🗺️ Excursions in Pattaya in Russian: what to choose and how much it costs

Pattaya isn't just about beaches and nightlife streets.

Every morning, dozens of tour groups leave the city: to temples, islands, jungles, and neighboring provinces. Choosing the right one is tricky because outdated descriptions mix up facts and overpromise.

We've put together thirty guided tours that run from Pattaya and organized them by format, duration, and price range. For each one, you'll see who it's for and what not to expect.

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How to choose a tour in Pattaya

💡 In short:

Group trips are cheaper than private ones: you pay for a seat in a minivan or on a boat, not for the whole vehicle.
A private guide with a car makes sense if you're a group of up to four people.
Book day trips one to two days ahead; multi-day trips to Angkor and the River Kwai at least a week in advance.
Tickets and opening hours: 09/2026, verified on the official Muang Boran museum website.

Below are thirty routes, from budget group outings to evening shows. The order isn't a ranking: read based on your interests.

Format	Who it's for	What to keep in mind
Group day trip	First-time visitors, budget-conscious	Early departure and hotel pickups
Private car tour	Groups of up to four people	Fixed price per group
Multi-day trip	Samet, Angkor, River Kwai	Requires a deposit and passport
Evening show	Relaxing after the beach	Transfer and dinner are often extra

Whatever you choose, confirm the pickup time the evening before: schedules change due to weather and waves.

1. Trip to Chanthaburi province

AIIllustrative image: AI-generated

Here you'll see secluded rainforests, ancient temples, and small villages off the tourist trail. Chanthaburi National Park showcases the mainland nature of Thailand in a way you rarely find by the sea.

Departure is early, the guide drives you by car, and the program takes a full day. At the top of a mountain peak stands a monastery, reached by a long staircase. You can climb on foot or take the funicular.

A separate part of the guide's story covers the history of the Vietnamese diaspora in the province.

How to get there: only as part of a tour; getting here on your own is inconvenient.
Who it's for: those who have already seen Pattaya and want nature.
The catch: the climb to the monastery involves stairs, which is tiring in the heat.

2. Wat Yan temple complex, Chinese museum, and golden Buddha

Miniature stupa in Mini Siam Park, Pattaya

Wat Yan suits those who want to understand the religion and culture of both Thailand and China. In the complex's park, Buddhists meditate, and nearby stands the Chinese temple Viharn Sien with its collection of statues.

The main stop on the route is Khao Chi Chan mountain. A huge golden image of Buddha is carved into the cliff face, visible from the road before you even start the climb. After that, you'll visit a chapel on a neighboring mountain, reached by the same staircase of several hundred steps.

Climbing the steps is believed to be purifying, so the route isn't shortened.

Cost: the price depends on group size; a private tour works out cheaper per person for a group.
Who it's for: families and those coming for photos of the golden Buddha.

3. The amazing and ancient Muang Boran

Golden temple with a spire in Muang Boran

Muang Boran (Ancient City) is a huge open-air museum on the outskirts of Bangkok. The sprawling grounds feature replicas and scaled-down models of more than a hundred significant structures from Thailand. Some of the buildings were invented by architects, so don't go looking for them on a map of the country.

An adult ticket for foreigners costs 800 baht; children aged 6 to 14 pay 400 baht (as of 09/2026, official website). The museum is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, with the ticket office closing at 18:00.

For an additional fee, you can order lunch at the floating market. See Thailand tours on GetYourGuide.

The catch: the grounds are huge, and walking around them in one day is difficult.
Who it's for: those who want to see the whole country in one trip.

4. A trip to Chachoengsao province

If you've already explored Pattaya, head to Chachoengsao for new experiences. The first stop is Wat Saman Rattanaram with its enormous pink Ganesha statue, visible from far away.

Next up is a bird park and a palm garden. Parrots, geese, peacocks, and hornbills live here, and it's easy to get around the grounds in an electric cart. Before looking for the flying foxes hanging in the trees near Wat Pho Bang Khla, the guide will take you to the "Golden Temple."

Park entrance tickets are paid separately from the tour price, so bring cash.

Who it's for: families with kids and bird lovers.

5. Pattaya, first acquaintance

Panorama of Pattaya Bay from the viewpoint

This is a city tour by car with a private guide. You'll see the resort's main landmarks, including a gorgeous view of the Gulf of Thailand from one of the observation decks.

