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Best places to visit in thailand.

With a history that spans centuries and an exotic and friendly culture, Thailand welcomes travelers with white sand beaches, bustling cities and world-renowned culinary traditions. But with all that Thailand has to offer, you might be overwhelmed by where to head first. U.S. News considered attractions, seasonality, food options and more to determine the best places to visit in Thailand. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Railay Beach

Kanchanaburi province, khao sok national park, hua hin district, khao yai national park.

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is a welcome reprieve from the commotion of Bangkok. Here, you'll be treated to beautiful, mountainous landscapes and an Old City full of historical temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Venture outside of the city to Doi Suthep temple for sweeping views of the city below. Night markets are also a must-do in Chiang Mai, so pencil in time for the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (one of Thailand's oldest and most well-known night bazaars). And no matter what, leave time for a visit to Elephant Nature Park for some rest and relaxation with Thailand's gentle giants.

Thailand's capital city is nothing short of exhilarating. The city offers a hearty mix of big-city bustle and modern sights, such as the Jim Thompson House, alongside ancient attractions, including Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Just don't forget to pack modest clothing for visits to sacred sites, or you won't be admitted. While here, be sure to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the largest street markets in the world – and eat at some of Bangkok's more than 300,000 street food stalls (some Michelin starred). At night, take in the skyline by exploring the rooftop bar scene.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and also the most popular with travelers. The island draws visitors in with its many palm-fringed beaches and relatively low travel costs, including everything from food to hotels. Hit up highly regarded Patong Beach, party the night away in the Patong district or head inland to Phuket Old Town to experience more local culture and find cheaper lodging options. Complete your once-in-a-lifetime trip by taking a long-tail boat tour to other islands in the area to swim, snorkel or scuba dive.

Home to five-star resorts, amazing nightlife and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches , the island of Ko Samui has something for everyone. When you're not lounging on the white sand, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment, visit an elephant sanctuary or explore ancient temples like Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Save time in your schedule for a daytrip to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park, a 42-island archipelago that is accessible via speedboat. Here, travelers can kayak, snorkel and scuba dive.

Although the region was devastated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Phang Nga has recovered and rebuilt. During the cool (though still relatively hot), dry season (from November to February), tourists descend upon the province to check out protected areas like Mu Ko Surin National Park, one of the best diving sites in Thailand. Hiking and snorkeling are also excellent ways to explore while admiring southern Thailand's natural beauty. Before leaving, don't forget to save time for a visit to Ao Phang-Nga National Park, famous for its caves, emerald green waters and the picturesque James Bond Island.

Railay Beach features four stunning stretches of sand to sink your toes into. Railay West and Phra Nang Beach are two of the peninsula's most popular beach spots, offering luxury resorts, soft sand and jaw-dropping views of limestone cliffs. Tonsai Beach is more laid-back and budget-friendly thanks to its quieter, more removed location. Meanwhile, Railay East, while not great for swimming, is where you'll find some of the area's best nightlife venues. Regardless of which beaches you choose to visit, you'll have access to some of Thailand's best rock climbing locations, plus various walking paths and coral reefs.

Trang's secluded beaches and stunning islands have made it an up-and-coming travel destination. The dramatic surrounding landscapes (think: lush jungles and limestone mountains) contrast beautifully against the beaches' white sands and crystal-clear waters. You can spend days island-hopping to see and do all that Trang has to offer. Top activities you may enjoy include snorkeling around Ko Kradan, swimming to a hidden beach cave on Ko Muk and wandering through Thung Khai Botanical Garden. And after you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, head to one of Trang's 10 districts to immerse yourself in Thai culture.

Ko Phi Phi features some of Thailand's most popular beaches. Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands, is known for its lively party scene, hidden coves and deep coral reefs and gardens that are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is where you'll find verdant cliffs surrounding Maya Bay's beautiful beaches, which you may recognize from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie "The Beach." The best time to visit is between November and April, though be prepared for hordes of other visitors during this time.

Situated in northern Thailand, there are countless reasons to visit Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) and Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are two of the city's most popular cultural landmarks, but travelers should also save time for the incredible Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai's iconic all-white temple. After exploring Chiang Rai's architectural wonders, enjoy a boat tour of the Mae Kok River, go shopping at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar or explore the Baan Dam Museum, a collection of buildings created by artist Thawan Duchanee.

Thailand's third-largest province captivates travelers with its natural beauty. Its diverse landscape – which features everything from seven-tiered waterfalls, rivers and mountains to Neolithic caves and national parks – is ideal for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and rafting. But a trip here wouldn't be complete without visiting some of the area's World War II sites, including the notorious Bridge over the River Kwai. Start your history lesson at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that tells the tragic story of how the Thailand-Burma Railway was built. Then, stop by the JEATH War Museum to see a replica of a prisoners-of-war camp.

Even if you don't consider yourself an outdoorsy person, a trip to Khao Sok National Park is sure to take your breath away. Home to limestone cliffs, awe-inspiring waterfalls and the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, Khao Sok is an incredibly bio-diverse area. Here, you'll find roughly 200 kinds of flora and many different animal species, including tigers, elephants and Southern pig-tailed macaques (monkeys). The park sees a lot of rainfall year-round, so for the best chance of staying dry, time your visit during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

For a vacation full of rich cultural attractions, head to Lampang. Sitting about 70 miles southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is known for its horse-drawn carriages, authentic Thai cuisine and ornate temples, including the ancient Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang. Spend some time browsing for souvenirs along Kad Kong Ta, a thoroughfare that turns into a street market on weekends, or learn about the production of the chicken bowl at the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to nearby Chae Son National Park, where tourists boil eggs in the park's natural hot springs.

A popular resort destination along the Gulf of Thailand, the Hua Hin District offers a full roster of activities to pick from (think: water parks, golf courses and night markets). Visitors can ride banana boats at Hua Hin Beach or enjoy the views from the top of Khao Takiap hill (just beware the resident wild monkeys). Hua Hin also serves as an excellent jumping off point for daytrips – spectacular sights like the Phraya Nakhon Cave and Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest national park in Thailand, are located less than 40 miles outside of the city center.

Khao Yai National Park boasts a number of impressive superlatives: It's the oldest and most-visited national park in Thailand, the country's third-largest national park and one of mainland Asia's largest intact monsoon forests. Plus, this stunning national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 30 miles of hiking trails, some of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Keep in mind, though that guides are required for most of the trails. While exploring, you may spot some of Khao Yai's wild residents, including elephants, sun bears and several species of hornbills.

Named Ko Chang (or "Elephant Island" in Thai) because of its elephant-shaped headland, this large island is more secluded than Phuket but no less beautiful. Its west coast is dotted with stunning coastlines (some sandy, some rocky), small towns and a variety of accommodation options, while its interior offers tropical jungles and gushing waterfalls to trek through and to. But remember, Ko Chang's tourism infrastructure isn't as well developed as other Thai islands, so getting here is a bit more of a trek.

Located in southern Thailand near the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is a popular stopover for tourists traveling between the two countries. This cosmopolitan city is a premier shopping hub, boasting several malls, night bazaars and a unique floating market, where travelers can purchase local delicacies and goods from vendors stationed in small boats along a canal. When you're not bargaining for the best price, check out the impressive Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, a temple constructed entirely out of stainless steel. Another can't-miss tourist attraction in Hat Yai is the towering statue Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj, which sits within Hat Yai Municipal Park.

This northeast Thai city is ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed vacation itinerary. Start off with a visit to the temple Wat Phothisomphon, then learn about Udon Thani's Chinese heritage at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Center. Other travelers will want to prioritize Udon Thani's natural wonders, which include Nong Prachak Public Park and serene Red Lotus Lake. While you're here, considering making a daytrip to nearby Ban Chiang, a Bronze Age UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Southeast Asia.

14 Day Tour of Thailand & Laos

Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train

This border-crossing epic marries Southeast Asian escapism with the timeless romance of train travel.

Starts at: Bangkok

Ends at: Bangkok

Duration: 14 days

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20 Best Places to Visit in Thailand — From the Country's Oldest National Park With Secret Waterfalls to Stunning Islands With Excellent Diving

There's no shortage of beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

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Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

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For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

Tip: Book a room at the Capella Bangkok or Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — two iconic luxury hotels with stunning locations perched on the Chao Phraya River.

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Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

"I would say for anybody, whether it's their first time or a repeat trip to Thailand, if you have been there or you haven't, [you have to visit] Chiang Mai," said Grant Ekelund , Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and senior travel consultant and Asia specialist at InsideAsia. "It's such a neat city. It’s one of those destinations that has something for everyone … Are you a foodie? Do you want to hike? See cool temples? Have amazing trekking opportunities? It can all be done [here], and it slots into any itinerary perfectly."

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene. For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio's character went in search of an island paradise in the film "The Beach," which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

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While we’re on the topic of Koh Phi Phi, we’d be remiss not to mention Krabi province as a whole. Located in southern Thailand, bordering the Andaman Sea, Krabi is home to many of the beautiful beaches and islands that make Thailand famous. 

"I've been booking many [trips to] Krabi lately," said Ekelund. "It ticks a lot of boxes for people. You've got the beauty, cool cliffs, and interesting geology. It has a beach, but it's for people who don't want to simply park it on the sand for 10 days. Krabi offers activities and more." Some highlights include the beach town of Ao Nang, as well as islands like Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lipe, Railay Beach, and several national parks.

Koh Yao Noi

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My first trip to Thailand was to the small island of Koh Yao Noi back in 2013. One of the most beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is flecked off the coast of its sibling island, Koh Yao Yai. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages comprise most of the land here, along with the luxe Six Senses Yao Noi resort tucked along the eastern coast. The property’s infinity pool is legendary for its explosive sunrise views that blur the distinction between the sky and sea.

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Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

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Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. "Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are," said Ekelund. "We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don't have a city built up around it."

Mae Hong Son Loop

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Of all the places I've visited in Thailand, none stick with me as much as the Mae Hong Son Loop. This 300-mile route is most often tackled by travelers on the back of motorbikes looking to brave the mountain switchbacks that descend into the thick jungle and pass from small village to small village. It's not a journey to be taken lightly — motorbike experience is strongly recommended — but those who make the trip are rewarded with spectacular scenery and access to remote communities.

Khao Yai National Park

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Thailand has more than 100 national parks. The oldest is Khao Yai National Park, which also happens to be the country's third-largest. Within the park lies a web of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, and herds of elephants.

"Khao Yai has a lot of bat caves, too, which is one of the coolest things I've ever experienced," said Ekelund. "I stood there for 30 minutes while an unending stream of bats flew over my head. It was all so beautiful. It's a beautiful park with waterfalls, trekking, and hiking. Plus, it's just a couple of hours [by car] from Bangkok."

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Approximately two hours southeast of Chiang Mai is the city of Lampang. Much like many large cities in Thailand, Lampang has its fair share of temples, street food, and markets. But unlike the others, it feels like a place where time has stood still. Just listen for the sound of clip-clopping horse carts, still used for transportation, and you'll understand what I mean. Because of Lampang's integral role in the teak trade, many migrants from Myanmar made this northern city home, and you'll find teak mansions and Burmese-style temples everywhere.

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Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. "I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is," said Ekelund. "It's a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It's a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange."

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No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand's largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

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Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

"It's hard to beat Koh Samui. It's just beautiful," said Ekelund. "If you want easy access without a full resort stay, I recommend Anantara Bophut . You can walk to Fisherman's Village, and you won’t feel like you're 'stuck' at a resort. If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms."

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The tiny island of Koh Tao, located in the Gulf of Thailand and not too far from Koh Samui, is one of the country’s best locations for diving and snorkeling. In fact, most avid divers will tell you that Koh Tao is their destination of choice in Thailand. The palm-fringed island is best known for its abundance of sea turtles.

Kanchanaburi

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Shrouded in thick jungle and sliced by miles of track belonging to what was once known as the “Death Railway,” Kanchanaburi has a dark and tragic history. The infamous train route, which crosses the River Kwai, was built from 1940 to 1943 by prisoners of war taken by the Japanese in World War II. Today, only a small section of the rail route is open and takes travelers on a journey through the mountain cliffs and bamboo forests of Kanchanaburi. "If you're into history, beautiful vistas, trains, and wildlife, you can get all of that in Kanchanaburi. It's a place not many tourists go, either, so it has a lot to offer," said Ekelund.

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Trang is the province directly south of Krabi, which means it has the same beautiful stretch of Andaman Sea coastline, except with a fraction of the crowds. There’s no shortage of islands to explore around Trang, like Koh Kradan and Koh Muk. Koh Muk's crown jewel is the secret Emerald Cave, which can be entered via a dark tunnel that leads to a protected beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

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Located in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak can be thought of as Phuket’s much quieter cousin. Less than two hours from Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is home to miles of sprawling, empty beaches, plus it offers easy access to beautiful national parks.

"I've been hyping Khao Lak quite a bit for people who want something quieter," said Ekelund. "You have easy access to the Phuket International Airport, but it's much more chill than the other Andaman Islands. It has beautiful beaches, good infrastructure, a great spot for dining, and it’s not hard to get to."

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Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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South of Bangkok, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is best known for the glamorous, frenetic beach town of Hua Hin. The province runs down the skinny arm of the country, bordering the Gulf of Thailand on one side and Myanmar on the other. Here’s where you'll find Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park. The park's top attractions include a series of spectacular caves and a sprawling freshwater marsh. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beaches, islands, walking trails, and thick mangrove forests. It’s just an hour from Hua Hin and about 3.5 hours from Bangkok.

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This long, skinny island, also in the province of Krabi, flies under the radar, but it’s one of my favorite places in the country. Koh Lanta is home to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, an amazing spot for diving and seeing undeveloped beaches.

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27 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand

• Last Updated: June 7, 2024

From exploring canyons in Pai to partying it up in Bangkok, here’s our list of the absolute best places to visit in Thailand.

Thailand is one of the most popular countries in the world for tourists, and for a very good reason.

There’s just so much to see and do in Thailand that any type of traveller will easily feel at home there, whether they’re looking for parties, adventures, or just casual relaxation. There are so many amazing places to visit in Thailand!

Table of Contents

Khao Sok National Park

Kanchanaburi, khao yai national park, kamphaeng phet, tonsai beach, koh phangan, ang thong national marine park, koh phi phi, phanom rung historical park, mae hong son, the best places to visit in thailand.

The entire country is very welcoming and it’s heaven for all tourists as there are a lot of diverse places to visit in Thailand.

From the cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, to tropical rainforests and ancient temples, to sandy shoes of islands like Ko Samui and Ko Phi Phi, Thailand is just an incredible destination to visit . Here is our list of the best places to visit in Thailand, based on personal experience.

Khao Sok National park is one of the most well-known natural places to visit in Thailand.

One of the best places to visit in Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is located on the mainland in southern Thailand. It’s a large rainforest that was made into a national park in 1980.

Khao Sok National Park is quite sizeable and is home to a wide variety of wildlife such as elephants, porcupines, bears, hornbills, and so much more.

On top of being one of the oldest rainforests in the world and a viable home to some of the world’s largest mammals, Khao Sok National Park is most known for its unique and one-of-a-kind flowers like the Bua Phut.

Khao Sok National Park is very well maintained.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Khao Sok National Park, although there are only two maintained trails.

There are floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake, which are immensely popular, and the million-years-old limestone cavers are a sight to see as well.

READ MORE: Read all about our time at Khao Sok National Park .

Thailand is known for its incredible tropical paradise feel, and while there are a million spots like that in the country, few are as vibrant, charming, and relaxing as Koh Lipe.

Koh Lipe is the southernmost island in Thailand, and it’s sparsely populated in contrast to many of its counterparts.

Unlike many of the other islands in Thailand, Koh Lipe is not too developed.

You will find some of the most Zen and charming white sand beaches in the country, as well as pure and almost untouched nature, which make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

The beautiful beaches with their crystal-clear turquoise waters and very fine white sand are stunning.

Scuba diving, watching sunsets, yoga, observing bioluminescent planktons, hiking, and so much more is possible on the island paradise that is Koh Lipe.

We suggest this eco snorkeling tour when you visit Koh Lipe, one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Anyone who is not sure where to go in Thailand but wants to see something totally unique and chilled vibe should definitely opt for a trip to check out the best things to do in Pai .

It’s a charming little town that’s very close to Chiang Mai – the second largest city in Thailand – and for such a small town, there is a mind-bogglingly large number of activities to explore.

The entire atmosphere of Pai is very calm and relaxing, and it’s considered something like a hippie commune in the middle of Thailand, where backpackers and visitors go to relax.

There is so much to explore and so much to see in Pai.

Some of the popular things to do in Pai are exploring the canyon, Pembok Waterfall, and driving around with a scooter amidst gorgeous nature while some of the friendliest folk you’ll ever meet are surrounding you.

The history of South East Asia is incredibly vibrant, turbulent, and diverse, and it’s filled with tales of old kingdoms in the form of old ruins left behind after their fall.

Ayutthaya, the old capital city of one of those thriving kingdoms, Siam, was sacked and looted after a conflict with Burmese forces.

The ancient city of Ayutthaya used to be one of the most important trading posts in this part of the world, but it was also a centre for arts, culture, and religion, which is what most of the ruins are all about.

Here you’ll find plenty of old temples, whose silhouettes shape the sunset skies, and enormous stupas that evoke a lost feeling of grandeur.

We suggest you book a tour of ancient Ayutthaya to get the most out of your time in the ancient city.

The Historical Park of Ayutthaya is one of the most unique places to visit in Thailand because it looks and feels entirely magical.

As the former capital city of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is a cultural city that offers plenty of rest and relaxation for those who seek that. It’s also one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand.

It has hundreds of temples and unique streets and shops that make Chiang Mai one of the best places to visit in Thailand all on their own.

Wat Phra Singh is the coolest temple in Chiang Mai. You can get a shared taxi into the hills outside Chiang Mai to explore the gorgeous temple complex of Wat Phra Singh.

However, the real charm of Chiang Mai is the sheer amount of outdoor activities it has to offer. The surrounding nature of Chiang Mai is so pristine and varied that you’ll have a hard time trying to do anything else but have outdoor adventures.

Trekking is something everyone should do while visiting Chiang Mai, especially exploring the many trails in the Mae Tang and Chiang Dao districts.

You can also cycle, which is one of the most recommended things to do here, particularly if you like exploring the more rustic backdrop of Chiang Mai.

A unique way to get the adrenaline flowing in Chiang Mai is by taking the zip-line through the jungle .

There are plenty of other adventurous things to do here in northern Thailand, like rafting, zip-lining, and kayaking, all of which are very streamlined and incredibly easy to start doing.

Other fun things to do in Chiang Mai are see a Thai Boxing match, get a Thai Massage, or try a cooking class. You can get in touch with all aspects of the local culture in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai is easily one of the best places to visit in Thailand!

Don’t miss our epic guide of the top things to do in Chiang Mai.

The town of Kanchanaburi has a long but dark history.

It used to be an important strategic location in World War II, mainly because of the Death Railway Bridge, which was one of the most important things built there in WWII.

Most of the things to see here are concerned with the war, and that’s why there are plenty of important and haunting museums.

To learn firsthand about this history, we suggest that you join a tour to visit the famous River Kwai Bridge and the Death Railway .

However, this city is also considered to be a gateway of sorts into the nearby gorgeous and pristine national parks.

The Erawan National Park is one of them, which is one of the most beautiful things to see in Thailand, as it has a multi-tiered waterfall that’s the perfect spot to visit for any nature lover.

History buffs will also enjoy this region because of the centuries-old ruins, like the Prasat Muang Singh, which used to be an old trading post and town in the 12th century. For history lovers, this is one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

READ MORE: Check out this post about the best things to do in Kanchanaburi !

Chiang Rai is the sister town of Chiang Mai, and even though it’s not considered as popular, it’s still a fantastic destination on its own that deserves a lot more love.

Found in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is close to the borders of Laos and Myanmar.

Chiang Rai is a destination filled with temples and historic buildings, but also spots ideal for trekking and exploring.

You’ll find historic buildings like the White, Black, and Blue temples in Chiang Rai, each with its own vibrant and unique aesthetics.

Join a private tour of Chiang Mai to make the most of your time and enjoy the beauty of these majestic buildings.

One thing that every visitor should do in Chiang Rai is visit the northernmost point of the country, as it’s only a short drive from the city.

It is a signpost marked location that’s found on the border with Myanmar that connects the two countries via a bridge.

Among many other things, the nearby Tree Top Adventure Park is considered one of the best adventure activities in Thailand, where you can find rope bridges and zip lines surrounded by gorgeous scenery. This is a top attraction near Chiang Rai!

READ MORE: Check out these awesome things to do in Chiang Rai .

Khao Yai National Park is the first national park in Thailand and is also one of the largest ones. It’s one of the best places to visit in Thailand for nature lovers.

It’s one of the most biodiverse parts of Thailand where you’ll find wildlife like monkeys, elephants, deer, macaques, and hundreds of other unique species.

Khao Yai National Park is incredibly beautiful too! Filled with stunning waterfalls, natural caves, deep rainforests, and gorgeous scenery, it’s no surprise that Khao Yai National Park is one of the most popular Thailand attractions.

Camping is one of the most popular things to do here, which is why there are plenty of campsites dotted around Khao Yai National Park.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Thailand to escape the crowds and the bustling city like, definitely check out Khao Yai National Park.

Koh Tao, a picturesque island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking an idyllic tropical getaway.

With its white sandy beaches, lush greenery, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Koh Tao offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The island’s captivating beauty and laid-back atmosphere create a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.

Not only does Koh Tao boast some stunning landscapes in Thailand, but it is also the country’s premier destination for learning how to scuba dive.

