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Best places to visit in thailand.

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

Railay Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14 Day Tour of Thailand & Laos

Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train

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

Starts at: Bangkok

Ends at: Bangkok

Duration: 14 days

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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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.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Places To Visit in Thailand

Here are the top 54 tourist places & attractions in thailand.

1 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 129 Tourist attractions

A city that never sleeps, Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is a modern-day melting pot of contrasting cultures and faiths. Here, towering skyscrapers stand in harmony next to temples and monasteries. The luxury malls and shopping centres compete with the street bazaars and floating markets. Cuisines...

Best Time: Late November to Mid Jaunary

2 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 124 Tourist attractions

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket has everything the country offers. It is located in southern Thailand, on the Andaman Sea coastline. Serviced by the Phuket International Airport, the island sees no shortage of travelers at any time of the year. Golden beaches, numerous offshore islands, ...

Best Time: November to February

3. Chiang Mai

3 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 139 Tourist attractions

Formerly the seat of the Lanna Kingdom and regarded as the northern capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai is entirely opposite to what first-timers to Thailand expect it to be. Unlike its southern counterparts, Chiang Mai is known for its laid-back vibes, numerous temples and monasteries, crowded local ma...

Best Time: November - February

4. Phi Phi Islands

4 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 24 Tourist attractions

The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands located in Thailand's Andaman Sea. They are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Only 40 km from Phuket, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are the two most famous islands of the six. With their pristine waters and vibrant parti...

Best Time: Throughout the year

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5 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 42 Tourist attractions

One of the oldest provinces in Thailand, Krabi is home to the traditional yet the modern, the touristy, and the local flavor. A coastal destination often visited with Phuket, Krabi is home to beautiful beaches, islands, and limestone formations. It is also home to more than 150 islands along its 150...

Best Time: November to April

6. Ayutthaya

6 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 58 Tourist attractions

Ayutthaya, short for Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is a small city in Thailand containing archaeological sites like temples, monasteries, palaces, etc. It lies just 80 kilometres north of Bangkok and is an ideal destination for a day trip from Bangkok. Often referred to as Krung Kao or 'ancient capital'...

7 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 25 Tourist attractions

Koh Tao is an island in the Chumphon Archipelago group of islands in the southeastern part of Thailand. It is largely popular for scuba diving and snorkelling as it has some of the best and cheapest diving spots in the world. The island is also known for its pristine white sand beaches, lantern...

Best Time: December to September

8 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 33 Tourist attractions

The original beach resort city of Thailand, Hua Hin, is a renowned destination among both locals and tourists alike. Located a little over three hours away by road to the south of Bangkok, the city is also serviced by Hua Hin airport. Once known as the beach getaway for Thai royals because of their ...

9 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 54 Tourist attractions

Pattaya is a coastal city in the Gulf of Thailand, located 150km southeast of Bangkok, a two-hour drive away. The beaches and islands in Pattaya offer a wide variety of watersports, snorkelling options, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, making it ideal for families, friends and couples. Th...

Best Time: November to June

10. Koh Phangan

10 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 30 Tourist attractions

Koh Phangan, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is famous for its serene beaches and electrifying Full Moon Parties. Located between the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, it is easily accessible from the mainland at Surat Thani via ferry or boat. Boats and ferries are also available from Koh Samui and...

Best Time: June to September, December to February

Best tourist destinations in Thailand

Beaches in Thailand

Scuba Diving Spots in Thailand

Waterfalls in Thailand

Night Markets in Thailand

Places to Visit in Thailand with Family

National Parks in Thailand

11. Koh Samui

11 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 55 Tourist attractions

The second-largest island of Thailand after Phuket, Ko Samui is a gem of an island in the Koh Samui (or Samui) Archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a part of the Surat Thani province and located 35km from Surat Thani. Once a hidden secret of only persevering travelers, Samui Island has transfo...

Best Time: December to May

12. Chiang Rai

12 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 18 Tourist attractions

Chiang Rai is a mountainous city in northern Thailand, near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. It has many ancient temples and tribal villages along the Mekong River. Chiang Rai is part of the Golden Triangle of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar and is an excellent base for exploring this region. The s...

13. Khao Yai National Park

13 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 6 Tourist attractions

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's oldest and most visited national park established in 1962. It covers more than 2,100 square kilometers. The park boasts a lush green landscape, rugged mountains with thick forests, marvellous waterfalls, exotic species of birds and a...

14. Kanchanaburi

14 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 20 Tourist attractions

Blessed with ancient rainforests, waterfalls and limestone caves, Kanchanaburi is a popular resort town located at the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers in western Thailand. Regarded as Thailand's microcosm, Kanchanaburi and its surrounding region boast stylish resorts, scenic reservo...

