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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.

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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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10 of the best things to do in Thailand

Dec 21, 2023 • 9 min read

Experience the best of Thailand with this guide to the top things to do © Jackyenjoyphotography / Getty Images

People may think of Thailand as a food-focused destination, or a place for great nightlife or even a wellness center and somewhere to go and be pampered.

The truth is, Thailand is all of those things and more. You could be snorkeling in bright blue waters near a glorious beach , hiking to Thailand’s highest temples, slurping down a roadside bowlful of spicy noodles , plying the city’s waterways in a long-tail boat or simply dozing off next to a pool with a book on your chest.

Create your own adventure to remember in the Land of Smiles with our guide to the best things to do in Thailand.

1. Make your way to a temple

Thailand is home to more than 40,000 temples, which makes the decision on exactly where to visit that much more difficult. Although most people will say that visits to Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Pho are musts, some other temples scattered throughout the kingdom might end up being the ones to lodge themselves permanently in your memories.

In the far Northern town of Chiang Rai , Wat Rong Khun – otherwise known as the “White Temple” – features a “bridge of rebirth” that takes visitors over a “lake” of outstretched hands representing human suffering. Further south near Pattaya , the Sanctuary of Truth stands as Thailand’s largest wooden building, painstakingly carved using traditional techniques. And on the border between the North and Northeast regions in Phetchabun, Wat Phra Thad Son Kaew  displays a series of giant Buddha images sitting in each other’s laps inspired by Russian nesting dolls, surrounded by Gaudi-like mosaics and a vast tapestry of stunning mountains.

If you do decide to stay in Bangkok, Wat Arun (aka “Temple of the Dawn”) is a beautiful and less-touristy temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya, while Wat Po also houses a massage school said to have been the birthplace of Thai massage.

2. Island hop in the Andaman Sea

This is what the kingdom is likely most known for: its dramatic, green-speckled islands and celadon waters. The best place from which to experience this is Phuket , Thailand’s largest and most-visited island. From its two marinas, you can hire a boat to survey the Andaman Sea and its many blessings, including the iconic  Ko Khao Phing Kan (also known as James Bond Island) featured in the movie  The Man With a Golden Gun (1974), which resembles a tree-furred exclamation point (one of many striking limestone karsts) in Phang Nga Bay .

Planning tip: Boat rentals can range from US$60 a day on a fishing boat to US$140 a day on a “luxury” cruiser with lunch and dinner included. You can also head to Rassada Pier to take a ferry to tour Phang Nga Bay as a day trip. Book a ticket online in advance in case they sell out.

3. Shop at one of Thailand's best markets

Thais love to shop, so it’s little surprise that Thailand is liberally peppered with markets of all types, from morning fruit markets to weekend craft markets to raucous night markets and even all-hours markets. The most famous of these is probably Bangkok’s 24/7 Flower Market , where a panoply of gorgeous blooms makes ideal Instagram fodder against the background of the Chao Phraya River. Also in Bangkok,  Or Tor Kor is widely considered – even among persnickety Thai aunties – to be the best food market in the country, especially revered for its traditional sweets and pristine produce. 

Up North, Chiang Mai’s Saturday Walking Street  and  Sunday Walking Street are predictably famous, but the Walking Street in Chiang Khan on the banks of the Mekong is just as extensive and far more picturesque. If it’s crafts you’re looking for, Cicada Market in the beach resort town of Hua Hin offers art, clothing and knick-knacks and is only a short walk from the beach. And if it’s a floating market that floats your boat, tree-lined Khlong Lat Mayom is only 1.5 hours from Bangkok and is far less touristy than Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market  and the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa . All are worth visiting, but beware of crowds.

4. Splash around in a waterfall

If you loved to splash around in fountains as a kid, then Thailand’s many, many waterfalls will surely delight your inner child – or even your actual child. From close to Bangkok (in Khao Yai National Park , a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok) to its farthest reaches (in Ubon Ratchathani , on the edge of Thailand’s northeast), Thailand has a waterfall to suit any type of swimmer or nature lover, from little paddlers to experienced hikers.

Made famous by the movie The Beach  (2000), Khao Yai’s Haew Suwat is not necessarily Thailand’s most towering waterfall (it’s 20m/66ft high), but it does host an emerald-green pool perfect for midday dips. Located in Erawan National Park in western Kanchanaburi , the eponymous Erawan Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the country, thanks to its seven mighty tiers and the tiny fish that nibble at your toes at the bottom. Meanwhile in the far northeast lies the isolated Soi Sawan waterfall in Ubon Ratchathani , near where wildflowers bloom in the cool season and numerous hiking trails lead to amazing viewpoints.

Planning tip: If you do plan to beat the heat with a quick plunge, bring a towel and a swimsuit, but remember that changing rooms are few and far between. 

5. Learn more about Thailand at its top museums

Thailand is chock-a-block with museums, but some are far less stultifying than others. Belying the image of a fusty old building harboring ancient relics from a far-off land, Museum Siam in Bangkok tells the story of how the “Land of Smiles” came to be through a series of creative, interactive exhibits geared mainly at children. Also in Bangkok, the Jim Thompson House Museum keeps the spirit of the Thai silk tycoon (and rumored CIA agent who disappeared in 1967) alive by making his former home and collection of art and antiques accessible to the public. And only 40km (25 miles) southeast of Bangkok, Muang Boran (the Ancient City) is a faithful reconstruction of Ayutthaya-era Siam, set over 200 acres and labeled the world’s biggest open-air museum.

Detour: If you can make it out of the Bangkok area, the lengthily titled Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre and Memorial Walking Trail , situated 100km (62 miles) from Kanchanaburi, was created in memory of the WWII POWs who helped build the Burma-Thailand railway, also known as the “Death Railway” immortalized in the 1957-film Bridge Over the River Kwai .

6. Take a hike along trails and through forests

In spite of its reputation as a classic fly-and-flop destination, Thailand also manages to be generously laden with hiking trails tailored to all levels of experience. Only 25km (15.5 miles) south of the resort town of Hua Hin, Pranburi Forest Park features a 1km-long (0.6 mile) boardwalk along mangrove forests and pine trees, allowing even toddlers the chance to stretch their legs while surrounded by greenery.

Up north, close to Chiang Mai, the 13km (8-mile)  Buddha’s Footprint Trail  is a simple out-and-back walk popular among birdwatchers for the diversity of both wildlife and foliage on display (a guide is required and can be hired among the Hmong villagers). 

Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies – and devout Buddhists or meditation enthusiasts – will love Wat Phu Thok , also known as the “Lonely Mountain” and located in Northeastern Bueng Kan. Visitors are encouraged to ascend a 359m-high (1,200ft) peak by way of steps, carved paths and eventually rickety-looking wooden slats. The experience, meant to mirror the seven levels to nirvana, is supposed to encourage meditation and focus on the “now” as walkers negotiate every strenuous (and occasionally daunting) step.

Local tip: Walkers who are afraid of heights should steer clear of the Lonely Mountain or ascend only the first few levels. The seventh level is said to be riddled with snakes, so no need to go further than the sixth.

7. Cruise Bangkok's Chao Phraya River

Before it became known as a mecca for traffic jams, Bangkok was once described as the “Venice of the East,” crisscrossed with canals branching from the Chao Phraya River , which once served as the kingdom's main artery of commerce and diplomacy. Although far fewer Thais use the Chao Phraya as part of their daily lives today, it remains a potent reminder of the city’s waterborne past. 

Many boats – from small long-tailed boats to water buses to larger dinner cruise-type ships – ply the waters for visitors in search of a glimpse of Bangkok’s past, or who simply want to avoid the traffic. The most famous of these boats is likely the Chao Phraya Express Boat . From downtown Sathorn, the boat goes as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi, and prices range from 16 to 33 baht.

Local tip: You can also rent your own long-tail boat for a cruise of the city’s many canals for 2,000–5,000 baht, depending on the size of the boat. Reserve online to secure a spot.

8. Taste Bangkok's best street food in Chinatown

Rejuvenated after a COVID-era economic slump, Bangkok’s street food scene is newly vibrant, especially in areas like the Old Town , along Charoen Krung Road, on Bantadthong Road, and by the Victory Monument . The birthplace of Thai street food (and restaurants) is Chinatown – also known as Yaowarat. Chinese–Thai dishes like oyster omelets, soup noodles, rice porridge and black sesame-stuffed dumplings tempt passersby along Yaowarat Rd, which becomes a neon-lit roadside buffet at night. Just remember: many street food stalls are closed on Monday, so be sure to check your chosen vendors beforehand.

Planning tip: While in Chinatown, check out one of Bangkok’s hippest nightlife spots, Nana Road (in Chinatown, not on Sukhumvit). Here, famous watering holes like Tep Bar , Teens of Thailand and the taxes-themed TAX rub shoulders with picturesque shophouses and noodle joints.