The calm, warm waters surrounding the island provide excellent visibility and an abundance of vibrant marine life, making it the ideal location for novice divers to gain confidence and master their skills.

Furthermore, Koh Tao is home to numerous professional dive centers offering PADI certification courses at competitive prices, making it the most affordable and accessible place in the country for scuba diving enthusiasts.

In addition to its underwater allure, Koh Tao offers a diverse range of activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and yoga, as well as mouthwatering Thai cuisine and bustling nightlife.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and welcoming atmosphere, Koh Tao truly is a must-visit destination in Thailand.

Check out our guide on the best things to do in Koh Tao !

Bangkok is the single most visited place in Thailand, and it’s an enormous metropolis that offers just about anything for anyone.

It’s considered the pillar of tourism in Thailand, and even though it might often feel like a place filled with tourists, it’s actually perfect for a visit.

Bangkok is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand because there’s an excellent mix of urban and outdoor things to do.

You’ll be able to explore the city properly and subsequently fall in love with Thai culture.

One of our favourite things to do in Bangkok was to tour the floating markets of the Chao Phraya River.

However, having an adventure is also highly recommended, especially if you like adventurous activities like leaping from a plane, wakeboarding at Taco Lake, cycling, trekking, zip-lining, and so much more.

The Grand Palace is also one of the best places to visit in Bangkok. The glittering temple complex of the Grand Palace is absolutely fascinating.

There is no shortage of things to do in Bangkok, and it’s the capital city of the country and truly one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Bangkok .

Down in the far south of Thailand, not too far from the Malaysian border, are some of the most spectacular islands in the Andaman Sea.

From Lipe to Libong, Kradan to Ngai, there’s no shortage of awesome places to explore down here.

One of our favourites though is the picture-perfect island of Koh Mook.

This old-fashioned paradise is the perfect place to use as a base for exploring all the other islands, and there’s plenty to do there to keep you occupied for a few days.

It’s laidback, beautiful, has lots of good spots to stay and some great restaurants. Well worth a visit!

READ MORE: Plan your trip with our guide to the best things to do on Koh Mook .

The quaint town of Kamphaeng Phet is an underrated destination.

In many ways, it’s the opposite of the regular Thailand tourist attractions because it rarely sees many tourists, at least not international ones.

However, this is a town with a wide palette of things to see and do, especially if you’re a fan of history and tradition.

One of the coolest locations is the Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well an archeological dig site that’s dotted with numerous temples and old ruins.

In the historical park, you’re free to wander and explore as much as you like, although make sure not to climb anything that resembles a Buddha statue.

The nearby Phra Ruang Hot Springs are just a pleasure to visit as they’re literally filled with hot water with healing and therapeutic properties.

On top of that, you have a very welcoming local culture, which makes this town one of the best places to go in Thailand.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these things to do in Kamphaeng Phet to your itinerary.

Another one of the best places to visit in Thailand is Koh Lanta. From kayaking to motorbike exploration, the beautiful island of Koh Lanta offers everything.

It’s a totally laidback and charming destination, one that offers a lot more activities than it may initially lead on.

It’s a perfect destination for travellers on all budgets and there’s just so much to see and do.

Because it’s not as visited as many other islands, it’s not as developed, but that gives it a much more relaxed and homely vibe.

The long and empty beaches are ideal for relaxation, and the roads are perfect for driving a motorcycle.

This is a destination that you’ll definitely want to stay for as long as possible, especially in a place like the Crown Lanta Hotel .

The street food is also unbelievably good, and there are also restaurants that serve traditional and unchanged recipes from centuries ago.

From hiking and exploring the stunning and unforgettable Koh Lanta National Park to scuba diving and kayaking through water caves, Koh Lanta is just an ideal traveller’s destination.

Due to it being in a unique position on the west coast of southern Thailand and flanked by limestone cliffs, Ao Nang is practically impossible to develop more than it already is.

However, being slightly underdeveloped is just one of the main draws of Ao Nang because that lends it a very specific atmosphere of adventure.

You’ll be able to explore some of the finest backdrops in Thailand such as jungles and beaches.

Rock climbing is one of the most popular things to do here because of the limestone cliffs, which are natural borders that separate Ao Nang from the rest of Thailand.

You can also go trekking, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, and basically anything that’s involves the outdoors, all the while enjoying one of the hippest and relaxing atmospheres in Thailand.

We definitely recommend that you explore the underwater world by snorkelling or diving while you’re there.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Ao Nang.

If anyone says “paradise” doesn’t exist, they haven’t been to the islands of Thailand.

Postcard-worthy beaches rest underneath limestone cliffs and the shining Southeast Asian sun.

Rich Thai culture complements the beauty of nature, with elaborate temples, crowded night markets, and friendly locals inhabiting the land.

For the best introduction to the stunning scenery and warm culture of Thailand, visit Phuket, the country’s largest island.

At roughly 576 square kilometres, the list of things to do in Phuket is quite long.

For those who want to relax and soak in the sun, you can spend quality time with Phuket’s many beaches and dine out at the island’s best restaurants.

For those who want to experience authentic Thai culture, you can tour the Buddhist temples, take a cooking class or visit a local boxing match.

For those who want to have a little adventure and explore nature, you can go island hopping, swimming in waterfalls, or hiking to a scenic lookout point.

There are so many things to see in Phuket that cater to any sort of traveller.

Phuket’s attractions can suit budget, mid-range, and luxury travel styles, and Phuket also makes a great starting point for venturing out to Thailand’s other islands.

Cheap ferries and boat tours connect Phuket with the other islands in the Andaman Sea, so you can easily base yourself in Phuket and take day trips to the other surrounding islands.

Or, you could conveniently fit Phuket into an island-hopping extravaganza , which we highly recommend!

Either way, Phuket is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Plan your trip to Phuket with our comprehensive guide .

Even though Koh Kood is one of the largest islands in Thailand, it has the feel and atmosphere of a much smaller one.

That’s because the island is barely inhabited, and there aren’t even any towns, just fishing communities.

Its main draws are the beaches and pure relaxation – along with a little snorkelling .

The beaches on Koh Kood are often considered to be the best beaches in Thailand.

There are resorts on the island, but due to its size and number of stunning beaches, you’ll want to explore and get around, which isn’t an ideal situation.

The roads aren’t perfectly maintained, but they’re more than good enough for scooters.

However, the quality of the beaches is so good that it’s entirely worth visiting this island, even with the mild inconvenience of poor roads.

Planning a trip through the many islands of Thailand can seem overwhelming.

There are over a thousand Thai islands and they all have something different to offer.

The big developed islands have lots of accessible tourist attractions, and the small uninhabited islands have raw, untouched natural beauty.

To make your trip-planning easier, visit the bigger islands like Ko Samui that have a diverse range of landscapes and activities and explore them thoroughly.

One of the most rewarding islands to visit is Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket.

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with pristine beaches.

Koh Samui has had a reputation for being quite ritzy and expensive.

There are lots of luxury resorts, fancy hotels and vacation packages on Ko Samui that appeal to the wealthy. But recently the more local, affordable side of Koh Samui is beginning to surface.

Backpacker hostels, street markets, night markets, cheap tours and a long list of attractions are starting to pull more young budget travellers to Koh Samui.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these activities to your Ko Samui itinerary!

Koh Surin is an archipelago that consists of two main islands, Surin North and Surin South, but it’s actually part of a larger national park, called Mu Koh Surin National Park.

The islands of Thailand are often considered some of the best reasons for visiting the country, and if that’s the case, then Koh Surin is the best of the best in the country.

They’re arguably the most biodiverse part of Thailand, and even though they’re known most for their marine life, the land wildlife is just as diverse.

The beauty of Koh Surin is so stunning, it’s almost unbelievable.

From the pristine nature to incredible hidden beaches to perfect camping spots, Koh Surin is a remarkable sight.

It’s absolutely worth a visit, though it’s also worth mentioning that a large portion of the islands are off-limits to everyone.

As one of the oldest cities in Thailand, Lopburi offers a lot of different things for every type of visitor.

There are plenty of attractions in Lopburi, from historic landmarks to natural retreats.

Spots like Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahatat and the old spiritual site, Phra Khan Shrine, are old ruins that perfectly encapsulate what Lopburi was all about.

However, the thing that Lopburi is most known for is the sizeable population of macaques that live freely in the city and are found everywhere.

We’d recommend that you check out the monkey temple when you visit.

Here you can easily find plenty of natural spots, too, like Ang Sub Lek, which is a reservoir outside of town that’s ideal for an afternoon of relaxation.

Southern Thailand is known for its white sand, crystal clear waters, dramatic islands and laid-back lifestyle.

It is also a hub of adventure and activity, such as rock climbing, diving, kayaking, snorkelling, and plenty more.

Tonsai Beach , in the Krabi province, is a small village based in a bay on the Thai mainland, which is only accessible by boat.

We’d recommend you check Tonsai Beach out on this tour , along with several other great beach spots.

Its neighbours, Ao Nang and Railay have long been favourite traveller destinations because of their imposing limestone cliffs, drawing a huge crowd of dedicated rock climbers and BASE jumpers.

Tonsai is the lesser-known of its counterparts, and as a result, is a lot more rustic. But in this lies its beauty, and it is the kind of place you come for a day and stay for a week or longer.

The typical crowd that congregates at the beach are budget-focused, bohemian backpackers.

Rock climbing is the main daytime activity, but for those who prefer to keep both feet on the ground, sea kayaking, slacklining, hiking and exploring tend to chew up the hours.

In the evenings, the art of fire dancing takes over the scene, and all up and down the beach, the hypnotising views of twirling flames is dominant.

Reggae music drifts from all the bars, and exhausted adventurers lounge on the cushions, in a slight conversation between intermittent naps.

The haze of “herbal smoke” floats in the air, and everyone is happy and relaxed.

The little market town of Sukhothai might appear uninteresting and unremarkable at first but it’s actually an important spot of old historical ruins: Sukhothai Historical Park.

This town used to be a kingdom in the 13 th century, which is considered to be the golden age of Thailand, and the Sukhothai Kingdom was one of the most prosperous of the time.

Today, the town has a quaint and charming feel, but it’s entirely worth visiting to explore the ruins of the old quarters.

The town is one of the best places to visit in Thailand, and the best way to explore is by taking a bike tour .

The Sukhothai Historical Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s one of the most impressive ones in Thailand. It’s worth coming here to see Sukhothai Historical Park alone!

This is one of the quietest and most relaxing islands in Thailand, even though it used to be one of the main party spots in the country a few decades ago.

However, developments of other islands led Koh Phangan to be slightly sidetracked, leaving its developments at a slow pace.

That’s not a bad thing, however, because that means the island today is just the ideal place for those that want to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern Thailand.

The beaches are absolutely stunning and are arguably the main draw of the island.

You may also enroll in cooking classes, go boating, or just relax in a pub while you’re watching the sunset.

We’d recommend you spend some time on the water enjoying the beauty of island life.

READ MORE: Check out all of the great things to do on Koh Phangan !

Located in the south of Thailand, home to towering limestone karsts and white sand beaches is the stunning Trang province.

For those looking to get off the beaten path in one of the world’s most touristed nations, Trang offers a multitude of incredible attractions and activities without the crowds.

The main hub in the province is Trang City, an interesting town filled with delicious street food, curious artwork, and heavy Chinese influence.

Most people that come through Trang City use it as a launching point to get out to the nearby islands of Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai.

And while those islands are indeed gorgeous, it’s worth spending at least one day here to experience an authentic Thai city that hasn’t been spoilt by tourism.

Split into two sections, Trang City and Trang Old Town, you’ll find an eclectic culture where Buddhists, Catholics, and Muslims live in harmony, celebrating life and food with pride.

Locals are proud of their heritage and feel a distinct connection with the nearby sea.

Dugongs live in the Andaman Sea right next to Trang, and residents happily display their fondness of these captivating creatures through paintings, statues and monuments all around the city.

What really sets Trang apart from the rest of the country though is its unique cuisine. Thais from all around the nation visit Trang on holiday purely to sample their delicious versions of seafood, dim sums, and pastries.

It’s a truly wonderful place, and well worth a stopover when looking for unique places to visit in Thailand.

Be sure to add these great things to do in Trang to your itinerary!

As one of the most beautiful destinations in Thailand, Ang Thong National Marine Park is just a joy to explore.

It’s not only gorgeous and scenic but it’s also filled with mystery as it is believed to be the place where sea gypsies live.

This archipelago, specifically Emerald Lake, was also featured in the movie The Beach.

There are over 40 islands that are part of Ang Thong, each more beautiful than the last. Book a boat tour to visit the national marine park and see the best of the islands while you’re here.

You can explore to your heart’s content some of the most diverse marine life in Thailand here.

Ko Samui is the most popular place to book tours here. But in addition to Ko Samui, you can book a tour from Koh Pha Nhan or Koh Tao.

The islands of Koh Phi Phi are very popular among tourists in Thailand, but with good reason.

The natural scenery here is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Everything you’d expect to see on a postcard from a tropical island paradise, like soft white sand, brilliant turquoise water, and lush green palm forests, you can find all over the Phi Phi Islands.

Koh Phi Phi is actually an archipelago of six different islands.

The only inhabited island is Ko Phi Phi Don. This is the biggest island out of the six and it is still no bigger than 10 square kilometres.

Travellers can only stay on Ko Phi Phi Don, and there are tons of hostels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions.

The island is so small that you can walk everywhere, and you can visit the other islands by kayak, long tail boat, or speed boat.

Koh Phi Phi Leh is the second largest island and is home to great snorkelling sites and picturesque beaches and lagoons.

We’d recommend you check out this snorkelling eco tour when you visit Koh Phi Phi.

READ MORE: Plan to do these exciting things whilst visiting Ko Phi Phi

Even though Buddhism is the most represented religion in Thailand, Phanom Rung is a Hindu temple that has persisted over the region that was first ruled by the Khmer.

While this temple isn’t quite on the same level as the magnificent Angkor Wat, it’s still a stunning and unique temple as it is the only Khmer temple that’s built on an extinct volcano.

The surroundings around the temple are breathtaking; however, the real star of the show is its sanctuaries.

From the top sanctuary, you have a great view of the rest of the region.

The Phanom Rung Festival is something that every visitor should strive to attend, as it happens only in April.

It is a gorgeous parade of traditional sounds and sights, as well as dances and even fireworks.

As a decidedly provincial town with obvious Burmese influences, Mae Hong Son is ideal for those that don’t really know what to do in Thailand but prefer to have a relaxing and calm time.

This town in northern Thailand is relatively small, and at times, it hardly looks like a normal Thai town.

Unlike the rest of Thailand, Mae Hong Son has a mostly different culture, where it has far fewer tourists as it focuses more on domestic tourism rather than international.

Most of the visitors are Thai, which is why there is almost no party culture in this town, but rather calm and quiet activities for those that want to get away from other places in Thailand full of tourists.

On the other hand, trekking in Mae Hong Son is definitely one of the best things to do in Thailand as the terrain and landscape are so perfect that you’ll never want to leave.

Want a real adventure? Check out the Mae Hong Son Loop – the best motorcycle adventure in the country.

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Visit Thailand: Top 25 things to do and must-see attractions

The 25 best things to do in thailand (bucket list).

You’re looking for the best places to visit in Thailand?

You’re at the right place!

No matter if you prefer to visit cities such as Bangkok , Chiang mai or Chiang Rai , historical sites ( Ayutthaya and Sukhotai) or to relax at the beach ( Phuket , Koh Lanta , Koh Samui islands and more!) , you will find the perfect destinations for your holidays in this article.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 25 best things to do in Thailand , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

And to make thongs even easier for you, I have also written detailed itineraries in Thailand, from 1 week to 1 month . You will find them at the end of this article.

You will see, planning your trip to Thailand will be super easy!

So, where to go in Thailand?

2. Kanchanaburi and the Bridge Over the River Kwai

3. ayutthaya, 5. sukhothai, 6. chiang mai, 7. chiang rai, 8. trek in the northern mountains, 9. mae hong son province, 13. ao nang / railay, 14. koh phi phi, 15. koh lanta, 16. ko yao noi, 17. koh samui, 18. ko pha ngan, 19. the similan islands, 20. the national parks of thailand, 21. pattaya, 22. seeing elephants in thailand, 23. diving in thailand, 24. enjoy a thai massage, 25. discover thai cuisine, bonus: festivals and celebrations in thailand, going to thailand: flight prices, thailand tours, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, the best places to visit in thailand.

In order to help you plan your stay in Thailand, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Thailand travel guide with Bangkok, the capital city.

When you will arrive in Bangkok, you will directly be struck by the noises, smells, traffic jams and crowds. In other words, you will be immersed in the atmosphere of this very dynamic city !

If you visit the center or the north during your trip to Thailand , there is a good chance you will land in or leave from Bangkok. Take the opportunity to spend 2 or 3 days there , while you recover from jet lag and adjust to Asia.

Even if opinions are mixed about the biggest Thai city, it remains a must-see for a trip to Thailand.

Here are the Best Places to visit in Bangkok:

• The Royal Palace (or Grand Palace) : an emblematic site, one of the most visited in Bangkok. Inside, you can admire the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a museum and several pavilions with impressive scenery.
• Wat Arun : this Buddhist temple is located along the river, on the other side from the Royal Palace. It includes a central Prang (a tower) 82 meters high, entirely covered with small pieces of colored porcelain and statues.
• Wat Pho is the third most famous temple in Bangkok. There you can see the famous 45 meters long reclining Buddha statue.
• Khao San Road : formerly a backpacker area, Khao San Road is now visited by all categories of tourists. Very lively, there are shops, bars, restaurants and guest houses where you can stay in Bangkok at a low cost.
• The Golden Mount : built on a hill, the temple offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
• Chinatown : the lively and crowded Chinatown district, with many street stands and shops. There, you shouldn’t miss the Wat Traimit, a temple housing the world’s biggest golden statue (5.5 tons!).
• The weekend market in Chatuchak : with its 15,000 stands, this market is the largest in Thailand and even in all of Asia. And as its name suggests, it only opens on weekends. Divided into several parts, you will find absolutely everything there: clothes, souvenirs, shoes, food, jewellery…
• The Siam district features many shopping centers including the MBK Center or Siam Paragon. This is the most famous area for shopping in Bangkok.

If you want more information about Bangkok, you should read my detailed article: The 20 best things to do in Bangkok.

Kanchanaburi is located 130 km northwest of Bangkok .

Even if you have never heard this name, you have probably heard about the Bridge Over the River Kwai, one of the most important tourist and historical site in Thailand. It’s the symbol of the city’s tragic past during the Second World War.

In Kanchanaburi, the Japanese army enslaved thousands of prisoners of war to build more than 400 km of railway line between Thailand and Myanmar. Between disease, brutality and malnutrition, more than 16 000 people have died during the construction.

Of the 688 bridges built by the Japanese army, it was the only steel bridge built in Thailand.

If you are interested in history, you should really visit Kanchanaburi and its main points of interests:

• The railway museum, about the history of “the death railway” and the harsh living conditions of the prisoners
• The Allied Military Cemetery, where the graves of nearly 7,000 soldiers are located
• Jeath War Museum, where you can see letters and personal belongings of prisoners
• World War II Museum and its view over the famous bridge
• And of course don’t forget to cross the bridge itself!

In addition to the Bridge Over the River Kwai, there is another (more cheerful) place to visit in the surroundings of Kanchanaburi: Erawan National Park.

Erawan waterfall , a 7-level waterfall, is the main attraction of the park. There, you can take a dip, walk on a botanical trail along the river and see a few caves.

The Historic City of Ayutthaya is located about 75 km north of Bangkok .

Former capital of the Kingdom of Siam , and for a long time an important economic and commercial centre , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is clearly one of the best places to visit in Thailand!

As Ayutthaya is easily accessible from Bangkok by bus (1h30), train (2 h) or car (45 min), it’s the perfect day trip destination.

In Ayutthaya Historical Park , you can discover dozens of ruined temples spread over fifteen sites. It’s very large, so it will take you about a full day to visit the 6 main temples.

To visit them, you should buy the 220 Bahts pass, it’s the most convenient. However, if you don’t want to visit them all, you can also purchase each ticket separately.

Here are the 6 temples included in the pass:

• Wat Mahathat: one of the most famous, you have maybe already seen the picture of Buddha’s head statue enclosed in the roots of a tree.
• Wat Ratchaburana and its very well preserved Trang (tower)
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet, in my opinion one of the most beautiful in Ayutthaya
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maheyong
• Wat Chai Watthanaram, to see at sunset

To visit Ayutthaya, you can rent bicycles (50 bahts per day), a motorcycle , or take a tuk-tuk tour . If you come by car , you just have to park your car in the car parks located at the entrance of each temple.

As some temples are really far from each other, I don’t recommend walking between the sites.

As several rivers are crossing in Ayutthaya it’s also possible to discover some of the temples by boat. The best time to do this is fore sure at sunset!

You will find every information you need to visit Ayutthaya in my article: How to visit Ayutthaya?

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Thailand around Ayutthaya, you can go to Lopburi , an hour’s drive away.

Lopburi, one of the oldest cities in the country hosts a few ruined temples. However, they aren’t the main attraction there!

Most visitors actually come to see the numerous monkeys who colonized the area . There are literally hundreds of them among the ruins.

The most famous site, both for the monkeys and for its architecture, is Prang Sam Yot

Store your food in your bag and be careful with your hat and sunglasses.

If you want to visit temples during your trip to Thailand, you can also visit Sukhothai .

Sukhothai Historical Park is located in northern Thailand, 400 km from Bangkok, and 280 km from Chiang Mai.

Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai is a former capital of the Siam kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site features several ruined temples spread over 3 areas:

• The central area (entrance at 100 Baht): it’s the most interesting, you will find there the largest and best preserved temples. On foot, allow about 2 hours to visit the temples. You can also rent a bike, but to be honest, it’s not very convenient for such short distances.
• The North zone (entrance to 100 Baht) mainly includes 2 temples, the most famous being a giant 15 meters high sitting Buddha. To get there from the central area, you will need a bike or a car.
• The West zone (entrance at 100 Baht): As the ruins are far from each other, it’s best to visit it by car. But, honestly, apart from Wat Saphan Hin and its Buddha statue located on the top of the hill, there isn’t much to see.

It will take you about 4 hours to visit the 3 areas by car and a full day by bike. It’s really a must see during road trip in Thailand !

You can find detailed information about Sukhotai in my article: How to visit Sukhothai Historical Park?

You want to discover the North of Thailand? Then you should head to Chiang Mai.

As the city has an international airport, you can arrive there directly by plane, usually after a transfer in Bangkok. It’s also possible to reach Chiang Mai by bus or train from Bangkok, and of course by car.

Here are the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Enjoy a walk in the old town, where most temples are located. This includes the famous Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man
• Take a Thai cooking class: the city is the main destination in Thailand for this activity
• Discover the local markets: between Warorot Market, the Night Bazaar and Saturday/Sunday Night Markets, there are enough to keep you busy!
• Go to Huay Lake to eat in bamboo huts by the water. It’s Thai people’s favorite place to go out on weekends
• Head to Doi Suthep Temple , located 10 minutes by car from the city, in Doi Suthep National Park.
• Visit Bhubing Palace and stroll through the flowered gardens of the Royal Family’s winter palace
• Going to an elephant sanctuary (without riding them!).

If you want more details about the best things to do in Chiang Mai, you should read my article: Visit Chiang Mai: The definitive guide .

Chiang Rai is the other major city in northern Thailand .

It’s located 200 km northeast of Chiang Mai and has an airport with daily flights to Bangkok or southern islands such as Phuket or Krabi . You can also reach it by bus or car, but there is no railway station (the nearest one is in Chiang Mai).

What to see in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

• The white temple or Wat Rong Khun: this is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why travelers go to this city. The White Temple is known worldwide and I must admit that its reputation is well deserved. It’s truly impressive!
• The blue temple or Wat Rong Suea Ten: as you may have guessed, everything here is blue, from the giant statues at the entrance to the Buddha! A very nice site to visit and the entrance is free.
• The Night Bazaar: this night market is the perfect place to buy all kinds of souvenirs. It’s cheaper than the one in Bangkok and prettier.
• Go to Singha Park to take the classical picture of the great golden lion at the entrance. If you continue down the road, you will arrive at a scenic point overlooking a tea plantation. There is also a farm with animals.
• The Black House Museum or Baandam Museum: a rather unusual place with small houses decorated with crocodile skins and other objects that are quite “dark” and original.
• Khun Korn Waterfall , the largest waterfall in the Chiang Rai area, is easily accessible and can be reached by foot in about 30 minutes from the car park.
• The Huai Pla Kang / the Wat Huai Pla Kank / The big pagoda: a group of 3 gigantic and totally different monuments located in the same place. It’s impressive to see and very pretty.
• The Mae Fah Luang Garden can be found on top of Doi Tung mountain . Stroll through the beautiful flower park and visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa, the residence of the Princess’s Mother.

You will find every information you need to visit Chiang Rai in my article: The 17 best things to do in Chiang Rai .

You should take advantage of your holidays in Northern Thailand to go on a trek . It’s the perfect region for these kinds of activities!

Many tour companies offer treks of various lengths and difficulty levels to explore the mountains and meet the region’s ethnic groups .

You can visit Akha, Karen (a tribe famous for its “women with long necks”, also known as “giraffe women “) or Kahu villages and maybe even sleep in a local house .

These treks are increasingly being organized with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable development (for the most part, at least). The money raised is used to finance health centers or to provide scholarships.

Mae Hong Son is one of the most isolated province in Thailand . It stands on the border with Burma.

Pai, the best-known city in this region, is located 145 km northwest of Chiang Mai. It’s popular with Thai people (who are not afraid to travel all the way from Bangkok!) and tourists.

There are no major tourist attractions there. People simply come to Pai for its unique Hippie and bohemian atmosphere as well as to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding area.

And if you want to go out at night to eat or have a drink, you will find plenty of options to choose from.

Last but not least, Pai is also known for its drug trafficking.

Around Pai , you will find several waterfalls, hot springs, a few temples and Pai Canyon , a famous place to admire the sunset.

Isan, a region located northeast of Bangkok, i s somewhat overlooked by tourists in Thailand . It’s however a great place to visit if you want to get off the beaten track or have already visited Thailand’s more popular tourist areas on a previous trip.

There, you will find Khao Yai National Park , considered as one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This large 2,100 km² area is ideal for hiking and is home to many animals , including tigers, leopards, pythons (a little bit scary, I must admit!) but also gibbons and birds.

The best way to discover Isan is to rent a scooter or a car and go on an adventure through the authentic villages and the magnificent landscapes deserted by tourists.

And while you’re in the region, you shouldn’t miss The city of Nang Rong and its Khmer temples.

Although they aren’t as famous as Angkor temples in Cambodia, they are nevertheless worth a visit.

To admire them, you will need to go to Phanom Rung Historical Park . Built on the top of a volcano, it towers above the surrounding area and is home to several temples.

I can’t write a travel guide about Thailand without mentioning Phuket.

Located in the South of the country, in the Andaman Sea , it’s the largest island in Thailand and definitely one of the most touristic.

In Phuket, all the activities are concentrated on the West side of the island, specifically near Patong.

If you want to go to the bar or to a nightclub, you should head to Bangla Road. In Patong you will also find a very popular beach , as well as many hotels for every budget , from large resorts to small guesthouses.

If you enjoy entertainment and partying , this is the perfect place!

You prefer to relax and enjoy the calm? No problem, there are also quieter beaches on the island, such as Kata beach or Nai Harn beach. However, don’t expect to have the beach all to yourself!

In Phuket, you will also be able to do many activities: rock climbing, kite-surfing, paragliding, inner tubing, four-wheelers, bungie jumping, zip lining, high ropes courses, and scuba diving.

An important tip: always be cautious about the quality of the equipment , and try to inquire about the agency’s reliability. Each year, accidents happen because the safety regulations are not always followed.

In Phuket, you can also visit Phuket Town, a pleasant old town with pretty buildings in Chinese-Portuguese style architecture and a main street lined with cafés and trendy boutiques.

From Phuket , you can also go on day-trips to the neighboring islands , such as James Bond Island or Koh Phi Phi (continue reading for more details).

If you want more info about the best things to do in Phuket, you should read my article: Visit Phuket: the definitive guide .

Krabi is located in front of Phuket , on the other side of the Andaman Sea.

Krabi’s claim to fame is the karst formations that border its coast , as they greatly contribute to the spectacular beauty of the landscape.

Things to do in Krabi, Thailand:

• Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Suea : Climb the 1,237 steps to reach the top and enjoy the stunning view of the area.
• Khao Kanab Nan: These karstic rocks shaped like crab claws are the town’s emblem.
• Wat Kaew , a white temple found in Krabi Town.
• A day trip to the islands – The most popular one is the 4-island tour: Turtle Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Mor Island.
• The Night Market, for discovering the local cuisine.
• The Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail hike: Climb for 4 km and then enjoy the view from the summit.
• Emerald Pool: a natural emerald-green pool, perfect to take a dip!
• Khao Phanom Bencha National Park for a stroll in the tropical forest.
• A trip to Koh Phi Phi

Eager to know more about Krabi? All the info you need to plan your stay is in my article: Visit Krabi: the definitive guide.

Ao Nang is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Krabi. If you’d like to go to the beach during your stay in Krabi, it’s the closest spot in the area.

In Ao Nang, you will find long beaches of fine sand and clear turquoise waters. Many cafés, restaurants, and tour agencies can be found on the main street bordering the beach. It’s also where you will find hotels for any budget .

Along with swimming, you will also be able to enjoy many activities: scuba diving, kayaking through the mangrove, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and biking.

From Ao Nang, you can reach Railay , a large peninsula that can only be reached via long-tail boats. It will take you less than 10 minutes to arrive at Railay West Beach.

This beach, surrounded by huge karstic cliffs , is stunning! Right behind the beach, you will find shops, restaurants and hotels.

While visiting Railay, you should also go to Phra Nang Beach. Often listed amongst the most beautiful beaches in the world , it’s truly magnificent, despite being very busy!

Last but not least, Railay is a great destination in Thailand for all rock-climbing lovers. Around 700 paths are available to chose from, with options for both beginners and experts.

The islands of Koh Phi Phi, located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Koh Lanta, are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

These islands are well-known thanks to the movie “The Beach” , featuring Leonardo Di Caprio. The famous Maya Bay Beach on Koh Phi Phi Leh has quickly become the place to see during a tour in Southern Thailand.

Over 8 years, nearly 5,000 visitors walked up and down the beach every day.

As you can probably guess, this mass tourism had disastrous consequences for the local ecosystem and the corals. It got so bad that the Thai authorities had to take action, and thus the beach has been closed to the public since 2018.

But don’t worry, you can still see the beach from the boat during your day-trip!

There are also some very beautiful beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don , the second island. Here again, you can enjoy many activities: water-skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, scuba diving or snorkeling . Rock climbing is also quite popular.

You will have no difficulty finding accommodation on the island, given the ever-increasing number of hotels or youth hostels.

You will also have no problem finding places to go out and party . Koh Phi Phi is very lively and its nightlife is one of the best in Thailand!

However, if you’re looking for peace & quiet, you’d be better off visiting another island in Thailand.

Koh Lanta is another beautiful island to visit during your trip to Thailand.

Located around 70 km to the south of Krabi , in the Andaman Sea, you can easily reach it by boat from Krabi or Phuket.

If you’re looking for a Thai island with dazzling sandy beaches that are not too crowded , it’s an excellent choice. The further away from the port you go, the quieter it gets!

The best way to visit Koh Lanta is to rent a scooter for the day and go explore the beaches. Here are my 3 favorites on the island:

• Khantiang Beach: A very pretty beach topped by the Diamond Cliff bar/restaurant, one of the best places to admire the sunset.
• Khlong Chak Beach: A smaller and more intimate sandy beach.
• Bamboo Beach: A large and wild sandy beach, bordering the jungle. It was practically empty when we were there in January (tourism high-season in Thailand).

From Koh Lanta, you should really take the 4-island tour :

In a day, you will visit Koh Chueak, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai islands. You will leave with the boat in the morning and stop several times for snorkeling and beach-exploring on the four islands, before returning to Koh Lanta around 16h.

From Koh Lanta, you can also go on a day trip to Koh Rok island . The tours offer several snorkeling stops around the island and some time to enjoy the beach.

You plan to visit Koh Lanta during your trip to Thailand? Then you should read my detailed article: The 15 best things to do in Koh Lanta

Let’s now talk about my favorite island: Ko Yao Noi. I have been really lucky to discover this little paradise during my trip!

It’s a bit less known compared to the other islands I told you about. I had never heard about it before organizing my trip to Thailand and stumbled upon it by chance.

Ko Yao Noi (Don’t confuse it with its neighbour, Ko Yao Yai!) is located just 30 minutes aw ay from Phuket in speed boat.

It’s the perfect island to relax in a bungalow by the seaside during your holidays. The beaches are really nice!

You can easily tour the island on scooter to discover the beaches such as Long Beach or Luild Beach for example.

But you should above all do the boat day excursions to discover the other islands. There are several possible options with different choices of islands to see.

My favorite passed by Monkey Island, Ko Pak Bia, Ko Lao Lading and Ko Hong . The scenery was really stunning, it was for sure one of the best moments of my trip.

Another excursion from Ko Yao Noi takes you to 4 islands + James Bond Island. The scenery is very nice as well, even if James Bond Island is super touristy.

You can find detailed information about Ko Yao Noi in my article: The best things to do in Koh Yao Noi.

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand.

After Phuket, it’s the second largest island .

Koh Samui attracts a wealthy clientele who come to enjoy the beaches and the 5-star hotels and luxury spas. The goal? Relaxation and tanning!

And at the end of the day, the island will come alive: Koh Samui is the perfect place to party all night long!

During the day, you shouldn’t miss the Big Buddha Temple and Na Muang waterfall, 2 major tourist attractions you can discover on a day trip.

Ko Pha Ngan is located next to Ko Samui.

The famous Full Moon Party takes place on this island. Every month, on the night of the full moon, a gigantic party attracting thousands of people is held on Haad Rin beach . Music, dancing, games, and of course free-flowing alcohol are on the menu!

And if you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island , you should rather avoid the full moon party dates.

The Similan Islands are located northwest of Phuket, in the Andaman sea.

This archipelago of 9 islands is a protected zone that makes up the Similan Islands Marine National Park .

It’s the ideal place to go diving in Thailand , the Similan Islands being among the 10 most beautiful sites in the world . The water is particularly crystalline and populated by many fish and corals.

To discover the islands and explore the seabed, the easiest way is to opt for a day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak . The tour includes transfers to the port, breakfast, boat trip, lunch and snorkeling in 3 or 4 different places

And of course you can also do “real” scuba diving with air tanks . Dozens of diving centers offer it.

There are several national parks in Thailand , both lands and sea. They all offer breathtaking landscapes and a perfect opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of the country.

Here is a list of the most beautiful parks to visit in Thailand:

• The Similan Islands National Marine Park that I mentioned above.
• Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located east of Bangkok.
• Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai Province. There, you can find the country’s highest mountain, known as “The Roof of Thailand”.
• Erawan National Park and its many waterfalls
• Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park near Ko Samui
• Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani Province, where you can discover one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests
• Doi Suthep National Park , near Chiang Mai

Note that collecting flowers, pebbles, shells or coral as well as feeding fishes is strictly forbidden in all Thai National Parks

It’s also prohibited to use drones.

Pattaya, located less than 200 km away from Bankgok, is Thailand’s main seaside resort .

The city mainly attracts tourists coming to have fun and enjoy the crazy nightlife in gogos-bars or other cabarets featuring shemales . Its reputation is rather sulphurous and prostitution is particularly present.

Here are the 5 best places to visit in Pattaya, Thailand:

• Pattaya Walking Street , the pedestrian street, with its trendy shops and restaurants
• The Sanctuary of Truth , built of wood and adorned with many statues
• The Floating Market
• The Nong Noon Garden , a beautiful botanical garden

In Pattaya, you will also find many shopping centers and several golf courses .

You may have the opportunity to see elephants during your stay in Thailand.

I insist a lot on the word “see”, as I don’t recommend you to ride elephants for a safari . You probably now how these elephants are treated, So I really don’t encourage you to participate.

Please note that an elephant would never naturally agree to carry you on its back, only mistreated elephants do so. So don’t listen to what their owners tell you.

Several sanctuaries around the country recover and take care of abused, beaten or abandoned elephants. You could spend half a day or day, helping the staff to feed or wash them .

In Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park , is one of the most famous for its ethics. Everything is done to ensure the elephants live in an environment as close as possible to wild conditions.

If you go to Thailand to dive and snorkel, you will be delighted. The destination offers some of the most beautiful diving spots in the world.

From all the islands, whether Phuket, Ko Samui or Koh Lanta, you can observe the seabed equipped with masks and snorkels or, for the more adventurous, try scuba diving.

Here are the most famous diving places in Thailand:

• Ko Tao, about 1h30 from Koh Samui. This island is a world famous place to learn scuba diving.
• Similan Islands, west of Phuket and Khao Lak
• Ang Thong National Park, also towards Koh Samui
• The Surin Islands, near the Similan Islands

After a long day spent visiting, nothing beats a good massage to get back on track for the next day!

In Thailand, you will find many massage parlours and most hotels also offer this service.

Foot, leg and back massage, no matter what you prefer, you will have the choice! The great news is that Thai massages are very affordable: prices start from 250 Bahts (about 7-8 euros) for one hour.

Of course, there are also more luxurious versions: 5-star spas are a great place to get a massage in an idyllic setting, in the middle of lush gardens or by the sea.

During your trip to Thailand, you will also have the opportunity to discover local gastronomy

Of course, we have all seen picture of scorpion skewers , grilled crickets or even lively big worms presented on tourist markets. Fortunately, this kind of food is most of the time a tourist attraction and isn’t very representative of Thai cuisine.

There is one thing I will tell you right away: Thailand is one of the best travel destination for food lovers!

During the month I spent there, I tested all kind of street food and restaurants. Although most dishes are quite simple, based on meat + rice or noodles, they are always topped with many vegetables and spices and are very tasty!

So here is a brief overview of the dishes you can enjoy in the country:

• Fried rice, a sautéed rice with vegetables and meat (choice of chicken, pork, beef or sometimes shrimps)
• Pad Thai: generally fried noodles with shrimp, eggs, peanuts and soy sprouts
• Pat See You: large noodles sautéed in soy sauce
• Pat Krapao: with chicken and basil
• Le Lap Mou: minced meat with aromatic herbs, served with rice
• Som Tam, a papaya salad with fish, lemon and chili sauce. Tastes great, but you need to like spicy food!
• Tom Kha Kai: a chicken soup with coconut milk
• Kaeng Phed : a red curry with chicken or pork
• Khao Niao Ma Mouang or sticky rice with coconut milk and mango: a dessert you can find everywhere in Thailand

Now, you know everything about the best places to visit in Thailand.

However, there are also many festivals and events happening throughout the year!

Here is the list of the most famous festivals in the country:

• Songkran: the Thai New Year (in April) is celebrated with giant water battles taking place in the cities.
• Krathong Law: the world famous lantern festival, featuring thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky and rivers. It celebrates the end of the rainy season in November.
• The Flower Festival takes place in Chiang Mai for 3 days in February.
• The international kite festival (in March – All over the country).
• The vegetarian festival: In order to purify themselves, participants will not eat meat for 9 days. The ceremonies are particularly impressive, especially when people in trance pierce their skin with various objects.
• Chinese New Year usually takes place at the beginning of February. Celebrations are being held in Thailand’s major cities.
• Lopburi Monkey Festival, a giant banquet is organized to thank the monkeys for attracting so many tourists. Takes place in November.

And you, what would you like to visit during your trip to Thailand?

Flight prices to Thailand vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

When you get the results, don’t hesitate to check out multiple website to make sure there is no hidden fee.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Thailand by yourself. (All my Thailand travel guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Thailand tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Thailand tours by clicking the button below:

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Very nice article to visit Thailand, very documented and very complete! thanks for your patience to elaborate it so well! very helpful for my upcoming trip in Thailand!

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The 21 best things to do in Thailand

The top things to do in Thailand include hidden waterfalls, stunning Buddhist temples, white sand beaches and more

For pleasure-seekers on a budget, the best things to do in Thailand make this country a paradise on earth. The promise of daily massages, Michelin-starred street food, top-notch  nightlife , island-hopping on a whim and top-notch hospitality is all within reach, and just as alluring as the natural beauty (think white sand beaches , hidden waterfalls, lush rainforests, forested mountains and exotic wildlife) and rich culture, from all kinds of festivals and markets to gold-tipped Buddhist temples, Angkor Wat-like ruins and contemporary art. Consequently, it’s no surprise that Southeast Asia’s most visited country—home to the most visited city in the world (Bangkok saw 21.98 million foreigners in 2018), suffers from over-tourism. But don’t fret: there are plenty of ways to experience Thailand like a local, away from big group tours—and even tourists! You just have to know where to go (like Issan, the least developed region in the country)—and which bucket-list items are worth it.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Thailand

1.  get a foot massage at wat pho, bangkok’s oldest temple complex.

Where is it? Bangkok

What is it? A sprawling and serene Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok’s historic district (Rattanakosin) whose gilded, mega-long reclining Buddha leaves tourists and pilgrims in awe.

Why go? Beyond being Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple complex with more than a thousand stupas, the otherworldly Wat Phra Chetuphon, commonly known as Wat Pho, has the largest collection of Buddhist images in Thailand, including its 150-foot long reclining Buddha (the world’s biggest), and is the earliest center for public education. At the top of many must-see lists, it doesn’t disappoint.

Time Out tip:  Upon arrival, head directly to the pavilion where Wat Pho’s Traditional Thai Massage School is situated and sign up for a foot or body massage as there’s usually a wait (better yet, call ahead). The school also offers week-long courses in Thai massage, which travelers can take. If you’re looking for something more private or upscale, try the local approved Health Land Spa .

2.  Walk with elephants at Elephant Nature Park

Where is it?  Chiang Mai

What is it? A rescue and rehabilitation center in northern Thailand where elephants and other animals are given a second chance, thanks to caring volunteers and visitors—and where elephant rides are a big no-no.

Why go? “Elephant Nature Park is the largest [such sanctuary in Thailand] and well managed,” according to Manoj Gautam, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute in Nepal and lead organizer of the 2017 Asia for Animals Conference . (Not all sanctuaries are equal, and some use terms like “rescued elephants” to attract innocent tourists, but still offer rides and use chains.)

Time Out tip:  Walking with elephants along the trails is a far a better experience than riding on top of them. Gautam also recommends Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai and Elephant Valley Thailand in Chiang Rai.

3.  Drink a cocktail atop the world’s highest open-air bar, Sky Bar

Where is it?  Bangkok

What is it? A spectacular rooftop bar on the 63rd floor of State Tower with sweeping 360-degree views of Bangkok and of “The Hangover Part 2” fame—attracting its fair share of tourists as a result.

