Pratamnak in Pattaya: how it's organized, what to see, where to stay – complete guide

What is Pratamnak and how it differs from central Pattaya

Pratamnak is a hilly peninsula that separates central Pattaya from Jomtien. If the center is 24/7 action, bars, and crowds of tourists, then Pratamnak is its complete opposite. It's green, relatively quiet, and the main thoroughfare – Pratamnak Road – winds through the hill and leads down to the beaches.

How Pratamnak differs from other areas, especially central Pattaya:

• Atmosphere: Calm, laid-back, almost resort-like. More Europeans and locals than noisy tourist groups.
• People: Mostly families, couples, and long-term winter residents who value peace and quiet.
• Infrastructure: Everything you need is here – 7-Eleven, pharmacies, laundries, markets – but without excess (no large malls).
• Transport accessibility: To the center (tourist zone) – 10–15 minutes by bike or songthaew. Songthaew fare – 15 baht (0.45 USD) per ride within the area.
• Terrain: Hilly, with elevation changes. In the heat, walking can be tiring, but the ups and downs are gradual.

Pratamnak is an ideal choice for those who want to be by the sea but aren't willing to tolerate the noise and bustle of the central part. Everything for a comfortable life is here, and the main entertainment is just a stone's throw away.

Pros and cons of Pratamnak

Beaches of Pratamnak: Cosy Beach, Asia Beach, Yinyom Beach

Pratamnak has several beaches, and they're all completely different in mood. The main ones are Cosy Beach and Asia Beach (also known as Paradise Beach). There's also Yinyom Beach, which smoothly transitions into Jomtien Beach.

Tides: what you need to know

In Pattaya, as on the entire Gulf of Siam coast, tides are very noticeable. The difference between maximum and minimum water levels can reach 3–4 meters. At low tide, the water recedes far from the shore – rocks are exposed, and on some beaches (especially Cosy Beach and Asia Beach), swimming becomes impossible. At high tide, the water comes almost right up to the shoreline.

График приливов и отливов в Паттайе подробно ⧉

More about tides in Pattaya →

Cosy Beach

Cosy Beach is located in a small cove at the foot of the hill. The water here is considered cleaner than in central Pattaya because the beach wraps around a headland and the current brings water from the Gulf of Siam. But this isn't always the case – only during the dry season.

• Length: about 500 meters.
• Sand: light, fine, pleasant to the touch.
• Infrastructure: sun loungers and umbrellas for rent (60–100 baht per day), showers and toilets available for a small fee.
• Tides: strongly pronounced – at low tide, rocks are exposed, swimming is impossible. At high tide, there's little space on the beach.
• Access: via stairs through restaurant grounds, free entry. But after 19:00, the passage is closed – no evening walks along the shore.

Pros: clean water, peaceful atmosphere, great sunset views.

Cons: at low tide, you can't swim; steep staircase entry (inconvenient with kids and luggage); beach closes at 19:00, no strolls along the shore.

Asia Beach (Pratamnak Beach, Paradise Beach)

Asia Beach is located in the neighboring cove next to Cosy Beach, but you can only get there from Cosy Beach along the shore over rocks (at low tide), or you'll have to walk around – about 3 km on foot, such is the unfortunate layout here.

• Size: small, cozy.
• Infrastructure: almost none – no sun loungers, umbrellas, or toilets. Just sand and sea.
• Water: clean, calm.
• Atmosphere: almost wild, uncrowded.

For whom: for those seeking solitude and not needing amenities.

Yinyom Beach

This is the beginning of Jomtien's continuous sandy strip. Effectively, it's part of the six-kilometer beach that stretches south. From here, it's convenient to walk along the sea towards Jomtien.

• Infrastructure: sun loungers, cafes, toilets.
• Access: free, no time restrictions.

