Which is better Pattaya or Phuket. Pattaya or Phuket? Which resort is better? Getting there from Bangkok

When going on vacation to Thailand, most tourists choose one of the two largest resorts: Phuket or Pattaya - which is better, according to tourist reviews.

The most important selection criteria are sea temperature and the presence of waves, the possibility of comfortable accommodation, general climatic conditions, and of course, prices. If you have a limited budget, compare two resorts in all respects and choose the one that best suits you.

Sea

The first factor influencing the selection of a resort is the water temperature and cleanliness of the sea. If you are planning a beach holiday, choosing which is better - Pattaya or Phuket, focus on the time of year.

Nai Harn Beach, Phuket / [email protected] flickr.com

Phuket has the cleanest sea in winter period– the temperature of the salt water is kept at 29 degrees, and the transparency is comparable to a diamond. Phuket is generally considered cleanest resort throughout Thailand - the cleanliness of the sea is evidenced by the presence of coral reefs, fish and marine animals. Swimming and sunbathing on the beach, especially with children, is best from January to April. And summer is a wonderful time for surf lovers. During this season, the waves are especially high, but the holiday can be spoiled by winds and rains.

In Pattaya, due to the large flow of tourists, there is no crystal clear water in the sea - it is cloudy, greenish in color, with a lot of garbage. The beaches are crowded even during the low season. You can swim there from January to May and from November to December - the conditions are favorable for this. From May to October there are strong tides that make swimming difficult.

It is worth noting that there are a couple of islands near Pattaya with a minimum number of tourists. They are washed by the purest water - the bottom is visible even at depth. One of these islands is Koh Larn, where a ferry departs daily.

Weather

[email protected]/flickr.com

Climate and weather– the second most important factor influencing the decision – Pattaya or Phuket. After all, swimming even in a clear sea during the rainy season is cold and unpleasant, and sunbathing is completely impossible.

Pattaya and Phuket are similar in climate - the only difference is that in the first resort the weather is never bad - there are three seasons, two of which are favorable, and one is transitional, from June to October. There are heavy tropical downpours, and your vacation can be ruined.

During the rainy season, you can also have a good rest, visit and do plenty of shopping. An obvious advantage of the low season is the minimum number of vacationers around. Another distinctive feature of Pattaya's climate is high humidity. If you can't stand it, choose Phuket.

In Phuket, bad weather begins in June and continues until October, when vacationers do not risk going into the sea and rarely sunbathe. But it's a great season for surfers. Velvet time starts in November, when the weather is hot and dry, and swimming is officially allowed. However, even in the dry season, rain is possible - once or twice a week. Travelers who visited Thailand in winter write excellent reviews about the trip, noting the clarity of the water, the relative dryness of the air and the absence of powerful winds.

If you can't stand the heat, choose Pattaya - the climate there is milder than in Phuket, and the night temperature rarely drops to 20 degrees even in winter. As for nature, Phuket has a pronounced forest belt and secluded beaches, and the air is cleaner and fresher than in Pattaya - any comparison proves this.

Beaches

Karon Beach / yeowatzup, flickr.com

Phuket beaches are more suitable for cultural recreation. You can find a strip of land filled with vacationers and plunge into the atmosphere of general fun, or visit secluded corners of the island and enjoy snorkeling or diving alone, as well as meditate in nature. The quietest are Tri Trang, Svobody, Nai Harn, the most crowded is Patong. All beaches, and there are more than 20 of them, are located a short distance from Phuket hotels, while in Pattaya it takes about an hour to get to the sea.

The beaches of Pattaya are suitable for lovers of active life and bustle - they are filled with restaurants and entertainment centers. But it’s better to swim near the islands of Koh Larn and Koh Samet – the coast and water there are cleaner. The cost of moving is from 50 baht, travel time is 60 minutes.

Nong Ram, Pattaya / Thanate Tan, flickr.com

The best beaches in Pattaya itself: Military - visit 100 baht; Nong Ram. They are also full of tourists, especially during the tourist season.

Housing

The third criterion for choosing a resort is comfortable accommodation. Both places, Pattaya or Phuket, offer tourists comfortable hotels or daily rental apartments

Hotels

Accommodation prices are the same - Thailand is characterized by territorial stability. But in different seasons the cost of living is also different. In winter, prices rise.

Estimated cost of accommodation in Pattaya hotels:

Pinthong House (3*) – 700 baht/day.
New Nordic Markus (4*) – 1000 baht/day.

Cost of living in Phuket:

Kata Rocks – 700 baht/night.
Avista Phuket Resort– 400 baht/night.

It is more convenient to compare the cost of accommodation in specific hotels on the websites of agencies selling tours to Thailand and on resources for tourists, such as booking.com.

Apartment

Renting housing is not widespread and is cheaper in Pattaya - this is due to the greater distance of apartments from the sea than in Phuket. Accommodation in Pattaya is simple, with amenities but no frills. But on the island you can rent a fabulously beautiful villa for as little as $50.

Movement

Dennis Yang / flickr.com

Tourists who come to Phuket on the direction of a travel agency stay on the island itself, and not in Phuket Town. For them, the only means of transportation is a taxi; other types of transport are simply not provided.

Pattaya has a well-developed public transport system - you can get from one city area to another for just 10 baht, and if you pay 20, you will be taken to nearby town, like Sirarcha or Sattahip. If you wish, you can even get to Bangkok by taking an intercity bus and paying only 100 baht for a ticket. Buses run to the capital of Thailand from anywhere in Pattaya.

