fresh.
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a similar experience during the time when lanterns are released into the night sky. If you decide to visit during February, then make sure not to miss their New Year celebrations with dancing dragon performances and colourful parades.
March to June is when you need to be there if you want to experience one of Thailand’s much-awaited music festivals – the Pattaya Music Festival 2025. Three weeks of March set aside for non-stop vibing on Pattaya’s sands with the theme ‘Sound on the Sand’. Want to know the best part of it all? It’s completely free!!! Fair warning though, it can get hot and humid. So be prepared.
If you are somewhere around Pattaya Beach Road from March 14-16, you can definitely be a part of the Pattaya Holi Festival. A long list of other festivals awaits you during these months. So plan well and get the complete Pattaya experience.
If you are one with nature, then July to October is when you need to be there. With heavy rainfall and luscious greenery, you can see Pattaya with fewer tourists and affordable stays. This is the ideal vacation time for budget travelers. August will welcome you with events like the Pattaya Trail 2025, Pattaya Men’s Open Golf Week and Amazing Music Festival ‘Over the Horizon (details yet to be published).
2. Visa & Entry Requirements
Thailand has updated its visa requirements by May 2025. From visitors having to show they have enough money in their account to changes in the duration of visa-free stays, many changes were introduced to improve immigration and security. Most importantly, a digital arrival card was introduced on May 1,2025, called the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for all foreign visitors replacing the paper immigration forms. Every solo visitor must have at least 20,000 Thai Baht and a family must have a minimum of 40,000 Thai Baht.
Many countries have been permitted visa-free entries for up to 60 days and a possible extension for 30 more days. But there could be a change in these rules, as there is a discussion going on to reduce it to 30 days. So before you plan your trip, make sure to check whether you can travel without a visa. If you are not eligible for visa-free travel, don’t worry, because they have a Visa On Arrival(VOA) option for you that allows for a stay of up to 15 days. Here are a few important documents you will need to make your VOA smoother:
- A valid passport for at least 30 days from the date of arrival.
- A completed VOA application form, which is available at immigration.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Proof of funds (a minimum of 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family).
- A confirmed return ticket to depart Thailand within 15 days.
- The VOA fee must be paid in Thai Baht (THB) at the airport, preferably in cash.
As of January 1, 2025, Thailand has expanded its eVisa system to be accessible from all 94 Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide. This will help you take care of everything online with just a click. For some nationalities, like India, a specific eVisa system was implemented.
Along with all these changes, here are a few tips to make your entry at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or U-Tapao (UTP) Airports smoother:
- Complete the TDAC in advance
- Have all your documents ready and organized
- Carry the required money in Thai Baht
- Be prepared for a Biometric Screening
- For extra charges, you can fast-track your immigration process
3.Currency & Payments
As of mid-2025, the exchange rate of one Thai Baht is approximately 2.7 Indian Rupees. But be sure to check the exchange rates right before your trip. If you are confused about where to do the same, then don’t worry because Thailand has currency exchange counters like T.T. Currency Exchange and Superrich that offer you the best possible rates. You can find their branches throughout Pattaya, especially around Pattaya Beach Road and Soi Buakhao.
If you want a reliable exchange source (who may or may not have better rates), then your go-to choice should be major Thai Banks like Kasikornbank, Bangkok Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank.
Need a small tip to help you save money? Always keep hotels and small shops as your Plan Z because they typically offer the worst rates.
Thailand has been making efforts to go cashless. But if you’re someone who believes carrying cash is the safest option, don’t worry, they haven’t gone completely cashless. Smaller shops still accept cash only.
Credit or debit cards are the smarter choice for hotels and tourist attractions. Always make sure to check with your bank about foreign transaction charges so you stay safe from unnecessary fees.
Thailand is one of the global leaders that promotes QR payments. With e-wallets like PromptPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay and GrabPay, travel has gotten much easier. Although, some of them are exclusively for Thai locals.
4.Why is Travel Insurance Needed in Pattaya?
Even though travel insurance is not mandatory, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, isn’t it? From medical coverage to theft or other travel disruptions, insurance can be a lifesaver.
