I visit a lot of Thailand Forums and very often a newbies will ask if he should go to Bangkok or Pattaya or both. He will also want to know how long he should stay at each place if he goes to both.
As a season traveler to Thailand for over 30 years, I tend to be a bit cynical and advise most to just go straight to Pattaya. But, there are arguments to be made to stop by and visit Bangkok for a few days too.
I have toned down my advice a bit usually tell the newbie to visit Bangkok for 2 to 3 days at the beginning of his trip and then spend the rest of the 2 or 3 weeks in Pattaya. Everyone should see Bangkok at least once.
There is a lot to see in Bangkok if you can ever get to where you want to go. Traffic is usually moving along at a snails pace and the meter in the taxi keeps ticking away. Walking around is hot and the streets are lined with vendors that block the sidewalk and will try any tactic to get you to stop and buy something from their stall. And, if you are walking around at night, you will have to watch out for the lady-boys and the muggers (as you would in almost any large city).
Once you suffer taxis and heat, there are numerous clubs,...