Why go? Although there’s no shortage of swanky rooftop bars in Bangkok, none have mastered the drama of infinity quite like Sky Bar, perched on a glass-floored ledge at 820-feet above the city, an endless galaxy of skyscrapers and activity. The world’s highest open-air bar is not for the faint of heart, but live outdoor music and a cocktail—or poptail?! — should put your nerves to rest. Unless you’re on a budget: Libations are, unsurprisingly, pricey, but the views are worth it—especially at sunset.

Time Out tip:  Have your cameras ready as you enter, and be quick! Photos aren’t allowed as you descend the stairs to Sky Bar, and security officials are strict about keeping people moving. (Or book a table for an al fresco dinner at Sirocco, and take pics in peace.)

4.  Rock climb on limestone cliffs above white sand beaches

Where is it? Krabi

What is it? A rock-climbing school on the west coast of Thailand that offers half- to multi-day courses for climbers of all levels. 

Why go? Krabi’s not just for honeymooners. Take advantage of its rugged coastline by exploring the multitude of climbing routes (there are 631!) up sheer limestone cliffs, which rise above turquoise waters and white sand beaches. It’s one of the most picturesque and thrilling climbing destinations in the world.

Time Out tip: Relaxing on Railay Beach , one Thailand’s best, after a day of climbing. (N.B. It’s a stop on many island-hopping tours, which tend to arrive in the afternoon.)

5.  Attend the transformative, eco-conscious Wonderfruit Festival

Where is it? Pattaya

What is it? An experiential and eco-conscious arts, music and farm-to-table festival where beautiful people and ideas convene on the fields of the Siam Club in Pattaya for four days each December.

Why go? This cashless festival, featuring ethereal art installations, boutique camping, and transformational talks, is Thailand’s answer to Burning Man, and yet it’s still relatively off-the-radar for most international travelers (and burners). Go if you want to experience modern Thailand—and be inspired.

Time Out tip: Safari tents with A.C., Japanese-inspired bath house, Tokyo-style karaoke bar, techno stage, farm fresh food and interesting talks on sustainability.

6.  Escape to the laidback island of Koh Chang in eastern Thailand

Where is it? Koh Chang

What is it? A peaceful and pretty moderately-sized island with some white sand beaches and hipster-ish hotels in the Gulf of Thailand bordering Cambodia, which is a gateway to Koh Kood, Koh Mak and Koh Wai.

Why go? Koh Chang has fewer group tours and backpackers because the only nearby commercial airport (Trat Airport) is mainland and flights are a little pricey, comparatively. This makes for a nicer, quieter experience, and better Thai food to be found than in places like Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi. People are also less pushy when it comes to services, and there’s less of a party scene.

Time Out tip: Trekking to see the Khlong Neung and Khiri Phet waterfalls, or island-hopping to neighboring Koh Kood, Koh Mak, Koh Wai and the inhabited islands of Mu Koh Chang National Park by kayak, long-tail boat or speedboat—though this needs to be pre-arranged in the off-season.

7.  Hike, taste wine and horseback ride in Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s first

Where is it? Khao Yai National Park

What is it? Thailand’s first national park that’s perfect for adventure-seeking, wildlife-loving, oenophiles—and only 2.5 hours away by car (or bus) from Bangkok.  

Why go? From wildlife safaris (where you can spot elephants and gibbons) to hiking trails to vineyards, there’s something for everyone at Khao Yai, a 772 square mile park established in 1962 that comprises mountainous terrain, grassland savannahs, lush, UNESCO-protected forests, and lots of hidden waterfalls, including 65-footer Haew Suwat Waterfall—Thailand’s most famous thanks to “The Beach”. There’s also a terrifying bat cave, home to three million wrinkle-lipped creatures. 

Time Out tip: Wine tasting at the award-winning GranMonte vineyards in Asoke Valley; staying at Mirasierra : a stunning Spanish-style hacienda with horses for arena- or trail-riding; listening to Thai rock, hip-hop and pop at the Big Mountain Music Festival in December; or exploring the nearby Wang Nam Khiao region.

8.  Slurp bowls of Khao Soi at the top restaurant in Chiang Mai

Where is it? Chiang Mai

What is it? A restaurant that claims to have created the city’s famous specialty, khao soi : a coconut milk-based red curry egg noodle soup served with meat and fixings that’s seriously delish .

Why go? The nearly 80-year-old Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham is an institution in Chiang Mai, so no trip to Chiang Mai would be complete without trying a bowl of its khao soi , whose recipe calls for a pork-and-chicken based broth.

Time Out tip: For a pork-free version, head to Khao Soi Islam . Or go there anyway—the more khao soi you try, the better! (And if Chiang Mai’s not on your itinerary, there’s an outpost of Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham in Bangkok.)

9.  Explore Khmer archeological ruins at Prasat Hin Phimai (Phimai Historical Park)

Where is it? Issan

What is it? One of Thailand’s largest and oldest Khmer temple complexes, dating back to the 12 th century, which is located in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeastern Thailand.

Why go? It’s like visiting Angkor Wat without all the tourists (and on a smaller scale). Few are aware that some of the greatest Khmer temples are actually in Thailand, but northeastern Thailand was once ruled by the Khmer. In fact, Prisat Hin Phimai was supposedly connected with Angkor by an ancient highway, and is oriented to face Angkor as its cardinal direction. 

Time Out tip: The small museum, a 10-min walk away, which displays the temple’s most valuable objects, as well as visiting other Khmer temples, like Phanom Rung and Prasat Muang Tam in Buriram. (And, Dan Kwian pottery village is about an hour’s drive from Phimai.)

10.  Take a private lesson at the Chakrit Muay Thai School

What is it? An outdoor gym with a “Bloodsport” feel in Bangkok where novice and pro Thai boxers, using “eight limbs”, pummel and puff.

Why go? Instead of watching a live Muay Thai fight alongside tourists, get a taste of what it’s like to be a real Thai fighter at Chakrit Muay Thai School, beloved by locals and expats. A one-on-one, 60-min session in the country’s national sport is just 800 baht (or $25 US)—a steal compared to what you’d pay in the US. Not to mention, it’s a great way to sweat out those Singhas. 

Time Out tip: If you’re looking for a way to live in Thailand, the school sponsors student visas, which require attending at least two classes per week for up to one year.

11.  Attend a Buriram United F.C. match at Chang Arena

Where is it? Isaan

What is it? Thailand’s version of Manchester United—the premiere football club in the country—that hails from the city of Buriram in the northeast. (If you spot a Thai national wearing a jersey, chances are it’s for this team.)

Why go? Global interest in Thai football is on the up—in part thanks to Thailand’s women’s team, which has qualified for a second consecutive World Cup (keep a look out for them in 2019). And while Muay Thai is officially the national sport, unofficially it’s football. Attend a match at the 32,000-seat arena in Buriram and see for yourself! Be sure to wear a blue jersey so you fit in…

Time Out tip: If you want an “unmatched” experience (no pun intended), time your visit with Songkran, Thai New Year, which takes place in April. This past year, Buriram United F.C. hosted a wild, 2-day celebration featuring concerts and water fights that was attended by half a million fans.  

12.  See the world-class Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra at Prince Mahidol Hall

Where is it?  Salaya

What is it? A 95-member, multicultural symphony orchestra in Salaya whose performances of classical, contemporary, and traditional Thai works attract a loyal following in country.

Why go? Heading into its 14 th season, this world-class orchestra performs more than 70 concerts a year in the stunning Prince Mahidol Hall—one of Asia’s most advanced concert halls, which from above was designed to look like a Kan-phai flower, the symbol of Mahidol University. The venue often hosts international-renowned symphony orchestras as well.

Time Out tip:  The best seats in the house are just 1500 baht (or about $45 US). Students under 25 are eligible for a 50% discount. Reserve your tickets in advance here . (You can also preview them on iTunes …)

13.  Attend the bizarre Bung Bang Fai (Rocket Festivals)

What is it? Evolving from a pre-Buddhist fertility rite, this rocket festival worships the god of rain before rice planting season and is celebrated across Issan, typically in May coinciding with the full moon. 

Why go? A fire-rocket party is something you’d expect to take place in North Korea rather than the Land of Smiles. Yet Thais are all about it. Celebrations last three to four days and include folk music, floats, and dancing—and of course a “friendly” competition, where huge, handmade gunpowder-filled rockets are launched high into the sky. Attendees place bets on the winner (even though gambling is illegal).

Time Out tip: While the rocket festival in Yasothon is the biggest and most famous, the festival in neighboring Roi Et is nearly just as big and feels very local.  

14.  Explore diverse culture and gastronomy in the historic port city of Nakhon Si Thammarat

Where is it?  Nakhon Si Thammarat

What is it? A historic and prosperous port town, as evidenced by troves of antiquities and archeological sites, that is located on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula in southern Thailand’s second largest province.

Why go? Nakhon Si Thammarat is often looked over by tourists who flock to nearby Krabi and Phukhet. Yet, the diverse city boasts a UNESCO world heritage nominated Buddhist temple, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan —one of the most important in Thailand; a unique shadow puppet museum; fortifications designed by the French, like the city wall ; and great Chinese, Malay and Southern Thai food . It’s also near Ban Kiriwang , a town that claims to have the “best atmosphere and purest air” in Thailand.

Time Out tip: Explore the city’s culinary offerings, from the dark roast coffee and medicinal “pork bone tea” soup at Kopi to the khanom jeen (fish curry; a local specialty) at Kanomcheen Mueang Kon to breakfast at Ko Hui Dim Sum . Southern Thai food is notoriously hot and spicy, so bring TUMS. (Or order less spicy dishes, like nam prik, massanman curry, and friend catfish with turmeric).

15.  Try Nordic Thai fusion cuisine at Front Room in the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok

What is it? The flagship restaurant of Bangkok's stunning new Waldorf Astoria. Chef Fae (full name Rungthiwa Chummongkhon) is married to a Danish man and trained and worked at European Michelin-star restaurants for years before returning to Thailand to combine the techniques she'd learned with traditional Thai dishes from her childhood. She cures, ferments and pickles with panache while also using local ingredients and subtle flavor pairings to turn out dish after beautifully plated dish of a cuisine that's has no real comparison and is difficult to describe, until you've tasted it.

Why go? It's something altogether new: innovative, stylish and incredibly tasty. If you can spring for it, the 10-course meal gives the most complete tour of this new fusion cuisine.

Time Out tip: When your meal is over, spend some time exploring the rest of the hotel; the view from the pool deck is particularly stunning.

16.  Explore the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum

What is it? A new-ish contemporary art museum in northern Thailand’s largest city, Chiang Mai, that highlights the works of both renowned and up-and-coming artists of the region and Thailand.

Why go? One of Thailand’s most cultural cities, Chiang Mai is home to many contemporary artists; and this museum, which opened in 2016, celebrates this artistic heritage. Its permanent collection—an ode to the 1990s—features 50 key pieces by leading local and national artists, in addition to a temporary collection.

Time Out tip: Navin Rawanchaikul’s kaleidoscopic and trippy painting, “Super(M)art Bangkok Survivor,” MAIIAM’s main attraction.

17.  Take a breather from the city at Open House inside Central Embassy

What is it? A super chic, ultra-modern shopping complex built on the former gardens of the British Embassy in Bangkok that doubles as a community space and epitomizes hi-so living. 

Why go? Malls are very popular in Bangkok for a basic reason (hello, A.C.!), but this one goes above and beyond, providing unparalleled experiences that even mall-haters would love. On the ground level, Eat Thai serves the country’s best regional dishes and “street food” (however, the city’s best food court is at Terminal 21 ). Atop the 6 th floor, there’s the plushest movie theater , and most fabulous community space: Open House , a book-lined oasis with tiny art gallery, fancy food stalls, and a co-thinking café.

Time Out tip: The floor-to-ceiling windows in the bathrooms on the 6 th floor overlook the British Embassy and Ambassador’s Residence (which was sold in 2018, but has yet to relocate), so bring your binoculars if you’ve ever wanted to be a spy.

18.  Eat, drink and shop for antiques at the Srinakarin Night Market

What is it? A lively and colorful nocturnal bazaar in the east of Bangkok where thousands of vendors hawk food, fashion and antiques, and Thais congregate for drinks.

Why go? Open Thursday to Sunday evenings until midnight, Night Train Markets (or Talad Rot Fai ) are a unique part of Bangkok’s culture. While Srinakarin’s is a little farther away than the other night markets (and best reached by taxi), it’s larger, has more Thais and fewer group tours, comparatively. It’s also a great place to have dinner and drinks, and make new friends.

Time Out tip: From classic cars to French chandeliers, the incredible antiques in the Warehouse Zone set this night market apart from the rest. Bring your camera—and enough cash.

19.  Tour the stunning Jim Thompson House Museum

What is it? The former Bangkok residence and art collection belonging to Jim Thompson, an American businessman known as the “Thai Silk King” who mysteriously vanished in the Malaysian jungle in 1967.

Why go? Thompson’s wooden house, which was built in 1959 to showcase his impressive Asian art collection, is a unique amalgamation of Thai and Western styles. The jungly compound by the klong, which feels like a peaceful refuge despite being in the heart of Bangkok, also has an art center, open-air restaurant, and gift shop that sells an array of uniquely patterned textiles for the home and fashion from Thompson’s own silk company. 

Time Out tip: It’s worth taking the guided tour to learn juicy details about Thompson’s extraordinary life and fully appreciate his gorgeous home.

20.  Try southern Thai food at KlangSuan

What is it? A delicious southern-style restaurant that’s tucked away in an alley off Sukhumvit in Bangkok’s Khlong Toei neighborhood.

Why go? The restaurant serves “two dishes that pair spectacularly—the gaeng som, a classic sour, soupy, super-spicy fish curry, and the Chinese-style braised pork belly, sweet and lush”—which intrepid travel writer Matt Gross, who went in search of Bangkok’s best street food for The New York Times , said he’d fly back to Bangkok just to eat.  

Time Out tip: “You need to eat them together over rice; each tames and amplifies the other,” says Gross. Check out this google map for the rest of the places he ate at in Bangkok.

21.  Cycle around Bangkok’s “Green Lung”

What is it? A lush oasis across the Chao Phraya river from Bangkok, aptly dubbed the “green lung”.

Why go? The (artificial) island-like peninsula, with its cycling trails, floating market, Walden-inspired tree house hotel, and cafés, is the perfect escape from Bangkok’s urban jungle—particularly after a few days of sightseeing.

Time Out tip: The best way to explore is by bike (although the paths are narrow), and during the weekend so that you can visit the low-key, canal-side floating market called Ban Nam Pheung.  

Planning a beach day?

The 9 best beaches in thailand.

Saying that beach-lovers are spoiled for choice in Thailand is an understatement. Wherever you lay your towel, expect sun-drenched sugary white sands and waters in a thousand shades of blue – and a bottle of cold cheap beer. 

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

Thailand is the number one tourist location in South East Asia, and it is easy to see why. Best known for its breath-taking beaches , its stunning temples and the modern urban sprawl that is Bangkok , it is a country where getting bored is just not an option.

From the moment you step of the plane to the time you leave you will be surrounded by some of the friendliest, down to earth and genuine people that you could want to meet. It’s easy to see why Thailand is often called the ‘Land of Smiles’.

The problem for any visitor to Thailand is narrowing down your list of things to do, there are countless attractions and hot spots I could put on this list but I narrowed it down to the top 25 things to do in Thailand :

1. Visit the Grand Palace

Set in the heart of Bangkok this is probably the most famous attraction there is. For 150 years the palace was home to the king, his court, and the entire government of Thailand as well as the Royal Mint. With an area of 218,400 sq. meters there is so much to see and do, you will not be disappointed. In 1782 huge walls were built around the palace and offices to make it the attraction it is today, please note that a strict dress code is in place at the palace so you will need to dress in appropriate clothing or entry will be refused.

3. Have a Thai Massage

Thai massages are famous the world over, the style of massage is unique as it stretches your body as well as working on your bodies pressure points. The whole experience will leave you feeling invigorated and balanced. Every small town and city is guaranteed to have many massage parlors and the prices are very cheap compared to what you would pay back home.

4. Visit The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

There are several floating markets in Thailand but this one is the biggest and most famous, it is huge! There are boats everywhere going up and down the canals selling all sorts of foods and fruits. A visit to this market will give you a real insight into how things were many years ago. For those who love to take photos the narrow canals and small wooden stilt houses are sure to give you countless opportunities. The market is situated about 100km outside of Bangkok but it is well worth the traveling time.

5. Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)

No trip to Bangkok could be complete without taking a trip to Nana, the main road that runs through Bangkok is called Sukhumvit road and when you get to Soi 4 you have arrived at a place you do not want to miss. Nana Plaza is rumored to be the largest sex complex in the world, full of gogo bars and seductive girls you are guaranteed to have an interesting night.

Take a seat at any of various bars in the Plaza and just sit back and watch the girls apply their trade to many visiting tourists.

6. Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower

Situated in the heart of Bangkok is a humongous abandoned skyscraper known as the ‘Sathorn Unique’ it was being built during the late nineties but due to the global financial crisis the building was never completed. This is not an official tourist attraction but a small payment to the security guards at the bottom will ensure you are allowed access. Not one for the faint hearted the 49 stories provide a difficult climb but one that offers some of the most breath taking views of Bangkok from the top. Thai people believe the tower to be haunted and as you climb you way up you might just see why.

7. Take a trip to Koh Phi Phi

Shooting to fame after the Leonardo DiCaprio classic ‘The Beach’ as well as appearing in James Bond. Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island situated in the province of Krabi , this island is a must visit on any trip to Thailand. After visiting this staggeringly beautiful island no beach will ever feel as beautiful. The island has no roads so you will have to do a fair amount of walking but with everything happening between the two main beaches you will never be far from the hive of activity.

8. Visit a Ping Pong Show

If you have already been to Nana Plaza and watched the ladies at work there then the next part of your trip is surely to a ping pong show, famed throughout the world for the unique experience it brings, you must not give it a miss. Various ladies will entertain you on stage by putting objects inside them before using their pelvic muscles to shoot the objects into cups. Although ping pong balls are the most iconic objects the ladies have also been known to use, candles, darts, chopsticks and even razor blades.

9. Drive Like a Local

Traveling by scooter is hugely popular, a vast majority of the locals do it and nearly all of the tourists. It is an experience that you will not want to miss out on. At times it can appear as though there are no laws on the road and it is every man (or woman) for themselves. It can be an awful lot of fun weaving in and out of the traffic whilst you explore places you would never venture on foot. Just remember to keep your wits about you at all times and to expect the unexpected.

• 10.  Eat Street Food

Thailand is home to many different kinds of street food and every street in every city will have various different stalls selling their wares. From Pad Thai to Som Tam (papaya salad) to grilled meats it is all available at any time of the day. Thai’s rarely cook at home as the cost of eating out is so low compared to cooking at home, when looking for a food stall to eat at a good choice is to follow the locals to see where they are eating.

11. Have a Water Fight During Songkran

Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, it is celebrated each year in April across the entire country and runs from the 13th to the 15th, water is traditionally sprinkled throughout the festival as it is believed it will wash away your bad luck and sins. These days things have changed a little and huge water fights tend to break out bringing entire cities to a standstill, with many businesses closing for the entire duration. Where ever you are in the country during this time of the year prepare for a soaking as there is no escaping the party.

• 12.  Visit Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park was the first national park to be established in Thailand and is the third largest in the country. Covering an area of 2,168 square kilometers it is a huge site to visit. The park comprises of rain forests as well as grasslands which all adds up to the large number of animals you can see. There are an estimated 300 species of birds in the park as well as bears, elephants, deer’s, gibbons and macaques. There are a couple of waterfalls in the park which are well worth a visit as well and are easily accessible by car.

• 13.  Take a Trip to Wat Arun

Thailand is home to over 31,000 Buddhist temples , this particular temple Wat Arun is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. The temple sits on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most stunning sites you can see. The tower is 79 meters tall and has been covered in colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles making for a mesmerizing sight. When you come to the entrance of the temple you will see a pair of mythical giants that are said to guard the temple.

• 14.  Visit Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

During the day the Chang Klan Road is just an ordinary road in Chiang Mai , full of tourists, shops, guest houses and Tuk Tuk drivers, but at night a transformation takes place. From dusk until midnight hundreds of stall holders line the 1km stretch of road and turn the area into a shopper’s paradise. Everything is for sale including various different designer products (mainly fake,) you are expected to barter with the street sellers for whatever you choose to buy which all adds to the fun of the Bazaar. It does not matter what the weather is like or what day of the year you choose the market will always be open.

• 15.  Go to a Full Moon Party

Legend has it that a group of tourists realized one day that the most beautiful view of the full moon was from the beach of Koh Phangan so they decided to hold a party. From that day on it became an institution. Today up to 30,000 revelers travel to the beaches of Koh Phangan to celebrate every full moon with a party. The parties are a riot of color, music and nonstop drinking that seems to last forever. When you need to take a break from the dancing you can take a rest in one of the surrounding bars or go for a swim in the warm Gulf of Thailand.

• 16.  Visit Phang Nga Bay

Whilst visiting Phuket you must visit Phang Nga Bay, the bay houses in the region of 40 small islands that come straight out of the calm sea. There are so many caves, mangroves and lagoons to visit whilst you are here that you will never have enough time to see everything. The sea in this area is very quiet and the bay by its natural design is protected from many of the elements during the monsoon season meaning there is never a bad time to go. The best way to see as much as you can is to go with a local Thai tourist guide who will be able to point out the things you do not want to miss.

• 17.  Go to Doi Suthep

Situated 12km outside of Chiang Mai , Doi Suthep is a mountain that stands at over 5400 feet. The reason most people travel to Doi Suthep is to see two things, firstly the view over all of Chiang Mai which is staggering and worth the journey on its own, but also to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which is a temple dating back to the 13th century. At the temple there is a large white elephant shrine which has a whole story about it which you can learn about whilst at the temple. There are many steps to climb on the mountain as well as the opportunity to take a tram, expect to spend a whole day on the mountain checking out the various things to see.