Just like every other popular tourist destination, Thailand has its own petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching incidents. Their jet ski scam is one of the popular crimes that have been committed. Having insurance will help you take care of the necessary amount required to replace important documents like your passport.
Ever had to cut your trip short due to unexpected events like a family emergency? Then you definitely need travel insurance to take care of the coverage and make things smoother. Here are a few minimum insurance recommendations to give you an idea:
- Medical emergency – At least $50,000 in coverage
- Medical evacuation – At least $10,000 in coverage
- Trip Cancellation – 100% coverage for your prepaid, non-refundable charges
- Baggage and Personal Items – At least $1000 in coverage for damage, loss or theft
Thailand is well known for its medical tourism, but for someone who is not a citizen there, you might have to pay a huge sum even for minor health issues. So why face a huge medical bill when you can just get insurance? Preparing approximately $50,000 to $250,000 for various medical needs is always a great idea for a tourist.
Getting to & Around Pattaya
5. How to Get to Pattaya from Bangkok?
If you are traveling to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or U-Tapao Airport (UTP) then we have great news for you. These airports are closer to the location, so you can save both your money and time. Direct bus options are available from these airports. In case you want a more private option then you can always opt for a private car or taxi.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK) is comparatively far from the other two, but bus services are still an option. Bus services are available outside the airports at Bangkok’s city centres and can take you to Pattaya’s North Bus station and Jomtien Bus Station. Bus fares typically range from 130 to 250 THB/ person and the travel can take upto 3 hours. Online booking is available for the same.
If you are looking for faster travel options that may not be as comfortable as buses, then minivans are a great option. They depart from Mochit New Van Terminal and other smaller terminals in Bangkok. The fare can range from 200 to 300 THB and take up to 2.5 hours.
If you’re traveling in groups or with family, then it’s always best to choose a private taxi. You can either book them directly through the taxi agency or use popular platforms like Grab and Bolt. It is always recommended to pre-book these cars to avoid possible scams. The fare can range from 1,200 to 2,000 THB and take up to 2 hours.
If you are someone who wants to take in the scenic side of Thailand, then trains are a great option. They are cheaper too, but they are not as frequent as the other options. The fare ranges from 40 to 250 THB and can take up to 4 hours.
6. Local Transportation in Pattaya
Songthaews (shared taxis), also known as Baht buses, are seen throughout Pattaya. They are covered pick-up trucks with benches on the back for travelers. Their routes are similar to buses, and a bell can be pressed to inform the driver that you want to get off. The standard fares are usually 10 to 20 THB, but if you’re a tourist, be careful of scams. They could charge you more, so it’s better to discuss the fares beforehand.
Various apps have made travel easy for tourists, like the Grab app and Bolt. It’s the safest option to avoid any possible scams. This is also a great option to take care of language barriers.
If you want a freer travel experience, then go for rental scooters. All you need is a passport, an International Driving License, a Driving Permit, and a helmet. Make sure you also have travel insurance and take videos of the vehicle beforehand to avoid unnecessary fines.
Even though the majority of drivers are honest, just like every other place, there are a few scammers among the tuk-tuk and taxi drivers. They may lie about an attraction being closed just to take you somewhere that will get them more money. So always check the timings before you set out exploring. Also, make sure that the meter is running, or you may have to pay extra.
Accommodation Tips
7. What are the Best Areas to Stay in Pattaya?
Ranging from vibrant nightlife or quiet family-friendly places to luxurious or local experiences, Pattaya is filled with endless possibilities and diverse experiences. Where you stay should depend on the kind of journey you’re on.
If you are a party animal looking to vibe hard, then Pattaya’s Walking Street & Beach Road is for you. With go-go bars, nightclubs, and live music within walking distance, you can get a full-on nightlife experience. But if you hate too much noise, then this place is not for you. After 6 pm, it is a pedestrian-only location.