Climate and seasons – when is the best time to go to Pratamnak

The weather in Pattaya is divided into three seasons, and Pratamnak is no exception. Here's what they look like:

• ☀ Dry cool season (November – February): The best time to visit. No scorching heat, rain is rare, the sea is calm and clear. Air temperature +26…+30 °C.
• 🌕 Hot season (March – May): Temperatures rise to +35 °C, the sea is warm, but jellyfish are possible. You can still vacation, but comfort may be an issue.
• 🌧 Rainy season (June – October): Humid, stuffy, short showers. The sea may be rough, water murkier. But accommodation prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists.

Seasons in Pattaya by month, when is the best time to go

Temperature and precipitation in Pattaya by month

Current weather in Pattaya and forecast for the coming days:

* - прогноз указан по местному времени. Данные получены с https://openweathermap.org. Если отображаются устаревшие даты, обновите страницу с помощью F5+Ctrl.

Area layout: transport, streets, navigation

Main roads: the main artery is Pratamnak Road, which runs from central Pattaya to the hill and then descends to Jomtien. Numerous numbered lanes (soi 4, 5, 6, etc.) branch off from it, where most hotels and condominiums are concentrated.

Local transport:

• Songthaews: run along Pratamnak Road. To get to the center or Jomtien, you need to catch a songthaew on the main road – they run between the center and Jomtien. Fare within the area – 15 baht. But important: songthaews don't go into the area (into the lanes) – from the main road to hotels closer to the beach, you have to walk 1–2 km.
• Taxis (Grab, Bolt): available, trip to the center – about 100–150 baht (4.54 USD).
• Bike rental: the most convenient way to get around Pratamnak and its surroundings. Rental price – from 150 baht per day (4.54 USD), monthly – from 3000 baht (90.83 USD).
• Car rental: from 800 baht per day (24.22 USD), convenient for long-distance trips.

Conventional division of the area:

• Northern part (closer to the center): more lively, closer to the main road, more shops and cafes.
• Southern part (closer to Jomtien): quieter, greener, closer to Yinyom Beach and Jomtien.
• Hilly zone: scenic hotels and condominiums with views, but beach access is via steep descents.

Where to stay in Pratamnak: hotels and long-term rentals

Pratamnak has a huge selection of accommodation – from budget guesthouses to luxurious condominiums with sea views. Let's look at the main options.

Hotels for tours

If you're buying a package tour, pay attention to these hotels – they are often offered by tour operators and have good reviews:

• Cosy Beach Hotel – a legendary hotel right on the namesake beach. Rooms with sea views, private beach access (though the beach closes in the evening). Prices: from 1500 baht per night (45.42 USD). A good option for those who want to be right by the water.
• Pattaya Park Beach Resort – a huge complex on the hill, known for its observation tower. Rooms of various categories, water park. Great views, but you'll have to go down to the beach.
• FX Hotel Pattaya – a modern hotel on Pratamnak Road, near the market. Rooftop pool, convenient location. Prices from 1200 baht (36.33 USD).
• At Mind Exclusive – a stylish boutique hotel with a pool, close to the market and shops. Reviews praise it for cleanliness and breakfasts. From 1300 baht (39.36 USD).
• View Talay Condo – this is not a hotel but a residential complex, but many apartments are rented by the day. A great option for families or long-term stays.

Long-term rental (from a month)

Pratamnak is one of the best areas for wintering. Monthly rent here is about 15,000–30,000 baht (606 USD) depending on class, proximity to the sea, and views. Utilities (electricity, water, cleaning) are usually not included.

• Where to look: local real estate agencies (e.g., Pattaya Rent Property), social media groups, sites like Sutochno or Avito.
• Tips: check if utilities are included. Typically, electricity is paid by meter (about 5–7 baht per kW), water – 100–200 baht per month. Condominiums have common fees (for grounds maintenance, pool, gym) – from 500 to 2000 baht per month.
• Deposit: usually two months' rent.
• Best streets for rental: Phra Tamnak 4, 5, 6 – close to the beach and shops, but away from noisy Pratamnak Road.

