PATTAYA
Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Pattaya
I chose Pattaya for a two-week trip because it combines beach holidays, cultural sights, and convenient access to nearby destinations like Bangkok, and even Cambodia. The city is easy to reach, offers affordable accommodation, and serves as a good base for day trips and excursions.
I’ve put together this two-week Pattaya itinerary as an example to help you plan your own trip. You can adjust it to your pace, interests, and travel style - add more beach days, explore nearby islands, or include extra excursions if you wish.
I’ve put together this two-week Pattaya itinerary as an example to help you plan your own trip. You can adjust it to your pace, interests, and travel style - add more beach days, explore nearby islands, or include extra excursions if you wish.
CONTENTS
- Travel Essentials
- Day 1-2: Koh Larn Island
- Day 3-4: Bangkok
- Day 5-6: Pattaya
- Day 7-8: Nature escapes
- Day 9-10: Pattaya
- Day 11-12: Cambodia
- Day 13-14: Pattaya
HOW TO GET THERE
Most international travelers arrive at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. From the airport, Pattaya can be reached by bus, which departs regularly and takes about two hours to the Pattaya Bus stations (the ticket office and the bus stop exit are located on the first floor of the airport near exit 8, leading to the parking area). You can buy tickets there or use the 12Go Asia service to book them online in advance.
Most international travelers arrive at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. From the airport, Pattaya can be reached by bus, which departs regularly and takes about two hours to the Pattaya Bus stations (the ticket office and the bus stop exit are located on the first floor of the airport near exit 8, leading to the parking area). You can buy tickets there or use the 12Go Asia service to book them online in advance.
Generally, if you need to book transport in Thailand, check out the 12Go Asia service - it’s an easy way to buy tickets for buses, trains, and ferries online.
From the bus station, local taxis are available to reach hotels in the city or you can order a taxi through the app Bolt.
For travelers who prefer comfort and direct service, it is possible to book a private transfer from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya in advance (in 12Go also). This option saves time and eliminates the need to arrange transportation upon arrival.
For travelers who prefer comfort and direct service, it is possible to book a private transfer from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya in advance (in 12Go also). This option saves time and eliminates the need to arrange transportation upon arrival.
WHERE TO STAY
Pattaya offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts. Most hotels are concentrated along the central areas of the city, close to the beach, shopping centers, and nightlife.
For those looking for a quiet holiday, the northern and southern parts of Pattaya provide more relaxed areas with family-friendly hotels and resorts. Travelers who prefer lively surroundings often choose hotels near Central Pattaya and Walking Street, where entertainment and restaurants are within walking distance.
Beach lovers may also consider staying closer to Jomtien, which is less crowded and offers a more laid-back atmosphere.
Pattaya offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts. Most hotels are concentrated along the central areas of the city, close to the beach, shopping centers, and nightlife.
For those looking for a quiet holiday, the northern and southern parts of Pattaya provide more relaxed areas with family-friendly hotels and resorts. Travelers who prefer lively surroundings often choose hotels near Central Pattaya and Walking Street, where entertainment and restaurants are within walking distance.
Beach lovers may also consider staying closer to Jomtien, which is less crowded and offers a more laid-back atmosphere.
💡 If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out my other guides - I’ve already shared several hotel selections in Pattaya and across Thailand:
🔹 Stylish Pattaya Beachfront Hotels & Resorts
🔹 Best Nature Hotels in Thailand for Peace & Paradise
🔹 Stylish Pattaya Beachfront Hotels & Resorts
🔹 Best Nature Hotels in Thailand for Peace & Paradise
Opinion: If peace and quiet aren’t your top priorities, it’s best to stay near the city center. The sea in Pattaya itself isn’t the best for swimming, so if you prefer clearer water and better beaches, you’ll need to take the ferry to Koh Larn. In that case, staying close to the Bali Hai Pier area is the most convenient - you’ll be near the port, cafés, markets, and all the city action.
TRAVEL SIM
Getting a SIM card in Thailand is easy. Tourists can buy one right at the airport, but prices there are usually higher. A more budget-friendly option is to purchase a SIM card at local convenience stores or mobile shops in the city.
Alternatively, you can order an eSIM in advance - this way, you’ll have internet access as soon as you land.
Getting a SIM card in Thailand is easy. Tourists can buy one right at the airport, but prices there are usually higher. A more budget-friendly option is to purchase a SIM card at local convenience stores or mobile shops in the city.
Alternatively, you can order an eSIM in advance - this way, you’ll have internet access as soon as you land.
Day 1-2: Koh Larn Island
Samae, Koh Larn island, Thailand
The trip begins with a short ferry ride to Koh Larn, the most popular island near Pattaya. Ferries depart from Bali Hai Pier and take around 30–40 minutes. Samae Beach (we liked it the most) is known for its clear water, soft sand, and good facilities. Spending the first day here is a great way to relax after the journey and enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and local beach restaurants.