Located in the South of Pattaya, Jomtien Beach is a popular location among families and couples that is full of peace and serene vibes. If a peaceful vacation with your loved ones is what you’re looking for, then this is where you need to stay. Compared to Pattaya beach, it’s much cleaner here with a smaller crowd. Their night market is famous for food and shopping, but if you want something more adventurous, they have many water sports options.
Known for its stunning panoramic views and luxurious hotels, Pratumnak Hill is a residential area situated between Pattaya and Jomtien, often referred to as the ‘Beverly Hills of Pattaya’. Filled with luxurious hotels providing breathtaking ocean views, Pratumnak Hill is a great escape into silence. But if you ever feel like you want a fun night out, then it’s just a short ride away from all the main attractions and is a home to famous attractions like the Big Buddha Temple and Pattaya Viewpoint.
Away from the crowded streets and nightlife of Pattaya, Naklua is a great option for travelers who are looking for a more local, authentic experience. This fishing village is a peaceful place with fewer crowds. The well-known wooden temple known as the Sanctuary of Truth is a must-visit attraction in the area.
8. Booking Tips
Just like anywhere else in the world, booking for a trip needs careful planning if a smooth experience is what you’re aiming for. With changes in seasons come changes in cost.
If you plan on visiting Pattaya during its peak season (November- February), be prepared for high rates, as this is when you can experience its best festivals. It’s always smarter to book at least 8 months ahead to save money. The rest of the seasons can provide reasonable costs, but make sure to check the weather before you go out.
Various platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb are available for the public to make things easier. Each of them has its own merits and demerits.
Booking.com is widely trusted by users as it provides competitive prices. It is a user-friendly platform with options ranging from hotels to guesthouses and apartments. If you’re looking for a home away from home, especially for longer stays, then Airbnb is the one for you, but be careful of hidden charges and suspicious locations.
While most hotels are transparent with their customers, there are still some places that surprise you with hidden fees like resort fees, damage fees, extra person costs, and tax and service charges. While they may be legal, always make sure it’s clearly stated during the booking process.
Beach & Outdoor Etiquette
9.What are Pattaya’s Beach Rules?
Pattaya has been continuously making efforts to make its beaches cleaner, safer, and more attractive to tourists by bringing forward various rules for the visitors. From various swimming zone rules to littering laws, they keep making efforts for the same.
The beaches of Pattaya and Jomtien have certain swimming zones where jet-skis and speed boats are not allowed. They are separated using buoys or flags to help travelers identify these locations better. So it’s always safer for you to keep an eye on them to stay safe. Even though their lifeguard coverage is not as strong as in Western places, certain popular locations have lifeguards on duty.
It is common knowledge that sunbeds and umbrellas are a common sight at beaches. If you want to get the full experience, the process is simple. Directly approach and pay the vendors, and the sunbed and umbrella are yours for the day. Some vendors even provide refreshments and massages along with the same. This service typically ranges from 50 THB to 100 THB per person for the entire day.
If you are a smoker, then we’ve got bad news for you. Smoking is prohibited at these locations to keep control over pollution and littering. If you get caught smoking in a prohibited area, be prepared to pay a fine of 5,000 THB.
Even though drinking is allowed at most beachside hotels, they are restricted in other public areas. Pattaya has a strict no littering policy, and anyone who breaks this rule will be charged. There are trash cans available at various locations at these beaches, so it’s simple not to litter.
10.Island Hopping Tips
If you want to try out some island-hopping adventure, then the closest option from Pattaya is Koh Larn. Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island, a beautiful island with white sand and clear water, is just a short ferry ride away from Pattaya. The boats depart from Bali Hai Pier, located at the southern end of Pattaya’s Walking Street and run frequently throughout the day.
Speedboats are a faster option as they get you across within 15-20 minutes. The cost for ferries and speedboats can range from 30 THB to 300 THB. The ferries operate from 7 am to 6 pm, taking 45 minutes for travel.
Koh Larn also provides great diving and snorkeling options like Tawaen and Samae beaches. Koh Sak and Koh Krok are nearby locations with calm, shallow waters. They are usually included in organized trips. Koh Rin and Koh Phai, part of the Mu Ko Phai Marine Park, offer better coral reefs and marine life.