9. Cycle around some incredible ruins

Before Bangkok was even a gleam in King Rama I’s eye, the country’s capitals lived further up from the Chao Phraya River, first in Sukhothai and then in Ayuthaya . Now both UNESCO World Heritage sites, their ruins testify to the power and beauty of what was formerly known as Siam. Ranging over 70 sq km (27 sq miles), Sukhothai Historical Park showcases Wat Mahathat at its center, arranged like a lotus among 193 ruins. Visitors can explore the grounds by rented bicycle before heading to Ramkhamhaeng National Museum . 

At the larger Ayutthaya Historical Park, active from the 14th to 18th centuries, 425 unearthed archaeological sites include Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophit, home to one of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha statues. You can also hire a bicycle to survey the park or head on out with a guide, and even rent traditional Thai costumes for a photo shoot.

10. See marine life on a snorkeling or diving trip

Marine life lovers or even avowed “water babies” will find all that they desire under the Andaman Sea or Gulf of Thailand. With its warm water, striking coral reefs and many manta rays and whale sharks , Thailand is thick with top-tier diving sites for all experience levels off of Phuket , Ko Phi-Phi , Ko Tao and Ko Pha-Ngan . If it’s snorkeling you’re after, the waters of Ko Chang and Ko Tarutao Marine National Park host bountiful marine life in clear blue water. 

Local tip: For the most part, October to April is considered prime diving season, while May to September is deemed best for snorkeling.

This article was first published Aug 24, 2021 and updated Dec 21, 2023.

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• Things to do
• Los Angeles

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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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

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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.

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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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Destinations.ai

We make it easy to find the perfect travel destination

26 Top Tourist Attractions in Thailand

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: March 25, 2024

Thailand welcomes you with a warm embrace, a land where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously, serving up a rich tapestry of experiences.

From the vivacious hum of its capital, Bangkok, to the tranquil whispers of its rural landscapes, this Southeast Asian jewel presents a symphony of sights that cater to the desires of every traveler.

Southern Thailand boasts sun-kissed shores that invite leisure and adventure alike, while the north offers a verdant retreat into mountainous villages where age-old customs are preserved.

Journey beyond the buzz of cities like Chiang Mai to uncover the heart of Thailand—a place where you can mingle with gentle giants in elephant sanctuaries or glide alongside dynamic marine life in world-renowned dive sites. These contrasting domains, united under the hospitable Thai spirit, promise an array of extraordinary encounters.

Whether you seek the thrill of the exotic or yearn to connect with untouched nature, every corner of this gracious host country pledges a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made.

26. Erawan Falls

Experience the enchantment of Erawan Falls, a crowning jewel tucked away within Erawan National Park, located a stone’s throw away from the town of Kanchanaburi in Western Thailand.

As you journey through this serene setting, you’re greeted by the falls’ majestic cascade, spread across seven distinct tiers.

• Tier by Tier : Each level of the falls presents its unique charm, drawing you upwards through the lush landscape and cooling mist.
• Natural Pools : The first three levels feature inviting, jade-green pools ripe for refreshing swimming beneath the gentle waterfalls. These natural basins are the heart of Erawan, where visitors gather to revel in the park’s tranquil beauty.
• Ascent to Serenity : Advancing beyond, the trail becomes a test of resolve, with the topmost tiers challenging you with narrow paths and moist, moss-covered steps.
• Local Lore : Named after the white elephant of Hindu mythology, the falls evoke the shape of this sacred creature’s head, casting an aura of mystique over the entire park.

Venture forth, but do so cautiously, as the path to the higher tiers demands respect for nature’s untamed aspects. Peer into the forest’s verdant depths or simply bask in the lower falls’ splendor.

Erawan Falls beckons you to explore its many wonders, each nook a story etched in mist and stone.

25. Ao Nang

Tucked away on the southern strip of Thailand, Ao Nang is your gateway to the serene islands dotting the Krabi province.

Embark from the lively pier, where an array of longtail boats await to whisk you away to the crystalline waters surrounding Koh Poda, Railay, and Koh Phi Phi.

In Ao Nang:

• Beach Leisure: Luxuriate on the golden sands of Ao Nang Beach.
• Culinary Delights: Savor local flavors from bustling street food stalls to cozy restaurants.
• Local Commerce: Explore lively shops and catch the pulse of this tourist haven.
• Marine Excursions: Set sail from the port and immerse yourself in aquatic adventures.

Let the hum of the port invite you in, an experience complete with the comforts of coastal life and the excitement of exploration. Your stay in Ao Nang is not merely a pause between jaunts and distant shores but a chapter filled with its own stories.

24. Floating Markets near Bangkok

A tapestry of colors and flavors awaits you outside Bangkok, where the floating markets serve as mementos of the city’s bygone days.

The bustling Damnoen Saduak market caters mostly to international visitors, offering a vivid tableau of boat vendors, their vessels heaving with fresh produce and local fare.

Alternatively, a more authentic experience resonates at the Amphawa Floating Market, which Thai locals prefer. Here, you can taste the essence of tradition, where weekend gatherings blend food, culture, and conviviality by the water’s edge.

23. Hua Hin Beach

Picture yourself strolling along an expansive stretch of fine white sand, with the Gulf of Thailand’s inviting turquoise waters beckoning for a leisurely swim.

Hua Hin Beach, a crowning jewel approximately 200 kilometers from the hustle of Bangkok, welcomes you with open arms.

• Location : Southern end at Khao Takiab, extending to Klai Kangwon Palace
• Activities : Swimming, water sports
• Amenities : Upscale resorts, eclectic dining options, shopping, and lively bars

Even with its popularity, you can find solace during less-traveled times. Escape the crowds by planning your visit during shoulder season to soak in the serene atmosphere.

Here, the beach vibe effectively combines relaxation with a semblance of city comforts just steps away. Bask in the sun, where each wave carries a rhythm of Thai hospitality.

22. Prasat Hin Phimai

In the heart of Nai Mueang lies an often-missed marvel, Prasat Hin Phimai, a grand sanctuary mirroring the architectural prowess seen in Angkor Wat.

With origins rooted in the 11th to 12th centuries, this temple complex boasts a central prang commended for its elaborate engravings honoring the Buddha.

Once an integral part of the Hindu Khmer empire, it was connected to the fabled city of Angkor by a stone-paved thoroughfare lost in time.

• Architecture: Resembles that of the iconic Angkor Wat
• Historical Significance: One of Thailand’s most venerable Hindu Khmer temples
• Connectivity: Interlinked with Angkor, Cambodia, via ancient roadway
• Preservation State: Exceptionally well-preserved with discernible Buddha inscriptions

Venturing through this historical gem, solo or alongside a local expert, offers a glimpse into a sacred, poised, and tranquil past amidst modern times.

21. Khao Yai National Park

• Location: Roughly a three-hour drive northeast of Bangkok
• Wildlife: Home to elephants in their natural habitat, lively monkeys, and diverse birds of prey
• Haew Narok: With a 150-meter drop, it is the park’s largest waterfall.
• Haew Suwat: Known from the film “The Beach.”

In your journey through Thailand, immerse yourself in the majesty of Khao Yai National Park, where elephants reign supreme. Up close, you’ll witness these gentle giants alongside the park’s riverbanks, a sight deeply cherished by locals.

The park’s natural allure extends to the treetops, bustling with monkeys and skies where predatory birds glide on thermal currents.

The park isn’t just about animal encounters; it boasts cascades like Haew Narok, thundering from high cliffs, and Haew Suwat, which are etched into the global consciousness by Hollywood’s touch.

Your visit will offer a symphony of nature’s sounds, sights, and wildlife’s stirring presence.

20. Mu Ko Ang Thong

Location : Gulf of Thailand

Island Count : 42

Attractions :

• Pristine white-sand beaches
• Dense jungle terrain
• Majestic limestone cliffs

Activities :

• Sea kayaking
• Diving and snorkeling
• Swimming in hidden coves

Access : Day trips from Koh Phangan or Koh Samui

Accommodation : Options for camping and bungalows with food services

Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Mu Ko Ang Thong, the archipelago where every cove tells a story, and nature’s artistry is evident at every turn.

As your boat weaves through the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the sense of adventure is palpable. Here, you can trace the footprints on white sandy shores or delve deep beneath the surface to uncover vibrant marine life.

Whether you’re paddle-gripping a kayak to explore the hidden waterfalls or spending a tranquil night beneath the stars, Mu Ko Ang Thong offers a golden bowl of experiences that await your discovery.