Tips for choosing accommodation

• Study the map: check how far it is to the beach and to the main road (where songthaews run).
• Pay attention to noise reviews – some hotels are near bars.
• If you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach, choose first-line hotels (Cosy Beach, Asia Beach), but remember the tides and Cosy Beach's evening closure.
• For winter stays, choose condominiums with a kitchen and washing machine.
• Always check for a pool – in Pratamnak, it's not a luxury but a necessity due to the heat.

Where to book a hotel on your own

• 🛌 Trip.com – works with MIR cards and SBP, our frequent choice.
• 🛌 Yandex.Travel – reliable Russian aggregator.
• 🛌 Ostrovok.ru – trusted service.
• 🏠 Sutochno – for long-term rentals.

How to get to Pratamnak

Pratamnak is located between central Pattaya and Jomtien, so it's most convenient to get there via one of the two main bus stations: Jomtien (closer to Pratamnak) or North (if the bus only goes there).

From Bangkok airports (Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang)

• From Suvarnabhumi (BKK)

  The simplest and most budget-friendly way is bus #389 operated by Roong Reuang Coach. It departs from the airport's first floor (exit #8, Gate 8) every 30–60 minutes from 06:00 to 22:00. Travel time – 1.5–2 hours, cost – from 139 baht (4.21 USD).

  The bus makes two stops in Pattaya:

  • Jomtien Station – the final stop, located in the south, closer to Pratamnak. If your hotel is in Pratamnak or Jomtien – get off here.
  • North Pattaya Station – for the center and Naklua.

  From Jomtien Station to Pratamnak, you can take a songthaew (10–20 baht) or taxi (about 100 baht). Keep in mind that songthaews don't go deep into the area, only along Pratamnak Road – you'll have to get off on the main road, then walk or take a bike.

  Alternative – Bell Travel Service. They have buses with direct hotel delivery. Ticket from 216 baht + 120 baht for hotel transfer. Departures from the airport at 08:30, 10:30, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30, 18:00 (schedule may change). Can be booked on 12go.asia.

  Taxi – from 1200 baht (36.33 USD) to the hotel. Order via the Public Taxi counter at the airport, via Grab or Bolt. Travel time – 1.5–2 hours.

• From Don Mueang (DMK)

  There is no direct bus to Pattaya. The most convenient option is taxi (from 1600 baht, 2 hours). Or get to Suvarnabhumi by free shuttle (if you have an onward flight ticket) or buses #554/555 (36 baht), and there transfer to bus #389.

• From U-Tapao Airport (closest to Pattaya)

  No regular transport. Taxi to Pratamnak – from 500 baht, but apps may not accept orders at this price. You can try U-Tapao Airport Limousine minivans – from 500 baht if a group is formed.

From central Pattaya

The simplest way is to catch a songthaew going along Second Road or Beach Road towards Jomtien. The driver will pass along Pratamnak Road – get off at the right intersection (e.g., at Pratamnak Market). Cost: 20–30 baht (0.91 USD).

Important: songthaews don't go into the lanes (soi) – you'll get off on the main road, and you'll have to walk 1–2 km to the hotel, sometimes uphill. With luggage, it's better to take a taxi immediately.

Taxi via Grab or Bolt will cost 100–150 baht (4.54 USD).

From other Thai resorts

You can get to Pattaya by bus from Phuket (night bus Sawadee Tour, from 1205 baht), from Chiang Mai (passing Nakhonchai buses), from the islands (ready-made transfers Lomprayah, Boonsiri). All arrive at North Bus Station or company offices. From there to Pratamnak – by taxi or songthaew.

If you're traveling from Hua Hin, check for a direct Bell Travel service (if restored), otherwise – via Bangkok or the airport.

Full information on how to get to Pattaya from anywhere in the country is in our detailed article: How to get to Pattaya on your own: plane, bus, train, ferry.

Where and what to eat in Pratamnak

Pratamnak is not the gastronomic capital of Pattaya, but you definitely won't go hungry here. The area has everything: from budget street stalls to scenic restaurants worth visiting for the atmosphere.