If you're interested in traveling somewhere other than the beaches, skip Phuket and choose Pattaya.

Excursions

daniel julià lundgren / flickr.com

Pattaya is considered a resort that is more advanced in terms of attractions. If you are interested in the historical value of Thailand, go there. The excursion package in the city is more diverse - each excursion is designed so that in a day you can visit several places in the city and even go to explore the nearest regions - or the glorious village of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand.

In Pattaya itself, be sure to see:

Nong Nooch Garden;
local zoo Khao Kaew;
Koh Chang National Park;
Temple of Truth and other temple complexes.

There are significantly fewer interesting places in Phuket - lovers of the sea, water activities and beaches go there. To see the sights of the island, you will need a moped or a rented car - traveling by taxi is too expensive, starting from 550 baht. It takes 12-14 hours to drive from the island to Bangkok, excluding traffic jams. You can take a plane, but the excursion will be expensive. And on the island itself there are no attractions that reveal the mysteries of oriental culture.

But sea excursions are amazing - you can go to the nearest islands or to the province with the outlandish name of Krabi. While traveling, you will certainly be offered the opportunity of diving and snorkeling - underwater diving with a mask and fins.

In this case, when choosing which is better – Phuket or Pattaya, be guided by your own preferences. To be closer to nature, choose a tour to the island, and to get closer to people, go to Pattaya.

Entertainment

A.L.P.H.A / flickr.com

If you are looking active entertainment in a crowd of people, choose Pattaya. The city is famous for its abundance shopping centers, malls and restaurants, and their assortment can satisfy even a fastidious shopaholic with serious needs. The main thing is to take enough money with you, because spending it in a day in Pattaya will not be difficult.

Famous shopping centers in Pattaya:

Central Festival.
Royal Garden Plaza (Royal Garden Plaza).
King Power (King Power).
Mike Shopping Mall.

Any of the centers sell branded clothing from popular manufacturers, and prices are comparable to the cost of goods in Bangkok.

In Phuket, the number of stores is two to three times smaller, and the range is small. If your travel budget leaves much to be desired, go to the island - there are fewer temptations to buy unnecessary things. Shopping centers are located on Patong Beach or Phuket Town. The main ones:

Jungceylon (Jungceylon).
Outlett Mall (Mall Outlet).
Ocean Plaza.

In terms of activities, they are available at both resorts, but vary slightly depending on where you are. It doesn’t matter whether Pattaya or Phuket, both resorts offer tourists all the possibilities nightlife.

Walking Street / Roman Lashkin, flickr.com

In Pattaya, the key place to relax is Walking Street. The name translates as “street for walking.” The street is lined with entertainment venues:

bars;
restaurants;
nightclubs;
souvenir shops;
cafe with exotic shows.

In Phuket, holidays are somewhat quieter. The main attractions for tourists during the day:

diving;
snorkeling;
surfing;
yachting;
windsurfing.

If it is important for you to be in a party, among people, choose Patong Beach in Phuket. It also works at night - bars and discos are open there. There is no nightlife on the remaining beaches.

Finance

The Preiser Project / flickr.com

The cost of a trip to the resort consists of the price of the tour and financial expenses incurred during the trip. Calculate where it is more profitable to go and choose a Thai resort that suits your budget.

tour cost

In Russia, trips to Thailand are very cheap - 50-60 thousand rubles for two for 8 days, if you book them out of season or last minute. The cost is approximately the same and depends on the chosen hotel and transport. There are direct flights to both resorts, travel time is about 9 hours. But in Pattaya itself, getting to the hotel from the airport takes an hour longer than in Phuket.

Prices

Tourists claim that Pattaya prices less than in Phuket. Everything is expensive on the island - food, drinks, souvenirs, entertainment. The most expensive beach is Patong, where you can buy a mango for 200 baht, a pineapple for 50 baht, or an assortment of sliced fruits for 120 baht.

In Pattaya, for 40-50 baht you can order lunch from a makashnitsa, and in Phuket the cost of the same dishes will be 70-80 baht. Fruit shakes in Phuket cost 80 baht, and in Pattaya - only 25. The situation is similar with restaurants and bars.

The only way to save on food on the island is to buy food in stores and cook it yourself. Prices do not vary in supermarkets. But who wants to “cook” on vacation? It's better to take the time to relax and tan.

Video: Pattaya or Phuket?

Results

To summarize, we can say that each resort has its own pros and cons, and the choice must be made based on your own wishes and capabilities. Pattaya is worth a trip if you want to save money on your vacation or are looking for adventure, and maybe a girlfriend. Those who like to hang out and enjoy the architecture of the city should also go to the resort.

Pros of Pattaya:

Budget prices.
A short distance to Bangkok.
Transport infrastructure.
Nightlife.
No heavy rains.
Opportunity to relax in the summer.
Comfortable conditions for shopping.

Flaws:

dirty sea.
few beaches.
a lot of tourists.

Pros of Phuket:

Clean sea.
More than 20 beaches.
There are secluded corners of nature.
Possibility of diving.
Sea fishing and excursions.
There is a forest belt.
Better environment.

Flaws:

high prices;
no transport;
expensive and limited excursions;
little entertainment.