The itinerary includes Wat Yannasangwararam, Khao Chi Chan mountain with its golden Buddha, and Buddha Hill, where a panorama of the city opens up. For an extra fee, the Snake Farm can be added to the route.

This tour is designed for first-time visitors to Pattaya who want to get their bearings. You'll figure out where your hotel is and where to come back in the evening.

Who it's for: first-timers on day one or two of their vacation.

6. Emerald Island

Koh Kham Island near Pattaya is a calm day without beach noise and pushy vendors. The "Blue Lagoon" here served as a private beach for Thai Navy sailors, so the water remains crystal clear.

On the shore there are bamboo huts with thatched roofs, and cafes and bars nearby. After swimming, you'll try local dishes and drinks.

This quiet spot suits couples and anyone tired of city bustle. Find boat tours on GetYourGuide.

Who it's for: those looking for peace, not parties.

7. A trip to Koh Samet

Koh Samet beach with umbrellas and bungalows

The route to Koh Samet goes by speedboat across the waves of the Gulf of Thailand, and the ride itself is already part of the experience. The island is known from Sunthorn Phu's poem, so the guide will tell a local legend about a giant and a magic flute.

You'll find coves with white sand and mysterious caves. The island's resort infrastructure is ready for visitors, but nature here is still almost untouched.

Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sun protection: there's almost no shade on the boat.

Who it's for: fans of boat trips and beautiful beaches.

8. "Madagascar" sea cruise

This cruise is designed for active travelers: fishing, swimming, and a visit to Monkey Island are packed into one day. Music plays on board, performers entertain guests, and light snacks are served.

When the boat drops anchor, you split up by interest: some head off to fish, others go ashore to a white beach to swim and sunbathe. After lunch, the boat heads to Monkey Island, where those who want to can feed macaques by hand.

When packing for the trip, bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, and a mask with fins if you have them.

The catch: some of the onboard entertainment costs extra.

9. A full day on Koh Sichang, the island of luck

Panorama of the coastal town of Koh Si Chang with temples and a pier

Koh Sichang is called the island of Luck, and it takes a full day. A bus from Pattaya takes you to Si Racha, where you'll meet giant tortoises in a city park and feed them.

Next is a Chinese temple on a small hill, and then a boat takes the group to the island itself. Locals speak their own dialect, and life here is arranged according to feng shui.

You'll be driven around the island in unusual tuk-tuks. They look like something between a car and a moped, and you'll see the island in one sightseeing loop. The group stops at a funicular: the ascent leads to an ancient monastery, which, according to local belief, brings good luck to those who visit.

In the monastery caves you'll see a wall covered in gold foil, a statue of the Monkey God, and red ribbons with visitors' names. The route then continues to a picturesque bay with grottoes where, according to legend, pirates hid their stolen treasure. At the end of the route, you'll visit the palace and park complex of King Rama V and have a lunch of Thai dishes.

Who it's for: those who want to see both temples and an island in one day.

10. Sea activities on the uninhabited island of Ko Pai

Silhouette of Koh Phai island over the sea

A sea trip to Ko Pai suits those who want a bit of adventure and plenty of water. The island is uninhabited, so you spend the whole day on the beach and in the sea.

You can go snorkeling and diving here: the seabed near the shore is beautiful, and the fish are used to people. Photographers have plenty of room to work, with enough backdrops for any angle.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and snorkeling gear. After lunch you can simply relax in hammocks before heading back to Pattaya.

Who it's for: snorkeling and fishing enthusiasts.

11. Luxurious Ayutthaya and the Bang Pa-In royal residence

Ruined brick stupa in Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya was the capital of ancient Siam, and over several centuries dozens of kings and ruling dynasties came and went here. Every stone and every column of the ancient city remembers its former grandeur.

During the tour you will see half-ruined and active temples, as well as the Bang Pa-In summer palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty. The guide will tell you the story of Wat Yai, where the statue of King Naresuan the liberator stands.

In the park around the palace you can admire Buddha statues in meditating poses. Wear comfortable shoes: there will be a lot of walking.

Who it's for: those interested in history and archaeology.

12. River Kwai, Erawan and Sai Yok Noi waterfalls

Cascades of Erawan Waterfall with turquoise water

This is a two-day trip to the River Kwai, often called the Venice of Thailand. Life here buzzes right on the water, with jungle rising all around.

The itinerary includes the Erawan and Sai Yok Noi waterfalls. You will swim in the turquoise pools of the waterfall and walk the trails of the national park.