After returning from Koh Larn, travelers can spend the evening along Pattaya’s Beach Road and Walking Street. The seaside promenade is lively with restaurants, street food, and night markets, while Walking Street is known for its bars, clubs, and vibrant nightlife. A simple walk in this area combines both the atmosphere of the city and entertainment options.
After returning from Koh Larn, travelers can spend the evening along Pattaya’s Beach Road and Walking Street. The seaside promenade is lively with restaurants, street food, and night markets, while Walking Street is known for its bars, clubs, and vibrant nightlife. A simple walk in this area combines both the atmosphere of the city and entertainment options.
Pattaya’s Beach Road
Walking Street
On the ferry
Samae beach view
Day 3-4: Bangkok
A two-day trip to Bangkok provides an opportunity to explore both the historic and modern sides of Thailand’s capital.
You can explore Bangkok on your own or join an organized tour - it all depends on how you prefer to travel. I’ve picked out the most unforgettable spots that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Bangkok - the places that really capture the city’s energy and charm.
You can explore Bangkok on your own or join an organized tour - it all depends on how you prefer to travel. I’ve picked out the most unforgettable spots that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Bangkok - the places that really capture the city’s energy and charm.
Bangkok view from Wat Saket
HIGHLIGHTS OF DAY 1
✔️ Wat Saket (Golden Mount) - a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city.
✔️ Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanatdaram - a unique multi-tiered temple structure, rare in Buddhist architecture. You can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere there and even take some time to meditate in tranquility.
✔️ Canal Boat Ride - a traditional experience showing another side of Bangkok, away from busy streets.
✔️ ICONSIAM Mall - one of the largest malls in Thailand, with international shops, restaurants, and an indoor floating market and even fountain. So it is worth setting aside extra time for a visit.
✔️ Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise – an evening boat ride with dinner, views of illuminated temples, and the city skyline.
✔️ Wat Saket (Golden Mount) - a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city.
✔️ Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanatdaram - a unique multi-tiered temple structure, rare in Buddhist architecture. You can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere there and even take some time to meditate in tranquility.
✔️ Canal Boat Ride - a traditional experience showing another side of Bangkok, away from busy streets.
✔️ ICONSIAM Mall - one of the largest malls in Thailand, with international shops, restaurants, and an indoor floating market and even fountain. So it is worth setting aside extra time for a visit.
✔️ Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise – an evening boat ride with dinner, views of illuminated temples, and the city skyline.
Wat Saket
Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanatdaram
Canal Boat Ride
Bangkok street
Fountain in Icon Siam
Evening cruise
Icon Siam
Wat Arun view
Tip: Exploring Bangkok involves long walks between temples, markets, and city streets, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes. A hat and sunscreen are strongly recommended, as much of the sightseeing takes place outdoors under the sun.
HIGHLIGHTS OF DAY 2
✔️ Lumphini Park – a green oasis in the middle of the city, popular for morning walks.
✔️ King Power Mahanakhon Tower – one of Bangkok’s most famous skyscrapers, standing 314 meters tall. The highlight is the glass skywalk on the 78th floor, where visitors can step onto a transparent platform and look straight down at the city. The panoramic view from the observation deck is one of the most impressive in Bangkok, especially at sunset. Highly recommended!
✔️ Talat Noi Market and Chinatown – a mix of street food, local culture, and old-town atmosphere.
✔️ Baiyoke Sky Tower – one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, with a rotating observation deck and a buffet restaurant. It is best to visit in the evening, when the city is illuminated and the skyline can be seen in full lights. Highly recommended also.
✔️ Lumphini Park – a green oasis in the middle of the city, popular for morning walks.
✔️ King Power Mahanakhon Tower – one of Bangkok’s most famous skyscrapers, standing 314 meters tall. The highlight is the glass skywalk on the 78th floor, where visitors can step onto a transparent platform and look straight down at the city. The panoramic view from the observation deck is one of the most impressive in Bangkok, especially at sunset. Highly recommended!
✔️ Talat Noi Market and Chinatown – a mix of street food, local culture, and old-town atmosphere.
✔️ Baiyoke Sky Tower – one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, with a rotating observation deck and a buffet restaurant. It is best to visit in the evening, when the city is illuminated and the skyline can be seen in full lights. Highly recommended also.
Lumphini Park
Mahanakhon Tower
Transparent platform
View from Mahanakhon Tower
Chinatown
View from Baiyoke Sky Tower
Getting around is part of the experience: the BTS Skytrain and MRT metro are convenient for longer distances, canal boats show the city from a different angle, and tuk-tuks add a local touch for short rides.