• 18.  Visit Railay Beach

Railay beach is situated in the south of Thailand in Krabi , it is not accessible by traveling through the mainland as the huge limestone cliffs cut it off from society. The only way to get there is to get a boat. The stunning beaches will relax you like no other, there is not a single car here as there are no roads to drive on so it will just be you, your guests, beautiful white sand and the other relaxed tourists. If you are into rock climbing this is the place to be with some of the best instructors in Thailand plying their trade here. Your evenings can be spent in the quiet beach bars enjoying a few romantic drinks whilst watching the sunset. If you are looking for a party this is not the place to come.

• 19.  Go Diving off The Coast of Koh Lanta

Situated in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta is a beautiful island only 20km’s in length. There are 17 dive shops on the island and some of the most beautiful diving in the world is to be had in the sea surrounding the island. Famous dive sites are Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, these are considered to be the best in the area

20. Take Part in The Loi Krathong Festival

Celebrated across the country the Loi Krathong festival is an annual event that happens on the night of the twelfth lunar month. A Krathong is like a small floating basket in the shape of a lotus with a candle in it. The festival celebrates the Goddess of water for all the water that she has supplied over the last year. Thousands of krathongs are lit and left to float away on the rivers and canals, a truly breath taking sight. The festival is full of color and in some cities you will see whole areas turned in processions with dancing and much color.

21. Visit Pai

Situated just down from the border with Myanmar is the small town of Pai, historically it was a small town inhabited by the Shan people, now it makes its money from the tourism trade. There are plenty of cheap places to stay and you are guaranteed a relaxing time when you visit. A romantic town that was made famous by appearing in a couple of famous Thai movies (The Letter and Ruk Jung.) Every year more tourists visit that the year before so there has never been a better time to visit than now.

22. Take a Trip To The City of Ayutthaya

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya needs to be on your Thailand to-do list . Originally the capital of Thailand the city was founded in 1350 when King U Thong relocated to the city to escape an outbreak of smallpox. However in 1767 the Burmese army marched on the city and destroyed nearly every part of it. The kingdom collapsed and was never the same again. The ruins of the city are preserved in the historical park and are certainly worth a visit when in the country.

• 23.  Take the Thai-Burma Railway

Also known as the Death Railway due to the 300,000 people that died during its construction. The Thai-Burma railway was built between 1942 and 1943 to transport Japanese troops to Burma, the troops were then supposed to attack the British in India. Built by prisoners and Asian laborers the line stretches for 415km with perhaps the most famous part of the line being where the track goes over the bridge on the river Kwwae (kwai)

• 24.  Drink From a Coconut

All over Thailand you will come across coconut sellers, standing by the side of the road with their simple stall, chopping board and cleaver. For just a few baht you can order one and watch as they cut deep into the flesh at the top of the coconut and cut out a piece in the shape of a square. A straw is added the square (now the lid) is replaced and you are ready to drink the cool milk inside. Absolutely delicious on a boiling hot day, fewer things will quench your thirst as much as this. When you have finished drinking the milk if you have a spoon you can scrape out the insides to enjoy the white flesh part that remains.

• 25.  Visit Erawan Falls

Situated within the Erawan National Park the Erawan Falls are a group of seven waterfalls (the drop from the top waterfall to the bottom one is over 1500m) each having its own distinctive character. The water plunges over lime stone cliffs and into beautiful plunge pools, this has led to the landscape being sculpted by the water and it is truly beautiful. You can spend a whole day in the park trekking from one waterfall to the next, stopping to take a swim in the pools where the water gathers to cool yourself down.

25 Best Things to Do in Thailand:

• Visit the Grand Palace
• Have a Thai Massage
• Visit The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)
• Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower
• Take a trip to Koh Phi Phi
• Visit a Ping Pong Show
• Drive Like a Local
• Have a Water Fight During Songkran
• Take Part in The Loi Krathong Festival
• Take a Trip To The City of Ayutthaya

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Thailand is a collage of animated scenes that comprise bustling modern cities crowded with motorbikes and tuk-tuks, Buddhist temples tended by orange-robed monks, hill tribes selling handicrafts, lush landscapes dotted with traditional farming villages, ancient ruins and stunning coastlines peppered with gorgeous beaches and blue lagoons.

Those looking to spend a few weeks exploring tropical islands should head to the picture perfect Thai Islands . If the exciting energy of a capital city is more your style, Bangkok will more than provide an unforgettable experience.

For getting to grips with nature and understanding more about the various ethnicities within Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai serves as the perfect jumping off point to the mountainous landscapes of the north. Plan your trip to Southeast Asia most popular travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Thailand.

17. Ko Phangan

As Thailand’s fifth-largest island, Ko Pha Ngan is a mix of rolling hills, lush jungles, and white-sand beaches . Compared to the neighboring island of Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan is relatively less developed, although it still offers plenty of accommodations and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Diving is a popular activity in Ko Pha Ngan. The island is located near some of the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand , including the iconic Sail Rock site. Beachgoers are also spoiled for choice, as Ko Pha Ngan is home to over 30 different tropical beaches.

Ko Pha Ngan is famed for hosting the legendary Full Moon Party . Every month on the night of the full moon, Haad Rin Beach transforms into a lively open-air nightclub with live music, potent cocktails, and even fire rope skipping. The event attracts anywhere from 5,000 to 30,000 people each month.

16. Khao Yai National Park

Located in the Sankamphaeng Mountain Range, Khao Yai National Park is the third largest park in Thailand . Despite the high elevation, the park’s landscape is a diverse mix of evergreen rainforests and billowy grasslands.

Khao Yai National Park also has several waterfalls hidden inside the tree-lined forests. At 260-feet tall, powerful Haew Narok is the largest waterfall in the park and a must visit. Although not as high, the picturesque Haew Suwat Waterfall is also worth visiting; it was the setting for the waterfall jump scene in the movie, The Beach.

The abundance of wildlife is one of the main reasons for visiting Khao Yai National Park. Pig-tailed macaques, sambar deer, freshwater crocodiles, and Asian black bears are just a few creatures that can be spotted wandering through the park. It’s also one of the few places in Thailand where you can regularly see bigger mammals like elephants and tigers in the wild.

15. Sukhothai

A small city in northern Thailand, Sukhothai is a popular tourist destination due to the nearby ruins of an ancient city by the same name. Historic Sukhothai was the first capital of Thailand, then Siam, during the 13th century. Many temples, palaces, and monuments from this era can be found in the Sukhothai Historical Park .

The park is divided into multiple zones, with each featuring several excavated temples, chedis, Buddha figures and other monuments with impressive stucco reliefs. Wat Mahathat is considered to be the most impressive temple with its standing Buddha relics and lotus-shaped stupa. In the middle of the park is Wat Si Chum pavilion, which houses a massive 50-foot tall sitting Buddha.

The Sukhothai Historical Park is also dotted with sparkling lakes, sunken moats, and manicured gardens. The on-site Ramkhamhaeng National Museum is a great place to learn more about the park’s history, as it contains different artifacts and objects found in the area. In addition to the historic city, the Sri Satchanalai National Park and Ramkhamhaeng National Park are nearby and well worth a visit for their natural scenery and outdoor recreation.

14. Ko Samui

Although Ko Samui is Thailand’s third largest island, it was largely unknown to travelers until the two intrepid backpackers boarded a coconut boat and landed there in the 1970s. Word soon spread about the islands magnificent beaches, and today Ko Samui is one of the most popular travel destinations in all of Asia. Ko Samui offers a more convenient travel experience than other islands in Thailand too (besides Phuket) as it boasts an international airport.

Compared to its neighboring island Phangan, which is famous for its rollicking “Full Moon Parties” on the beach, Ko Samui is more developed , though it still has a number of quiet and secluded beaches. Even well-developed beaches like the four-mile-long Hat Chaweng have spots where visitors can relax away from the crowds. At the southern end of the beach around a small headland is Little Chaweng, or Chaweng Noi . Offshore are two small islets, one of which can be reached by wading.

Visitors who prefer a more social travel experience won’t be disappointed either. Na Thon , Ko Samui’s transportation hub, if full of lively restaurants and bars. The island is known for its coconut carvings and hand-printed batik clothing. Samui also has several important Buddhist temples worth visiting. Wat Khunaram features mummified remains of revered monks. Constructed in 1972, the Wat Phra Yai temple features a 3 meter (9 foot) high seated Buddha figure known as the “ Big Buddha .”

The center of Ko Samui is a mountainous forest region with several stunning waterfalls, including a 20 meter (65 foot) waterfall that tumbles into a pool perfect for swimming. A well-developed road circles the island, making it easy to explore everything this popular travel destination has to offer.

13. Chiang Rai

The northernmost city in Thailand, Chiang Rai is the place to go to explore the Golden Triangle , which contains the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar . A busy town offering something for everyone, Chiang Rai is often used as a base for exploring the surrounding region. The town itself is quiet during the day, when most of its package tourists are out on day trips, but at night the neon lights flash on and souvenir stalls and restaurants spring into action.

The city is also home to a few museums that exhibit local heritage, culture and art. With its lovely green spaces, trees and flower, Saun Mai Ngam Park is a nice place to relax or attend a flower festival at year’s end. Markets and a night bazaar offer food, handicrafts, souvenirs and free cultural performances. Chiang Rai Beach is popular for picnics and riverboat cruises.

Outside of Chiang Rai, the Gate of Siam is a special place on the Laos border where visitors can enjoy lovely views. Namtok Khun Kon Forest Park offers nature walks and scenic waterfalls. Lion Hill Cave is an interesting cavern surrounded by picturesque scenery, hiking trails and picnic areas. Various tour companies operating from Chiang Rai guide tourists to nearby hill tribes to experience their culture and traditions.

Once just a quiet village in northern Thailand , Pai is now a booming town that is part of the Mae Hong Son Loop stretching between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. Noted for its picturesque valley and relaxed atmosphere, Pai is a favored destination among backpackers and tourists wishing to explore the region.

Due to Pai’s increasing influx of tourists, the city has increased in tourism facilities with numerous guesthouses, restaurants, souvenir shops and bars. Pai’s Wednesday Market is a popular attraction, which draws crowds from other villages around the Pail Valley.

With Pai’s location in the foothills of the mountains, many tourists use the city as a base for exploring natural attractions , trekking tours and visits to the hill tribes of Lisu, Karen, Lahu and Hmong. Also just outside the city are spas, elephant camps, hot springs and beautiful waterfalls. Additionally, the Pai River offers tubing and whitewater adventures. Other area must-see sites include the Pai Canyon , the WWII Memorial Bridge and a Chinese village where tourists can buy teas and view a Ferris wheel powered by humans.

11. Phanom Rung

Sitting on an extinct volcano in northeastern Thailand, Phanom Rung is a Hindu shrine complex regarded for its outstanding architecture. Located near the village of Nang Rong, this temple sanctuary was built by the Khmer culture between the 10th and 13th centuries as a dedication to the Hindu god, Shiva. Constructed of sandstone and laterite, Phanom Rung was built to represent Mount Kailash , the sacred home of Shiva.

The complex faces east, and four times a year the sun shines through all 15 sanctuary doorways. During these events the park extends its hours, and locals celebrate the Phanom Rung Festival around the April alignment, with ancient Brahmin ceremonies and modern sound-and-light shows.

Known for its gorgeous beaches, excellent diving and an abundance of luxurious spas, Phuket is Thailand’s leading tourist destination. Located in Southern Thailand, Phuket is the country’s largest island, connected to the mainland by two bridges.

Of Phuket’s many attractions, the beaches are the main draw with their white sands, blue lagoons and water sports. With resorts, hotels, shops, restaurants and vibrant nightlife, Patong Beach is the most popular beach. Phang Nga Bay is a memorable place to visit with it’s beautiful caves, aquatic grottoes and limestone islands.

Phuket is also a place for ultimate relaxation and pampering with its numerous options that range from massage tents on the beach to world class spas in breathtaking settings. Fun and adventure is to be found everywhere from aquariums and seashell museums to national parks featuring whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, scuba diving, jungle trekking and more.

9. Khao Sok National Park

Surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush tropical forests, Khao Sok National Park contains some of the most spectacular landscapes in Thailand. It dates back 160 million years, making Khao Sok National Park considerably older than the Amazon rainforest.

At the heart of the park is Cheow Lan , a sparkling turquoise lake dotted with floating raft houses and colorful long-tail boats. Most notably, the national park is also home to the largest virgin rainforest in Southern Thailand. Visitors exploring the forest will come across cascading waterfalls, hidden caves, and groves of wild fruit trees. Other activities available include ziplining and kayaking and tubing on the Sok River .

Besides the picturesque scenery, many people visit Khao Sok for diverse wildlife. It’s believed that over five percent of the species on the planet live within the park. It’s common to see small creatures like Malaysian tapirs, wild boars, and pig-tailed macaques, although sightings of larger animals like Asian elephants and tigers are rarer.

8. Ayutthaya

Founded in 1350, the city of Ayutthaya is located in the Chao Phraya River valley in Central Thailand. It sits on an island surrounded by three rivers connecting it to the Gulf of Siam. King U Thong proclaimed it the capital of his kingdom. Once declared the most magnificent city on earth, the ruins of Ayutthaya are now a major attraction for those visiting Thailand.

As the capital of the Thai Kingdom , Ayutthaya was an impressive site, with three palaces and more than 400 temples. From the 14th to the 18th centuries, the city flourished. By the year 1700, the population reached nearly 1,000,000. Ayutthaya became a center for trade as well as a connecting point between the West and the East.

In 1767, the Burmese attacked and conquered Ayutthaya. The majority of the once magnificent reliquary towers, monasteries, temples and palaces were destroyed during this invasion. However, some structures still stand and tourists are welcome to visit these.

Many of the ancient remains in Ayutthaya lie in the western section of the island, while others are more widespread. One of the most popular sites is Wat Phra Mahathat . Here one will find a sandstone Buddha head entwined with the roots of a Bodhi tree. One of the most important images of the seated Buddha can be found at Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, and is a highlight for the Buddhists as well as others visiting the site. Thailand’s largest gilded Buddha, known as Phra Buddha Triratana Nayok, is found at Wat Phanan Choeng. It is a nearly 20 feet (6 meter) tall seated Buddha and is one of the most venerated in Thailand.

The modern city is just 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok, and is easily reached by train, bus and van. Although many visitors choose a day trip from Bangkok , one may want to lengthen that time to two or three days in order to have time to enjoy the great number of ruins as well as the local charm and excellent food found in Ayutthaya.

7. Ko Chang

Thailand’s second largest island, Ko Chang is located off of the country’s southeastern coast near the Cambodian border. The island has everything that travelers want from a tropical vacation, from long stretches of sandy beaches to unspoiled rainforests. There are plenty of activities to pursue on the island too, including scuba diving, kayaking and jungle trekking.

When it comes to lazing on the beach in luxury, White Sand Beach is one of the most popular places to visit on the island. Located on the island’s northwestern corner, it’s the longest beach on Ko Chang. The central section of the soft sandy beach is lined with resorts and hotels. Hat Tha Nam on Ko Chang’s southwest coast attracts travelers looking for fun on a budget. From rustic bungalows to tree houses, visitors can find accommodations here on the cheap and spend the money that they’ve saved on the bars and restaurants popping up along the shoreline.

Among the many beaches on Ko Chang, Hat Khlong Phao is one of the most striking. Extreme low and high tides make this picturesque beach a beachcomber’s dream. Located at the north end of the beach is Laem Chaiyachet, a rock formation that’s been fitted out with a pier. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun setting into the Gulf of Thailand.

Around 70 percent of Ko Chang is covered by mountainous forests, and taking hikes to view the island’s waterfalls offers visitors a refreshing break from sunbathing in the sand. A short hike from the beach of Khlong Phrao leads visitors to Namtok Khlong Phlu , the island’s largest waterfall. The falls drop in three cascading tiers. Those who climb to the top tier can reward themselves with a dip in a large pool.

6. Kanchanaburi

Located in western Thailand and admired for its beautiful scenery and accessibility to national parks and waterfalls, Kanchanaburi is best known for its iron bridge that is linked with the historic Death Railway to Burma in which thousands of Asian laborers and POWS died during its construction under Japanese occupation during WWII.

While Kanchanaburi is a thriving city, the main attractions are associated with WWII, chiefly the iron railroad bridge that was portrayed in the Academy Award winning 1957 film, “ Bridge over the River Kwai .”

Several museums and war cemeteries all present information about the city and its bridge during the 1940s Japan occupation. The city is also home to many hotels and temples of which the Tiger Temple is the most popular.

Outside of Kanchanaburi are various national parks, including Erawan and Srinakarind National Parks, all offering beautiful scenery, waterfalls, caves and visits to tribal villages.

Railay (or Rai Leh) is a small peninsula in south Thailand that is only accessible by boat due to the high limestone cliffs cutting off mainland access. These cliffs attract rock climbers from all over the world, but the area is also a popular attraction in Thailand due to its beautiful beaches and quiet relaxing atmosphere.

Almost every patch of buildable land fronting in the eastern and western part of the peninsula has been taken over by bungalow resorts, and development is creeping up into the forest behind. But at least there are no high-rise buildings, and much of the construction is hidden among trees or set amid prettily landscaped gardens.

Located off the southeastern shore of Thailand, the tiny 21 square km (13 square mile) island of Tao remained largely uninhabited until the late 1900s and has only recently been developed as a travel destination. With its white sandy beaches, lush green forests and majestic granite rock formations, it’s no wonder that its bare-amenity bungalows are making room for luxury resorts as more visitors become aware of the island’s natural attractions.

Koh Tao is best known as premier scuba diving and snorkeling location. With many shallow bays, easy currents and gorgeous coral reefs, many visitors come to Koh Tao to learn how to scuba dive or to upgrade their scuba diving certification . There are multiple diving schools in Mae Hat, the island’s main town, as well as in many other places around the island. Koh Tao’s coral reefs are home to a broad variety of marine life, including butterfly fish, batfish, whale sharks and bull sharks.

“Tao” is the Thai word for turtle, and some believe that the island was named for its turtle-like shape. Koh Tao also has several locations where hawksbill and green turtles come to breed every year, although their habitat has been threatened from the island’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination. In recent years, Koh Tao’s diving schools have banded together to help preserve the turtle breeding grounds.

Other popular activities on the island include rock climbing, sailing, mountain biking and game fishing. Mae Hat also has several schools that offer courses in Thai cooking and yoga. Sairee Village is the island’s hot spot and has an assortment of restaurants, bars and clubs.

3. Chiang Mai

Surrounded by the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a flourishing city often used as a base among tourists wishing to explore the lush landscapes, hill tribes and outdoor adventures of the region. Nevertheless, Chiang Mai itself is a large and culturally important city where historical and modern Thai architecture and traditions coexist.

A walk around the historic center bestows views of old city walls and dozens of beautiful ancient temples. However, the most famous of these temples, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep , lies outside Chiang Mai on a mountainside overlooking the city. Modern-day Chiang Mai offers handicraft markets , an abundance of accommodations , botanical gardens and an elephant nature park where visitors can bathe and feed elephants.

Those seeking to experience the beauty, wildlife and adventure of the mountainous region will find a large variety of organized tour companies operating out of Chiang Mai that feature trekking, mountain biking, ziplining, river rafting and visits to local hill tribes.

Thailand’s capital city and by far the largest city in the country, Bangkok, is a buzzing cosmopolis of high rise buildings, magnificent palaces, ancient temples, glittering nightclubs, bustling markets and streets lined with vendors hawking souvenirs and tantalizing foods. While the city is sometimes described as a concrete jungle jam-packed with noisy traffic and air pollution, Bangkok is not without its natural beauty that is seen in its remaining canals, green spaces and flowering tropical plants.

Located in Central Thailand, Bangkok is a sprawling city offering something for everyone. The famous tourist street, Khao San Road , is a good place to begin with its interesting sites and cheap shopping and nightlife. The city is well known for its myriad of temples such as the sacred Wat Phra Kaew, which contains the Emerald Buddha . Zoos, water parks and amusement parks all present family fun. Shopping in Bangkok is sensational with numerous shopping malls and markets, including the not-to-be-missed floating markets. Sporting venues host Thai boxing matches.

From scores of street vendors to market stalls and a variety of restaurants for every budget and taste, Bangkok offers a fantastic dining experience. The city is also well known for its wild nightlife.

See also: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Due to the city’s congested traffic, the best transport options around Bangkok are the Skytrain, the metro and tuk-tuks. A memorable way to experience Bangkok is by a boat ride on the canals.

1. Ko Phi Phi

Situated off the southeastern coast of Phuket in the Krabi Province is the idyllic Phi Phi Island archipelago. The largest island is Ko Phi Phi Don , a popular vacation destination famed for its sun-soaked beaches , beautiful limestone cliffs and laid-back atmosphere.

Tonsai Bay and Long Beach attract the most tourists, while secluded beaches like Phak Nam Bay offer a tranquil escape away from the crowds. It’s also possible to hike up to Phi Phi Viewpoint, which boasts dramatic 360-degree views over the entire island.

In the middle of the island is the bustling village of Tonsai . Considered the heart of Ko Phi Phi, this charming town is teeming with mouthwatering restaurants and lively beach bars.

One mile south of Phi Phi Don is Koh Phi Phi Leh , a sparkling oasis of crystal clear waters and limestone rocks. At the center of the island is Maya Bay , which served as the stunning backdrop for the movie, The Beach.

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Reader interactions.