19. Sukhothai Historical Park

Etched into the fabric of Thailand’s cultural tapestry is the Sukhothai Historical Park, a sprawling museum without walls nestled within the Mueang Sukhothai District.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park safeguards remnants of a kingdom that once flourished in the 14th century.

Here, you can wander among the resurrected ruins that narrate tales of Sukhothai’s ancient glory:

• Royal Palaces: once the heartbeat of the Sukhothai kingdom, the palaces now share silent stories of regality.
• Buddhist Temples: spiritual havens like the iconic Wat Mahathat beckon with age-old Buddha statues and impressive stupas.
• Fortifications: formidable walls and city gates that protected a thriving civilization.
• Water Features: serene moats and a sophisticated water dyke system that exemplify historical ingenuity.

Wat Mahathat stands as a centerpiece within this historical park, an artistic marvel from the 13th century whose Buddha images and stucco sculptures evoke a profound reverence. Navigate this serene enclave and let each stone whisper its narrative to you.

18. Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan, a stone’s throw from Koh Tao, invites you to discover its serenity. Here, three miniature isles are bound by a ribbon of sand, creating an unparalleled coastal ensemble.

The island’s elegance may draw a crowd, yet tranquility prevails at dawn and dusk.

Top Activities:

• Snorkeling: Dive into clarity, where coral reefs thrive beneath the surface.
• Diving: Explore underwater caves teeming with marine life.
• Sunbathing: Bask on the untouched beaches, as radiant as the sun above.

With each visit, a modest fee of 100 baht sustains the island’s pristine condition. Amidst the allure of Koh Nang Yuan, every grain of sand and hidden cove tells a story, waiting for your footsteps to continue its narrative.

17. Bangkok Rooftop Bars

As twilight embraces Bangkok, the city’s skyline transforms into a canvas of a million lights, a backdrop to its prestigious rooftop bars.

Whether the thrill of champagne bubbles against the cityscape at CRU Champagne Bar or the enrapturing 360-degree vistas from Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar, your after-dusk adventures will ascend to new heights.

Mingling with Bangkok’s chic populace, sky-high spots like Three Sixty offer more than a sip of luxury; they are a toast to the city’s nocturnal beauty. These lofty lounges command a premium for their cocktails and the panoramas that come with them.

Remember, these elevated escapes have an air of exclusivity, often requiring attire that matches their upscale vibe and typically welcome guests until 1 a.m.

Make sure to dress accordingly to blend seamlessly into the tapestry of Bangkok’s elite nightlife.

16. Wat Arun

Amidst Bangkok’s historic canvas, your gaze will inevitably be drawn to the grandeur of Wat Arun. This temple’s history stretches to the early 19th century, with its name honoring the dawn deity, Aruna.

As you stand by the river at dawn or dusk, the temple’s spires, bathed in the sun’s golden light, offer a sight to be captured by cameras and cherished in memories.

Key Features:

• Central Tower : At 104 meters, adorned with ornate porcelain symbolizing the cosmic mountain Meru
• Surrounding Structures : Four smaller towers along with a massive Buddha statue and a reassuring bell tower

Photography Tip: Optimal light conditions during sunrise and sunset elevate the temple’s intricate details into a dramatic silhouette against the skyline.

Don’t miss the chance to feel this architectural marvel’s sublime tranquility over the waters of the Chao Phraya River.

15. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Enveloped by a festive atmosphere where cultural tapestry unfurls, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a dazzling cornucopia. Navigating this sprawling marketplace, you become part of a living tradition stretching across several city avenues.

• Location : Winding along walkways, within buildings, and temple precincts
• Handmade crafts
• Artistic creations
• Attire and imported goods
• Modern shopping complexes

In the labyrinthine alleys, the original Chinese shopkeepers have passed the torch to a diverse array of Thai proprietors.

As darkness envelopes the city, the bazaar becomes a vital experience, offering a nocturnal adventure into the heart of Chiang Mai’s commerce and culture.

Here’s a tip: intertwine browsing with pauses at makeshift eateries to savor northern Thai flavors under the moon’s soft glow. For accommodation insights, scout for ‘Where to Stay in Chiang Mai’ guides.

See Related: Best Thailand Beach Resorts

14. Ko Lipe’s Enchanting Coastline

Nestled in Tarutao National Marine Park and bordered by Malaysia , Ko Lipe is a testament to tropical splendor. This southern apex of Thailand is often likened to the revered beauty of the Maldives for its unblemished beaches framed by swaying palms and crystal-clear waters.

Pattaya Beach : Brimming with vitality, Pattaya Beach is a hub for social butterflies. Engage in:

• Culinary delights at beachfront eateries

Sunrise Beach : Embrace the tranquility of daybreak here, a serene alternative boasting:

• Pristine swimming
• Sun-soaked relaxation
• Ample water sports

Whether lounging under the sun or exploring the dynamic marine life, Ko Lipe offers a seamless fusion of adventure and leisure.

Nearby, discover a constellation of islets, each promising unique escapades — a short boat ride unlocks these hidden treasures.

13. Chatuchak Weekend Market

At the Chatuchak Weekend Market, your quest for unique finds is met with a dynamic labyrinth of commerce.

Established in 1942 and known locally as JJ Market, this marketplace has bloomed into a colossal hub with over 15,000 booths and 11,500 purveyors. Sections number up to 27, each offering a distinct array of goods.

Navigating Chatuchak feels like a discovery tour on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road . Every weekend, it teems with around 200,000 bargain hunters.

Your negotiation might sharpen the price, but the variety is indisputable—from vintage collectibles to the latest fashion and everything in between.

While the allure of retail therapy is potent, the culinary offerings alone warrant a visit. Immerse yourself in the aromas and flavors of Thai cuisine, a feast sprawling just as diversely as the merchandise around you.

12. Khao Sok National Park

Embark on a journey to southern Thailand’s hidden Eden, the Khao Sok National Park. Enveloped in one of the globe’s most ancient evergreen rainforests, this natural treasure is punctuated by a majestic limestone mountain range with its towering karst peaks.

• Ancient Rainforests : Traverse the oldest evergreen rainforest, a living relic from bygone epochs.
• Mountainous Majesty : Marvel at the impressive limestone cliffs that rise like nature’s skyscrapers.

As you navigate the dense greenery, numerous trails lure you into the heart of the jungle, revealing secluded caves and the serenity of the Sok River.

For the aquatically inclined, experience the tranquility of Cheow Lan Lake on bamboo rafts or glide through the waterways in a canoe.

• Exotic Wildlife : Keep your eyes peeled for elusive Malayan sun bears, majestic elephants, and even tigers in their natural habitat.
• Eco-Friendly Accommodations : Retreat after a day of exploration to eco-luxury camps, complete with modern comforts amidst rustic splendor.

Khao Sok is a sanctuary where adventure coexists with peace, promising an escape from the mundane to the majesty of nature.

11. Phanom Rung

High atop the extinct volcanic crest of Phanom Rung Mountain sits an ancient sanctuary carved from stone, a testament to a time when the Khmer Empire’s spiritual dedication sculpted the landscape.

Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, a more than nine-century temple complex, stands as a harmonic marriage of devout Hindu architecture and the raw beauty of nature in Thailand’s Buriram province.

Constructed from limestone and laterite, your eyes are drawn to the exquisite engravings that embellish the site, reaching an elevation of 402 meters.

Marvel at the intricate lintel above the east-facing portal, immortalizing Vishnu in a cosmic repose. The journey to the central sanctuary is a pilgrimage; each step on the grand staircase rises toward the heavens, each viewing a canvas of the sprawling green below.

In your exploration, listen for the echoes of the past among the ruins, the whispers of devotion and artistry that shaped this serene highland retreat.

10. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands await you with their unspoiled beaches, accessible via a 120 km journey from Phuket into the heart of the Andaman Sea.

Here, the vistas boast bright white sands peppered with grand boulders—a stark contrast against the cobalt sea.

Beaches and Boulders:

• Powdery, coral-white sand
• Imposing granite formations along the shorelines

Beneath the surface, a kaleidoscope of marine life thrives among vibrant coral gardens, making the archipelago a scuba diver’s paradise.

Opting for an extended stay on these islands gifts you serene dawns and dusks on nearly deserted beaches, with the added spectacle of sunsets that ignite the sky and a cosmos that unveils itself for nightly admiration.

9. Full Moon Party at Haad Rin

As you wander onto Ko Pha-ngan’s Haad Rin Beach, the rhythmic pulse of music greets you, signaling the start of something extraordinary.

Since its inception in 1985, Haad Rin’s Full Moon fête has been an electrifying escape, celebrated around the full moon’s glow.

Dancers, music lovers, and merrymakers gather on the powder-soft sand, joining forces in revelry under the lunar spotlight. Here, dusk heralds the start of festivities that stretch into the early morning, where thousands converge to revel in unity.