Whether you choose a day trip or an overnight stay depends on your purpose for travel. The day trip is more convenient, allowing you to enjoy both beach vibes and nightlife equally. But if you are looking to take your sweet time and enjoy the ride, then it’s always best to have an overnight trip. This will let you explore the island when the crowds have disappeared. Since Koh Larn has minimal nightlife compared to Pattaya, it’s a go-to choice for a relaxing getaway.
Nightlife & Entertainment Tips
11. Navigating Pattaya’s Nightlife Safely
Pattaya is known for its nightlife, especially on its Walking Street. While it’s important to take in the experience, it’s more important to be aware of the local customs and safety tips.
While the Walking Street is a must-visit location to enjoy nightlife, it is also a place where you need to be careful of petty crimes. It is always best to keep your wallet and other valuables in your front pocket. Drinking is common in the area, but that makes you an easy target for petty crimes and overcharged drinks. So it is important as a tourist to be conscious and be aware of the actual prices while you enjoy.
Another important tip for you as a tourist is to never give away your passport or other important documents as a deposit. Carry photocopies of everything.
Pattaya is globally known for its ladyboy and cabaret shows, like Tiffany’s and Alcazar. Since the shows are pretty crowded during peak season, it is better to pre-book the tickets. They are a safe and family-friendly option to experience Pattaya’s nightlife. The rules to follow are simple- Respect all the performers and do not take pictures or videos during the performance, as it is strictly prohibited. It is a custom at these shows to provide the performer a tip of 20 THB to 50 THB for a photo.
While Pattaya is generally safe, it has its flaws. Apps like Grab or Bolt are the recommended options for traveling back safely, especially if you’ve been drinking. Hailing random taxis can put you at risk. If you plan on taking a walk at night, always stick to well-lit streets and crowded areas. Making new friends can be a fun experience, but not all of them can be safe.
In case of an emergency, save the number 1155, which will connect you to the Thailand Tourist Police.
12.What are Pattaya’s Drinking Laws & Happy Hours?
According to Thailand’s law, the legal drinking age is 20 and a valid ID is required to get drinks. The general timing to purchase alcohol from convenience stores and general retailers is from 11 am to 2 pm and again from 5 pm to midnight. Any purchase made outside this period will be considered as breaking the law.
However, there is an exception for tourists as hotels and airport terminals can sell alcohol outside these timings.
The price of alcohol can vary depending on whether it’s from a street vendor or a bar. Typically, local beers like Chang, Singha, or Leo can cost around 50 THB to 80 THB at street small shops, but the domestic beers at high-end bars can cost between 80 THB and 120 THB.
Prices are usually higher at the Walking Street. If you want to have a good time drinking with affordable rates, then it’s best to do it during happy hours that usually happen in the evenings.Happy hours let you buy drinks at discounted costs or a buy one, get one option.
Locations that are overly crowded with tourists can also be places that overcharge. There are options to protect yourself from losing money, like checking the price in the menu before you order or keeping a count of how much you drink. Some small vendors even let you pay for each drink individually while you order them.
Another important drinking tip to keep in mind is related to “lady drinks“, which are drinks customers buy for bar staff. They can be more expensive than regular drinks. When you are ready to pay for your drinks, make sure to check for any errors thoroughly and, in case of any, inform the staff politely.
Food & Dining
13. Is Pattaya’s Street Food safe?
As a tourist, what completes the Pattaya experience is trying out the street food there. While the street food scene there is known for its cleanliness, it’s better to be cautious.
If you see a huge crowd at a shop, then it could mean they have great quality. It is also good to check whether the vendor is wearing gloves and handling money and food with separate hands. If you notice raw meat or vegetables or pre-cooked meals that are kept out, that is a sign to walk the other way.
Pattaya’s street food is a mix of authentic Thai dishes and seafood specialties. If you want to get the complete experience, then there are a few dishes you shouldn’t miss.
