Car Hire Pattaya

Hiring a car in Pattaya is a great way to see this city in Thailand which is located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand. With a rental vehicle you can drive to and from Bangkok in an hour and a half. The nearest airport to Pattaya is the U-Tapao Airport. It is a joint civil–military public airport and offers limited connectivity to a handful of destinations. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is about a 90 minutes’ drive into Pattaya.
 

Hiring a Car in Pattaya:

Advantages:

1. Flexibility: Having your own vehicle allows you to explore Pattaya and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
2. Comfort: A private car provides a comfortable way to travel, especially if you're with family or have a lot of luggage.
3. Broadened Horizons: With a car, you can venture to less touristy spots that public transport might not reach as conveniently.

Driving in Pattaya:

1. Traffic Conditions: Pattaya can get congested, especially on weekends and during holidays when locals and tourists flock to the city. The main roads like Beach Road and Second Road can get particularly busy.
2. Drive on the Left: Thailand drives on the left-hand side of the road.
3. Parking: While parking spaces in central Pattaya can be hard to find during peak times, many hotels, malls, and attractions offer parking.
4. Road Conditions: Major roads are generally in good condition, but smaller alleyways (sois) can be narrow and sometimes poorly lit.
5. Local Drivers: Thai driving habits can sometimes be unpredictable. Be cautious, especially of motorbikes that might weave through traffic.

Places to Visit by Car:

1. The Sanctuary of Truth: A wooden temple offering a unique blend of religious art and architecture.
2. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: A vast botanical garden with themed gardens, cultural shows, and an elephant show.
3. Pattaya Floating Market: Experience traditional Thai life, buy souvenirs, and enjoy local foods.
4. Silverlake Vineyard: A scenic vineyard offering tours and wine tasting.
5. Wat Yansangwararam: A beautiful temple complex near Pattaya.
6. Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan): Features a giant sculptural image of Lord Buddha erected on the giant cliff.
7. Jomtien Beach: A quieter alternative to Pattaya Beach.

Day Trips from Pattaya:

1. Rayong: A quieter beach town known for its seafood.
2. Koh Larn: Though an island, it's a short ferry ride away, and you can take your rental car with you on the car ferry.
3. Sriracha Tiger Zoo: A short drive from Pattaya, it's home to tigers, crocodiles, and other animals.

General Tips:

1. Safety: While Pattaya is generally safe, it's advisable not to leave valuables in your car.
2. Navigation: Having a GPS or a smartphone with a map app will be immensely helpful in navigating around the city.
3. Fuel: There are numerous petrol stations in and around Pattaya. Remember to check if you need to fill the car with gasoline or diesel.
4. Alcohol and Driving: Never drink and drive. Thailand has strict drink-driving laws.

In Conclusion: Driving in Pattaya offers a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. While traffic can be challenging, especially during peak times, the flexibility of having a car allows for a richer exploration of the region. Always drive defensively and stay alert.