What to Expect:

• A Vibrant Atmosphere: With the beach as the stage, every full moon witnesses a confluence of cultures and energies.
• Endless Entertainment: Beach bars and stands serve up a medley of cocktails and local brews, fueling a night of unbridled joy.
• Open-Air Merriment: The entire stretch celebrates with you, from tattoo stalls to eateries that remain abuzz through the night.

Dipped in the hues of twilight, Haad Rin’s beach transforms into a collective of moments you’ll carry long after the night ends.

See Related: Best Islands in Thailand to Visit

8. Thai-Burma Death Railway

Embark on the two-hour train journey from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok, where the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai serves as a poignant gateway.

This rail line is not merely a track through Thailand’s countryside; it’s a historical passage carrying the weight of World War II’s legacy.

It’s a testament to history, where the hands of prisoners of war and Asian laborers were forced by the Japanese to forge this route, marrying the beauty of Thailand’s vistas with a dark and resilient past.

Although today, only sections of this railway are in use, the echoes of its history remain, compelling travelers to reflect on the endurance of the human spirit amidst the tranquility of Thailand’s landscapes.

7. Ayutthaya

Amidst the Thai landscape, your journey brings you to the remnants of the once-magnificent Ayutthaya.

Founded in the 14th century, this site formed the beating heart of Siam’s second capital until the mid-18th century when invasion led to its ruin and the kingdom’s downfall.

Key Attractions:

• Ancient Ruins: Archetypal treasures are a testament to a city that once rivaled the greats in size.
• Architectural Diversity: Witness the intricate blend of stylistic influences as you wander the systematic layout of old moats and thoroughfares.

Restoration efforts have breathed new life into the city, allowing you to trace the echoes of its illustrious past. Each stone and statue here narrates a saga of its 1 million citizens and the vibrancy they once knew.

6. Mu Ko Chang National Park

Tucked within the embrace of the Trat Province’s coast, Mu Ko Chang National Park is a threshold to over 50 island gems.

Ko Chang reigns as the archipelago’s crown jewel, its rugged peaks and verdant jungles offering a sanctuary from the buzz of the ubiquitous tourist trails.

• Beaches : You’ll be drawn to the serenity of White Sand Beach, a haven for global visitors seeking sun-soaked relaxation.
• Marine Life : Dive into an underwater extravaganza at premier snorkeling and scuba sites, rich with aquatic life.
• Waterfalls : Trek to refreshing cascades amid the lush island greenery.

Whether you fancy a leisurely kayak or a taste of the local catch, Ko Chang extends a palette of experiences. Its allure is quieter than bustling Phuket or Ko Samui, inviting you to partake in its tranquility sooner rather than later.

5. Visit the Northern Hill Tribes

Encounter the rich heritage of Northern Thailand’s hill tribes , where each of the seven major groups offers a window into a way of life preserved over centuries.

With origins in Laos, China, and Myanmar, these communities carry distinct traditions and languages. To immerse yourself in their culture responsibly:

• Hire a Local Guide : Engage with a knowledgeable hill tribe guide for an authentic day tour.
• Experience Homestays : Live alongside the tribes for a few days to witness their customs firsthand.

By choosing these culturally sensitive options, you connect with the local way of life and ensure your visit supports the community.

As you glide over the Andaman Sea by boat, Railay unveils itself as a serene peninsula, its limestone cliffs towering over the approach like ancient guardians. Disconnected from the mainland’s hustle, it radiates an almost island-like seclusion.

• Accessibility: Reachable solely by water transport; a hidden paradise ensconced in cliffs.
• Rock Climbing : Scale the iconic karst peaks.
• Kayaking : Paddle through turquoise waters.
• Snorkeling : Discover a vibrant underwater tableau.

Surrounded by lush jungles, Railay offers more than sand and waves. Embrace tranquility on its shores, or indulge in the thrill of exploration — traverse hiking paths, uncover caves, or voyage to nearby islets.

Seize the day, whether you find joy in the adrenaline of ascent or the peace of a seaside siesta.

3. Grand Palace in Bangkok

The Grand Palace stands at the heart of the Thai capital, a testament to the nation’s storied past. Inaugurated in 1782, this spectacular ensemble of edifices once housed seven monarchs of the Siamese realm for more than a century.

Within its walls lies the Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, safeguarding the revered Emerald Buddha carved in the 14th century.

Visitor Etiquette:

• Men: Long pants and sleeved shirts required
• Women: Avoid exposing shoulders, cleavage, or legs above the knee

Location: Central district of Phra Nakhon

Remember, strict attire guidelines ensure respect for this hallowed site. As you navigate the myriad courtyards and corridors, each more breathtaking than the last, the essence of Bangkok’s soul resonates with every footprint left on this sacred ground.

2. Phang Nga Bay

Amidst the emerald waters, on a short voyage from Phuket, lies Phang Nga Bay, a sanctuary of natural splendor.

Envision paddling through serene waters, where limestone cliffs cleave the sky, revealing secret grottoes and ancient caves beckoning you to explore.

• Location : 95 km northeast of Phuket
• Limestone islands
• Intriguing caves and hidden lagoons
• Famed for : Ko Ping Kan (James Bond Island)
• Best experienced : Through the intimate vantage of a sea kayak

Here, the famous Ko Ping Kan, known to many as James Bond Island, juts defiantly from the sea—a silent testament to nature’s artistry.

Your kayak slips silently through the waters, granting access to these secluded marvels, echoing with the gentle lap of the bay.

1. Ko Phi Phi

Ko Phi Phi’s allure is anchored in its crystalline waters and the silhouettes of limestone cliffs that draw the eye. It’s a masterpiece of nature close to Phuket and tucked away within Krabi’s jurisdiction.

In this archipelago, Ko Phi Phi Don stands out as the solitary isle bustling with life year-round. Just offshore, the uninhabited Ko Phi Phi Leh has etched its place in cinematic history as the backdrop to the film “The Beach.”

As you set foot here, the symphony of serene shores beckons you to bask, snorkel, and kayak—each activity a chapter in your personal anthology of sea adventures.

Yet, the beauty of Ko Phi Phi contends with its popularity; the charm that attracts admirers also threatens its pristine allure. Indulge in its splendors, but be conscious of the fading whispers of seclusion that once defined this paradise.

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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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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Pattaya (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Pattaya (Thailand)

Whenever people think of Pattaya they immediately think of ladyboys, risqué shows and drunk tourists. This does not even begin to touch upon the many things that this city in Thailand has to offer. Pattaya is a place that has beautiful temples and beaches but it also has so many activities to get involved in that it is impossible to get bored.

There are a large number of expats living in Pattaya which has led to the city changing over the years, but this has only led to an increase in wealth being brought into the city, with the increased wealth business men have seen an opportunity to create attractions that appeal to holiday makers which is why Pattaya is one of the enjoyable places to stop at for a few days.

With so much to do let’s get started to the top things to do in Pattaya :

1. Party The Night Away In Walking Street

When it comes to the sights and the sounds that you experience in Walking Street you will be amazed, no other street in Thailand even comes close (despite what the tourist guides may tell you.) Walking Street is 500m long and as the name suggests there are no vehicles allowed in the street after 6pm. The street as well as many side streets are full of bars, nightclubs, go-go bars, restaurants and beer bars. During the day the road is almost deserted but when darkness falls the neon lights, loud music and an army of girls hit the streets.

2. Relax Yourself At Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

If you are interested in flowers, trees and landscaped gardens this is a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon. The garden covers a space of 2.4 Square kilometers and have some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. The gardens have won many awards for their designs and will continue to do so because of the excellent condition the garden is kept in. It is not just flowers and trees though, there are also over 670 species of orchid and even an elephant talent show.

3. Experience The Pattaya Floating Market

There are various floating markets In Thailand but this one in Pattaya has something different about it. The actual name of the market is the ‘Four Regions Floating Market’ the reason for this is that the market is split into the four regions of Thailand, The north, northeast, south and central. Each section of the market sells products that represent that part of the country. Not all of the stalls are floating, some are in boats which move around the canals and some are stilted properties that stand at the sides on the banks. To experience the best of the market you should hire a small boat and discover all that is on offer.

4. Become Part Of The Art At Art In Paradise

This is no ordinary art gallery, instead this gallery takes the normal art gallery concept and turns it on its head. At Art in Paradise you become part of the artwork by a series of optical illusions and other clever tricks. The gallery is set up perfectly so you can take pictures in such a way that it looks like you are crossing an old bridge or flying over the dessert on a magic carpet. The building is split into ten sections and houses over one hundred pieces of art. It is great fun for children as well as adults and should be on any to-do list.