15. Koh Lipe

15 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 17 Tourist attractions

Koh Lipe is one of the islands of the Tarutao Marine National Park. Initially, this island was predominantly settled by the Chao Ley or the sea gipsies who live in small villages here. Tourism has increased in Koh Lipe since the 1990s and hasn't seen a pause ever since. The vast coral reefs and gorg...

Best Time: November to March

16. Khao Sok National Park

16 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Khao Sok National Park is located in the Phanom district of Thailand, on the mainland between Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi, and Koh Samui. Falling under the Surat Thani province of Thailand, it is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Rich and diverse in flora and fauna, the park is one of the best...

Best Time: June to September

17 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 4 Tourist attractions

Trang is a city in Southern Thailand known for its food and culture. It shares the same traditional heritage as the nearby cities of Krabi and Phuket. It is not crowded, but still a very lively city with many natural attractions surrounding it. Most people use Trang just as a transit destination to ...

18. Surat Thani

18 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 12 Tourist attractions

Not a go-to destination in itself, Surat Thani provides a base point from which travellers meander to its neighbouring provinces and regions in Thailand. Once the seat of the Srivijaya empire, Surat Thani today is an important trade and transport hub. A typical suburban town in the country, Surat Th...

Best Time: November to January

19. Koh Lanta

19 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 14 Tourist attractions

Koh Lanta Island is renowned for being the lesser-known paradise in the Andaman Sea between the Phi Phi Islands and the western coast of Thailand. It is a cluster of 52 islands, and most of them are uninhabited as well as away from the clutches of commercialization. This allows visitors to ...

Best Time: November-February

20 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 3 Tourist attractions

Railay Beach, nestled on the Andaman coast of Thailand, is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs and pristine beaches. Accessible just by boat, this secluded paradise of limestone crags is a beautiful destination for a laid-back rest during your Thailand holiday. An absolute best for ...

Best Tourist Attractions in Thailand

Khao San Road

Grand Palace

Chatuchak Market

Tiffany's Cabaret Show

Tiger's Cave Temple

Ao Nang Beach

Phuket Weekend Night Market

Patong Beach

Ang Thong Marine National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

21. Sukhothai

21 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 4 Tourist attractions

Sukhothai is home to approximately 190 ancient sites and temple ruins. It is known to mark the beginning of the Thai civilisation. Most of the monuments and ruins are restored at the Sukhothai Historical Park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

22 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Surin, a city known for its sericulture and elephants, is now aspiring to become a global tourist centre. Visitors often drop in for 1-2 days from November to March since this city does not have too many things to do, and is often left quiet for the rest of the year. However, with the influx of tour...

23. Ao Nang

23 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 10 Tourist attractions

A town of multi-views, Ao Nang is one of the rapidly growing tourist centres in Krabi, Thailand. Located in South of Krabi, this destination is known for its long-tail boat tours and limestone islands. Despite the lack of popularity of this town, it still has the potential to be one of the leading t...

Best Time: October-December

24. Koh Chang

24 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 10 Tourist attractions

Koh Chang is one of the most beautiful islands of Thailand with pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving. There are also some breath taking mountains and jungles where hiking is very popular. All in all, Koh Chang is an idyllic destination for a backpacke...

25. Koh Kood

25 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 2 Tourist attractions

Koh Kood, commonly spelt as Koh Kut, is one of the few islands in Thailand that is not overrun by tourists and is increasingly becoming popular among people looking for a peaceful getaway to beautiful islands. Housing a population of fewer than 2000 people, this island stands to be the sixth-largest...

26. Khao Lak

26 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 26 Tourist attractions

Khao Lak is a string of villages which lie on the west coast of Thailand. Once a quiet and relatively untouched region of the country, these villages are fast becoming a hotspot for adventure sports and beachside vacations for Thai locals and tourists alike. The best way to reach Khao Lak is via roa...

27 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 18 Tourist attractions

Located between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai, this beautiful little town of Pai is surrounded by mountains everywhere, and is a dream destination for a traveller. The alluring river Pai flows across this town which makes rafting a popular sport here. Besides that, trekking and hiking are other advent...

28. Phetchaburi

28 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 3 Tourist attractions

Dating back to the 8th century, Phetchaburi is a small town in southern Thailand, around 130km from Bangkok. Known to have the oldest settlements in Thailand, it is situated on River Phet and is home to some beautiful temples, beaches, and the famous Royal Palace. Phetchaburi is more of a worki...

29. Nong Khai

29 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 4 Tourist attractions

Lying on the southern bank of the Mekong River in Northeast Thailand, Nong Khai is a lively town just 20 minutes from Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The entire city is filled with images of the Naga, the giant serpent of the Mekong. There are several waterfalls, riverside villages, forest temples, ...