WHERE TO STAY
In Bangkok, some of the best areas to stay are:
🔹 Sukhumvit - great for nightlife and shopping/ Staybridge Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit
🔹 Chinatown - packed with street food and local culture/ Grand China Bangkok
🔹 Khao San Road - the backpacker hub with cheap hostels and bars/ Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon
In Bangkok, some of the best areas to stay are:
🔹 Sukhumvit - great for nightlife and shopping/ Staybridge Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit
🔹 Chinatown - packed with street food and local culture/ Grand China Bangkok
🔹 Khao San Road - the backpacker hub with cheap hostels and bars/ Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon
Day 5-6: Pattaya
ACTIVITIES
✔️ Koh Larn Beaches - besides Samae, two other popular options are Tawaen Beach, the busiest with plenty of cafés and water activities, and Tien Beach, cozy, quieter and less crowded.
✔️ Big Buddha Hill - accessible by taxi, a key landmark of Pattaya where visitors often make wishes.
✔️ Shopping - two major malls are Terminal 21 Pattaya, with its themed design, and Central Pattaya, a modern shopping and dining hub.
✔️ Koh Larn Beaches - besides Samae, two other popular options are Tawaen Beach, the busiest with plenty of cafés and water activities, and Tien Beach, cozy, quieter and less crowded.
✔️ Big Buddha Hill - accessible by taxi, a key landmark of Pattaya where visitors often make wishes.
✔️ Shopping - two major malls are Terminal 21 Pattaya, with its themed design, and Central Pattaya, a modern shopping and dining hub.
Tip: In temples, shoes must be removed. Bring socks if you prefer not to walk barefoot. Legs above the knee should be covered; some temples provide skirts, but not everywhere.
Tien Beach
Tien Beach
Big Buddha
Day 7-8: Nature escapes
Pattaya offers a wide variety of excursions for every taste. For a balanced itinerary, it is recommended to include at least one nature-focused trip to Kanchanaburi province. Tickets and detailed programs for excursions should be booked in advance.
THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS D.1
✔️ Boat ride in Amphawa area – you will go to an amazing floating village and take a boat ride along the channels of the Meklong River.
✔️ Erawan Waterfall – swimming in the stunning seven-level Erawan waterfall and unforgettable fish peeling.
✔️ Jungle Hotel on the River Kwai – staying in floating or riverside bungalows.
✔️ Rafting on the River Kwai – drifting along the river in life jackets through the Thai jungle, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, makes for an unforgettable experience.
✔️ Boat ride in Amphawa area – you will go to an amazing floating village and take a boat ride along the channels of the Meklong River.
✔️ Erawan Waterfall – swimming in the stunning seven-level Erawan waterfall and unforgettable fish peeling.
✔️ Jungle Hotel on the River Kwai – staying in floating or riverside bungalows.
✔️ Rafting on the River Kwai – drifting along the river in life jackets through the Thai jungle, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Erawan Waterfall
Jungle Hotel on the River Kwai
Elephant Village
Tiger Cave Temple
Tiger Cave Temple
Sculpture of a monk
THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS D.2
✔️ Sai Yok Noi Waterfall – a scenic waterfall in Kanchanaburi, known for its turquoise pools and surrounding lush jungle, perfect for a short hike and photos.
✔️ Elephant Village – Exploring the elephant village and shows. If you wish, try riding and swimming with an elephant in the River Kwai.
✔️ Tiger Cave Temple – a cave temple where visitors can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and mountains, and make wishes with the help of monks
✔️ Sai Yok Noi Waterfall – a scenic waterfall in Kanchanaburi, known for its turquoise pools and surrounding lush jungle, perfect for a short hike and photos.
✔️ Elephant Village – Exploring the elephant village and shows. If you wish, try riding and swimming with an elephant in the River Kwai.
✔️ Tiger Cave Temple – a cave temple where visitors can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and mountains, and make wishes with the help of monks
⭐ Below you’ll find many excursion options to choose from. ↓
Day 9-10: Pattaya
After the busy days of sightseeing, the next two days can be spent relaxing. A great option is a trip to Koh Samet - you can get there on your own by transfer or book a tour with a local guide.
The island is known for its soft white-sand beaches, clear turquoise water, and a more peaceful vibe compared to Pattaya.
If you prefer to stay nearby, you can enjoy a leisurely beach day in Jomtien, unwind with a Thai spa treatment, or even rent a yacht or speedboat for a private day at sea
The island is known for its soft white-sand beaches, clear turquoise water, and a more peaceful vibe compared to Pattaya.
If you prefer to stay nearby, you can enjoy a leisurely beach day in Jomtien, unwind with a Thai spa treatment, or even rent a yacht or speedboat for a private day at sea
Don’t forget to stroll through Pattaya’s local markets - in the daytime you’ll find fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies, while in the evening the night markets come alive with street food, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere perfect for an easy walk.