5. Amaze Yourself At Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

For those not in the know Ripley’s Believe It or Not is a chain of museums that show the visitor strange facts about the world we live In, most of these facts you would have no idea existed. This museum in Pattaya is home to over 300 items split over ten different subject areas. You will find a 1937 Jaguar that doubles as a motorboat as well as a replica of the Titanic made from a million matches. There is so much to do that it will take you an entire day, especially if you get lost for hours in the infinity maze. When you are finished with the museum and maze you still have the Tussauds Wax Works and the 4D Moving Theater to explore.

6. Climb The Hill At Wat Phra Khao Yai

Wat Phra Khao Yai is also known as Big Buddha Hill, it is referred to as this because it is the biggest Buddha in the region, it stands at 18 meters tall and sits about 100 meters above sea level. When you get to the top of the hill and stand next to the Buddha you can see Pattaya beneath you and Jomtien Beach if you look outwards. As well as the Buddha there is a temple complex as well which has incense burning all day long as well many bells. The temple is still used to this day so expect to see monks and praying locals.

7. Go Ziplining At Flight Of The Gibbon

Not strictly in Pattaya but half way between there and Bangkok sits Flight of the Gibbon, a complete adventure for the whole family. An excellent opportunity to have a lot of fun whilst taking in some beautiful views of the jungle. The course is three kilometers long and consists of twenty two zip-lines as well as two abseiling stations. With an impeccable safety record this is the one place in Thailand where you should feel completely safe whilst doing something you would not do back at home.

Suggested tour : Zip Line Eco Adventure from Pattaya with Lunch

8. See The Buddha Engraving At Khao Chi Chan

Khao Chi Chan or Buddha Mountain as English speakers refer to it is the biggest engraving of Buddha in the world. The Limestone hill that has the Buddha engraved on it used to be an active site for the construction industry before it was closed down. In 1996 a laser was used to etch the carving into the rock as part of a celebration for His Majesty the King of Thailand’s 50th year on the throne.

9. Go Back In Time At Anek Kusala Sala

Originally built to build friendships between the Chinese and the Thai’s Khao Chi Chan is a museum showing over 300 pieces of Chinese artwork, most of the pieces are brass and bronze statues of historical figures from various deities including Buddhist and Taoist. Split over the two floors the second floor has some much larger statues, the most noticeable being the Shaolin monks that have been created to depict various martial art poses. You can see statues of dress makers, fortune tellers and liquor sellers which tourists often place one baht coins on.

10. Have some lunch at Mum Aroi

In the fishing village of Naklua sits a rather delightful restaurant called Mum Aroi, the restaurant itself sits right beside the sea and serves up a fantastic variety of seafood. As you eat your dinner in this busy restaurant you can gaze out over the water and watch the old fishing boats bob up and down on the waves. Popular with expats and locals the restaurant is quite large and normally very full in the evenings. For a relaxing evening with a glass of wine and a gentle sea breeze few places can live up to Mum Aroi.

11. Take A Trip To Khao Phra Tamnak

Sitting at the top of a forested hill between South Pattaya and Jomtien is a giant Buddha statue known as Wat Phra Yai, The statue has its origins at a time when Pattaya was just a small fishing village, and a long way away from the world Pattaya finds itself in now. From the top of the hill you have panoramic views over Pattaya City and Bay.

12. Volunteer At Pattaya Orphanage

Founded nearly fifty years ago Pattaya Orphanage has continued to do good works for the less fortunate. The orphanage was founded by a priest called Father Ray in the 1970’s when a local gave their child to Father Ray as they were unable to look after the child themselves. Word soon spread among the people and so the orphanage had its beginnings. Originally the children were ones born as a result of the US military being in the area during the Vietnam War, now the children are from misfortunate mothers who suffer from drug abuse, poverty or HIV/Aids. You can either sponsor meals at the orphanage or completely give up your time and volunteer for extended time periods.

13. Spend A Day At Koh Larn

Sitting seven kilometers away from Pattaya is the island of Ko Larn, boats leave Pattaya several times a day for the island and are always full of tourists eager to explore somewhere new. The island is only small (4km long and 2km wide) but there are six different beaches to see, each beach having its own unique personality. If you wish to stay a few nights there are various resorts and hotels on the island but due to the islands size they fill up quickly.

14. Be Amazed At Tiffany’s Cabaret

Taking place each evening, Tiffany’s Cabaret entertains over two thousand people and has been doing so for over thirty years. The performance usually lasts for an hour and the show is non-stop excitement from start to finish, the entertainers perform scenes that represent every part of the world, including Indian, Korean Thai and many more. The ladyboys are all dressed in exquisite costumers and perform with such finesse that it is hard to spot that they are not real ladies. The raunchiness of the show has been toned down for what you might expect to get in Pattaya ensuring that the show is also suitable for children.

Book online : Pattaya: Tiffany’s Show Admission Ticket

15. Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Every major place in Thailand has tourist attractions including elephant. Some of these are really cruel, like those that offer you to ride on an elephant. So make sure you make an ethical choice like the Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

Recommended tour : Pattaya’s Ethical Choice: Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

16. Feast at Leng Kee

Leng Kee is a Chinese restaurant in Pattaya, it opens twenty four hours a day and is the only restaurant that serves Seafood and Chinese, Established for many years it is a favorite among the expats and Chinese locals. The restaurant sits in the thriving Chinatown part of the city and all year long it serves its main menu, the exception being Chinese New Year when it turns vegetarian and serves up a speciality known as ‘Golden Good Luck Noodles’.

17. Swim at Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park

Have a swim at the world’s only Cartoon Network-themed water park, and enjoy daily shows featuring Cartoon Network characters from shows like Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, We Bare Bears, and Adventure Time.

Located in Bangsaray it will only take you about a 20 minute drive from Pattaya City to start a day full of thrilling rides and slides.

Website : https://www.cartoonnetworkamazone.com/

18. Sunbathe At Ban Amphur Beach

Ban Amphur is a quiet fishing village that happens to have a beautiful beach with gorgeous sand and lots of palm trees. The beach is quiet and uncrowded with ample parking unlike many of the other beaches in Pattaya, because it is a fishing village the various seafood restaurants that are located in the fishing harbor sell the most delicious and fresh fish imaginable. Tourism has not yet caught up here as much as so many places so prices are still quite low and the area uncrowded.

19. Have Mango Sticky Rice At Mae Sai Thong

You can get mango sticky rice all over Thailand and it is hugely popular with tourists and locals, not many places selling just that one item make it onto Lonely Planet though. Mai Sai Thong is the exception to this and is said to be the best place in Pattaya to eat mango sticky rice. Mango’s ripen in the hot-dry season but this little food stand next to the day market has managed to find suppliers of ripe mango all year round ensuring a steady to supply to their many happy customers.

20. Take Time To Reflect At The Sanctuary Of Truth

Rising 105 meters into the sky and made from teak wood which has been carved in the most intricate wat The Sanctuary of Truth is a beautiful sight to behold. This is not a Buddhist temple as you may expect, it was designed by a business owner as a place to go and reflect on oneself. Every part of the building both inside and out has incredibly detailed carvings that need to be seen to be believed, the building itself is still a work in progress which some say will never be finished. There are so many beautiful buildings across Thailand but this one has to come near the very top of the list.

21. Chill Out For A Weekend At The International Music Festival

Each year in March Pattaya holds an annual music festival, musicians from all over Asia fly in for the event which lasts three days and is set over several different stages. The festival is set up along the Pattaya Beach Road which is closed off to cars during the event. You will get a chance to witness a very wide range of music from hip-hop to rock, with both local and international artists getting involved. The event has been free to enter in the past and is expected to continue in the same vein.

22. Shop Till You Drop At Central Festival

The biggest and most important shopping destination in Pattaya is called Central Festival, you will not find any cheap stalls selling tat here, instead you have a range of designer shops to choose from, Armani, Calvin Klein and French Connection are just some of the famous brands tol have shops here. Split over many floors and housing hundreds of outlets you can spend many hours moving between the floors. There is a ten screen cinema as well as a bowling alley to play in if the shopping becomes too much. Hungry? There is a large number of restaurants with every cuisine possible to choose from, thus making sure there is something for every taste bud.

23. See Things In Miniature At Mini Siam And Mini Europe

Located just outside Pattaya City is Mini Siam and Mini Europe where you can wander endlessly around the gardens looking at statues from all over Thailand and Europe, however they now have the statue of liberty so perhaps a name change is on order soon. The statues have been crafted at a scale of 1:25 and if you go In the evening they are all lit up which makes for some great photographs.