The trip includes an overnight stay, so bring a change of clothes and a light backpack. Book the trip on GetYourGuide.

The catch: part of the route is on dirt roads, and in rain the itinerary is shortened.

13. Cambodia in 2 days (Siem Reap and Angkor Wat)

Stone tower of Angkor Wat temple close-up

The most affordable two-day trip from Pattaya introduces you to Angkor Wat and the character of Cambodia. The itinerary covers the main temples of Siem Reap and an evening walk around the city.

Given the long transfers in both directions, it's best to leave small children at home. The visa is issued right at the border.

You choose the accommodation category: economy, standard, or VIP. Economy does not include breakfast, dinner, or the entertainment show.

The catch: a lot of time is spent on the road, leaving only half a day for the temples themselves.

14. Amazing Thailand

Grand Palace in Bangkok at sunset from the river

This one-day tour packs the country's most recognizable symbols into a single route. You will see the temples, palaces, and viewpoints that tourists search for most often.

The itinerary is designed for those who have only a few free days in Pattaya. The guide helps you navigate the transfers between sites.

Bring a hat and water: the day is long and there is little shade along the route. See similar tours on GetYourGuide.

Who it's for: those who want to see as much as possible in one day.

15. Princess Island

Ko Samae San is unofficially called Princess Island and Turtle Island. Fishing families once lived here, and later the area was used for military exercises.

The island is only now gaining popularity. There is almost no infrastructure: a few cafes and shade canopies are open, so bring everything you need with you.

You'll find white sand beaches and a coral reef right off the shore. On the way back, you'll visit the Luang Pho Dam temple, a turtle farm, and Khao Chi Chan mountain.

The catch: few amenities, and umbrellas and loungers are almost impossible to find.

16. A trip to Bangkok

Golden spires of Wat Phra Kaew temple in Bangkok

Bangkok will overwhelm you with its crowds and the sheer number of temples, palaces, and monuments. In one day you'll see the main sights that are usually shown to visitors to the capital.

The itinerary includes a romantic cruise along the old canals of the Chao Phraya River on long-tail boats. Then you'll ride a Ferris wheel next to a shopping mall, where you can browse the stores.

The drive from Pattaya to Bangkok takes several hours, so departure is early. Comfortable shoes matter more than dressy ones.

Who it's for: those who want to compare the resort with the capital.

17. An evening in old Siam

Three-headed elephant of the Erawan Museum among trees

This trip immerses you in the world of the Thai kingdom's antiquities. You'll see monuments of old architecture, landscaped parks, and entertainment for the whole group.

The main stop on the route is the Erawan Museum, shaped like a giant three-headed elephant. It embodies the legend of the elephant that carried the Hindu deity Indra.

In the ancient city park of Muang Boran, replicas of Thailand's architectural masterpieces unfold before you. Sightseeing alternates with interacting with spotted deer and bike rides. Dinner awaits you at a floating market.

Who it's for: those who want to see Siam without traveling between cities.

18. Ko Krok, Ko Sak, and Ko Lan islands

A sea excursion to three small islands introduces you to the pristine nature of the Gulf of Thailand. The group departs by boat from the Pattaya pier.

Speedboats in a turquoise bay near Tawaen Beach

On Ko Krok you'll relax on the only white sand beach, ride a banana boat, and try fishing. You can buy souvenir crafts from local stone carvers.

Ko Sak greets you with a quiet, wind-protected bay. Those who want to can try parasailing along the way.

A coral reef with colorful inhabitants stretches along the southern shore of Ko Sak. All this beauty is visible not only when diving but also through the porthole of a small submarine, so snorkeling here is complemented by an underwater ride.

Ko Lan, the largest of the three, buzzes with beaches and water attractions. On the way back, you'll simply relax on deck, taking in the day's impressions.

Who it's for: those who want to see several islands in one day.

19. Sak Yant magic tattoos

Monk applying a Sak Yant tattoo with a long needle

Sak Yant tattoos are practiced only in Thailand and Cambodia. These are sacred Buddhist-inspired patterns believed to bring protection, health, and luck.

You'll watch a master apply a pattern to other clients and learn the meaning of the symbols. If you wish, you can become the bearer of a design on a chosen area of your skin.

The master doesn't always agree with the guest's choice and may offer their own option. Each tattoo is selected individually, and at the end of the ritual a chant is recited.