Budget food: street stalls and food carts

The main place for a budget meal in Pratamnak is Pratamnak Market (also known as the "Russian market"). Several Thai food stalls operate here:

• Portion of rice with chicken or pork – from 60 baht (1.82 USD).
• Pad Thai – 50–70 baht (2.12 USD).
• Fresh fruit juices and smoothies – 30–60 baht (1.82 USD).
• Grilled seafood and skewers – from 30 baht (0.91 USD).

We often have lunch right at the market – we grab several dishes from different stalls, sit at one of the common tables, and get a full meal for 150–200 baht for two. Another favorite spot of ours is a small street cafe near 7-Eleven across from the Russian market, where they serve excellent rice with chicken.

Cafes and restaurants with a view

Pratamnak is famous for its panoramic restaurants. Here are the two most famous:

• 3 Mermaids – an iconic spot on the hill above Cosy Beach. Tables shaped like "nests" with cushions, panoramic sea views. Average bill – 200–400 baht per dish (12.11 USD). Important: sunset tables need to be booked several days in advance, and booking often requires a deposit (about 2500 baht). If you just want to have coffee and take photos – come during the day, on weekdays.
• The Sky Gallery – another scenic restaurant on Pratamnak Hill. Known for its blue sofas at the edge of the cliff and 180-degree views. Average bill – from 700 baht (21.19 USD) per person. Booking in advance is also recommended.

Both places are not about budget food, but about atmosphere. If you just want to eat well without views – choose street cafes on Pratamnak Road, where prices are 2–3 times lower.

Other tried-and-tested options:

• Sense of the Sea – a beachfront cafe near Asia Beach. Good seafood, from 200 baht per dish.
• Cheap Charlie's – a bar-restaurant with budget food (from 100 baht) and live music on Pratamnak Road.
• Surin Beach Club – a beach club with sun loungers, cocktails, and light snacks. Great for lunch with a view.

What to try in Pratamnak

As everywhere in Pattaya, here you should try:

• Tom Yum – spicy shrimp soup (150–200 baht at a cafe).
• Grilled seafood – fish, shrimp, squid. At Pratamnak Market, a portion of fish with rice and salad – about 160 baht.
• Fruit smoothies and coconuts – the most budget-friendly and delicious dessert.
• Thai milk tea – sweet, orange, with an addictive taste. At stalls – 20–30 baht.

Where else to eat in the area

If you're staying in Pratamnak for a long time and want variety, head to neighboring Jomtien (10–15 minutes by bike or songthaew). There's more choice there:

• Rompho Market (on the map) – great fruit and seafood at prices lower than the Russian market. Mango – from 50 baht/kg, mangosteen – 50 baht/kg. In the evening, there's a food court and bars.
• Jomtien Night Market (on the map) – open every evening, lots of food, souvenirs, and clothes.
• Thepprasit Market (on the map) – on weekends. The most authentic and affordable market in the area, fish with noodles – 160 baht, beer – 75 baht.

Also in central Pattaya – many food courts (Terminal 21, Mike Shopping Mall, Central Pattaya), where you can have lunch for 60–80 baht in air-conditioned cleanliness.

Shopping in Pratamnak: markets and shops

Honestly, you shouldn't come to Pratamnak for big shopping – there are no modern malls here. But for everyday life and leisure, the area has everything you need: food markets, souvenir shops, chain supermarkets, and pharmacies. And if you want to browse malls with brands and entertainment – central Pattaya is 10–15 minutes away by bike or songthaew.

What you can buy in Pratamnak:

• Food, fruit, vegetables, meat, fish – at the Russian market and supermarkets.
• Souvenirs, magnets, figurines – at small stalls and shops.
• Beachwear, shorts, t-shirts – at the market and roadside stalls.
• Household goods, cosmetics, cleaning products – at 7-Eleven and supermarkets.

Pratamnak Market ("Russian" market)

Pratamnak Market (also known as the "Russian market") is the area's main shopping spot. Located on Pratamnak Road, near the intersection with Soi 4. Open daily from afternoon to evening (approximately 12:00–22:00). There are indeed many products familiar to Russian-speaking tourists and winter residents: buckwheat, pasta, dumplings, vareniki, sour cream, cottage cheese, sausages, bread (including Borodinsky). There are also souvenirs, clothes, and beach accessories, but the selection is small – mostly food and groceries.