24. Take A Cooking Class

Now that you have been to Thailand and eaten original and authentic Thai cooking maybe you will want to learn how to do it for yourself at home. With supermarkets everywhere selling ingredients from Thailand you just need to learn the basics and you are on your way. Pattaya plays host to many cooking schools each taking the time to show you how to make the Thai classics such as Green Curry and Pad Thai. Normally set over a half day slot the classes allow you to sit down for lunch or dinner afterwards and relax with a drink and the food you have just created.

25 Best Things to Do in Pattaya (Thailand):

• Party The Night Away In Walking Street
• Relax Yourself At Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
• Experience The Pattaya Floating Market
• Become Part Of The Art At Art In Paradise
• Amaze Yourself At Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
• Climb The Hill At Wat Phra Khao Yai
• Go Ziplining At Flight Of The Gibbon
• See The Buddha Engraving At Khao Chi Chan
• Go Back In Time At Anek Kusala Sala
• Have some lunch at Mum Aroi
• Take A Trip To Khao Phra Tamnak
• Volunteer At Pattaya Orphanage
• Spend A Day At Koh Larn
• Be Amazed At Tiffany’s Cabaret
• Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
• Feast at Leng Kee
• Swim at Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park
• Sunbathe At Ban Amphur Beach
• Have Mango Sticky Rice At Mae Sai Thong
• Take Time To Reflect At The Sanctuary Of Truth
• Chill Out For A Weekend At The International Music Festival
• Shop Till You Drop At Central Festival
• See Things In Miniature At Mini Siam And Mini Europe
• Take A Cooking Class

15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand (2024 Edition)

by Dyah | Mar 30, 2024 | Asia , Destinations , Thailand , Travel Bucket Lists

It is always a sunny day in the Land of Smiles. The equatorial sun casts its light on the brilliant blue sea while the powdery shores beckon you to run along it. The cities take you on an electrifying adventure full of flavors, sounds, and flickering lights. Meanwhile, lavish temples tell the tale of the country’s magnificent past and ravishing culture. In a nutshell, Thailand is simply incredible. So, check out the 15 best places to visit in Thailand and get the best out of this bucket list country! 

Best Places to Visit in Thailand 

Koh phangan.

• Similan Island
• Khao Yai National Park 

Chiang Mai 

Get a taste of authentic Thailand in the exceptional city of Chiang Mai . Temples are scattered throughout the city, telling travelers the truth about Thailand’s fascinating Buddhist culture. Jungle-cloaked mountains and lush rice fields create an astonishing backdrop for the temples’ lavish facade. Night markets light up the streets as the sun goes down, offering a generous choice of Northern Thailand flavors. With all it has to offer, Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Get ready to be stunned by Chiang Mai’s exceptional temples and mountainous landscapes. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most visited and looks stunning with its gilded facade. Wat Suan Dok sends out a peaceful vibe, inviting you to take a deep breath. Other than temples, you can greet the gentle Thai elephants in Elephant Nature Park. End the day by hunting for street food and quirky souvenirs at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. 

Your Thailand itinerary won’t be complete without visiting the sleepless capital. Lights flicker from the skyscrapers, the sound of Tuktuk engines and car honks fill the streets, colossal malls boast an unmatched shopping scene, and nightclubs boom never-ending EDM tracks. On the other hand, Bangkok keeps its history and traditional culture alive. Wat Arun Temple stuns on the banks of the Chao Praya River, the Temple of Emerald Buddha showcases Thailand’s lavish architecture , and locals bustle in the legendary floating market. The perfect blend of the old and new makes Bangkok one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Whether you are a shopaholic or a foodie, Bangkok has something for you! Spend the day exploring the temples, like Wat Arun and Grand Palace. Head to Michelin-rated yet humble restaurants and savor some delightful Thai food, like tom yum and beef noodles. Say yes to a bewildering shopping experience in Siam Paragon and CentralWorld. Alternatively, head to Chatuchak Weekend Market to shop some traditional crafts and souvenirs to bring back home. Last but not least, end the day with some beers and have a good time with your travel buddies in Bangkok’s party streets. 

Phuket 

Does someone say beach vacation? Well, Phuket should be in that conversation! This southern Thailand island is a world-class beach destination. White sand beaches, turquoise-coloured Andaman Sea, and jaw-dropping limestone cliffs wove Phuket’s extraordinary natural scenery. Besides that, Phuket attracts a lot of travelers for its line of sumptuous beach resorts, top-notch wellness facilities, and dreamy island life. 

You might want to bask in the sunny beaches and spend long days uncovering Phuket’s underwater beauty. However, Phuket also offers thrilling cultural, historical, and gastronomy experiences! Climb up to the Big Buddha, a 45-meter-tall Buddha statue standing on the top of a hill. Then, head to Phuket City where Sino-Portuguese buildings line and create a nostalgic atmosphere. Additionally, make sure to dig in some flavorful Southern Thailand cuisine. Phuket is one of the best places to visit in Thailand, especially if you love beaches. 

Sitting next to Phuket, Krabi is the answer to your wildest beach vacation dreams. The glimmering sea boasting an incredible gradient of turquoise and blue, powdery shores fringed by palm trees, and jungle-cloaked limestone cliffs in Krabi will take your breath away. Moreover, the coastal town is home to some of the most stunning places on earth, like Phi Phi Islands and Railay Beach. 

Every day is a beach day in Krabi. You can start by visiting the Ao Nang Peninsula, where golden sand beaches beckon you to get the perfect tan. Railay Beach beckons you to splash into its crystal clear waters. Meanwhile, Phi Phi Islands is simply unmissable. You can sail along the towering limestone cliffs, go snorkeling and see its wonderful underwater scene, or kayak around the glimmering archipelago. Besides that, inland Krabi offers a lot of things to do . You can do rock climbing, check out the night market, and see the iconic Tiger Cave Temple. 

Other than the similar name, Chiang Rai shares a few resemblance to Chiang Mai. The small city sits on the border between Thailand and Myanmmar and is known for its astonishing structures. Like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai boasts a myriad of breathtaking temples. Wat Rong Khun stands out with its pure white color and intricate carvings, making it a must visit destination in Chiang Rai. 

Moreover, the city calls for a tranquil getaway. Chiang Rai is shrouded in lush rainforests and verdant greeneries, offering a refreshing place. The forests hide alluring waterfalls, such as the 70-meter-tall Khun Kon Waterfall. You can also see the temple of Wat Tham Pla which features a cave and a huge group of wild macaques. It is kept inside a misty rainforest. Therefore, Chiang Rai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Pattaya 

We know – a lot of us cannot say no to spirited beach cities!  Miami and Cancun are legendary but Thailand has its own. Pattaya, a coastal city in the Gulf of Thailand, invites you to relaxing beach days and crazy party nights. The city is sleepless and dotted with various restaurants, cafes, bars, and entertainment spots. Moreover, it has an amazing gold sand beach just a stone’s throw away from the metropolis. 

Soak up the equatorial sun in one of Pattaya’s beaches. Pattaya Beach is the most famous and often packed with travelers. Alternatively, you can head to Jomtien Beach for an unbothered tanning session. Then, you can walk along the promenade and find a seaside restaurant for lunch. Party starts after sunset, so pick your favorite nightlife spot! We recommend seeing the cabaret shows, which are entertaining and popular among tourists. With all it has to offer, Pattaya is one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

While Bangkok is about street food and shopping galore, Ayutthaya offers a different facade. The city takes us back in time, as far as the year 1350 when the Kingdom of Siam ruled. Stone temples adorned with carvings that tell stories, Buddha statues draped with silk, and centuries-old trees are what you can find in Ayutthaya. UNESCO recognises Ayutthaya’s historical wonders and puts it on the list of World Heritage Sites. Whether you are a history buff or a casual traveler, this destination in Thailand will sweep you off your feet. 

If ancient and undiscovered are your cup of tea, Sukhothai should be at the top of your list. The site dates back to the 13th century, recording the once-reigning Kingdom of Siam. Nestled between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Sukhothai stays out of the bustling tourist’s radar. Sukhothai offers a classic yet outstanding Southeast Asian temple landscape, similar to Angkor Wat. Navigate through the maze of temples and giant Buddhas to understand why Sukhothai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

What are the less-touristy alternatives to Krabi and Phuket? Well, we would say Trang. The port town nestles in the southeastern part of Krabi, away from the tourist-packed center. The town boasts the Andaman Sea’s beauty along with flawless beaches and verdant tropical jungles. Moreover, Trang keeps an outstanding underwater beauty, beckoning visitors to dip into spots like Ko Kradan. Other attractions you can check out include a hidden beach cave on Koh Muk, Thung Khai Botanical Garden, and a series of 10 districts that feature authentic Thai culture. Serene and beautiful – Trang is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Koh Samui 

Thailand is a paradise for beach-goers with its endless choice of astonishing islands. However, Koh Samui stands out the most. The island is well-developed with five-star resorts, trendy tourist districts, and bustling night markets. Traveling to Koh Samui means tanning sessions on unspoiled beaches like Bo Phut and Maenam, sailing time to Ang Thong National Park, and dips into pristine waterfalls. Additionally, you can see Thailand’s cultural wonders at Wat Phra Yai and Wat Plai Laem. 