The hotels are the same in both resorts, residents are friendly towards tourists and are ready to help in difficult situations. Resort areas designed taking into account the needs of holidaymakers in both Phuket and Pattaya. so there will be no problems with rest. Choose what you like and feel free to go ahead!

Which is better - Pattaya or Phuket? This question is asked by everyone who is planning their first vacation in Thailand. Both resorts are on everyone's lips. These are huge recreational areas with an abundance of entertainment for every taste and budget. They are similar in many ways, but they also have differences.

Pattaya

The resort surprises with its dynamism. Pattaya consists of an endless cycle of events in which all its inhabitants are involved. Energetic and curious tourists have at their disposal nightclubs and discos, excursions to ancient Thai temples, delicious and exotic food, and a clean and warm sea.

The epicenter of Pattaya's cultural and resort life is the main pedestrian artery Walking Street. Prices in this part of Thailand are considered the most affordable. The thing is that the village is located just two hours from international airport Bangkok, whose runways are favored by low-cost airlines.

Pattaya's strengths:

low prices;
abundance of entertainment;
dynamism;
proximity to transport hubs Thailand;
extensive and clean beaches.

Phuket

As for the second most popular resort in the country, it is chosen by a respectable and respectable public. Fashionable resorts are concentrated on its coastline. family hotels. The resort is divided into several large recreational areas:

Patong.
Kamala.
Karon Beach.
Phuket (municipality).

Nightclubs and discos are located in Patong. This is the noisiest part of the coast. Kamala is the choice of those who value pristine nature. beauty local beaches mesmerizing. Karon Beach is made for fans active species sports Its beaches are popular with surfers. The city is a place for meeting friends and shopping. Its streets are lined with hundreds of boutiques and souvenir shops, restaurants and traditional Thai eateries.

Phuket's strengths:

quiet and secluded beaches;
clean and transparent sea;
comfortable hotels;
wealthy European public;
a large selection of programs designed for families with children.

The main disadvantage of the resort is its distance from the capital region. Transport accessibility also leaves much to be desired.

Difficult choice

So, Pattaya or Phuket? The answer depends on the purpose of the trip, the composition of travelers and the availability of finances. Let's find out!

Best for children

When traveling with children, parents carefully plan their route. They choose a hotel and carefully study the reviews. So the question is: “Pattaya or Phuket?” especially relevant for them. Experienced tourists claim that the beaches of both resorts are equally suitable for family vacation. They have developed infrastructure and everything you need for swimming.

Battle of the Beaches

If you believe the reviews, the cleanliness of the Pattaya coast is still inferior to the order that reigns in the recreational areas in Phuket. The beaches are noisy and crowded. Naklua and Jomtien are considered the cleanest parts of Pattaya. Near them there are cafes and restaurants, rental points sports equipment. Children ride on inflatable “bananas”, and adults ride on “tablets”.

Phuket has a variety of beaches. The most popular among Russians is Karon. It is covered with imported sand with a high content of quartz, which, if you step on it, makes a characteristic crunch. There are no complaints about the sea in Phuket. The exception is Patong. It resembles the noisy and cheerful coast of Pattaya.

Safety

Where is the best entrance to the sea, Pattaya or Phuket? At both resorts the coastline is flat. The depth of the water increases gradually. The bottom is sandy everywhere. True, in Pattaya around May, strong excitement begins. Swimming becomes unpleasant and sometimes dangerous. The storm ends at the end of October.

The sea in Phuket has a gentle disposition. But in some places there are underwater holes. They are very shallow, but those coming here with small children need to be extremely careful. High waves at all resorts on the island are rare.

Price issue

And yet, what to choose - Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the best and cheapest place to vacation? The abundance of entertainment venues, which are concentrated in Pattaya, allows the resort to welcome travelers all year round. The cost of accommodation, food and tourism services in this part of Thailand is considered the lowest.

For a bed in a decent hostel they ask for 500 rubles a day. For a room in a comfortable hotel you need to pay about 1,000 rubles. Based on feedback from Russians, the following was compiled:

"Nova Platinum Hotel"
Venue Residence Cabaret SPA.
"Dranken Duck Guesthouse."
Vog Wanted.
"Siam Guesthouse".
Whitehouse Condotel.
"Mosaic Luxury Apartments".
"Sentara Pattaya Hotel".
"Zing Resort SPA"
"High Lords Residence".

There are hotels of various levels in Phuket. There are premium options and simple but cheap ones. The cost of living in local hostels is almost the same as in Pattaya. But hotels are more expensive. They ask for up to 40,000 rubles per night. List of hotels that received maximum ratings from tourists:

"Lofts Boutique Hotel Apartments."
"Sawasdi Village".
"Centara Karon Resort Phuket".
Marriott Phuket Resort SPA.
Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort.
"Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket."
Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort.
"Suga Marina Resort".
"Movenpick Resort SPA Karon Beach Phuket."
"Racha."
"Nap Patong".

Nutrition

Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the food better and tastier? A set lunch in the Pattaya beaches area will cost 300 rubles. In Phuket they are already asking 500 rubles for lunch.

The most popular and affordable eateries in Pattaya are Yasmins Cafe, Bronx Pizza, Daves Cantina, Dosa Hut, Imli Grill, Tinnis Thailand, Pool Siam, Rinapp Restaurante, La Strada Cafe", "Kiss Food".