Supermarkets and shops

Pratamnak has several chain supermarkets for everyday purchases:

• 7-Eleven – on every corner. Water, snacks, ready-made sandwiches, drinks, household chemicals. Card payment requires a minimum check of 200 baht (if less – cash only).
• CJ More Supermarket – a large new supermarket with a good selection of products, fresh fruit, vegetables, and ready-made food. Convenient for shopping for several days.
• Tops Supermarket – located in a shopping center with a food court and cafes. Wide selection, including imported goods.
• Lotus's – also a relatively large supermarket with products, household chemicals, and household goods.

Fruit and vegetables are best bought at markets and from farmer's trucks, not in supermarkets – they're fresher and cheaper there.

What to see in and around Pratamnak

Pratamnak is not just beaches, but also a great base for exploring Pattaya's attractions. Many of them are within walking distance or a 10–20 minute drive. Here's what's worth visiting first, how to organize your sightseeing, and where to buy tours.

Ways to explore: tour, taxi, or rental

Most attractions are outside the city, where public transport doesn't go. So choose one of three options:

• Tour – the most convenient and often most cost-effective way. Pattaya has many street travel agencies with Russian-speaking staff. Tour prices often equal the cost of entry tickets but include hotel transfer and back. Especially beneficial for solo travelers or couples. Group tours to Nong Nooch or the Sanctuary of Truth start from 800–1000 baht per person.
• Taxi (Grab, Bolt, Maxim) – suitable for groups or families. Trip to Nong Nooch – about 300 baht one way, to the Sanctuary of Truth – 150–200 baht. Downside: getting a car back can be difficult, and prices may increase. Our hack: negotiate with the driver for a round trip with waiting – often cheaper than two separate orders.
• Bike or car rental – gives you complete freedom. Bike from 200 baht/day (you can find 150), car from 500 baht. Keep in mind left-hand traffic and an international driving permit. More about rental read in our article.
• Songthaew – only suitable for nearby spots: Pratamnak viewpoint, Big Buddha, Walking Street. You can't reach other places.

Where to buy tours

In Pattaya, tour kiosks are on every corner – especially on Beach Road, Second Road, and in the Pratamnak area. Many sellers speak Russian, and prices are transparent. If you want to compare options in advance or pay with a Russian card, use these trusted aggregators:

• Trip.com – the biggest database of tours and tickets, accepts Russian cards.
• Sputnik8 – tours in Russian, verified guides.
• Tripster – private and group tours in Russian.
• GetYourGuide – international platform with lots of reviews.

Top sights in and around Pratamnak

Here are the most interesting attractions worth visiting while staying in Pratamnak. We've chosen those within walking distance or within a 30-minute drive by taxi or rental transport:

Viewpoint on Pratamnak Hill (Pattaya View Point)

The main viewpoint of Pattaya, where postcard views are taken – a panorama of the city beach, the Gulf of Siam, and Bali Hai Pier. At the top, you can not only take photos but also relax in the park with paths and exercise equipment, see the monument to the revered Thai Prince Chumphon, and just below – the big "PATTAYA CITY" letters. Everyone should come up here to appreciate the scale of the city from above. Easy to reach on foot from Pratamnak or Jomtien, or by songthaew for just 15 baht. More about the Pratamnak viewpoint.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: the main observation deck near the monument is open from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM. There's a 24-hour area near the parking lot. The PATTAYA CITY letters are accessible anytime, lit up in the evening.

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: free. Telescope – 10 baht, photo on a mug – about 200 baht.

🚶 How to get there: viewpoint on the Pattaya map. From the center, about 2 km on foot from Walking Street or from the Pratamnak area. You can take a songthaew (15 baht) – get off at the turn to the hill and walk 500 meters.