There are many places to choose from: symbolic patterns are applied in almost all temples of Northern Thailand and Bangkok. Applying a pattern is not a craft but a ritual with the recitation of mantras.

The catch: the master may refuse if they consider the pattern unsuitable.
Who it's for: those interested in Buddhism and tattoo culture.

20. Discovery tour

This one-day excursion is built around animals. It starts at Monkey Mountain, home to Javanese macaques: feeding them delights children.

Next, the group visits a pineapple grove and then an oyster farm, where you'll be treated to fresh shellfish with Thai sauce. After that, you'll see the Red Dragon Chinese temple.

The Thai Hell and Heaven Temple, with its statues of sinners, leaves a grim impression. At the nearby Tiger Zoo, you'll catch shows with tigers, crocodiles, and elephants.

The catch: macaques grab things, so keep an eye on your bags and glasses.
Who it's for: families with children.

21. Traditional culture and religion in Pattaya

Man in traditional clothing reading a book under a tree

This tour of sacred sites gives you an inside look at ethnic and religious traditions. You'll visit a Karen hill tribe village where long-necked women live: the custom of wearing brass coils is kept alive for tourists.

In a typical Thai village, you'll learn about rural life and take part in rituals meant to ward off bad luck. At Wat Yansangwararam monastery, you'll be invited to climb a long staircase to the sacred Buddha's footprint.

Then you'll visit a Chinese museum with a terracotta army, a crocodile lake with skewers, and a vineyard with grape juice. It makes for a packed day.

The catch: some rituals are designed to encourage donations.

22. Diving on the reefs near Pattaya

Pattaya works well for both beginners and experienced divers. The tour takes half a day and is led by a professional instructor.

You'll do two dives and see the underwater world of the bay. A companion can come along without diving if diving itself isn't for you.

Exploring sunken objects requires a special certification. Without it, descents to them are not allowed.

The catch: certification isn't issued on the day of the tour, so plan ahead.
Who it's for: those who want to try their first dive.

23. Caribo sea program

Caribo offers several hours on the bamboo island of Koh Pai, far from civilization. You'll relax on the beach, fish, and snorkel.

Thrill-seekers can try wakeboarding or riding an inflatable tube behind a boat. On the sand, people play volleyball and soccer, and lunch is included for everyone.

The trip is convenient for families: children under five usually get a free spot, but check with the operator.

Who it's for: families and fans of beach activities.

24. Two-day tour to Koh Samet

White sand and lagoon of a tropical island

AIIllustrative image: AI-generated

Two days on Koh Samet will stay with you for a long time. Virgin forests, mirror-like lagoons, and white coral sand draw many tourists here.

On the first day, you'll swim in clear water and explore the underwater world with a mask. In the evening, a fire show on the beach awaits you.

On the second day, you'll walk the trails of the national park and see ancient temples. If you like, get a massage or stop by a beachfront bar. Compare options on GetYourGuide.

Who it's for: those willing to stay overnight for a peaceful island.

25. Trip to Siam Amazing Park in Bangkok

Arch of shaped bushes in an amusement park

Siam Amazing Park is called Thailand's Disneyland: all the rides are designed in an Asian style. The grounds are divided into three zones: a water park, kids' and family rides, and extreme attractions.

The water park with its artificial sea appeals to everyone: there are plenty of water slides and pools. In the kids' zone, little ones can enjoy carousels and swings.

For thrill-seekers, the X-Zone with roller coasters is open. Check current tickets and opening hours on the park's official website (as of 09/2026).

The park covers a large area, so bring comfortable shoes and water for the whole day. Parents with older kids will enjoy the family zone, which is "populated" with fantastic creatures and space-themed rides.

The exotic landscape adds to the experience, and transportation runs between zones. Even those who have been to Disneyland in Paris usually find something new here.

Who it's for: families ready for a full day of entertainment.

26. Trip to Khao Kheow Open Zoo

White rhinoceros by the enclosure fence at the zoo

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is an open zoo that houses almost all tropical animal species. Many of them roam freely around the grounds, while predators live in spacious enclosures behind fencing.

You'll feed giraffes and elephants, and see a pygmy hippo and a tapir. A guide will help you navigate the themed zones. The guide's language, English or German, should be confirmed when booking.

Check exact prices and opening hours on the official Khao Kheow Open Zoo website (as of 09/2026). Bring water and sunscreen.