In Phuket, Russians choose the restaurants “Taverna” and “Noti Nuris Phuket”, “Le Brooklyn Patng” and “Pad Thai Shop”, “Golden Pradice Restaurant”, “New Cafe”, “Mr. Coffee”, “Da Puccio Restaurant”, “ Tandoori Flames, Halfway Inn and Sandwich Shop Cafe.

Minor expenses

So where should a tourist stay - Pattaya or Phuket? What to choose? How much money should I prepare? Without additional expenses not enough. On Pattaya beaches for renting a sun lounger and umbrella they ask for 300 rubles. This is the standard rate. It is valid everywhere in Thailand.

True, in Phuket you will have to fork out extra money if your plans include independent travel around the island. Renting a moped costs 400 rubles. Trip to public transport will cost 500 rubles.

Warmer climes

What to choose in Thailand? Pattaya or Phuket? Both resorts have year-round holiday. The high season in Pattaya begins at the very end of October and ends in early March. Phuket is warm and quiet in November, December, January, February, March and the first half of April. Therefore, the answer to the questions posed depends on the date of your planned trip to Thailand.

Wind of wanderings

Where is it better to go to Pattaya or Phuket in the off-season? Pattaya is a resort where tourists are welcome at any time of the year. It is home to about 150,000 people. Almost all of them are employed in the service sector. Therefore, the local infrastructure is considered the most developed in all of Thailand. During the high season, the beaches of Pattaya are crowded, free seats few. But in the off-season the coast is empty, and housing prices drop by fifty percent.

In Phuket, hotel rooms are more expensive even during the wet monsoon season. But during the quiet period there is much less entertainment than among the neighbors. Therefore, here Phuket loses to the noisy and dynamic Pattaya.

Crime

Reviews about Pattaya or Phuket say that both resorts are safe for foreign tourists. The crime level here is low. But since youth groups gather in Pattaya, and alcohol flows like a river, caution should be exercised in this part of Thailand.

You should not take large sums of money with you if you go for a walk along the Walking Street. Experienced tourists do not recommend wandering alone at night through unknown neighborhoods where locals live.

Order reigns in Phuket. There are no riotous parties on the island. The local residents are good-natured and friendly people. You can only encounter theft market square or in nightclubs. The police arrive at the scene promptly. Tourists are provided with assistance in restoring documents and are allowed to contact friends and family.

Attractions

Where should you go on a trip - to Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the best place to relax? Where are the most interesting excursion programs? Unfortunately, Pattaya cannot boast of an abundance architectural monuments. True, several Buddhist buildings are concentrated on the territory of the resort:

Temple of Fate.
Temple of Truth.
Temple of the Big Buddha.

Nature reserves in Pattaya area almost none either. To admire the inhabitants of tropical nature, you need to go to the archipelago located nearby. Tourists are most interested in excursions to the islands of Ko Phai, Ko Lan, and Ko Sak.

List of available trips from Pattaya:

"River Kwai" (2 days).
"Capital Bangkok".
"Discovery 7 in 1".
"Madagascar".
"Khao Keo."
"Ramayana" (water park).
"Cambodia" (2 days).
"Nong Nooch"
"Koh Samet".
« Temple complex Wat Yan."

Phuket is the abode of ancient Thai shrines. Business card region - a colossal statue of Buddha. Its height is forty-five meters. You can get acquainted with the so-called Sino-colonial style in architecture in municipal center islands. The most popular among guides are walks along the streets of Phang Nga, Thalang, and Krabi.

Range of sightseeing trips at the Phuket travel agency:

“The main attractions of the island” (8 hours).
"Pearl Farm".
"The World of Crocodiles".
« Botanical Garden».
"Dolphinarium".
"Upside Down House"
"Kingdom of the Tigers"
"Khao Lak".
"Khao Sok"
"Shopping tour"

Leisure

Which is better - Pattaya or Phuket? In reviews, surfers recommend the first option. Fans of water activities also agree with them. A large number of diving, windsurfing and kiting schools are concentrated on the coast of the resort. Tourists are entertained by riding ATVs, scooters, and playing airsoft. The Ramayana water park invites you to relax with the whole family. The ticket price for an adult visitor is 2,500 rubles. Children receive a 50% discount.

They have a slightly different character. Travelers are carried on elephants. They are offered to go through the most difficult trails in the Extreme Jungle Park. There is also a small zoo here. There is a go-kart. The scale of the local water park is inferior to the scale of the famous Ramayana in Pattaya.

Purchases

Which is better - Phuket or Pattaya - in terms of shopping? There is no consensus on this matter. Shopaholics claim that the cheapest souvenirs and beach accessories are sold in Pattaya shops. But there are practically no boutiques selling authentic things at the resort. The risk of running into a Chinese counterfeit is very high. For jewelry, souvenirs made by local artisans, and colorful clothes, it is better to go to the flea market.

The basis of trade in Phuket is latex. Pillows and orthopedic mattresses made from this flexible and versatile material are extremely popular among visitors. The estimated cost of the product is 4,000 rubles.

Local jewelry stores are famous for their affordable natural pearl jewelry. Buyers praise crocodile leather accessories. Clothing of European brands is sold in specialized departments of large shopping centers.

Cultural program

New Year celebrations are the most important event in Thailand. Pattaya Photos or Phuket serve the best confirmation. Resorts are literally transformed. But the main fun takes place on the first night of the new year. Residents of Pattaya take to the streets and douse themselves and the people around them with water from head to toe. Tourists, armed with water pistols, also take an active part in the holiday.