One of the items not to be missed is their Pad Thai- a perfectly balanced stir-fried noodle dish. Thailand’s Mango Sticky Rice(Khao Niao Mamuang) is a dish that found popularity worldwide. Ripe mangoes with sticky rice and creamy coconut milk sauce. Sounds mouth-watering, doesn’t it? If you want to keep it fresh, then Som Tum is for you. A refreshing green papaya salad with an explosion of flavours. Last on the must-try list is Moo Ping, juicy, marinated pork skewers grilled over charcoal, often served with sticky rice. This is a great option if you want to keep it light. With Pattaya being a coastal city seafood is available almost everywhere. So don’t miss out on that.
Want to know the best part about it all? It’s not just tasty, it’s affordable too! With dishes like Pad Thai ranging from 50 to 100 THB and snacks and drinks ranging between 10 to 50 THB, you can easily satisfy your taste buds with just 150 THB.
14.Pattaya’s Restaurant Tipping & Etiquette
If you’re traveling to Thailand, it’s always important to respect their customs.
A traditional Thai meal is served in family portions. With a wide variety of dishes placed at the centre of the table and rice portions served to each member individually, everything is organised.
Always make sure to use the spoon on the right to eat and use the fork on the left to push the food onto your spoon. Chopsticks are generally used while having noodles. It is always polite to take a small quantity of the dish each time onto your plate, instead of taking everything in one go.
Thought it’s done with this, not quite yet. There are customs you must follow while asking for the bill too. You can either look at the server and do a writing motion to indicate you’re ready for the bill or you can ask for it directly. If you’re a man, just say “Chek bin, krap”, and if you’re a woman, say “Chek bin, ka”.
Tipping isn’t as common in Thailand like some other locations, but tourist-heavy places like Pattaya have started adopting the custom. It’s a gesture, but it is not mandatory. The key thing to remember is the service charge. Most mid-range to high-end restaurants will automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill. If you see this on your bill, you are not expected to leave an additional tip.
However, if a service charge is not included, a tip is appreciated, but up to you whether you want to give it or not. For exceptional service, a tip of 5-10% is a generous gesture.
If you’re visiting smaller vendors, you can either round the bill amount or leave a small tip.
Shopping & Bargaining
15.Best Markets & Malls in Pattaya
Are you a shopaholic? Then Pattaya has a few night markets and malls for you to go crazy at.
Thepprasit Night Market, also known as Pattaya Weekend Market, is popular among both locals and tourists for its authentic Thai market culture. The market is open from Friday to Sunday, around 5 to 10:30 pm. Clothes, accessories, souvenirs, even pets- you name it. But more than any of these, their street food is to die for. Authentic street food, desserts and seafood. All at affordable prices.
If you’re looking for something unique, then Terminal 21 is where you need to go. A unique, airport-themed mall with each floor representing a global destination. Want to experience Paris? They have a mini Eiffel Tower. Want to visit San Francisco? They have a full-size Golden Gate Bridge.
A major draw is the Pier 21 Food Court, which offers a wide array of delicious and exceptionally affordable Thai and international cuisine. From international to local fashion and electronics, the mall gives you a complete shopping experience.
Pattaya’s Floating Market, also known as the Four Regions Floating Market, showcases the four main regions of Thailand with their food, goods and performances. With more than 100 shops, you can either enjoy the experience on a boat or take a stroll along the wooden walkways. With an admission fee around 120 to 200 THB, the market operates from 9 am to 7 pm.
Always keep extra money ready if you want to enjoy activities like the boat ride or cultural shows. You can also purchase various handicraft items and Thai snacks.
16.How Can You Bargain Like a Local?
In Thailand, bargaining is an art form that can save you money and create a fun, friendly interaction with vendors. Knowing when to bargain and how to do it respectfully is key. Don’t worry though. We got you.
Bargaining is a common practice in Pattaya, but it’s not acceptable everywhere. If you’re visiting open-air markets like Thepprasit Night Market or small shops where the prices aren’t specified, then you have the green light to bargain.
You can even bargain with tuk-tuk or songthaew drivers who don’t use a meter, as they may set the price way too high knowing you’ll try to negotiate.