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

An active temple on a hilltop with an 18-meter golden Buddha statue, where people come not so much for the architecture (it's more modest here than in Bangkok), but for the peaceful atmosphere and unusual statues – particularly the "Emaciated Buddha" during his ascetic period. This makes a great addition to a walk to the neighboring Pratamnak Hill with its viewpoint. Entry is free, but remember the dress code: covered shoulders and no shorts above the knee. Easy to reach on foot from Pratamnak or northern Jomtien, or by songthaew. More about Big Buddha Temple.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: free (donations welcome).

🚶 How to get there: Big Buddha Hill on the Pattaya map. From the center, about 2 km on foot from Walking Street or the Pratamnak area. By songthaew (15 baht) – get off at the turn to the hill and walk 500 meters.

Sanctuary of Truth

A giant wooden structure by the sea, 105 meters tall, every inch covered in unique carvings. Tourist reviews of this place are mixed: some consider it a masterpiece and a great photo spot, others think it's overrated. The entry ticket isn't cheap, and the visit is in a hard hat (restoration work is constantly underway inside). There's a strict dress code: covered shoulders and no short shorts or skirts. Best reached by taxi, or by songthaew with a long walk. More about the Sanctuary of Truth.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: daily from 08:00 to 19:30.

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: daytime visit (08:00–17:00) – 500 baht; evening with show (18:20–19:30) – 700 baht; children under 140 cm – free. Online on aggregators is often cheaper.

🚶 How to get there: Sanctuary of Truth on the map. Located in the northern Naklua area, walking is very far. By taxi from 100 baht from the center. Budget option: by songthaew along Naklua Road to Soi 12, then almost 2 km on foot towards the beach.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

The largest botanical garden in Southeast Asia with thousands of orchids, palms, cacti, and landscape gardens in different styles. Don't miss the colorful elephant show – elephants paint pictures, play football and volleyball. Plan for half a day to explore the grounds: you'll be walking a lot under the blazing sun, so bring water, hats, and sunscreen. It's most cost-effective to come here on a group tour or buy tickets online – cheaper than at the park's box office. More about Nong Nooch Garden.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Elephant shows and traditional shows – at 10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 15:30 (run simultaneously in different zones).

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: the cheapest entry ticket – 600 baht (adult) / 400 baht (children). Combo tickets with show and bus – up to 1000 baht. You can save money by buying online on Trip.com – ticket+bus from 445 baht.

🚶 How to get there: Nong Nooch on the map. Most convenient with a group tour (from 800 baht with transfer). On your own: taxi from the center – about 300 baht, on a rented motorbike (from 150 baht/day) or car.

Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm

This picturesque park covers over 70 acres (about 28 hectares) just 15 minutes from central Pattaya. It's a true "living museum" of three kingdoms of nature – animal, plant, and mineral. On the grounds, you'll see amazing petrified trees over 100 million years old, trees shaped in Thai style, as well as a large zoo with exotic animals (tigers, giraffes, elephants) and Thailand's largest crocodile farm with a thrilling crocodile show. All of this with one ticket.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: daily from 8:00 to 17:00. Crocodile shows are held 8 times a day: 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00.

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: adults – 500 baht, children 90–120 cm – 250 baht, children under 90 cm – free. Photos with crocodiles – 200 baht, feeding crocodiles chicken – 100 baht.

🚶 How to get there: the park is east of Sukhumvit Road in northern Pattaya (park on the map). The most convenient option is to buy a ready-made tour at travel agencies or online.

Koh Larn Island

Koh Larn Island is located 10 kilometers off the coast of Pattaya. It's the most popular island for day trips to clean island beaches near Pattaya. You can get there in 30–40 minutes by slow ferry from Bali Hai Pier for 40 baht, or by speedboat for 150–300 baht one way. The island has several white-sand beaches with clear water – ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing away from the city bustle. More about Koh Larn Island.

Practical information

🕐 Opening hours: ferries run from 08:00 to 17:00 (schedule may vary).

💵 Entry fee / ticket prices: ferry – 40 baht one way, speedboat – 150–300 baht.

🚶 How to get there: Bali Hai Pier is at the end of Walking Street, 2 km from Pratamnak (pier on the map). From Pratamnak, you can get there by songthaew (15 baht) or taxi.