Celebrating the New Year in Phuket is exactly the same. All the inhabitants of the island take to the streets of the resort and joyfully greet: “Savadi pi mai.”

Most of our tourists, going to Thailand, ask the sacramental question: where is the best place to go? On one side of the scale - sexy and cheap Pattaya, on the other - quiet and respectable Phuket. Each of these resorts has its own pros and cons, which we will try to highlight in this article.

Pattaya and Phuket on the map

The island of Phuket is located in the south of Thailand and is washed by Andaman Sea. In addition to the fact that Phuket is the largest Thai island, it is also independent province. Moreover, she is quite wealthy.
The province extends over 590 km² and includes 39 small islands. 850 kilometers to the north lies Bangkok.

An interesting detail: the island is connected to the mainland of the kingdom through the half-kilometer Sarasin Bridge.

Pattaya, being part of the Chonburi province, is spread over east coast Gulf of Thailand. Only 165 km separates it from Bangkok. Getting here is easier than getting to Phuket, and many travelers see this as an undeniable advantage.

Getting there from Bangkok

Let's compare the delights transport communication both resorts with Bangkok. We previously wrote that it is better to fly to Bangkok and then move around the country using domestic passenger lines.

It’s easy to guess that getting to Pattaya is much easier and cheaper than getting to Phuket. Let's make a mental note.

Distance from Phuket to Pattaya

Phuket and Pattaya are separated by 993 kilometers, which are easily overcome by several types of transport. Most travelers prefer buses.

Moving from Phuket to Pattaya

Back in 2011, there was no regular bus service between Phuket and Pattaya. However, over the past 2 years the situation has changed noticeably. By paying about 1,300 baht for a VIP seat in a comfortable bus, you can easily reach the coveted island. Pleasant bonuses will be free food and water with a bun included in the fare.

Travel time will be approximately 14 hours. Departure daily at 18.00. This is the only flight connecting Pattaya to Phuket, so try to be punctual. Departure point - North Street.

Resort comparison

Comparing Phuket with Pattaya is a thankless task. Each of these resorts occupies its own niche in the tourism sector, each has its own adherents. And yet, let’s risk going over the main criteria for quality rest.

Weather in Phuket

Vacation in Phuket best between October and April. Other months will be remembered only for endless heavy rains, since monsoon winds prevail in those latitudes. This climate is called tropical monsoon.

The air temperature here in the hot season is 28-32ºС. Rains - quite a rare event. In the low season there is also a chance to catch good weather. However, we do not recommend swimming in a storm.

Let's compare with the weather forecast in Pattaya for a week:

Pattaya's weather conditions can be divided into three seasons:

Cool (November-February). The average daily temperature is 30-32ºС. At night the mercury does not drop below 21-23ºС. Sometimes there are short showers. With the arrival of February comes a sharp warming.
Hot (March-June). In some cases, the thermometer shows +40ºС. The night temperature stays at 26 degrees. The sun is extremely active, so you can easily get sunburned. High humidity makes the local climate a living hell for the inhabitants of the middle zone.
Rainy season (July-October). The air temperature drops to 32 degrees. The rainy peak occurs in August-September - at this time the humidity exceeds 90%. The sky is mostly cloudy. Mosquitoes appear.

Beaches at resorts

Pattaya, although a resort, is still a large city, so there are not enough beaches here. And those that exist are significantly inferior in terms of ecology to the beaches of Phuket. The sandy strip stretching along the coast is narrow. The natural limiter is the road. The sea is calm but cloudy. Vacationers seeking tropical nature with its rocky and sandy beaches, you will have to take an excursion to the nearby islands.

Phuket is confidently ahead of its depraved competitor in terms of beach culture. The sand here is presented for every taste - from snow-white and fine to coarse, crispy like snow. Phuket also has plenty of secluded beaches, as well as recreational areas with developed infrastructure.

Everywhere there is greenery, waterfalls, mountain rivers. The sea is transparent and clean. Each beach is unique, you will be pleased with the ecology, invigorated hiking and will bring a lot of impressions forays into neighboring islands.

Prices

Experienced travelers have calculated that Phuket costs 1.5 times more than Pattaya. Since Phuket is young and rapidly developing tourist centre, all hotels on its territory are ultra-modern and recently built. A flight from Bangkok to Phuket will also cost more, since the island is remote from the center.

Clothing and food, when compared with Pattaya price tags, 10-20% more expensive. The same applies to taxis, but the prices charged by drivers are quite fair. The fact is that Phuket is a very vast island, and in Pattaya everything is at your fingertips.

Attractions

Pattaya has very few cultural attractions, unless you count clubs that organize transvestite shows as such. Eat interesting places in the vicinity of the capital of debauchery, but you still need to get there.

Here is a list of Pattaya “miracles” that are worth visiting:

Buddha Hill;
Orchid Park;
Mini Siam;
Sanctuary of Truth;
Floating Market;
Elephant Village;
crocodile farm;
park of million-year-old stones.

Phuket, on the contrary, boasts ancient temples, waterfalls, various natural monuments and educational museums.

We list the particularly interesting points of the excursion program in Phuket:

Mining Museum;
Tiger Temple;
Phuket Zoo;
Butterfly Garden;
Ton Prai Waterfall;
Sea Shell Museum;
Monkey Mountain;
Snake Farm;
Phra Nang Temple;
Tai Hua Museum;
National Park.