But if you’re visiting high-end shops or malls where the prices are fixed, it’s a red light. It is also considered disrespectful to bargain at street shops where the prices are already very low.
A little Thai goes a long way. Learning a few polite phrases and saying it with a smile can make your experience really smooth.
Start with a polite greeting: ‘Sawasdee krap’ (for men) or ‘Sawasdee ka’ (for women). If you want to inquire about the price just ask ‘Tao rai?’ Think the price is too high? Politely say ‘Paeng pai’. The most useful phrase for bargaining is, ‘Lot ra-ka noi dai mai?’, which means “Can you lower the price?” Regardless of the outcome, always remember to thank the vendor. Just say ‘Khob khun krap'(for men) or ‘Khob khun ka’ (for women). The best way to get a good deal is to be friendly with the vendor.
Safety, Scams & Local Laws
17.Want to Avoid Common Tourist Scams?
With Pattaya being a high-traffic city, it’s no surprise that there are scammers there. From jet ski and bar bill scams to fake tour operators, here’s what you need to know.
Even though Pattaya’s jet ski scam has gone down for some time now, there is still a possibility that it could be happening in some corners. These scammers operate on Pattaya Beach, most commonly around Mike’s shopping mall.
It was a simple yet smart scam. You rent out a jet ski and take it back to the shop, but suddenly there are damages you caused that you weren’t aware of. Sometimes they act all tough to make you pay a huge sum. But don’t worry. The solution is also simple. Before you leave with the jet ski, take photos or videos, making sure to capture pre-existing damage.
Another point to keep in mind is to never leave your passport or valuable documents as a deposit. Photocopies are more than enough to help you with the process. Always make sure to check reviews before you choose a service provider or choose the one your hotel recommends.
Another scam that takes place during the nights at Pattaya, especially at the Walking Street, is the Bar Bill Scam. Either you get overcharged for the drinks you ordered, or they add drinks you never even had. Always make sure to check the menu for the accurate prices and look through the bill carefully for errors. You can even pay individually for each drink as you buy it to avoid losing money.
In case of any errors, politely inform the server, or if things get a bit too rough, contact the Tourist Police (1155).
Before you book a tour, it is important to make sure that the tour operator is legit. There are scams where either the operator doesn’t exist at all or the package offers a high-quality experience, but that is not the reality when you get there. Some tour packages offer to take you on a remote island adventure, but instead, you end up at an overcrowded beach. We don’t want that now, do we? If you see a guy on the street offering you a cheap but high-quality stay, walk the other way because it could be a possible scam. Always book your tickets through reputable online platforms or at your hotel’s tour desk.
18.How Can You Respect Thai Culture?
Thailand is a country rooted in culture and respect. As a tourist, it is your duty to learn and follow these customs to ensure your trip is smooth.
In Thailand, respecting the temples or ‘wat’ is really important. From head to toe, you must be dressed according to their requirements. For men, this means wearing trousers or long shorts that cover the knees, and a shirt with sleeves. For women, wear long trousers, a skirt, or a dress that covers your knees. Additionally, your shoulders and torso must also be covered.
Before entering the temple, make sure to take off your shoes and hat. Some of the temples may have staff to check whether your attire is appropriate and offer you something to cover up for a small charge if the dress code is not followed.
The Royal Family of Thailand holds major importance in the country, and disrespecting them is unacceptable. The Lèse-majesté laws make it a criminal offense to insult, defame, or threaten any member of the Royal Family. If anyone is caught badmouthing them, they will be put on trial. Tourists will have to undergo lengthy prison trials for the offence.
It is not just the Royalty who should be respected, their pictures must be respected too. You should never step on currencies as they have the former King’s image on them.
Public display of affection is uncommon in the country. Thai people are known to be pretty conservative. So it’s best to keep your hands to yourself. Small gestures like holding hands are slowly becoming more common, but it’s better to be safe and respectful of their customs. It’s simple to do so. Don’t see the Thai locals doing something that may be common in your country? That’s your cue to not do it either.