Another island in Thailand that deserves a shout-out is Koh Lanta. Nestled between Phi Phi Island and the western coast of Thailand, it answers everyone’s dream of a relaxing getaway. Although Koh Lanta has vibrant nightlife spots and bustling tourist centers, the island is generally unspoiled. Flawless beaches with powder-like complexion, lush jungles hiding exotic fauna, and crystal-clear waters are the building blocks of Koh Lanta. Simply put, Koh Lanta is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Listed as the most favorite digital nomad destination in 2022, Koh Phangan is unmissable. It is home to untouched beaches fringed with golden sand, winding mountains cloaked with tropical rainforests, tinkling waterfalls, and naturally-formed freshwater pools. Besides that, Koh Phangan welcomes travelers who want to immerse in the monthly Full Moon Party . Find yourself getting lost in a feisty crowd consisting travelers from all over the world, chugging drinks and dancing on the sand. With all it has to offer, Koh Phangan is one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

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• 10 Best Places To Visit In Thailand For Magnificent Tourist Attractions

10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand for Magnificent Tourist Attractions

Amongst all the South Asian destinations that tourists from all over the world love to visit, Thailand is by far the favourite. Popularly known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, Thailand is well-developed and provides all kinds of modern comforts, while still staying wild enough to offer adventures and once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. Places to visit in Thailand have been greatly graced with a thriving tourism industry with ample vacation spots that are nothing less than bucket-list worthy. Thailand is well-connected via budget airlines and boasts an extensive train network that can take you from one point of interest to the next quickly and effectively. So, if you are searching for a great tropical destination for your next vacation, we’d suggest you check out the places to visit in Thailand.

Thailand's attractions are diverse, and each provides a rewarding and memorable experience in its own way. Whether you want to experience the islands in Thailand with their world-class beaches or the mountains towards the North, the rich wildlife and national parks, the bustling and energetic cities or simply some of the best street food in the world, Thailand offers something for everyone. Who knows, any one of these attractive tourist spots might become the venue for your Thailand destination wedding ! Explore the rich heritage and culture, full moon parties, exotic beaches, enticing floating markets, and more at this unpredictable place called Thailand.

Places to Visit in Thailand

Here are some of the most popular and exciting tourist places in Thailand that you must include on your tour.

The capital city of Bangkok is counted among Thailand’s famous places to visit. It is a fast, buzzing city of over eight million people, known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life, and as the gateway to the country's best temples and palaces. Bangkok is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for first-timers.

For most people who visit Thailand, Bangkok is shopping heaven with several shopping centres, floating markets, über-luxurious Siam Paragon and travel-inspired Terminal21. You can also explore the Lumpini Park, located in the heart of the city, and the many canals networking throughout the neighbourhoods and the vibrant Chao Phraya River.

2. The Grand Palace

Located in Bangkok, one of the best Thailand tourist attractions is The Grand Palace boasting its historical significance and beautiful craftsmanship. Adorned with beautiful architecture and intricate details, the 150-year old Palace is an elegant and spectacular tourist place that is also the home to Thai King and serves as the Royal Court and the administrative seat of government. The walls of the Palace depict Thai war ministry and state departments making it one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

3. Ayutthaya

Another one of the popular Thailand tourist places is Ayutthaya, which was the capital of Thailand for 417 years. It consists of stunning structures dating back to centuries and ruins of the second capital of Siam as well as numerous marvels of art and architecture. This place is among the best Thailand tourist spots for people who are keen on learning about the country’s glorious past. Ayutthaya has also been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.

4. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a great Thailand tourist spot for tourists looking to see a different side of the country. It provides a peek into a city of ancient constructions, thick tropical rainforests, and hill trekking that are sure to take you by surprise. Chiang Mai is also home to more active Buddhist temples than any other city in Thailand, which brings it among the most visited Thailand tourist places.

You can give your taste buds an exciting surprise with the plethora of street dishes here, such as pad Thai, chicken satay, samosas, fried bananas, sweet roti and fresh fruit shakes, all available at dirt-cheap prices. You will also find hundreds of stalls selling an array of unique goods such as all-natural soaps, hand-dyed textiles bearing the unique patterns of local hill tribes, incense and essential oils, musical instruments, paintings, walls hangings and much more.

On the west coast is located one of the best places to visit in Thailand. Phuket is home to some of the country’s most famous beaches and is a popular destination among travellers from all over the world for a beach vacation. Enjoy the quiet scenery, crystal clear waters as well as the shade of palm trees while you soak in the sun in Phuket. There is also a 45-meter-tall Big Buddha tower located on the island. Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket and home to a stupa said to hold a bone fragment of Buddha, making its name count among the famous places in Thailand.

Krabi is another one of the best points of interest in Thailand for tourists. Composed of over 200 islands, The Krabi province consists of a significant amount of land designated as national parks. It is home to wonderful beaches, with its coast characterised by vertical steep limestone cliffs that are very popular with climbers. Phi Phi islands, a popular Thailand sightseeing destination in Krabi, offer coral-fringed waters and the best snorkelling experience in Thailand.

7. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is the second-largest island of Thailand, and among the top places to see in Thailand. The island’s main source of revenue is coconut and rubber exports along with the ever-growing tourist trades. However, it was not always such a popular point of interest in Thailand. Fifty years back, even getting to the centre of the island involved arduous treks through the middle of a thick jungle. Today, tourists flock in large numbers to this island to experience surreal Thailand.

8. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a city in Thailand, most famous for its stunning mountainous regions that offer breathtaking trekking trails near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. The city is also home to numerous temples, tribal villages along the Mekong river and other historical and cultural attractions. It is among the most beautiful places in Thailand and a part of the Golden Triangle and was once a hub for the opium trade. Delicious and inexpensive local Thai food is a great find in this city.

One of the most popular places to visit in Thailand after Bangkok is Pattaya, less than two hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once a quiet fishing town, Pattaya has now transformed into a magnificent tourist destination with travellers flocking there from all over the world. You will find colourful food stalls, beach umbrellas, and stunning beach resorts everywhere you see. Other things to do here include visiting the Wat Phra Yai Temple, also known as the Big Buddha Hill because of the 18-meter-tall golden Buddha overlooking the entire town, and Siam Pattaya, an outdoor park where you can explore miniature replicas of world-famous monuments, such as the Statue of Liberty, Angkor Wat, and the Bridge over the River Kwai.

10. Floating markets

Floating markets are the best way to get and Thai experience and are very popular in Thailand. These markets proudly showcase how people used to shop in the old times, with villagers dressed up in their traditional dresses and hats. They sell fresh produce, such as fruits, herbs, incense, flowers, etc. in small boats. You will also find local craftsmen making handicrafts. Get a Thai massage, enjoy herbal tea or get a picture clicked while wearing a traditional Thai dress.

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Since Thailand experiences varied climatic conditions throughout the country, one or the other region remains accessible for travellers all year round. The best time to go to Thailand is during the months of November till early April. The weather is cool and dry during these months with temperatures ranging between 29°C to 34°C, which is perfect to enjoy the Thailand holiday destinations. The heavy pours come to a pause during these months and allow for an outing at the beach or for checking out the numerous heritage and other places to go in Thailand.

April onwards the heat gets the best of you and come June it is rainy season once again. In the southern parts of Thailand, the climate differs between the eastern and western coasts with the west coast being more favourable in winters for diving and snorkelling, and the east coast attracting low rainfall and high footfall of tourists.

Be it the scrumptious local delicacies, fascinating culture, lively celebrations or the stunning natural beauty that draws you to Thailand, this country captivates like none other. While it’s famous for the lush landscapes and exciting beach life, there is nothing here that wouldn’t surprise you. Plan a trip to Thailand with Veena World’s range of Thailand tour packages and experience the beauty of the Land of Smiles.

We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings.

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Welcome to 5-Minute Travel Tips with Neil Patil, your friendly and caring companion for all things travel! Hosted by the seasoned traveller and https://www.veenaworld.com/'s co-founder https://www.instagram.com/patilneil/, this bite-sized podcast shares https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilpatil1612/'s travel experiences and the best tips, hacks, and insights he's gathered over the years. Whether listeners are frequent flyers or just planning their first adventure, https://www.facebook.com/neil1612 aims to make their trips smoother, more enjoyable, and truly unforgettable. Every Thursday, https://twitter.com/ineilpatil brings a new episode packed with practical advice, from smart packing and finding the best flight deals to discovering hidden gems and ensuring travel safety and comfort. Each 5-minute episode is designed to give listeners useful tips that they can apply right away to enhance their travel experiences. This Podcast is brought to you by https://www.veenaworld.com/ 5-Minute Travel Tips with Neil Patil is here to help listeners become smarter and savvier travellers. Subscribe now and become smart traveller one destination at a time!