Entertainment

In principle, there is enough entertainment at both resorts. The only difference is their focus. In Pattaya everything is focused on the sex industry, and in Phuket you will be offered a lot of trekking, hiking with tents and exotic night fishing for octopuses.

For nightlife lovers, those who go to Phuket for “movement” will have to migrate to Koh Phangan beach— this is where most of the local discos, bars and nightclubs are concentrated. However, their prices will not please you.

Shopping

This is where Pattaya takes the lead. Firstly, this Big City, all shops and shopping centers of which are within easy reach. Secondly, the famous Floating Market operates here, which in itself is an attraction. And finally, the determining factor that pushes Phuket to the margins of shopping is its proximity to Bangkok’s Pattaya with its endless shopping arcades.

Reviews about Phuket or Pattaya

Analyzing the reviews of travelers who visited Phuket and Pattaya, we can draw certain conclusions:

If you're young and looking for an active nightlife, head to Pattaya. Holidays in Pattaya are best combined with trips to the tiny islands of the Gulf of Thailand. Then the beach will be a joy for you.
Strive for privacy and natural purity- save up more money and fly to Phuket. Pattaya beaches make a depressing impression on many.
Hotels in Pattaya cause a storm of conflicting opinions. Many people like their budget, but the level of comfort in cheap hotels leaves much to be desired. Stories about rats, cockroaches and unfriendly staff roam the Internet.
Some tourists paying tribute snow-white beaches Phuket, criticizes the paucity of the entertainment program.

Pros and cons of vacation

To summarize, let's try to highlight the negative and positive sides both resorts.

Pattaya. The advantages include: favorable climate, wide range of entertainment, cheap accommodation, service orientation towards Russians. Among the disadvantages are poor ecology, dirty beaches, and the difficulty of family vacations.
Phuket. Pros: the resort specializes in beach holidays, you are surrounded by luxurious natural landscapes, and a high level of service. Cons: the island is remote from Bangkok, high prices, expensive accommodation, little entertainment.

The high season has arrived, which means it's time to make a decision. Both Phuket and Pattaya have their own unique charm, weaving an unforgettable atmosphere filled with fresh sensations around the European. Which of the two resorts attracts you more depends on your temperament and wallet size. One way or another, Thailand will certainly live up to all your expectations and will settle in your heart forever.

A selection of typical photos of Phuket for comparison

Believe me, hardly anyone will give you a clear answer to the question: which is better than Phuket or Pattaya? In fact, everything here very much depends on what will be your priority on vacation - clear sea, night parties, or the opportunity to get to know the historical and natural attractions of Thailand.

If we talk purely about climate, then the winner in this matter is undoubtedly Pattaya resort, because here is definitely the most better climate in Thailand. During the dry season, which lasts from November to April, precipitation occurs here no more than once or twice a month, and even then the rain lasts for a maximum of half an hour. Well, the rest of the time the gentle sun shines, which is so lacking in these winter months at our home.

During the rainy season, which in Thailand lasts from May to October, precipitation in Pattaya is not so frequent - once or twice a week, but it can last a whole week and the next week will be dry. True, the sky during this period is usually overcast and the sun does not appear very often. But why be surprised? After all, it’s the rainy season; in Phuket at this time everything is much worse.

In Phuket, during the dry season it rains about once or twice a week, but during the rainy season it can rain almost every day for an hour or even much longer. So in terms of weather, Pattaya takes the lead. But as far as the cleanliness of the air is concerned, everything is just the opposite. Among the disadvantages of Phuket, one can also note very high waves and even dangerous currents in the low season.

If you look at which of these two resorts has a better and cleaner sea, then Phuket definitely wins. In Pattaya, this is essentially not a sea at all, but just one name, not to mention the purity of the water. An incredibly large number of water motor activities are concentrated on the main beach here, which cannot but affect the cleanliness of the water in the sea. Well, plus, of course, the crowds of tourists are not well-mannered and throw anything they can into the sea.

In Phuket, especially in those places where there are few tourists, it is much cleaner, of course. Recently, many vacationers have adapted to renting a hotel in Pattaya and going for a swim to nearby islands - for example, to Koh Larn, where both the water and the beach are very clean.

The beaches are certainly better in Phuket. There are much more of them there and in general they are wider than in Pattaya. Therefore, in Phuket it is very easy to choose a quiet and peaceful place for your holiday. If you wish, there is, of course, the opportunity to find noisy party beaches. But in Pattaya you can’t find uncrowded beaches at all - it’s full of people everywhere.

As for the environment, Phuket undoubtedly wins here, because almost half of the island there is occupied by forests, and in Pattaya itself there are practically no parks left where one could at least breathe clean air. Of course, we can’t talk about such strong gas pollution as, for example, in Bangkok or in the same Moscow, but still, from an environmental point of view, Phuket is much better.

But in terms of sightseeing, the first place remains with Pattaya. Although there may not be many of them in it itself, you can easily get anywhere from it. So in this regard, the island located in the Andaman Sea is much inferior to the resort of Pattaya.

There are all sorts of different entertainments here and there, so in this regard Pattaya and Phuket are on equal terms. But prices for accommodation are indeed much higher in Phuket; it is generally considered the most expensive resort in Thailand. So the choice is yours, weigh all the pros and cons and decide.

