10 Things to See in Pattaya for Free
Holidays are supposed to be about letting your hair down, relaxing and taking in the sights. It doesn’t always have to be about spending money, and a vibrant city like Pattaya shouldn’t be any different.
There are still plenty of things to do and see in Pattaya that won’t break the bank, or even better, are completely free!
Here’s a list of the top 10 things to see in Pattaya for free.
Beach Days
Take full advantage of Pattaya’s various beaches and enjoy a few hours sunbathing by the water.
Whether you prefer the much more lively delights of Pattaya Beach or the more tranquil, peaceful ambience of Wong Amat Beach, there’s most certainly a beach to suit your needs.
Pattaya City Sign
With an endless view of the pure blue ocean, the Pattaya City Sign looks out over the Bali Hai Pier and beyond.
This viewpoint is a great way to view the entire city from above whilst soaking up some sun.
Don’t forget to bring your sun protection and your camera, makes for a good photo opportunity!
Big Buddha
Located on top of Pratamnak Hill, sitting at a respectable 18 metres tall, is the golden Big Buddha. This Buddha is the largest in the region and the highlight of Wat Phra Yai Temple.
There are several smaller Buddha figures surrounding the grounds each representing different days of the week (prominent information in Thai culture). As well as being visited tourists, locals often come here to pay respect and pray.
Buddha Mountain
Engraved into the northern face of Khao Chi Chan, sits a giant golden image of Buddha. Originally carved into the mountainside to commemorate His Majesty the King of Thailand’s 50th year on the throne, the image was first lasered and then filled in with gold.
Please wear the appropriate clothes as the grounds include a temple and are often occupied by monks and locals who come to pay their respects.
Queen Sirikit Park
This botanical garden was named after Queen Sirikit, The Queen of Thailand to celebrate her 60th birthday.
Often occupied by dog walkers, joggers and cyclists, this is a good place to take a break from city life and enjoy a peaceful walk in nature. There are different routes to fully explore this hidden Pattaya gem.
Silverlake Vineyard
Reminiscent of the Italian countryside with its old-style buildings and detailed statues, the Silverlake Vineyard is a place of pure beauty.
Of course, there are tours and extras that do cost but if you’d like to just enjoy this secret haven and take in the serenity of this vineyard then definitely pay this one a visit as the entry is free.
Mabprachan Lake
Located in East Pattaya, Mabprachan Lake is the largest reservoir in the whole of Pattaya. Many popular annual events are held at the lake such as Loy Krathong and the Indo-China Longboat Racing but it’s also a good spot to relax and enjoy some lunch! Some locals like to come here to do a spot of fishing or just to have a bit of a walk-around.
Night Markets
You haven’t explored Pattaya properly if you haven’t visited the night markets! Markets such as Thepprasit Road Night Market, Jomtien Night Market and the Pattaya Night Bazaar are home to a variety of clothing goods, traditional Thai dishes and souvenirs.
This doesn’t mean you have to start emptying your pockets, sometimes just wandering around, taking in the bright colours and enjoying the lively atmosphere is enough.
Day Markets
Who said markets are only to be enjoyed at night?
If you want to enjoy everything that a night market has to offer but during the day, head to Soi Buakhao Market.
Taking place every Tuesday and Friday, this eclectic market is always buzzing with people, high vibes and new sights.
Shopping Malls
Pattaya is home to some of the best shopping malls in Thailand. Whether you want to do a little window shopping or simply enjoy the air conditioning, then head into one of the many malls around. Most of them have some form of live entertainment too.
If you’re looking for more information about the malls in Pattaya, why not check out 5 Best Shopping Malls in Pattaya
If you’re looking for some family-friendly activities in Pattaya, then please check out my previous post 5 Family-Friendly Attractions in Pattaya
And if you’re interested in reading about my personal experience living in Pattaya, please check out Pattaya, Thailand: My Experience