19. Health & Safety Tips
It’s common knowledge that to enjoy your vacation, you need to be in good health. The tropical conditions of Pattaya may not be suitable for everyone. So it’s important to take the necessary steps to stay safe and healthy.
As a tourist, it’s generally not recommended to drink tap water anywhere in Thailand. While it can be fine for hygiene uses, it may not be the same for your gut.
But don’t worry, you won’t have to worry about getting dehydrated. Bottled water is a great option for tourists as they are safe and cheap. Hotels usually provide their guests with bottled water, or you can visit the nearest convenience store.
The same rule applies to ice, because it may have been made from tap water. Keep an eye out while you’re exploring street food. Healthy food is more important than tasty food.
If you’re planning to visit Pattaya during the hot months of March to May, then be cautious as you’re open to the risk of heatstroke. It is recommended to pack light coloured, loose-fitting clothes, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Take frequent breaks under any shade you can find. During these months, it’s best to limit alcohol consumption as it may lead to dehydration. Typically, 11 am to 3 pm are the hottest hours out there. It’s best to stay in during these hours.
In case of any medical emergencies, you’re at the right place because Pattaya has made its reputation for its high-quality private hospitals. These hospitals have well-trained international doctors, so the language barrier may not be an issue. Bangkok Hospital Pattaya is the best among the list with its international standards of service.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, then Pattaya International Hospital and Pattaya Memorial Hospital are your go-to. With high-quality and affordable rates, they have made a name for themselves.
But if you are in need of emergency help and no hospitals are nearby, then dial their hotline number 1669. While calling the hotline, it is suggested to have a Thai speaker nearby to help you out.
Practical Connectivity & Tech
20. Pattaya SIM Cards & Data
For tourists, it’s a necessity to have proper connectivity to stay in touch with everyone while they’re traveling. In Pattaya, you have excellent options for both physical SIM cards and modern eSIMs, ensuring you have reliable data and communication access throughout your trip.
The Thai mobile market is led by two major telecommunications giants: AIS and True Corporation. Both offer extensive 5G coverage and various tourist-friendly packages that are very similar in price and offerings.
If you plan to travel outside major cities, then AIS is your best choice as it offers wider coverage. Their ‘Tourist SIM’ can give you a generous amount of high-speed data.
True Corporation has a larger user list with its reliable network. Their “Happy Tourist” and “Tourist Infinite” SIM packages are popular and often offer unlimited data for a set period. This gives excellent value for heavy data users. You can easily purchase these SIMs at airports or convenience stores by showing your passport for registration.
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of getting a physical SIM, there is an option for eSIMs that can be activated digitally. This choice will also help you to keep your home country SIM active while still being able to make local calls. Both AIS and True Corporation offer eSIM options, which you can purchase through their websites.
Third-party eSIM providers like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Ubigi are also SIMs that tourists opt for. These platforms for purchasing them are quite user-friendly. But, point to note, always check whether the SIM is compatible with your device. Not all devices support them.
21.Apps that Can Come in Handy
A successful trip to Pattaya relies on having the right tools at your fingertips. These essential apps can help you communicate, manage money, and get around the city with ease.
Grab and Bolt are the safest and most convenient options for you to hail a ride. The prices are pre-fixed, so you won’t have to go through the hassle of negotiating with the driver after the ride.
Grab is known as the “super app” of Southeast Asia, also offering food and grocery delivery. Bolt is a strong competitor that has gained popularity for its often significantly lower fares, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Google Translate is a great option for you if you haven’t learned the language yet. The app comes in handy with its two-way real-time communication option and image-to-text translation option. Download the app and its Thai language pack, and it’s ready to go. The best part is that it works without an internet connection, so you won’t have anything to worry about.
LINE is a popular platform in Thailand used for texting. It is quite similar to WhatsApp. You’ll probably notice the locals using the app while you’re going around. The app has a built-in translation option and popular sticker options to make it more fun to use. Want to stay in touch with locals or get information from local businesses? Here’s your way to do that.