Let's figure out which resort in Thailand is better - Pattaya or Phuket. We compare the sea, beaches, excursions, prices and reviews of tourists about Phuket and Pattaya - 2019 to understand where it is good to go on vacation on your own or on a last-minute tour.

Where are these resorts located?

Pattaya and Phuket on the map of Thailand:

Which resort to choose in Thailand:

Phuket: holidays with children, swimming, beach holidays;
Pattaya: excursions and attractions, entertainment, fun.

The main argument of Pattaya supporters is “Phuket gets boring after a few days.” But this is an individual opinion: whether it will be boring or fun depends only on your needs.

Below in the article we will compare all aspects of holidays at these resorts in Thailand so that you can decide for yourself where it is better to go - to Phuket or Pattaya.

At the end of the article you will find a comparative table of the advantages of each resort, which will help you make the right choice.

Pattaya or Phuket: where is the weather better?

When choosing Phuket or Pattaya for a holiday in Thailand, it is worth having an idea of the climate in these regions of the country.

Holidays in Phuket

It is better to relax in Phuket from mid-November to April-May - at this time there is no rain, strong winds and waves on the sea, the water is clear, and the beaches are best suited for swimming. It is about vacations during this period that tourists leave the most enthusiastic reviews about Phuket.

The rest of the time (May-October), the rainy season lasts in Phuket: the sky is often cloudy and gray, there are waves on the sea, and the water can be cloudy. It rains often, but mainly in the evenings and at night.

Holidays in Pattaya

IN Pattaya is good The holiday season is also considered to be the period from early November to mid-May. But the rainy season in this part of Thailand is weak, so you can relax comfortably in Pattaya both in summer and autumn. Moreover, due to the geographical location there are never big waves in Pattaya.

Read more about the climate and holiday seasons here:

Thus, if it is important to you good weather, it is worth going to Phuket or Pattaya in the following months:

Phuket: early November – mid-May
Pattaya: all year (but better - from November to the end of May)

Phuket or Pattaya: where is the sea better?

If the purpose of your trip to Thailand is swimming and beach holidays, Phuket will be preferable to Pattaya. If you are going on vacation with small children, you shouldn’t even consider the option of Pattaya - the sea and beaches there are much worse, and you definitely shouldn’t go to those with a child.

Sea in Phuket

During the holiday season, the sea in Phuket is clean, with clear azure and blue water; excellent photographs are taken on the shore. The bottom is clearly visible at great depths, the entry into the water on popular beaches is gentle: you can swim and relax even with small children. The cleanliness of the sea is also indicated by the presence of representatives of the animal world - crabs, lizards, small fish.

Video of the sea at Patong Beach in Phuket (November):

Sea in Pattaya

In Pattaya the sea is much worse than in Phuket. There is often debris in the water; it is cloudy and green in color. Almost no one swims within the city limits; for this, tourists go to the beaches in the vicinity of the city or to neighboring islands - and this will require spending time and money.

The sea in Pattaya is not so terrible that swimming in it is dangerous or prohibited, but such swimming will bring much less pleasure than in Phuket.

Video of sea and water in Pattaya:

Which is better: the beaches of Phuket or Pattaya

In our opinion, the beaches in Phuket are generally better suited for relaxation than the beaches in Pattaya - they are more beautiful and cleaner, but not so rich in clubs, bars and other entertainment.

One of the main advantages of Phuket beaches over Pattaya beaches is also the proximity of the sea: to get to a good beach in Phuket you need to walk 200-400 meters from the hotel, and in Pattaya you will have to drive at least an hour.

Beaches of Phuket

Phuket has over 20 beaches, all located on the western side of the island. The beaches are different, you can find the one that suits you.

There is the popular and party Patong - generally similar to Pattaya, but on a smaller scale. There are many bars and discos there, there is even its own equivalent of the depraved Walking Street - here it is called Bangla Road. Patong has many hotels, restaurants and entertainment for those who love fun.

There are quiet and beautiful beaches without tourists and hotels, where you can admire the aquamarine water and natural beauty - these are Tri Trang, Nai Harn, Freedom, Mai Khao.

Finally, there are good beaches Karon, Kata and Kamala - something between the developed Patong and a quiet deserted coast. It is not as noisy and crowded as Patong, but it is beautiful, clean and has all the infrastructure necessary for recreation.

Panorama of Karon Beach in Phuket in low season, September (click on one of the arrows if the picture is not visible):

Pattaya beaches

There are also many beaches in Pattaya, but the best of them are those that are located further from the city center - for example, Jomtien. However, even Jomtien does not suit many tourists - not everyone swims there.

Panorama central beach Pattaya beach in the season - December (click on the arrow if the photo is not visible):

Other beaches within the city are usually even worse. Judging by the reviews of tourists, many people like to watch sunsets on the beaches of Pattaya, but for swimming and beach holidays, tourists prefer to go out of town or to the nearest islands - for example, Koh Larn or Koh Samet.

On the islands the sea is quite clean, there are beaches with good sand and no garbage. The only negative is that you need to spend at least an hour and 50-100 baht to get to the island.

The best beach in the vicinity of Pattaya is Military Beach. It is located 30 kilometers south of the city, getting there by moped or car is still more convenient than sailing to the island of Koh Larn. Military Beach is valued for its cleanliness, good sand, clear sea - all this is quite a rarity for Pattaya. Entrance to the beach is paid (100 baht = 190 rubles), and on weekends many tourists and locals gather there to relax.