Who it's for: families and anyone who loves animals.

27. ATV riding near the resort

The ATV ride takes you through the outskirts of Pattaya. You'll admire coconut and date palm groves, see pineapple plantations and dense jungle.

The program offers two classes of vehicles: light and more powerful ones. Any driver can operate them, with instruction provided before departure.

Passengers pay less than drivers, so you can ride two on one vehicle. See adventure tours on GetYourGuide.

The catch: the route is dusty, so wear closed clothing.

28. Columbia Pictures Aquaverse water park

Surfer on an artificial wave at Aquaverse water park

The water park formerly known as Cartoon Network Amazone now operates as Columbia Pictures Aquaverse. The design and ride structures won't disappoint you or your kids.

A full day here flies by: water slides, pools and movie-themed zones await. After the adrenaline rush, you can have lunch at one of the cafes.

Bring a change of clothes and a towel; locker rental is paid.

Older kids usually don't want to leave until closing, and parents should claim loungers early in the morning.

At lunchtime, cafe lines are long. Arrive at opening to hit the most popular slides without waiting.

Who it's for: families with kids and water park lovers.

29. Alangkarn show

The Alangkarn costume show introduces audiences to the history and traditions of Thailand. Episodes from the Ramayana epic, Thai myths and legends come to life on stage.

The production features laser and light effects, and the finale is a battle scene on elephants. You'll see three themed acts: beliefs, national dances and the history of the three kingdoms.

The show lasts about three hours and works well for an evening after the beach.

Who it's for: those who want to see Thai culture on stage.

30. Spice garden

Sliced green onion stalks on a cutting board

The history of spices goes back to the distant past, and Thai cuisine is unthinkable without them. At the spice garden and museum, you'll see the full variety of aromatic herbs and learn about their beneficial properties.

In the garden, you'll breathe in the aromas of herbs, flowers and fruit trees. Then you'll take a quick cooking class to prepare a three-course lunch: a salad, shrimp soup and chicken with rice.

After tea, you'll stop by the specialty shop for spice sets, balms and natural creams.

Who it's for: those interested in Thai cuisine.

Pattaya on the map: where excursions start

Most groups meet at hotels in the center or at Bali Hai Pier. The meeting point will be confirmed the day before, usually one day prior to departure.

Getting around Pattaya is easy by taxi or songthaew, but for distant meeting points it's simpler to arrange a transfer from your hotel. Compare transfer options.

Tours and tickets in Pattaya

Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and activities — most offers can be cancelled free of charge.

See offers on GetYourGuide

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⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

How much does a tour from Pattaya cost?

Prices depend on the format. Group boat trips to Koh Krok and Koh Pai are the cheapest, a private car tour with a guide costs more per group, and multi-day trips to Angkor and the River Kwai are the most expensive. Bring cash: park entrance tickets are often paid separately from the tour price.

What language are the tours conducted in?

Tours from Pattaya are usually conducted in English. Some operators have German-speaking guides. The language is listed in the tour description, so confirm it when booking in advance.

Which tours are suitable for children?

Kids usually enjoy Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Siam Amazing Park, Columbia Pictures Aquaverse water park, and the Discovery Tour with monkey feeding. It's better not to take young children on island trips with long travel times or on the two-day tour to Cambodia, as the journeys are tiring.

What should I bring on a boat trip?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, and a mask with fins if you have them. For Koh Pai and Caribo, add a camera and a light cover-up to prevent sunburn. There is almost no shade on the boats, and after swimming you'll want to change into something dry.

Is Pattaya suitable for beginner divers?

Yes, conditions here are good for first dives: warm water and shallow reefs close to shore. The tour is led by a professional instructor, and a companion can swim with you without diving. You won't be allowed to visit wreck sites without a certification.

In short: what's worth booking

Choose based on your group and your mood. If you have only a few days, take a one-day group tour to the temples or the islands. If you're traveling with family, go with Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Siam Amazing Park, and the Alangkarn evening show. For romance, a cruise through Bangkok's canals or the quiet island of Koh Kham works well, and history lovers should see Ayutthaya and Muang Boran.

Book multi-day trips to Angkor and the River Kwai in advance: group sizes are smaller, and you need a passport for the trip. Confirm the pickup time the day before and keep cash on hand for entrance tickets.

See excursions on GetYourGuide and compare transfers.

Find a hotel in Pattaya.

30 Excursions from Pattaya: islands, temples and shows with a guide