August 24, 2019 at 10:42 pm

I visited Thailand many times but my favourite place is Koh Samui

August 22, 2019 at 9:01 pm

What a fantastic Post! This is so chock full of useful information, I am always looking for the perfect escape, the perfect paradise, the kind of place that tosses your cares into the sea. Thailand is my dreamland, and this year I definitely want to visit Thailand.

August 12, 2019 at 8:13 am

Yes I have been in Thailand and I visit many places including Pattaya it was really fantastic.

November 15, 2018 at 10:50 am

I was in Phuket recently. A real heaven.! Phi phi Island and a lot of beautiful places to see. For nightlife it is good also. Just be careful of ladyboys and lady drinks.!

June 6, 2018 at 10:42 pm

I had 5 days with a fantastic experience in Pattaya and Bangkok! It has been really interesting for all short-term oversea guests. People are friendly, attractive and polite… hope one day I come back here and enjoy these again!

January 21, 2018 at 1:34 pm

we’ve been to Thailand many times and Koh Samui is by far the best. You see true culture in the south of the island and then you can go to Chaweng for dancing and nightlife. Beautiful temples and you can get a boat to a national park. Phuket is good too but more for younger visitors as it has lots of lady bars and nightlife but equally has just as beautiful beaches. Bangkok is busy busy but worth a stop over

November 17, 2017 at 9:37 am

Skip Pattaya. It is a dump. Bars and sex workers. I was there years ago and the beach and water was littered with garbage. Plenty of other beautiful beaches to be found in Thailand.

November 15, 2017 at 6:38 am

How is Pattaya? Have anyone been there? Any tips to provide?

November 5, 2015 at 4:30 am

Thailand is the most beautiful country in south-east Asia with rich heritage, flora and fauna and beautiful islands. I have visited the country hundreds of times and yet when I hear the name I wish to visit again. My favourite places are Krabi ( i am scared of islands ), Khao Yai National Park, Mae Hong Son and Pai.

May 13, 2015 at 2:05 pm

It really depends on what you are looking for because like you explained in your article you can go to beaches to chill or rage like no where else in the world, go Bangkok which is just filled with everything that a major city needs plus the most ridiculous view, then places like Chiang Mai were our base was, where you have a mix of traditional Thai culture with the Temples and monks but also have a huge group of tourist backpackers to party with.

August 22, 2014 at 9:47 am

I would skip Khao Sok from the list. It is good place, but it is nowhere near Khao Yai National Park . One can spend a whole week in Khao Yai and still not get enough of it.

August 4, 2014 at 6:22 pm

Simply I just love Thailand and really wanna come here before I die I love chiang Mai the most…..

June 27, 2014 at 2:00 am

I really Love Thailand.. nice place to visit and spend your vacation with your dear ones… I love Pattaya, Coral Islands and Bangkok.. been there.. Would like to go again to visit Chiang Mai, Khao Sok National Park, Coral Island and Bangkok city again… Miss you…

June 19, 2014 at 4:25 pm

Thailand is my dreamland. I definitely want to visit Thailand someday. On my list of many things to do before I die.

June 16, 2014 at 1:13 am

I really love Thailand especially Karon. I have been to many places in Thailand and I really love Bangkok and Karon. I went to Phunawa and I really love their luxurious ambiance.

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35 Amazing Things to Do in Thailand

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: January 8, 2023

It’s hard to believe how many times we have been to Thailand . The first time was 20 years ago, and we keep going back again and again. The Thai people are some of the friendliest people in the world, and each time we return we feel at home.

Many friends and readers are always asking us where they should go, and what to do in Thailand. Thailand is the first stop on most people’s South East Asia trip. So we thought we’d share our expertise from our multiple travels to Thailand.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Thailand

Thailand is open for business and welcoming visitors in 2021. These are our favorite things to do in Thailand to help you plan your visit.

1. Rock Climbing in Railay Beach

Railay Beach is our favorite place in Thailand and not only because of the amazing beaches surrounded by massive limestone cliffs, and turquoise waters, we love it for the climbing! There are hundreds of routes to climb for all levels of climbers. We climbed with both Hot Rocks climbing school and King Climbers and both were fantastic. Check out Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand

2. Sea Kayak in Krabi

Exploring the karst islands of The Andaman Sea by Sea Kayak is one of the beset things to do in Thailand. Join John Gray Sea Canoe to paddle through caves to enter gorgeous lagoons in the middle of islands surrounded by sea cliffs. Make sure to book overnight on one of the uninhabited islands in the area.

While Sea kayaking is very popular in Krabi going inland to the mangrove forest is also unforgettable. You’ll explore mangrove forests and ancient caves housing hieroglyphics. An experience you’ll never forget.

3. Motorcycle to the Myanmar Border

Take a tour of Northern Thailand on a motorcycle. We loved our safe luxury motorcycle tour with The Smiling Albino . They created a custom tour where we had a thorough riding lesson (with a test included!) before taking an epic tour off the beaten track.

4. Visit the Golden Triangle

Standing on the border of northern Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, (The Golden Triangle) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What was once infamous for the opium trade is now filled with lush tea terraces and temples and hill tribes. For an off-the-beaten-track destination in Thailand, this is it!

5. Muay Thai Kickboxing

Want a great way to whip yourself in shape? Try enrolling in a Muay Thai Kickboxing course. There are schools all over the country and you can sign up for a few short days or stay for months at a time. Kickboxing is an important sport to the Thai People and if you want to immerse in Thai Culture this is a great option. We trained with Rawai Muay Thai in Phuket and found them to be outstanding.

If you are not up for Muay Thai Training, check out a professional Muay Thai Fight. There are matches somewhere every night in Thailand, and it’s a huge part of the country’s tradition.

6. Get Soaked at Songkran Festival

It only happens once a year, but if you find yourself in Thailand when the Songkran festival is going on, you have got to go out and experience it. It’s the world’s largest water fight celebrating the Thai New Year. (Songkran Festival usually takes place at the beginning of April) Songkran Festival celebrates ringing in Thailand’s ancient New Year. Read more: 23 Fun Facts About Thailand – The Land of Smiles

7. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary – Elephant Nature Park

Skip riding elephants and instead visit an elephant sanctuary that gives refuge to former working and logging elephants. Elephants in Thailand have lived hard lives and the sanctuaries that are opening are starting to give them a safe haven to live out the rest of their lives.

8. Tour the Chao Phraya River

Many of the best things do in Thailand are on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Wat Arun stands proud over all temples as you tour Bangkok’s water highway to see its top sights. Many of Bangkok’s major tourist attractions are along the Chao Phraya river. You can take the water taxi for the low price of 20 baht (less than 1 US dollar ) for the tourist boat or 8 baht for the local boat. Read more: 27 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand – Plus Insider Local Tips

Best Things to do on the Chao Phraya River

• The Grand Palace and Wat Pho – The Grand Palace is the most popular place to visit in Bangkok. Wat Pho houses the reclingin buddha
• China Town – Hop off at this vibrant area of Bangkok
• Temple of the Dawn, (Wat Arun) – Wat Arun, Aka The Temple of the Dawn is a Buddhist Temple that is not to be missed.
• The National Museum
• Flower Markets in Bangkok – Most of Bangkoks flower arrangements come from this. One of Asia’s largest flower markets.
• Floating Market – The main Floating Market – Damnoen Saduak, is located outside of the city, but if you hire a longtail boat, you can hit floating markets in the backwaters of the Chao Phraya.

9. Shop at Chang Mai’s Night Market

At night the streets of Chang Mai come alive with rows and rows of vendors. The prices seem to be higher here than anywhere else in Thailand, but once you know what to pay for things, you can get them down to the proper price.

10. Take a Long Tail Boat Island Hopping 

Thailand’s beaches are the most beautiful beaches in the world. The most famous being Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach. Take a longtail boat from island to island. Longtail boats are canopied long hull boats with a long outboard motor. They are one of the most photographed images of southern Thailand. Read More: Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust

Thailand’s Best Islands

Koh Phi Phi – Koh Phi Phi was the island we visited in 2000 and it is the most recognizable beach in Thailand. It is due to open back up in 2021, and it is considered one of the most beautiful and famous islands in Thailand. Koh Phi Phi is that perfect horseshoe beach with incredible karst formation jutting out from the Andaman Sea. Koh Phi Phi was featured in James Bond and the Beach. There’s a reason it is the most famous,

Koh Phangan – Koh Phangan is popular for its Full Moon Party that happens each month at the full moon. Most islands have some sort of full moon party each month, but Koh Phangan is the original and people flock to it for the festivities. People party so much on Koh Phangan, they have even added a half-moon party to the celebration.

• Koh Samui – Located on the Gulf of Thailand, this is very popular spot. Read more: The Best Things to do in Koh Samui
• Koh Lanta – Excellent for chillaxing.
• Koh Lipe – Southernmost island with white sand beaches and small enough to walk around.
• Railay Beach – popular for climbers and beautiful beaches. Read more: Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand
• Phra Nang – often named the most beautiful beach in the world.
• Koh Tao – Koh Tao is the best place in Thailand to go diving
• Phuket – Thailand’s largest island has amazing beaches. Check it out Best Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

11. Watch a Fire Spin Show

When hanging out on the beach of your choice in Southern Thailand, chances are you’ll have the opportunity to watch a fire-spinning show  known as Fire Sparkle Poi shows.

12. Visit the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Thailand. The former Royal Residence, The Grand Palace (Royal Palace) covers an area of 218,400 sq. metres; It is Grand indeed and houses the Emerald Buddha (which is really made out of Jade). Be sure to go into Wat Phra Kaew to see the Emerald Buddha with your own eyes. (no photos allowed) Read more: Ultimate 3 Days in Bangkok – A Local’s guide to The Perfect Bangkok Itinerary

13. Check out Wat Pho

Wat Pho is home to the Reclining Buddha at 46 metres long and 15 metres high. This golden beauty is Thailand’s largest reclining Buddha it is in the oldest Wat in Bangkok. It is the first thing that most people see and do in Thailand and I can understand why it is magnificent.

14. Catch a Movie at Siam Square

We can’t help it, we love movies and wherever we go, we always go to a movie. In Bangkok, you have designated seating and you must stand before each movie while watching a montage of the King. (we haven’t been since the new King was crowned, but expect it to be the same)

15. Release a Lantern at Yi Peng Festival

Yi Peng is a wonderful time to be in Thailand. It takes place in November alongside the Loi Krathong Festival. Both festivals are lantern festivals. Yi Peng has revelers releasing paper lanterns in the sky and Loi Krathong has worshippers release bamboo and boats in the river. Be sure to only use environmentally friendly lanterns! Read more: Loy Krathong and Yi Peng – A Guide to The Lantern Festivals of Chiang Mai

Where to Celebrate Yi Peng and Loi Krathong

• Chiang Mai – Northern Thailand
• Bangkok  – Chao Phraya River
• Sukhothai – North-central Thailand – It was the original Capital of Thailand and is still a very important city.
• Lampang – Northern Thailand
• Phuket – Southern Thailand
• Chiang Rai – Northern Thailand Celebrates Yee Peng

16. Ride a Tuk Tuk

You gotta ride a tuk tuk at least once while visiting Thailand. They’re loud, polluted and one zany ride, but you haven’t lived until you’ve zipped around the streets of Bangkok in a three-wheeler two-stroke engine zipping machine. Feeling wary about hopping in a tuk tuk for the first time? Book a Bangkok Tuk Tuk Tour here .

17. Get a Thai Massage

Traditional Thai Massages are cheap in Thailand and they are heavenly. We recommend having a Thai massage every couple of days to keep the body limber. You’ll find them anywhere in Thailand. On the beaches, at Khao San Road, in high end hotels and on any street.

18. Take a Cooking Class

We love Thai food and it’s even better when you know how to cook it. Our very first visit to Thailand ignited our senses and we learned about Thai food. I am so glad we took a Thai cooking class so we can recreate our favourite Thai recipes at home like delicious Pad Thai from scratch!

19. Visit the Bridge on the River Kwai

Do you remember the movie The Bridge on the River Kwai? It tells the story of the Death Railway built by British POWs and forced laborers from around South East Asia. The Railway is still in working order today and is a popular tourist attraction. But it is also a sombre memorial to those who died on this Death Railay. There are many memorials paying tribute to the thousands that died during the war including the Chungkai War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum.

20. Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

We love riding boats in Thailand and there are many floating markets you can visit near Bangkok. The largest floating market is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Amphawa Floating Market is another less crowded option. Book a tour to Damnoen Saduak. This day tour takes you to both the Damnoen Saduak floating market and the famous Maeklong Railway Market.

21. Take the Slow Boat to Laos

Ride along the Mekong River from Luang Prabang Laos to Chang Rai doing nothing but taking in the scenery. See the mighty Mekong River and meet the local people that live along its shores. Insider Tip: Bring some food and drink and some cards or games to keep you occupied for the trip.

22. Chiang Rai’s Wat Rung

One of Thailand’s newest temples is Wat Rong Khun aka The White Temple. It is also one of Thailand’s most beautiful temple. Restoration began in the late 20th century and it has transformed into pure beauty of white intricate designs and mirrored reflections.

23. Meditation Retreat in Chiang Mai

When you visit Chiang Mai, a popular option is to do a Mediation retreat. We took a multi-day meditation course in Chiang Mai and it was heavenly. We were the only two people in the course and worked on several different types of meditations and tai chi. As we talked with our instructor, we cooked vegetarian food and really bonded with each other during that time. There are many Meditation courses in Chiang Mai. Read more: 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

24. Swim in a Waterfall

Thailand is full of waterfalls. You can hike to one in nearly every major tourist area. But we loved the waterfall in Koh Samui. Swimming in the pool below the falls and letting the water run over your head cools you off during a long hot day. Find your favorite waterfall in the country and spend the day suntanning on rocks and cooling off in the fresh water.

There was also great waterfalls in Doi Ithanon National Park in Northern Thailand just outside of Chiang Mai.

25. Visit Thailand’s National Parks

Besides Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand has several national parks to visit. Khao Yai national park is Thailand’s first national park and is part of  Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular park for animal watching where you’ll see Elephants, Sun Bears, gibbons, civets, and many other animals of Thailand. Khao Yai National park is located in Central Thailand 120 km (75 miles. from Bangkok.

Other National Parks that we’ve visited are:

• Khao Sok – Great for jungle trekking, the Cheow Lan Lake Tour and the Khao Sock River.
• Erawan National Park – Visit Erawan Falls, hiking trails and caving.

26. Chiang Mai Temple Tour

Chiang Mai is the capital of Northern Thailand, you cannot miss going there on your Thailand trip. When you visit Chiang Mai, it is all about the. In fact, there are more than 300 temples to discover. Monks walk the grounds and study Buddhism. A beautiful temple in Chiang Mai is Wat Suan Dok where you can watch the monks chant daily. Wat Chedi Luang – pictured above, is our favourite temple in Chiang Mai at night.

27. Wat Phra  That Doi Suthep 

Just a few km outside Chiang Mai is the wonderful Doi Suthep Temple. Hire a taxi, tuk tuk or Grab Taxi to take you to the temple early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Doi Suthep was our favorite temple in Thailand. Walk the 309 steps to the complex where we were treated to an extraordinary panoramic view of Chiang Mai.

28. Shop at the Chiang Mai Night Market

Chiang Mai is famous for its Night Bazaar. When the sun goes down, the markets open up. Chang Klan Road is where the Night Bazaar is open every evening. But on Sundays all the streets by Thapae Gate close to traffic and it become and endless line of street stalls. You haven’t experienced shopping in Asia until you have explored the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It’s a great spot to grab some street food and sample the best of Thai cooking.

29. Ayuthaya

Located just one hour from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is an incredible temple complex that is a popular day trip. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 1300s, Ayuthaya is the former ancient capital of Siam. Ayutthaya Archeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic temples. Book a day trip to Ayutthaya .

30. Hang Out in Pai

Pai is a laidback and popular hotspot for backpackers, hippies, and artists. It’s a great place to chill out, soak in the hot springs and explore the waterfalls. Read about all the The Best Things to do in Pai by The Experts

31. Railway Market

Take a 70km trip from Bangkok to the Maeklong Market. The railway runs through the center of this world-famous market with the wheels passing just inches from the beautifully laid out fruit and vegetables which are displayed along the edges of the track.

32. Visit Khao San Road

There is no doubt that when you first land in Bangkok, you will make your way to Khao San Road. It is the original backpackers ghetto and it’s not to be missed.

This famous street is lined with bars, eateries, and shops. You’ll see people walking the streets 24 hours a day. It’s a great place to eat some Pad Thai, eat street food, or chill out while sipping a Singha Beer and watching the crowds go by. And there are many affordable hotels in the area. Where to Stay in Bangkok – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

33. Mountain Bike, Chiang Rai

We took a mountain bike tour from the city streets of Chiang Rai out to the surrounding countryside. Biking up impressive hills and through rice paddy fields was a challenging yet fun ride and really took us off the beaten track of Thailand.

34. Eat Street Food

Some of our best dining experiences in Thailand were outside on the street. Just make sure to eat cooked food only. Street food in Thailand is generally safe. It is fresh, well cooked and there’s a high turnover of food. Look for street vendors with long lines and places where the locals eat.

It’s fitting that we end off our list of things to do in Thailand with food. Thai food is our favorite food on earth and a trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without immersing in the food culture.

So what are you waiting for? Thailand awaits.

Enjoy all these things to do in Thailand? Save to Pinterest for Future Reference

Read More about travel to Thailand:

• Sea Caves, Canoes and Culture in the Isles of Thailand
•  Things to Do in Chiang Mai
• Where to Stay in Bangkok – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Loy Krathong and Yi Peng 2019 – A Guide to The Lantern Festivals of Chiang Mai
• Thailand Travel Tips – 32 Things to Know Before you Go
• The Importance of Responsible Tourism in Thailand

The Best Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

• Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

20 Best Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust

32 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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49 thoughts on “35 Amazing Things to Do in Thailand”

I’ve always wanted to visit Thailand but have no idea why because I knew absolutely nothing about it until reading this post. I think I was right in wanting to visit though because it sounds like an awesome city!

This blog post is so inspiring! We have visited Thailand twice and heading back this December and we will surely tick off some of the activities mentioned in this article. Such a good read.

Thailand is a beautiful place with lots of places to visit and explore. Thanks for sharing.

I had a plan to visit Thailand next month.By reading this blog i got an idea about the places to visit and where to explore.The list you have mentioned are my dream places and thank you for giving a brief idea about Thailand.

Thailand is one of amazing country at Asia

Thanks for sharing such a beautiful information with us. I had read many blogs about Thailand but this is the best one for me. Most people plan to enjoy the nightlife of Bangkok, relaxing on the beaches, sightseeing, Thai Massages, etc. but getting experiences of Muay Thai kickboxing, cooking classes are great ideas. Your list is helpful for travelers who want to explore actual Thailand. Nice article keep on sharing your experiences.

Thailand is an amazing place. lots of places to explore and enjoy.

Fantastic list! I wish i could do all the things you have mentioned in this post $_$. Well, I think yoga retreat would be a great addition to this list.

fantastic lists, really helpful. i wish i could do those activities in Thailand soon. one in the bucket-list.

Ahh, this takes me back to when we visited pre-kids! We can’t wait to return again and try some of the things you have listed here. Thailand really is the best destination!

The Chang Mai night market looks awesome!

Thank you for sharing. Get to know more about Thailand. It’s really an amazing place to visit and explore.

Most of us including me only know that Thailand is famous for its beaches and the nightlife. Okay i accept that your exploration is some what beyond that, what you are searching is really good. Keep finding such a places and don’t forget we are here let us know that too.

Though I’ve visited Thailand before… but I’ve missed many of those places mentioned by you. I think visiting Thailand one more time will be a good idea.

Thanks for some good ideas, Dave and Deb! I have been to Thailand 4 times and each time for about 1 month, but so far I have completed just over 50% of your list! I love the sea, which is not in my country. Therefore, every time I plan to go to the north of Thailand, I end up choosing islands … I advise readers of the blog to also visit Ancient Siam Park (Mueang Boran). It is located in a suburb of Bangkok and it is the largest park museum in the world. There you can see the most famous temples of Thailand almost life-size. There are also many fantastic buildings. When there is nothing to take all day in the capital – I recommend this place, it will be interesting!

this is by far the best post about Thailand I’ve read lately, very complete and outstanding new places to visit, thank you for your wonderful word

Heard good things about Thailand. Maybe I need to consider visiting someday.

next Month I planned to visit Thailand and seriously it really helps me thank you so much

Thailand amazing place to visit numerous place to explore. most of the people spend holidays in Thailand…thank you for sharing

Moved to Thailand a couple of months ago and a lot of my friends are into Muay Thai. I’m actually thinking of enrolling myself to a class but I just can’t decide where to enroll though.

I absolutely loved your expression skills in writing. I really enjoyed this content. I too write but not better than you. Thailand is of course fantastic place. I too visited bangkok, phuket , karabi, pattaya, Cannot forget those memories

Last year i was in Thailand and it was the best time in my life

Thailand definitely has that affect on people. It’s amazing there.

So much beauty in this part of the world! It’s amazing to explore and bliss for outdoor adventure lovers! Fantastic recommendation! I would especially love to climb in Railay and kayak in Krabi!

You would love Railay, it’s still one of our favourite spots. Each time we go back to Thailand, we set aside of couple of days to go there and climb. We’d love to go back and spend a season there honing our skills again. We’re quite rusty now.

Thailand is unarguably, one of the best place for holidays. There are lot of sight seeing attractions and activities to do. You have described these things in a good manner.

I just wanted to let you know how much I value your help, information, but also how you came to this point in your life and the beautiful things it has given you. Thank you for the inspiration. Just wanted to let you know of my admiration! (yes cheesy I decided to rhyme). 🙂

Great article! We would have added an elephant camp in Chiang Mai, however only 5 unique things to do in Thailand is a pretty difficult choice as there are infinite things to do in this amazing country!