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'आपला महाराष्ट्र' ही पॉडकास्ट मालिका म्हणजे महाराष्ट्राची झलकच. गौरवशाली इतिहास , वैविध्यपूर्ण परंपरा आणि आकर्षक भूगोल लाभलेल्या महाराष्ट्राची ओळख करून देण्यासाठीच वीणा वर्ल्डने ही मालिका सुरू केली आहे. या मालिकेतून महाराष्ट्राच्या रोमांचक इतिहासाचे साक्षीदार असलेल्या गड - किल्ल्यांचा थोडक्यात परिचय करुन दिला जाईल. मग दर गुरुवारी न चुकता ऐका ' आपला महाराष्ट्र ' आणि तुमच्या भटकंतीला द्या नवीन दिशा. Looking to explore the wonders of Maharashtra, India? Tune in to 'Aapla Maharashtra', a podcast series that takes you on a journey through the state's rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking geography. Join us every Thursday for a new episode and discover the many forts that bear witness to Maharashtra's majestic past. Take your travel experience to the next level with 'Aapla Maharashtra'.

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‘Exchange a coin and you make no difference but exchange a thought and you can change the world.’ Hi! I’m Veena Patil... Fortunate enough to have answered my calling some 35 years ago and content enough to be in this business of delivering happiness almost all my life. Tourism indeed moulds you into a minimalist... Memories are probably our only possession. And memories are all about sharing experiences, ideas and thoughts. Life is simple, but it becomes easy when we share. Places and people are two things that interest me the most. While places have taken care of themselves, here’s my podcast, which I consider to be a great platform, through which I can share some interesting stories I live and love on a daily basis with all you wonderful people out there. I hope you enjoy the journey... Let’s go, celebrate life!

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Phuket Island

Written by Karen Hastings & Casey Hynes Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

1. Catch Some Rays at Patong Beach

2. walk the golden sands of kata beach, 3. swim at karon beach, 4. green elephant sanctuary park, 5. discover the past at phuket town, 6. experience island boat tours, 7. go diving & snorkeling, 8. visit phuket big buddha, 9. visit the authentic rawai village and nai harn beach, 10. hike up to karon viewpoint (three beaches hill), 11. wat chalong, 12. gibbon rehabilitation center & bang pae waterfall, 13. spend a couple of hours at the phuket 3d museum, 14. enjoy nature at sirinat national park, 15. wat phra thong at thalang, 16. shop for food and souvenirs at phuket's markets, where to stay on phuket island for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to phuket, 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. The nine-hour, guided Phang Nga Bay Day Trip from Phuket includes a visit to the distinctive "James Bond Rocks," and the eight-hour Phuket to Phi Phi Islands Tour takes you to Koh Phi Phi and the famous Maya Bay beach from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach . An expert guide, transportation, food, and refreshments are all included.

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 like the Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha could be a great option. This five-hour tour 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. The last stop on the tour is the Big Buddha, where you'll have 45 minutes to enjoy the views and explore the surroundings.

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.

If you're visiting Phuket Island for the first time and want to stay in the heart of the action, popular Patong Beach is a great location, near the buzz of Bangla Road, with its shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. If you prefer a more peaceful location but with easy access to all the attractions, the beaches north of Patong are the best place to stay. Here are some highly rated hotels in these locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• About 43 minutes' drive north of Patong Beach, the serene Trisara Phuket is the ultimate Thai tropical escape, with temple-style villas fronting an idyllic, palm-studded stretch of beach.
• A little closer to Patong Beach (20 minutes by car), and only a three-minute walk to beautiful Surin Beach, The Chava Resort is great for families. Its spacious apartments come with fully equipped kitchens and private plunge pools.
• A more affordable luxury option is the sprawling Amari Phuket , on a lush hillside near Patong Beach, with well-appointed villas and gorgeous ocean views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Stunning Andaman sea views and a beachside location make the Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa an excellent value for the money. Well-appointed rooms, two swimming pools, and a kids' club offer plenty of options for all visitors.
• If you like the amenities of a big resort, the beachfront Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort , a 30-minute drive north of Patong Beach, includes access to day spas, an 18-hole golf course, and signing privileges at more than 30 restaurants in the surrounding Laguna Destination Resort.
• Closer to the busy tourist strip, the contemporary BYD Lofts Boutique Hotel and Serviced Apartments , with a rooftop pool, has suites for longer stays and lies within walking distance of Patong Beach and Bangla Road.

Budget Hotels:

• Steps away from Bangla Road, near Patong Beach, Summer Breeze Inn Hotel is a home away from home.
• Tatum Mansion with large, clean rooms, is another popular budget option, only a two-minute stroll from Patong Beach.
• With a rooftop pool, Patong Princess Hotel offers great value. Its spacious air-conditioned rooms lie about a five-minute walk from Patong Beach.

One of the most popular things to do while visiting Phuket is explore some of the beautiful surrounding islands on an organized tour.

• Phang Nga Bay : See some of the stunning limestone karsts rising from the jade-green sea on this small-group, guided Phang Nga Bay and Beyond tour. Along the way, you'll stop at "James Bond Island," paddle through tranquil lagoons on a canoe, explore limestone caves, and have time to relax and swim at a peaceful beach. A Thai lunch near Koh Yao Yai Pier is included.

More on Thailand

Four Must-See Locations and Tourist Attractions in Thailand for Expats

Last Updated on December 15, 2023

There is an abundance of wonderful things to do and see in Thailand, which is one reason why so many expats end up moving there each year.

If you are planning on moving to Thailand, here are just four must-see locations and tourist attractions that you should definitely not miss.

Bustling Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, mixes history and modernity. The city is a melting pot of ornate shrines and towering skyscrapers. There are a multitude of things to do and see in Bangkok, such as visiting the Grand Palace, which is an exquisite complex that once served as the royal residence.

Within it, you can explore Wat Phra Kaew. This temple houses the Emerald Buddha, which is one of Thailand’s most revered religious icons.

Once you have taken in cultural and historical attractions, you can unwind at some of Bangkok’s vibrant night markets, such as Chatuchak Weekend Market. They offer a burst of local flavors and novel shopping finds.

Just make sure you stay alert and savvy, as it is not unknown for tourists to be victims of scams in Bangkok .

2. Ayutthaya

You should definitely consider a trip to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya . The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 14th century. Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to magnificent temples like Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, which trace their origin back to the old Siamese kingdom.

A boat ride along the Chao Phraya River will also offer you picturesque views of this historical city. Cycling through the park is another popular option that gives you a more intimate experience with the ruins and monuments of the area.

3 . Chiang Mai

If lush mountains and tranquil temples are what you seek, look no further than Chiang Mai. Nestled among high ranges, this city provides a refreshing break from Thailand’s southern humidity. Displaying an array of well-preserved Lanna architecture, the Old City here stands proud with over 30 temples dotted around its vicinity, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.

In addition to architectural marvels, do not miss out on the opportunity to visit an elephant sanctuary or attend a traditional Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai.

4. Koh Phi Phi

For a slice of paradise, visit Koh Phi Phi. Renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches, this island group in southern Thailand will take your breath away.

You can even visit Maya Bay, which was featured in the famous movie The Beach.

And if you are adventurous, you can indulge in a range of activities like snorkeling or diving and discover vibrant coral reefs that are teeming with marine life.

Key Things to Know About Moving to Thailand

If you have not yet made the move to Thailand, there are a number of things you should research before you begin making plans. For instance:

Familiarize yourself with the visa processes. There are different options available, such as retirement visas and business visas.

Make sure you understand health insurance in Thailand as an expat. Having the relevant insurance will be crucial for your well-being.

Start learning Thai early on. The better your language skills, the easier your life will be when you make the move to Thailand.

Thailand’s climate can vary greatly from scorching summers to heavy monsoons. So, understand the regions and their respective weather conditions before deciding where to settle.

When you do move to Thailand, make the effort to socialize with locals as well as other expats. Locals can offer insights, support, and friendship in your new journey into this beautiful country.

More Places to Visit in Thailand

Once you are settled in Thailand, you should definitely visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Koh Phi Phi.

But there are plenty of other must-see locations and tourist attractions in the country, so make sure you research what is on offer in Thailand.

For instance, you could visit other sites like Sukhothai Old City, the floating markets near Bangkok, or the stunning waterfalls at Erawan National Park.

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