Where to get the best exchange rates in Pratamnak and Pattaya

In Pattaya, and in Pratamnak specifically, exchange rates can differ by 1–2% between different booths. On $1000, that's 10–20 dollars, or 300–600 baht (18.17 USD). We've gathered verified spots where rates are consistently better than banks and most street kiosks.

Our favorites in and around Pratamnak

• T.T. Exchange – the main network we recommend first. They have many branches throughout Pattaya, including in Pratamnak (on Pratamnak Road, near the market). Rates are consistently better than banks. Important: T.T. accepts old-design dollars (without the blue stripe) at the same rate as new ones if bills are in perfect condition. Check rates before exchanging on their official website – there's also a branch map.
• Cash & Go exchange – located right in Pratamnak at: open on the map. We found it by chance and have been checking periodically since – 7 out of 10 times, the rate there is higher than T.T. at the same moment. Open daily, until 20:00. Definitely check it out if you live or walk in the area.
• Superrich – in 2026, branches of the famous networks (green and orange) opened in Pattaya. They are located in Central Pattaya mall (formerly Central Festival) – open on the map and in Terminal 21 – open on the map. Their rates are often slightly lower than T.T., but if you're nearby, you can compare – sometimes a 0.1–0.2 baht difference is in their favor.
• Exchange booth near Rom Pho Market (Jomtien) – another spot where rates are sometimes higher than T.T. Located right at the market entrance open on the map. Open until 18:00, on weekdays. If you're planning to visit Jomtien – be sure to check it out.

What's more profitable to bring and how not to lose on exchange rates

We've already calculated everything in detail in the complete guide to money in Pattaya, and the conclusion has been the same for years: the most profitable is cash dollars (new or old, but in perfect condition). Euros and yuan are slightly less profitable, and rubles are the worst option (loss up to 10% compared to dollars).

Here's an example for 100,000 rubles (calculation from early 2026, proportions remain):

Comparison of exchanging 100,000 RUB to THB

Exchange method	Final amount in THB	Difference from USD
Through dollars (USD)	39,626 THB	—
Through euros (EUR)	39,153 THB	-473 THB
Through yuan (CNY)	38,571 THB	-1,055 THB
Cash rubles in Thailand	36,500 THB	-3,126 THB

As you can see, through dollars you get almost 3000 baht more than when exchanging cash rubles.

Cards and ATMs: what you need to know

In Pattaya, cards are accepted everywhere – from 7-Eleven to expensive restaurants. Of Russian cards, only UnionPay from some banks (RSHB, ATB) work. MIR cards don't work. At 7-Eleven, card payment is only accepted from 200 baht – for smaller amounts, use cash. Some private establishments may add 3–4% to the check for acquiring – check the amount on the terminal before paying.

ATM withdrawals are almost always unprofitable:

• Fixed Thai ATM commission – 200–220 baht per transaction.
• Issuing bank commission (for RSHB cards): yuan – 4% (minimum 70 yuan), ruble – 1.5% (minimum 250 USD).
• The conversion rate is also worse than cash exchange.

Only withdraw in emergencies, and try to withdraw the maximum amount at once to minimize fixed losses.

Here are all the options for comparison:

Comparison of exchange and payment methods in Pattaya

Method	Average loss (fees + hidden rate)	When to use	Rating
Cash dollars via T.T.	0–0.5%	Main method for large sums	✔ Best
UnionPay card payment (yuan)	0% (if no additional merchant fee)	Everyday purchases	✔ Great
Cash euros or yuan	1–3%	If no dollars, but you already have euros/yuan	⚠ Acceptable
ATM withdrawal	4% + 220 baht + conversion	Only in emergencies	✖ Bad
Cash rubles (exchange in Pattaya)	7–10%	Only as a reserve	✖ Very bad

More detailed information on all payment methods, cards, cryptocurrency, and expense calculators is in our complete guide to money and currency in Pattaya – we've covered everything down to the smallest detail.

🕒 17 August, 2026