I am From Virat Bharat I saw Your Blog This Is Really Awesome. That was type of inspiring! Totally unpredicted i certainly love this website.if you want updates of such kind of stuff feel free to visit our website

http://viratbharatnews.blogspot.in/

Thanking you Chanchal kumar

Great ideas for some unique activities in Thailand. I can’t say that I have done any of them other than number one, and I have lived here for years.

Thanks Lawrence. I’m glad we could introduce you to some new ideas. We’re thinking of spending the winter in Thailand this year. Looking forward to finding some more things to do! We’re probably going to take up kite boarding this year.

People, if you do just one thing on this list make it Songkran! Of course, I’m just saying that because it was the only thing I did do from this list. Maybe next time I’ll do the rest!

This made me want to go back to Thailand right now! I did get to experience Songkran in Chiang Mai which became one of my all time favourite memories, but now I have to go back to Thailand to experience everything on this list! Thanks for the great article and amazing pictures. Happy Travels!

Hi Tara, thanks so much and glad you liked it. Songkran is definitely up there as one of our most memorable experiences as well. There is so much to do in that country that we always keep discovering something new each time we go back. it’s the one place in the world that keeps drawing us back again and again.

Hi. We just spent a couple of months in Thailand and have moved on to Cambodia. Good suggestions. Jon and Jenny

Hi Jon, congratulations on living the dream. I hope you enjoy Cambodia. We really enjoyed our time there in 2003. I have heard it has changed dramatically now. We have to go back to check it out!

What an amazing photos? I like thailand, It’s beaches are very beautiful.

Totally agree with you about the scooter accident that you mentioned. It reminded me of my first trip to Thailand in 2007 when I did something similar. I was excited about the “no laws” and tried passing someone around a blind corner in the dark. It was so stupid and luckily didn’t leave me with any lasting problems. I went flying over the handlebars after driving off the road.

The most recent time I rented a scooter, but drove more carefully. and followed the laws. This scooter ride to the border of Myanmar.

Great compilation of things that are off the beaten path.

Wow, I am glad that you survived. It could have been a far more tragic accident. We’ve heard of so many people losing their lives or seriously injuring themselves in scooter accidents.

love this! and the first two photos are killlllling me. it’s SO cold in nyc today.

It’s always nice to have a little escape from the cold eh. Although sometimes seeing the warm weather can be a bit of a tease”:)

Nice Pics and a Great Post about Thailand.South Africa Tour Packages from India. Joy Travels offers exciting South Africa Tour Packages.South Africa is renowned for its wines and is the world’s largest producer of gold. South Africa is a paradise for anyone interested in natural history. A wide range of species (some potentially dangerous) may be encountered in parks, farms, private reserves and even on the roads…South Africa Tour Packages, South Africa Travel Packages, South Africa Holiday

..and if you do visit during Songkran, make sure anything electronic and valuable is waterproof 😉

Very good point Nate. With the new waterproof cameras out now that is a good idea too. We’ve been using the Olympus Tough Cameras and they take great photos and videos in teh sunlight. Plus their waterproof and shockproof. I wish we had it when we were there.

Even in Atlanta it is freezing this week. This was a welcome post to start the daydreaming of warmer days (and exotic locales) that lie ahead. I’d never heard of mountain biking in Thailand before – thanks for sharing!

Thanks John. Bummer it’s cold in Atlanta. I hope it warms up soon. Get yourself to the North of Thailand and contact the Smiling Albino. They know all about the mountain biking there. Cheers.

Just got back from a week in Railay–well, back, now I’m in Chiang Mai–and I absolutely loved it! Rock climbed for the first time and just couldn’t get enough, went every morning with Highland Climbing School. Beaches are gorgeous as well–was standing in the water and thought, I couldn’t live here but I could holiday here every year!!!

I am so glad to hear that you were rock climbing in Thailand. It is one of our favourite things to do and Railay is amazing. It is a great place to holiday for sure. People go back here year after year to climb and enjoy the beach. Cheers and enjoy Chiang Mai.

20 Things to do in Thailand + Tourist Spots

Growing up in a place heavily influenced by Western culture, the exotic appeal of Thailand was irresistible when I embarked on my first solo trip abroad.

With so many places catered to budget travelers, it’s easy to travel cheaply and still be able to enjoy fascinating places around the country. Of course, all the while enjoying the bliss that is Thai food.

Thailand’s best & must-see sights include stunning islands, temples, and highlands. Go south, to the Andaman coast and the Gulf of Thailand to visit the best beaches. Go north, for amazing temples, mountain scenery, and waterfalls. If you only have a short trip, you can find a lot of top tourist spots in Bangkok and Central Thailand that are easy to visit.

Inspire your adventure with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Thailand travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Thailand Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Bangkok Itinerary + Travel Guide , 9 Places To Visit in Chiang Mai , 12 Places To Visit in Krabi .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

Ayutthaya Day Trip with Sunset Boat Ride from Bangkok

Krabi to Phi Phi Day Tour by Speedboat

Phuket to James Bond Day Tour by Longtail Boat, Speedboat or Big Boat

View all travel tips on: Thailand .

1. Koh Lipe

My search for Thailand’s most beautiful beaches led me to Koh Lipe, located near the Thailand-Malaysia border. Getting there takes more effort than most places featured on this list, but it’s going to be worth the trip if you’re seeking the best islands and underwater views, especially if you’re set on a cross-country trip to/from Malaysia. Also check out nearby Tarutao National Parkbefore you leave. The nearest airports to Koh Lipe is Hat Yai and Trang.

Location : Satun province, southern Thailand. West coast facing the Andaman Sea. . Save on Google Maps .

Koh Lipe Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Hat Yai-Pak Bara Pier (Jump-off to Ko Lipe) Shared Transfers

Pak Bara Pier to Ko Lipe Ferry Transfers

Private Hat Yai International Airport Transfers (HDY) for Hat Yai City

See more : Koh Lipe travel tips

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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Bangkok should be on everyone’s bucketlist in Thailand, and for good reason! Start with a trip to the Grand Palace for a quick peek at the famed Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Then, go on a tour of the city’s most sacred Buddhist temples including Wat Pho (Temple of Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple), and Wat Traimit (Temple of Golden Buddha). Shop ’til you drop at CentralWorld, Terminal 21, Siam Paragon, MBK, Platinum Mall or Chatuchak Weekend Market.

For yummy local eats, head to Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown). Take a break from the busy city life at Jim Thompson House, Lumphini Park or go on a scenic cruise/ferry ride along the Chao Phraya River. Cap off your night at Khaosan Road or Bangkok’s best rooftop bars. If that’s not enough, take a day trip to floating markets nearby like Amphawa & Damnoen Saduak.

Location : Bangkok, central Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

How to go :

Touchdown at any of these two airports that serve Bangkok — Bangkok-Suvarbahumi International Airport (main airport located about an hour east of the city center) or Don Meuang International Airport (de facto low-cost airline hub located 45-minutes north of the city). Major airlines include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Jetstar, Nok Air, AirAsia & Lion Air.

From the Philippines, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia and Thai Airways serve direct flights from Manila. Travel time is around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Bangkok Travel Essentials

See more : Bangkok travel tips

3. Chiang Mai

The best way to enjoy Thai culture is by indulging in delicious Thai food. Chiang Mai is undoubtedly the best foodie destination in Northern Thailand. Not to mention, it’s also one of the cheapest places to travel in Southeast Asia! For local eats, visit the Sunday Walking Street near Tha Pae gate, Saturday Night Walking Street on Wua Lai Road, the daily Warorot Market or Night Bazaaron Chang Klan Road.

While you’re eating your way through the city, drop by Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples. Don’t miss Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Singh. There are over a hundred more temples in Chiang Mai if you want to go on a crazy temple run.

For stunning views overlooking Chiang Mai, venture outside the Old Walled City gates and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. For gorgeous views of nature, head to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the highest mountain in Thailand and the massive Mae Ya Waterfall.

Location : Chiang Mai province, northern Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Chiang Mai is around 1 hour north of Bangkok by plane. Chiang Mai International Airport is well connected with other major airports in Thailand and serves direct international flights from many airports in East Asia and a few in Southeast Asia. Land travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 10 hours by bus or around 12 to 15 hours by train.

Chiang Mai Travel Essentials

Chiang Mai Airport Transfers (CNX) for Chiang Mai City & more (northern Thailand)

Chiang Mai Car Charter – One Day or Multiple Days Surrounding Areas

Doi Inthanon National Park

See more : Chiang Mai travel tips

Go south to visit Thailand’s World-famous beaches. Krabi is home to the country’s most spectacular seascapes with picture-perfect beaches surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Ao Nang, formally Ao Phra Nang (“Princess Bay”), is the main tourist beach. It’s the perfect base to maximize your tour of Krabi. Hop on a boat and go rock climbing in Railay (Rai Reh) or go island hopping to Ko Poda, Koh Kai (Chicken Island), Phi Phi Islands and Hong Island in Phang Nga Bay. Krabi is also popular for its easy ferry connections to Phuket & Koh Lanta. During the high season, you can go even farther to Koh Lipe & the Trang Islands.

Location : Krabi province, southern Thailand. West coast facing the Andaman Sea. . Save on Google Maps .

Krabi Travel Essentials

Krabi 4 Islands Day Tour

Krabi Private City Transfers to Koh Samui, Ko Tao, Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani

Private Phuket International Airport (HKT) Transfers for Phuket and Nearby Areas by TTD

See more : Krabi travel tips

5. Phi Phi Islands

A boat trip from Krabi or Phuket takes you to the Phi Phi Islands. The most popular attraction here is Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi Leh. This paradise is the famous setting of “The Beach,” the iconic backpacking movie starred by Leonardo DiCaprio and based on the novel written by Alex Garland. In case you find yourself in Koh Phi Phi Don, the main tourist island, don’t miss the trek to Phi Phi Viewpoint, Monkey Beach & Long Beach.

Phi Phi Travel Essentials

Phi Phi and Maya Bay Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

3 Khai Islands, Phi Phi, or James Bond Tour from Phuket by Speedboat

See more : Phi Phi Islands travel tips

6. Phang Nga & Koh Hong

The day cruise to Phang Nga is one of the best island hopping tours that you can book from Krabi or Phuket. This beautiful bay is known for mass limestone formations that jut out from the emerald green waters. The most famous spot is James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), which appeared in the 1974 James Bond movie — The Man with the Golden Gun. If you’re traveling from Krabi, make sure your itinerary includes Ko Hong, which features a stunning lagoon with crystal clear waters.

Location : 80 หมู่ที่ 1 ถนน บ้านท่าด่าน Ko Panyi, Mueang Phang-nga District, Phang-nga 82000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Phuket’s beaches may not be as impressive as the other places featured here but there’s one compelling reason to go — the superb resort experience. Phuket is a paradise for travelers who want to enjoy a 4 or 5-star hotel splurge at amazing value for money. Another reason why Phuket is so popular is the easy accessibility thanks to well-connected Phuket Airport. While you’re here, visit Patong (the main tourist spot) for a beautiful sunset view along the beach, delicious seafood dinner or outlet mall shopping. Nearby Hat Karon, offers a more quiet vibe, Meanwhile, go to Phuket Town for a more local experience. From Phuket, you can easily set off to other island destinations in the Andaman Coast like Phi Phi, Krabi, Phang Nga Bay (Koh Hong/Koh Yao), Raya Island & more.

Location : Phuket province, southern Thailand. West coast facing the Andaman Sea. . Save on Google Maps .

Phuket Travel Essentials

Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Tour in Phuket

Krabi Airport Shuttle – Shared Transfers for Ao Nang, Krabi Town & more

See more : Phuket travel tips

8. Koh Samui

Want to see the beautiful east coast of Thailand? Start with Koh Samui, an upscale rival to Phuket, but with nicer beaches, fewer crowds and a more chill nightlife. Koh Samui is the 2nd largest island in Thailand and the largest in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s also a good base to explore Mu Koh Ang Thong National Park and a convenient jump-off point to Koh Tao, Ko Pha-ngan/Koh Pha Ngan (infamous for epic full moon parties at Haad Rin), and other Surat Thani islands.

Samui is around one hour south of Bangkok by plane. Samui Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok and direct international flights from Singapore, Hong kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. Daily ferries are available from Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. Travel time by high-speed boat takes 20 minutes and 2 hours, respectively. A cheaper alternative is to arrive at Surat Thani Airport or Chumphon Airport found on the mainland and then continuing the journey by land+ferry connections to your island destination.

Location : Chumphon Archipelago, Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. East coast facing the Gulf of Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Koh Samui Travel Essentials

Ang Thong Day Tour from Koh Samui by Big Boat

Koh Samui Island Day Tour by SUV

Samui Airport Transfers (USM) for Koh Samui and More

See more : Koh Samui travel tips

Koh Tao is widely known as one of the cheapest places in the World to get a SCUBA diving license. Located in the northernmost part of the Chumphon Archipelago/Surat Thani Islands, Koh Tao is home incredible marine life. There are a lot of travel-worthy “overwater” views here as well. Koh Nang Yuan and several hilltop viewpoints on the main island offer lovely views overlooking white sand beaches and the sparkling sea.

Koh Tao Travel Essentials

Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Tour

Koh Tao Diving Experience by Nava PADI Scuba Diving

See more : Koh Tao travel tips

10. Hua Hin

If you’re planning to visit a beach near Bangkok, you can either go to Hua Hin or Pattaya. Hua Hinoffers a more relaxed seaside vibe and a wider variety of things to do. Land travel time only takes one additional hour! The main attractions here include the expansive Hua Hin Beach, scenic overlooks, and theme parks like Santorini Park, Vana Nava Waterpark & The Venezia. You can also explore the Phraya Nakhon Cave at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, indulge in affordable Thai seafood at the night markets, explore heritage sites & enjoy wine-tasting at Hua Hin Hills Vineyard.

Location : Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, central Thailand. South of Bangkok . Save on Google Maps .

Hua Hin Travel Essentials

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers

Hua Hin Private Car Charter from Bangkok (8, 10, or 12 Hours)

Private City Transfers between Hua Hin and Bangkok

See more : Hua Hin travel tips

11. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is filled with massive ancient temples ruins, easily reached on a day trip from Bangkok. The Historic City of Ayutthaya, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the second capital of Thailand. Its strategic location between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago made Ayutthaya the trading capital of Asia. It once held the title as the largest city in the World. This place is where you can find the iconic sight of the head of Buddha covered by roots, in Wat Mahathat (temple).

Location : Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, Central Thailand. North of Bangkok . Save on Google Maps .

Ayutthaya Travel Essentials

Ancient Ayutthaya Tour from Bangkok

See more : Ayutthaya travel tips

12. Sukhothai

Visit Sukhothai to see some of the oldest temples ruins in Thailand. The ancient city was the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Sukhothai Historical Park/Sukhothai Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the partially restored 13th to 14th-century palaces and temples. For off-the-beaten-path ancient sites, don’t miss nearby Kamphaeng Phet and Si Satchanalai.

Location : Sukhothai province, central Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Sukhothai is one hour and 15 minutes north of Bangkok by plane. Most travelers arrive by land from either Chiang Mai, which is 4 hours away by bus, or Bangkok, approximately 7 hours away by bus or train.

Sukhothai Travel Essentials

Sukhothai Biking Tour – Half Day and Whole Day Tours

Sukhothai One Day Tour

Sukhothai Highlights Half Day Tour

See more : Sukhothai travel tips

13. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, found farther north of Chiang Mai, is home to artistic architectural masterpieces that are worth the detour. Here, you can see the bizarre White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Black Houses (Baan Dam). Chiang Rai is also a must-visit stopover if you plan to cross the North Thailand-Laos border, on your way to Luang Prabang.

Location : Chiang Rai province, northern Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Chiang Rai is around 1.5 hours north of Bangkok by plane. Its airport mostly serves flights from Bangkok. Most tourists arrive from Chiang Mai, which is approximately 3 hours away by land.

Chiang Rai Travel Essentials

Chiang Rai Airport-Chiang Rai City/Hotel Shuttle – CEI Shared Transfers

Private Chiang Mai International Airport Transfers (CNX) for Chiang Rai

See more : Chiang Rai travel tips

14. Umphang

Do you love visiting massive waterfalls? Umphang is home to Thi Lo Su/Thi Lor Su, the country’s grandest cascade! Getting there is a remarkable journey in itself as it requires a scenic river cruise & trekking through a pristine rainforest.

Location : Tak province, northern Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

The main gateway to Umphang is Mae Sot in Tak Province. Mae Sot is approximately one hour north of Bangkok by plane. From Mae Sot, continue the journey by land to Umphang. Travel time takes around 4 to 5 hours by jeep or private car.

Umphang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

On my bucketlist

15. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands should be one of your travel goals in Thailand if you’re set to see the most beautiful islands in the country. These remote islands in Mu Ko Similan National Parkare popularly reached by boat from Tab Lamu Port near Khao Lak. Phuket is the nearest major gateway. If you’re looking for more off-the-grid adventures, also check out the Surin Islands.

Location : Lam Kaen, Thai Mueang District, Phang-nga, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

16. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is popular with tourists seeking a holiday away from wild party crowds of more popular beaches/islands in South Thailand. Composed of Koh Lanta Yai, Koh Lanta Noi, and 50 more islands, Mu Ko Lanta National Park features white sandy beaches, tropical jungles, and plenty of underwater life. Koh Lanta can be reached easily from Krabi or Trang.

Location : Krabi, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

17. Koh Chang

Koh Chang (Elephant Island) features jungle-clad peaks and fine sandy beaches. This island in Trat, Thailand’s easternmost province, maintains its remote and rugged spirit despite the growing tourist arrivals. Koh Chang is a fine destination to add to your bucketlist if you want to follower the coastal route between Cambodia & Thailand.

Location : Ko Chang District, Trat, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

18. Pattaya

Pattaya is the most popular beach destination in Bangkok. Travel time from the city to Jomtien Beach, the tourist center, takes 2 to 3 hours. Or less, if you’re coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Pattaya’s top sights include island tours to Ko Lan, the massive Sanctuary of Truth wooden temple, spectacular cabaret shows & cool water parks.

Location : Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

The Sanctuary of Truth

Pattaya Floating Market

Located in a picturesque valley north of Chiang Mai, Pai is a popular highland destination for backpackers and travelers seeking a relaxed atmosphere close to nature. There are many beautiful treks and waterfalls in the area. If you go, don’t miss the Pai Canyon, narrow red ridges with steep-sided valleys often described as a smaller likeness of the Grand Canyon.

Location : Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

20. Kanchanaburi

For most travelers, the main reason to visit is the Bridge on the River Kwai, the most famous section of the Thai-Burma Railway Death Railway. Extend your trip to Kanchanaburi by exploring easily accessible national parks and waterfalls like the Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park.

Location : Central Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

See more sights in Thailand

Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani

Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Nayok

Phanom Rung Historical Park, Buri Ram

Phimai Historical Park, Nakhon Ratchasima

Beyond Thailand

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Cambodia Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Tours + discounts Check Fares

See more : Cambodia travel tips

Malaysia Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

See more : Malaysia travel tips

Laos Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

See more : Laos travel tips

Vietnam Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

See more : Vietnam travel tips

Location : Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

See more : Singapore travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Thailand that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Thailand

Thailand tourist spots, things to do in Thailand, where to go in Thailand & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Thailand

How much does it cost to travel to Thailand? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Thailand

Click below & search recommended Thailand hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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December 4, 2018 at 9:03 am

Great guidance on places but I’m still in doubt about the best base to enjoy a few relaxing days in a nice beach and taking trips to other islands. Any suggestion? Would Ao Nang be a nice base? Or would Lanta be a better one?? Super thanks!

December 19, 2018 at 11:46 pm

For convenience as a jump-off point, I’d go for Ao Nang!

May 6, 2019 at 11:55 am

Waoo, Thailand is really awesome. I wish to visit there. Thanks for sharing such amazing images and information about Thailand. I appreciate your blog post.

August 13, 2019 at 7:08 pm

These are really exceptional places to visit in Thailand. Thanks for sharing

February 25, 2020 at 9:50 am

Great article!! I am planning to visit Thailand but I dont know where exactly I want to go since there’s a lot of best places you mentioned above :D I’m coming from Singapore and want to go there for 4-5 days and I want the beach with pristine water, good view and hiking. What’s the best you can recommend for a first time solo travel in Thailand? Thanks :D

March 6, 2020 at 4:23 pm

You should check these three areas in South Thailand:

1. Ko Lipe – A bit of an effort to reach but more pristine and less crowded. 2. Ko Samui, Ko Phangan & Ko Tao 3. Phuket & Krabi

September 30, 2021 at 5:52 pm

That is awesome and It is a comprehensive guide.

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• Thailand Travel Guide

10 Best Tourist Attractions In Thailand You Have To See

It’s no surprise amazing Thailand is one of the world’s top travel destinations and Southeast Asia’s long-established tourism megastar. From historical sites and powdery white beaches to vibrant markets and glittering Buddhist wats (temples), Thailand tourist attractions are so diverse, you’ll be spoilt for choice when planning your trip here. To help matters, here’s our recommended list of what to see in Thailand.

1. The Grand Palace

If there’s one must-see sight in Bangkok , it has to be the magnificent Grand Palace, the capital’s most famous landmark and one of the world’s most frequented tourist attractions, welcoming around eight million tourists annually! From 1782 to 1925, the Grand Palace was the official residence of the Kings of Siam and later, Thailand, with the royal court and administrative seat of government all based here.