Day 11-12: Cambodia
Next 2 days can be dedicated to a fascinating side trip to Cambodia. The easiest way is to book a guided tour - you’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Pattaya and brought back after the trip, which makes the journey hassle-free.
On the first day, after arriving in Siem Reap, you’ll head to Tonle Sap – the largest lake in Southeast Asia. A boat ride takes you through mangroves and floating villages, where you can observe the unique lifestyle of locals living on the water. The day ends with a breathtaking sunset over the lake.
The next morning starts early with a guided tour of the Angkor temple complex - one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. The mix of ancient Khmer architecture, jungle-covered ruins, and the unique life.
🔹 Highlights include the Angkor Wat, the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its Bayon temple and Elephant Terrace, and Ta Prohm – the mysterious, jungle-covered temple featured in the film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.
🔹 You’ll also visit other historic sites such as Ta Keo, Kravan, or the royal bathing pond Srah Srang, making this an inspiring journey into Cambodia’s rich cultural past.
🔹 Highlights include the Angkor Wat, the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its Bayon temple and Elephant Terrace, and Ta Prohm – the mysterious, jungle-covered temple featured in the film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.
🔹 You’ll also visit other historic sites such as Ta Keo, Kravan, or the royal bathing pond Srah Srang, making this an inspiring journey into Cambodia’s rich cultural past.
A short trip to Cambodia is a unique chance to experience something beyond beach life. The grandeur of Angkor temples and the authentic atmosphere of Tonle Sap Lake make this journey truly unforgettable and worth adding to your itinerary.
Day 13-14: Pattaya
The last two days in Pattaya can be spent at your own pace.
You might choose to relax on your favorite beach on Koh Larn, enjoy a fun day at Ramayana Water Park or Pattaya Floating Market, or stroll through beautiful gardens like Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.
Don’t forget to leave time for shopping – explore local markets and malls to pick up souvenirs, handicrafts, and other gifts to take home.
You might choose to relax on your favorite beach on Koh Larn, enjoy a fun day at Ramayana Water Park or Pattaya Floating Market, or stroll through beautiful gardens like Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.
Don’t forget to leave time for shopping – explore local markets and malls to pick up souvenirs, handicrafts, and other gifts to take home.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Ramayana Water Park
Pattaya Floating Market
CONCLUSION
In summary, this 14-day trip offers a perfect balance between cultural exploration and beach relaxation. This combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation makes for an unforgettable Thai getaway.
In summary, this 14-day trip offers a perfect balance between cultural exploration and beach relaxation. This combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation makes for an unforgettable Thai getaway.
🥞 MUST-TRY THAILAND FOOD
- Pad Thai – classic stir-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, egg, and peanuts.
- Tom Yum Goong – a spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and mushrooms.
- Green Curry – fragrant green curry with chicken or seafood and coconut milk.
- Som Tam – spicy green papaya salad with lime, chili, and peanuts.
- Mango Sticky Rice – a sweet dessert of sticky rice with coconut milk and ripe mango.
TRAVEL ESSENCIALS
Now that you’ve got all the tips, it’s time to book your trip!
Find the most convenient flights and accomodation below 👇
Now that you’ve got all the tips, it’s time to book your trip!
Find the most convenient flights and accomodation below 👇
✨ Travel Extras – Plan Your Trip Smart
Don’t forget the travel essentials that make your journey smooth and stress-free.
✈️ Flights: Aviasales | CheapOair – find the best airfare deals.
🏨 Hotels: Trip.com | Hostelworld – book top-rated hotels, resorts & hostels worldwide.
🎟️ Tours & Activities: GetYourTrip | Klook | Tiqets – skip-the-line tickets and unique experiences.
🚗 Car Rental: Rentalcars.com – compare prices & rent cars anywhere.
🚍 Transport: 12Go – compare & book buses, trains, ferries.
📱 eSIM: Airalo – stay connected in 190+ countries.
🍽️ Food Experiences: Eatwith – unique dinners, cooking classes & local culinary tours.
✈️ Flights: Aviasales | CheapOair – find the best airfare deals.
🏨 Hotels: Trip.com | Hostelworld – book top-rated hotels, resorts & hostels worldwide.
🎟️ Tours & Activities: GetYourTrip | Klook | Tiqets – skip-the-line tickets and unique experiences.
🚗 Car Rental: Rentalcars.com – compare prices & rent cars anywhere.
🚍 Transport: 12Go – compare & book buses, trains, ferries.
📱 eSIM: Airalo – stay connected in 190+ countries.
🍽️ Food Experiences: Eatwith – unique dinners, cooking classes & local culinary tours.
Some hotel images featured in this article are sourced from Trip.com.
Some photos of excursions were taken from Getyourguide.com.
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Some photos of excursions were taken from Getyourguide.com.
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