There are also nice beach Nong Ram - it is located a little further, and some tourists like it even more than Military Beach.

Entertainment in Thailand

Which is better in terms of entertainment - Phuket or Pattaya?

Pattaya has more good bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. In Phuket, of course, they also exist, but not in such large quantities. In addition, prices for food and entertainment in Pattaya are lower.

Pattaya is known as the "city of depravity" thanks to its Walking Street. At the same time, in Phuket there is a similar street (on Patong Beach) - Bangla Road. There, anyone can find everything the same as on Walking Street in Pattaya.

Sights and excursions

It is believed that Pattaya better than Phuket from a cultural perspective: There are more attractions there, and excursions are more varied.

Indeed, in Pattaya itself and its surroundings there are many attractions, and getting to them is easier: after all, Pattaya is a city, and Phuket is an entire island. In addition, from Pattaya it is easy to get to other cultural places in Thailand - for example, to Bangkok or ancient Ayutthaya.

Pattaya's attractions include beautiful park complexes (Nong Nooch Garden is especially worth noting), monasteries, and zoos.

There is also something to see in Phuket, but there are not many attractions, and to get to them you need to rent a moped or take an expensive taxi (prices start from 800 rubles per train). Excursions in Phuket are mainly by sea - to neighboring islands or to the province of Krabi.

Our maps will help you navigate the sights of Thailand:

Photo: Temple of Truth in Pattaya

Shopping centers and shopping

In terms of shopping and shopping, Pattaya beats Phuket: There are many large shopping centers in the city, and if necessary, you can go to Bangkok, which will satisfy the needs of any shopaholic.

Prices for trips to Pattaya are a little more expensive - from 62,000-70,000 rubles for two people (7 nights). For this price you can go, for example, to a popular hotel (breakfast included).

Are you planning to fly on a tour? The material Prices for all-inclusive tours to Thailand - 2019 will be useful to you, where we analyzed the cost of tours to different categories of hotels (3, 4, 5 stars) and to different resorts in the country (Phuket, Pattaya, Samui).

Last minute tours to Thailand: Pattaya or Phuket

In 2019, last-minute tours to both Pattaya and Phuket are often among the trips to Thailand. It is convenient to search for such tours through special search engines that compare the price of tours from all tour operators - for example or.

The cost of last-minute tours to Phuket starts from 34,000-39,000 rubles for two people (7 nights).

Last minute tours to Pattaya can be cheaper - we came across options for 30,000 rubles for two.

Transport at the resorts

According to reviews from many travelers, transport in Phuket is more expensive than in Pattaya and not as convenient.

Buses and minibuses

Minibuses (songthaews) run around Pattaya around the clock, the ticket for which costs only 10 baht (19 rubles). You can get to almost any part of the city by songthaew.

In Phuket, minibuses operate only on the “beach – Phuket town” route; a ticket costs 30 baht. That is, to get to the neighboring beach by public transport, you need to go through the center of the island - this is long and inconvenient.

Taxi

Taxis in Phuket are generally the most expensive in Thailand: even for short trip on nearby beach the driver will charge you 400-500 baht (800-1000 rubles). In Pattaya, the price of boarding a taxi is 30-40 baht (60-80 rubles), plus 6 baht (12 rubles) for each kilometer.

Where is it cheaper to travel on your own?

If you are traveling to Phuket or Pattaya on your own, the cost of the flight from Russia may influence your choice of resort.

In 2019, the difference in airfare prices is insignificant, but you will most likely be able to get to Pattaya cheaper.

Flight to Phuket

Unlike Pattaya, Phuket can be reached by direct flight from Russia. Aeroflot tickets cost from 26,800 rubles in summer and autumn, at other times of the year the price rises to 28,000-30,000 rubles.

To get from the airport to your hotel or beach you need to spend another 120-180 baht for a minibus/bus or 700-800 baht for a taxi.

Read about the cost of flights to Phuket and prices for travel from the airport here:

Calendar with prices for flights to Phuket:

Flight to Pattaya

There is U-Tapao Airport 32 kilometers from Pattaya, but planes neither from Russia nor from Bangkok fly there. So, to get to Pattaya, you need to fly to Bangkok and then take a bus or taxi.

For the car.

Calendar with prices for flights to Bangkok:

Phuket or Pattaya: which is safer?

Experienced travelers claim that Phuket is safer than Pattaya.

In Pattaya, thefts and muggings (for example, bags being cut off and wallets being stolen) are more common, especially in the center. The city has both completely safe areas and those where it can be dangerous in the evening. How worse place– the higher the risk of running into scammers and pickpockets.

Phuket is quieter and calmer, there are much fewer security problems there: although thefts do occur, they are much less common than in Pattaya.

At the same time, if in Thailand you behave appropriately and not provocatively, the likelihood of getting into an unpleasant situation in both Phuket and Pattaya is extremely small. Just watch your bags and belongings more carefully, and don’t conflict with the locals.

Pattaya or Phuket: which is better to choose for a holiday?

So that you can decide where to go on vacation in Thailand, we have made a convenient table with the advantages of each resort.

Which is better in Phuket or Pattaya:

If you are traveling to Thailand with small children, it is definitely better to choose Phuket. In other cases, the decision will depend on your preferences: for parties and excursions you should go to Pattaya, for beach holiday And clear sea- to Phuket.

Video: what is better to choose from Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui:

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