If you are someone who has difficulty finding your way around currency, then XE Currency can be your saviour. You can use it for any currency in the world, while saving the last updated currency details. This means you won’t need an internet connection each time you use it. Budgeting can be right under your fingertips. The app uses mid-market rates, which are often more accurate than the rates you’ll find at a local currency exchange or bank. Just set your home country currency and Thai Baht, and you’re ready to explore while saving money. Compare the rates on the go and save yourself both time and money.
Budgeting & Cost-Saving Tips
22. What Should be Your Average Daily Budget?
From budget-friendly street food and hostels to luxurious resorts and high-end dining, the average daily budget to explore Pattaya is completely upto your travel style.
If you are a budget traveler you can expect an average budget of $35 to $50 per day, which is around ~1,250-1,800 THB. A mid-range traveler can expect to spend between $70-$120 per day, which is around ~2,500-4,300 THB. This budget can get you a comfortable private room in a 3-4 star hotel, a mix of street food and sit-down meals, and transportation via ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt.
But if you’re a luxury traveler, you’ll need around $250 (~9,000+ THB) per day. With this budget you can stay at a 5-star hotel, dine at high-end restaurants and hire a private car.
Want to save money while having fun? Then Pattaya is the right place to be. Eating local food can be a start to saving a lot of money, while you get an authentic Thai food experience. You can enjoy mouthwatering street food for just 50 to 100 THB.
Another way to save is by choosing public transportation options like songthaews, which will only cost you around 10-30 THB for most trips. Even using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt can be a cheaper option compared to negotiating with taxi drivers.
Bargaining wisely can help you get a lot of items at cheap rates. Start off your offer at 50-60% of the initial price and work your way up to a price you think is fair. Keeping these tips in mind can help you save money while getting the best experience.
23. Pattaya’s Hidden Costs
While Pattaya is mostly affordable, there are some hidden costs you need to be aware of to manage your finances well. Temple donations and transportation surcharges during peak hours can lead to unnecessary spending. That is why we are here to guide you through everything, making sure you have the best experience.
A few of Pattaya’s large temples may charge you a small entrance fee, but mostly the temples here are free to enter. A donation box will be kept in a visible area if you feel like donating some amount. This is completely up to you. While any amount is acceptable as a donation, a small amount such as 20 THB to 50 THB is usually considered a kind gesture.
Women, be careful not to pass any money directly to a Monk. It is respectful to place the money in the Monk’s alms basket, as monks are not supposed to touch women.
Local transport charges while traveling around Pattaya can fluctuate according to what time of day you decide to get out. Apps like Grab and Bolt will have price surges during peak hours or heavy rainfall. You’re still in control of whether or not to pay such high fares because the fares are mentioned even before booking. The rates may also be higher if you travel at night or ask the drivers to take a diversion from the main location. Then they will raise the prices like private cabs.
While choosing to travel by tuk-tuks or traditional taxis, make sure to negotiate the price even before the journey begins. These drivers tend to raise prices during nighttime when competitors are low.
Final Travel Checklist
Key Dos and Donts to Remember :
- Do complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) at least three days before your arrival.
- Do take a photo or a copy of your hotel card.
- Do respect the Royal Family.
- Do dress appropriately when visiting temples.
- Do stay safe from common scams.
- Do add the Thai Tourist Police number to your contacts (1155)
- Do use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt for transparent pricing.
- Do download a navigation app.
- Don’t drink tap water.
- Don’t leave your passport as collateral for rentals.
- Don’t engage in excessive public displays of affection.
- Don’t disrespect any locals.
Packing Essentials for Pattaya:
- Health and Safety: Sunscreen, insect repellent, bottled water, sanitizer, small first aid kit
- Clothing: Light coloured clothes, clothing appropriate for temples, beachwear
- Documents and Money: Passport, TDAC confirmation form, Thai Baht as cash, Photocopy of important documents like passport.
- Electronics: Universal adapter, portable power bank
A trip to Pattaya in 2025 promises a blend of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and unforgettable experiences. From understanding when to visit, what to carry, how to follow the rules and many other ‘steps to follow’, these tips can ensure you have a smooth travel experience. Book your experiences through Thrillark to make it much smoother and create memories that last a lifetime.