Today, partially open to the public, the Grand Palace and its spectacular compound remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom, used for hosting royal ceremonies and official events. Staggering in both historical significance, magnitude and exquisite craftsmanship, the 100-plus impressive buildings here include ornate royal halls, temples and pavilions, set around lavish gardens and stately courtyards.

The highlight is stunning Wat Phra Kaew, or Emerald Buddha Temple, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist site, housing a highly-revered Emerald Buddha image carved from a single block of jade, dating back 700 years. Once dark, the illuminated Grand Palace looks especially captivating.

2. Bangkok’s Floating Markets

Bangkok’s numerous floating markets have long been among the city’s star attractions. Although nowadays most function as tourist magnets and community gathering places, rather than vital components of local economies, they still present a visual feast for the senses and immersion into a Thai traditional way of life, when Bangkok was known as the ‘ Venice of the East .’ Floating markets also offer visitors a fun way to shop and eat, while interacting with locals, plus a chance to explore the network of canals (khlongs) and stilt-house communities.

Best explored on an early morning guided tour, most of Bangkok’s floating markets are located outside the city center. Onboard longtail boats, glide alongside colorful wooden vessels piled high with goods, including exotic tropical fruits and grab tasty Thai snacks from floating kitchens– all revealing fantastic photographic opportunities. Damnoen Saduak is the most popular and liveliest floating market, southwest of Bangkok in Ratchaburi, but for a more authentic local flavor, head to Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram, or the lesser-known and smaller Taling Chan, just seven miles from downtown Bangkok.

3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai

Nestled in Thailand’s mountainous north, Chiang Mai is a popular tourist hotspot for many reasons – one of which is its multitude of historic Buddhist wats (temples). Your absolute must-see temple, however, is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which rests atop Doi Suthep Mountain, a dominating presence on Chiang Mai’s horizon.

Not only is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep an important and symbolic city landmark and an impressive embodiment of the ancient Lanna kingdom, but is one of Thailand’s holiest Buddhist sites, with huge historical and spiritual significance. Precisely why a large number of visitors, including devout pilgrims, flock to this jaw-dropping temple. To get there, you’ll have to climb the 300 or so steep steps up to the summit of Doi Suthep Mountain – alternatively, the easy option cable car.

Once at the top, admire the intricately decorated temple, crowned with a 79-feet- tall, gilded Chedi (Thai-style stupa) that blazes like a beacon in the sun and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Chiang Mai, spread out below.

4. Chiang Mai Night Markets

Night markets and bazaars are also a big attraction in Chiang Mai and an essential Thai travel experience , offering a more interesting retail experience than elsewhere in the country. Many market stalls specialise in authentic handicrafts, silverware, ethnic attire and souvenirs, hand-made by the local hill tribes and distinctive of this northern region. You also get the chance to sample cheap and tasty northern Thai delicacies (some of the nation’s best) and soak up the buzzy, carnival-like atmosphere.

Chiang Mai boasts a diverse collection of night markets, spread across town, but the most famous is Sunday Walking Street (Sunday evenings), running through a temporary pedestrianized street in the Old City. Here, hundreds of stalls sell anything from hand-dyed textiles to essential oils and street food, but there are even makeshift bars and massage zones!

One of Thailand’s oldest and best known is Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, while the Saturday Wualai Walking Street Market offers a smaller, less crowded alternative. Wherever, be sure to barter for a bargain!

5. Sukhothai Old City

Located in north-central Thailand, just outside the modern-day city of the same name, Sukhothai Old City is the ancient capital of the first Siamese Kingdom and birthplace of Thai art, architecture and language. During its golden era, around the 13th and 14th centuries, Sukhothai even rivalled the mighty Khmer Angkor empire.

Even though it ranks as one of Thailand’s most significant historical sites, Sukhothai (literally meaning ‘Dawn of Happiness,’) still attracts a smaller number of visitors than its better-known counterpart, Ayutthaya , but is well worth a visit and can be leisurely explored by bicycle. Contained within a magnificent World Heritage Historical Park and imposing city walls are hundreds of ancient ruins covering a royal palace, Buddhist temples, stupas, imposing statues and monuments, interspersed with water features.

Don’t miss the most impressive temple, Wat Mahathat, built to house sacred Buddha relics and regarded as the spiritual center of Sukhothai Kingdom – where nine massive stupas and two towering Buddha images are revealed.

6. Ayutthaya

For history buffs alike, Ayutthaya, the second capital of Old Siam, offers a fascinating peek into the glory days of a once mighty Siamese Kingdom that dates back to the 14th century. Once one of Asia’s most powerful cities, Ayutthaya was a flourishing center for regional trade where art and culture merged and by the early 18th century, was one of the world’s largest cities with an estimated one million inhabitants.

After the city was destroyed by the invading Burmese army in 1767, the Kingdom however collapsed soon after. Nowadays, Ayutthaya is contained within a World Heritage-listed Historical Park, which sprawls across an island surrounded by three rivers and deep moats and ranks as one off Thailand’s must-see archaeological gems and one of Asia’s most impressive city ruins.

Step back in time, exploring Ayutthaya’s crumbling yet magnificently restored Buddhist temples and statues, royal palaces, monasteries, towers and chedis, displaying an eclectic array of architectural styles. Stunning highlights feature a 39-foot-long reclining Buddha and iconic Buddha head entwined by overgrown tree roots. Arriving by boat from Bangkok – an hour’s drive south– is a popular day trip and pleasant river voyage .

7. Khao Yai National Park

Thailand boasts many beautiful national parks, but your must-see is Khao Yai National Park – and not just because of its relative proximity to Bangkok. The first official national park established in Thailand and now its third largest, stunning Khao Yai is a World Heritage Site considered one of Asia’s largest intact monsoon forests. Stretching across four central provinces, Khao Yai has it all: mountains, lakes, rainforest, grasslands, diverse wildlife and birds, including black bears and hornbills, plus thousands of plant species.

Some of the 30-plus miles of hiking lead to breathtaking waterfalls, including the famed Haew Narok falls. A haven for both nature and adventure lovers brimming with activity options, camping out overnight is also possible at lodges and camp sites. The ultimate drawcard however is the large population of Asian elephants and a rare opportunity to see these revered creatures wild in their natural environment.

Many visitors travel to Thailand simply because of the beautiful beaches here. Not only does Thailand have a never-ending number, along 5,000-plus miles of coastline and on a multitude of tropical islands, but many are regarded as the world’s finest: think powdery white sands, edged by swaying palm trees and lapped by clear turquoise water teeming with colorful fish and corals. In fact, Thailand boasts so many world-class beaches, there are too many to list and as these may attract a different type of visitor – from families to honeymooners – it can all get subjective.

Generally speaking, Thailand’s best beach stunners are found in the south, in two prime tourist areas to the east and west; a beachgoer’s paradise with not just some of the most beautiful in Asia, but on the planet, combined with excellent facilities, services and resorts – why millions of tourists flock here.

In the west and Andaman Sea, Thailand’s largest island, Phuket , is regarded as one of the world’s top beach destinations, with at least 30 gorgeous beaches to choose from, while nearby Krabi presents another ultimate tropical getaway with spectacular Railay Beach and Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Bay, its most famous beaches of all. In the east and Gulf of Thailand, a trio of sensational islands, Koh Samui , Koh Phan Ngan and Koh Tao have lured travelers for years with their gorgeous jungle-fringed beaches.

9. Phang Nga Bay

Also located in the Andaman Sea, Phang Nga Bay needs a special shout-out as one of Thailand’s top tourist attractions, a unique natural wonder matched only in similarity by Vietnam’s Halong Bay . Wondrous Phang Nga Bay is distinctive for its sheer limestone karst islets and towering cliffs that jut out of the emerald-green water, many of which are peculiar-shaped and uninhabited and revealing hidden coves, caves and aquatic grottoes.

Protected by a marine national park, with calm, shallow waters and clear conditions, this stunning bay is perfect for boating; the ideal way to savor the jaw-dropping scenery is on a leisurely day trip onboard a traditional longtail boat, speedboat, or chartered yacht. Leisurely glide amongst limestone karsts, but especially, the bay’s iconic Koh Ta-pu (‘Nail Island’ in Thai), better-known as ‘James Bond Island,’ after featuring in the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun.

This signature, top-heavy pinnacle is a much-photographed attraction, as is, the surrounding ethereal water world. The more adventurous should opt for sea kayaking, paddling deep into hidden ‘hongs’ – collapsed cave systems open to the sky.

10. Kanchanaburi

In Thailand’s western regions, Kanchanaburi is synonymous with the infamous ‘Bridge over the River Kwai ’ and Thai-Burmese ‘Death Railway,’ built by Allied Prisoners of War during World War II. Connecting Burma to Thailand and of great strategic importance to the Japanese, this Death Railway is so-named due to the thousands of men who died in unimaginably harsh conditions during its construction.

Although a chilling spot, Kanchanaburi’s controversial structures are essential on any Thailand itinerary. Despite repeated bombings, the bridge still stands today, but most of the railway line was eventually abandoned and only a portion of it remains in operation. Nowadays, it’s possible to walk across the bridge or travel over it on a local train from Kanchanaburi, over the River Kwai, to Nam Tok. Ironically, the slow, two-hour train ride along this Death Railway is one of Thailand’s most scenic and popular, but the haunting history makes this journey special.

Don’t miss visiting some of Kanchanaburi’ World War II historic sites and excellent museums commemorating the tragic events that unfolded here; these include the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, World War II Museum and JEATH War Museum. Afterwards, stroll through the well-maintained Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, final resting place of nearly 7,000 Allied Prisoners of War.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Phuket Island

Written by Karen Hastings & Casey Hynes Updated Dec 25, 2023

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, and arguably the most famous. Blue waters, sandy beaches , spicy Thai cuisine, and excellent snorkeling and diving are all part of the appeal. Arriving from all over the world, travelers flock to Phuket for relaxation and adventure, and the island rates as one of the most popular destinations in Thailand .

Phuket has an exceptional climate, with warm, sunny days year-round. Monsoon season is usually mid-May through October, but it might only rain once or twice a day during this period. Phuket is also easy to access; it's a short one-hour flight from all the big-city attractions of Bangkok .

Discover our picks for the top attractions and things to do on Phuket.

Catch Some Rays at Patong Beach

Walk the golden sands of kata beach, swim at karon beach, green elephant sanctuary park, discover the past at phuket town, experience island boat tours, go diving & snorkeling, visit phuket big buddha, visit the authentic rawai village and nai harn beach, hike up to karon viewpoint (three beaches hill), wat chalong, gibbon rehabilitation center & bang pae waterfall, spend a couple of hours at the phuket 3d museum, enjoy nature at sirinat national park, wat phra thong at thalang, shop for food and souvenirs at phuket's markets, phuket, thailand - climate chart.

Phuket's longest beach was also once its most beautiful, until development and tourism turned it into a bustling hub of activity rather than a retreat from the world. Still, Patong is great for people-watching, and part of the fun of Thailand is that (in addition to being a land of smiles) it is one of contrasts.

You may not be able to find a quiet spot on Patong to read and contemplate life, but you'll find plenty of water sports to keep you entertained. You can try everything here, from flyboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing to stand up paddleboarding and banana boat rides.

Many shops and resorts are strung along the beach road, and one of the island's best hotels, the luxury Amari Phuket , perches on a headland overlooking the sea.

Patong also offers some of the best nightlife on Phuket. After dark, head to Bangla Walking Street (formerly Bangla Road) if you want to be in the heart of the action.

Fringed with casuarinas and palms, Kata Beach is a lovely, curving bay hugged by lush hillsides at either end. Although it's still touristy, it's more peaceful than Patong Beach with fewer hawkers. A tiny islet sits just offshore, and the beach itself is broad, with soft, white sand and decent snorkeling spots at either end.

If you're hungry, you can grab a papaya shake or a snack at one of the beachfront stalls, and larger restaurants are within walking distance.

At the southern end of the beach sits The Boathouse Phuket , a luxury boutique hotel that is one of the only resorts fronting the sand. If you want an even quieter slice of shoreline, head south to adjacent Kata Noi Beach .

Less developed than the popular Patong Beach, about 15 minutes away, Karon Beach is a 3.5-kilometer-long strand of squeaky, golden sand and sapphire sea that attracts many couples and families.

When the weather is calm, it's a beautiful spot for a swim, but when the winds whip up, big waves pound the wide-open shoreline here, so take care if you are swimming during these times.

Restaurants and resorts are spread out opposite the beach along the busy road, but a few four-star resorts offer direct beach access, including adults-only Beyond Resort Karon and the luxury bungalows of the nearby Marina Phuket Resort at the southern end of the beach. At its northern end, Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket overlooks the shoreline with its own water park.

Calling all animal lovers! At Green Elephant Sanctuary Park , you can sign up for that bucket list elephant experience and feel good knowing that it was provided by an ethical company.

Green Elephant Sanctuary Park nestles in the middle of the jungle near Surin Beach, providing a natural setting and a safe home for all its pachyderm residents, some of whom may have previously been abused.

Elephant lovers can connect with these gentle giants by helping out with tasks in their everyday life — bathing them, petting them, brushing them, and feeding them — all under the watchful eyes of experienced elephant trainers.

You can also watch them playing in the lake and take a dip right beside them. What could be cuter than a baby elephant splashing about in the water?

The half-day tours are offered in the morning and afternoon. They include hotel pickup, elephant feeding, an educational presentation, elephant washing, and a generous Thai buffet. Park rangers also capture photos of your interactions with the elephants for you to take home as a souvenir. And it's all included in the package.

Note that to ensure the elephants' well-being, riding the animals is strictly taboo.

Address: No.4, Soi Cherngtalay 1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Phuket Town lies on the southeastern coast of the island on a picturesque bay. This island city bustles with activity thanks to its many hotels, restaurants, spas, and other tourist attractions that have sprung up in the decades since Patong Beach was opened for development in 1980.

The architecture reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants and a Portuguese aesthetic, and provides an interesting contrast to the more traditional Thai styles seen elsewhere. Make sure you stroll through the streets of Old Phuket Town , with its well-preserved shophouses, Sino-Portuguese mansions, temples, and shrines.

Other things to do in town include visiting Phuket 3D Museum , an interactive 3D art gallery, and paying your respects at the Jui Tui Shrine , a colorful Chinese temple.

You may be tempted to lounge on the beach for your entire stay (and really, who would blame you?). But if you're willing to exert just a little effort during your tropical getaway, sign up for an island tour to discover the stunning seascape surrounding Phuket.

Particular mention must be made of Maphrao, Nakha Yai, and Nakha Noi (on the east coast, with pearl culture at the latter) as well as Koh Kaeo, Racha Noi, and Racha Yai (off the southern tip), and finally little Koh Poo on the west coast off Hat Kata.

Organized tours are the best way to make sure you see all the highlights. A guided tour to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket typically includes a visit to the distinctive "James Bond Rocks," and a tour to Koh Phi Phi tends to incude a visit to the famous Maya Bay beach from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach .

The waters around Phuket Island offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in Thailand, with typically excellent conditions. Visibility is good, and the water temperature ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius. Apart from colorful corals and tropical fish, you can see seahorses, sea turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks.

Many travelers come to Thailand to complete their scuba diving certification because the courses tend to be more affordable here than in other countries. Some dive operators will take you to Koh Phi Phi, one of the world's most beautiful islands , and other picturesque locations.

Once you've earned your certification, consider checking out Similan Islands National Park . Comprised of eleven uninhabited islands, this area is famous for its superb diving. Note, though, that the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May through mid-October to help protect and preserve its fragile marine ecosystem.

Sitting serenely above the island at the top of Nakkerd hills between Kata and Chalong, the Phuket Big Buddha is one of the island's most distinctive landmarks. Spectacular 360-degree views greet you at the summit, where this 45-meter-high monument presides. Faced with white jade marble, the statue was constructed in 2004.

It's a peaceful spot to take time out from your day. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and you'll hear the tinkling of small bells. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk up the windy six-kilometer road to the hilltop, but you have to climb a steep flight of stairs to the monument.

If this is your first time on Phuket Island, a tour could be a great option. Tour typically takes you to some of the best spots in Phuket, including busy Patong Beach; the Karon Viewpoint for stunning postcard views over the Andaman Sea; and Phuket's largest temple, Wat Chalong, and Big Buddha.

If possible, pick a clear day for the best views; mornings are generally less crowded. And be sure to dress respectfully, which generally entails covering your shoulders and legs. Otherwise, you could be asked to purchase a scarf or sarong.

To experience a more authentic side of Phuket, venture out to this small village on the island's east coast. Here, you can glimpse the lifestyle of the Moken, a tribe of "sea gypsies." They have roots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and have remained staunchly committed to their own beliefs and customs.

Some Moken live by the sea, and others choose a semi-nomadic life on land. The men of the village work mostly as fishermen and sometimes also as guides for sea trips.

Rawai itself has a small fishing harbor and a sliver of beach covered with coconut palms, swamp oaks, and fishing boats ( Nai Harn Beach is one of the best in the area.) You can rent boats here to sail to offshore islands.

The village is also known for its seafood markets, where you can buy the catch of the day, and one of the local restaurants will prepare it cooked to order.

Just south of Kata Noi Beach, this aptly named vantage point gives you a lovely view of three of Phuket's most beautiful beaches: Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon Beach.

Look north from the viewpoint over one of the island's most iconic views, with a little bit of everything that makes this island so picturesque: emerald hillsides, blue seas, and white surf. This is one of the island's most photographed vistas.

You can reach the viewpoint by traveling along the branch road in front of Kata Noi Beach in a southwesterly direction toward the southern tip of the island.

Wat Chalong is the largest, most popular, and arguably the most beautiful of all Phuket's 29 temples. It is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, and you can see life-size wax models of them and other figures in the exhibition home.

The Grand Pagoda protects a fragment of Lord Buddha's bone and features murals depicting images from the Buddha's life story.

As you wander through the complex, notice the many golden buddhas in various poses, and make sure you dress respectfully; visitors are not allowed to wear shoes inside the temple, and women must cover their shoulders and knees.

Address: Chaofa Road ( West ), Chalong, Phuket

Located within the Khao Pra Theaw Non-Hunting Area, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center is a great place to learn more about these intelligent creatures and support important work at the same time. The center's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and return gibbons to their natural environment.

Many of these animals were poached from their mothers as babies and sold as pets or used in the tourist trade. Visitor contact with animals suitable for release is limited, so they don't become habituated to humans; however, you'll have a chance to meet some of the animals that live full-time at the sanctuary and hear stories about their miraculous rescues.

The center does not charge an entrance fee, but you need to pay to enter the park. You can support the center's important work by making a donation or sponsoring a gibbon. Another way to help their efforts is to refuse requests to pose for pictures with wild animals that are held captive so that their owners can make money from tourists.

After visiting the center, trek through the lush tropical forest to the Bang Pae waterfall for a refreshing dip in the pools.

Address: Bang Pae Waterfall, Pa Khlock, Talang, Phuket

If you're looking for indoor places to visit during a particularly hot day, the Phuket 3D Museum is a great option. You'll even be able to add a few zany vacation photos to share with your friends and family back home.

This interactive 3D art gallery allows you to look as though you are part of more than 95 trompe-l'œil-style paintings created by clever Korean artists. Teeter on a tightrope, touch ET, climb a wall with Spiderman, or step into a famous masterpiece. This is the perfect rainy day hangout for the whole family.

Address: 130/1 PhangNga Road, Taladyai, Muang, Phuket

Formerly called Nai Yang National Park, Sirinat National Park reveals a quieter side of this touristy isle. The 90-square-kilometer coastal park sits on the island's northwest coast and is largely made up of marine areas, including four relatively unspoiled beaches.

Two of these, Hat Nai Yang and Hat Mai Khao, are the only two beaches in Phuket where leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The best time to see them is from November to February, when locals patrol the beaches and help protect their eggs.

Wat Phra Thong is steeped in local lore. It houses a half statue of Buddha that was broken during a Burmese invasion.

Legend has it that a boy was minding a water buffalo, which he tethered to a piece of metal protruding from the ground using a hemp rope. Suddenly, the boy died, but he later appeared to his father in a dream and told him about the piece of metal. The father began to dig and came upon a statue of Buddha cast in pure gold. The Buddha could not, however, be completely excavated and so a temple was built on the site in 1785.

When the Burmese conquered Thalang, a second attempt was made to dig up the statue, but it broke in two. One half disappeared, and the other still stands in the temple today.

Besides the half Buddha statue, things to see here include the rich carvings on the gables and windows of the temple buildings and a little museum displaying historical artifacts.

Markets are a must-visit when you're in Phuket. You can tantalize your tastebuds with some sizzling street food, listen to live music, pick up some souvenirs, and practice your bargaining skills all in one visit.

A good place to start your market adventure is at the Sunday Walking Street Market . This is one of Phuket Island's biggest attractions, set in the heart of the historical part of town. As the name suggests, this is a Sunday-only market, which runs from 4 to 9pm. It's vibrant, full of lights, busy, and loud — a perfect way to end the week surrounded by beautiful old buildings, stalls selling arts and crafts, and tons of lip-smacking good food. Make sure you wander down the side streets, too. More treasures await off the main strip.

Located on Sai Kor Road, the well-designed indoor Banzaan Fresh Market is a good place to discover exotic fruits, pick up some fresh vegetables and seafood, or try a glass of refreshing coconut water or sugarcane juice. Don't forget to check out the stalls selling gifts and accessories on your way to the big food court upstairs.

If you're after more typical Thai souvenirs, curios, or some cheap T-shirts, the Phuket Weekend Night Market is the place to be. Located just outside Phuket Town, the market is also a good place to find second-hand goods, grab some odds and ends, and try some unique foods. Are deep-fried insects or fishcakes calling your name? This is the place to pick some up.

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