30. Sangkhlaburi

30 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 4 Tourist attractions

Sangkhlaburi is a high-altitude city at the end of Thailand, just 25 kilometers from the Burma border. It has the beautiful Vajiralongkorn Lake (Khao Laem), where most travelers take a boat ride, rest, and enjoy the day. Most of the city is covered by dense forests and limestone ranges. Sangkhlaburi...

31. Similan Islands

31 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Similan is an archipelago of 11 small islands located around 120 km from Phuket in the Andaman Sea. They are part of a protected National Park focusing on the conservation and protection of wildlife. These are one of Thailand's most stunning places, with splendidly picturesque white sand beache...

32. Khao Laem National Park

32 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Khao Laem National Park is located in the northwest Kanchanaburi province, along Highway 323, near Bangkok in Thailand. Spread over 1500 kilometers, it is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and was made to honor the 60th anniversary of King Bhumipol Adulyadej on December 5, 1987. The epit...

33. Ubon Ratchathani

33 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Ubon Ratchathani is a small city in Thailand. It languishes on the banks of the Mun river and stands for the royal lotus city. Rooted in Buddhist culture, Ubon has a number of Buddhist monasteries and temples with evident Lao influence. Despite of being  a small city, it is quite developed...

Best Time: November- March

34. Chanthaburi

34 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 18 Tourist attractions

Chanthaburi is a laid-back town in eastern Thailand, situated on the banks of the Chanthaburi river. Officially the capital of its namesake province, this town and its surrounding regions are primarily known for its rich history, wonderful countryside culture, relaxed vibe, scenic waterfalls, forest...

35. Koh Samet

35 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 23 Tourist attractions

Located about 168 kms from Bangkok and 74 Kms from Pattaya to the south, Koh Samet is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. This slender island, known for its pristine blue waters, colourful coral reefs, marine life and several powdery white beaches, was once a backpackers haven b...

36. Lopburi

36 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand 9 Tourist attractions

Lopburi is one of the oldest cities in Thailand, located around 150 kilometres from Bangkok city which takes around 2.5 hours. It is a city which houses historic ruins and artifacts which play a major role in Thailand's culture. It is famous for monkeys, architectural remains of Khmer empire, rock c...

37. Ang Thong National Marine Park

37 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected archipelago of 42 islands and an exotic tropical paradise situated in the Gulf of Thailand. With unusually spectacular scenery, the Marine Park features limestone mountains, thick jungles, white-sand beaches, waterfalls, surreal lakes, unexplored caves, ...

Best Time: February to October

38. Nakhon Ratchasima

38 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Khorat or Korat, is the capital city of the province of the same name and is one of the most modern cities in the northeast region of Thailand. It is also among the best connected of the 'Big Four of Isaan' - the other three being  Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, ...

Best Time: December to February

39. Mae Sot

39 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Languishing in the westernmost corner of Thailand, sharing a border with Myanmar, Mae Sot in Tak province is the trading hub of Thailand. The city, renowned for its indigenous pottery culture, is one of Thailand's most culturally diverse cities. One can expect to find an eclectic range of stree...

Best Time: February to April

40. Koh Si Chang

40 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

Ko Si Chang is a district and a magical island in Chonburi Province close to Bangkok in Thailand. Not to be confused with the bigger Koh Chang island in Trat Province, it is centered in the Gulf of Thailand, 12 kilometers off the shore of Si Racha District. Being a fishing village, Ko...

Best Time: December to March

41. Koh Nang Yuan

41 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

The picturesque island of Koh Nang Yuan is a group of three tiny landforms connected to each other by stretches of blinding white sand. It is located in the Gulf of Thailand towards Northwest of Koh Tao just 15 minutes away. The island is full of greenery and is surrounded by turquoise blue waters. ...

Best Time: December to August

42. Koh Yao Noi

42 out of 54 Places to visit in Thailand

The tranquil island of Koh Yao Noi is the sister island of Koh Yao Yai located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, west of Phuket. It is an ideal getaway for the traveller who seeks solitude under sun and sand. Far from maddening crowds, Koh Yao Noi is your place to relax and rejuvenate without any fuss...

Best Time: January-April

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FAQs on Thailand

What is the currency of thailand, what is unique about culture of thailand, how is thailand divided into regions.

• Northern Thailand  -   This consists of the areas like Chiang Mai, Golden Triangle and the hill tribes. This region does not have beaches and is more cultural than the southern parts.
• Central Thailand  - The capital city of Bangkok, the lowlands and historical areas of Thailand are a part of the central region.
• Isaan - Also known as the great northeastern region, this area is perfect for the adventure enthusiasts with backcountry Thailand, the magnificent Khmer ruins and mouth-watering delicacies.
• Eastern Thailand  - This area is comprised of beaches and islands which are within easy reach of Bangkok like Koh Samet and Koh Chang. Pattaya, with its infamous walking street, belongs here.
• Southern Thailand  - The southern part of Thailand is characterised by lush rainforests, pristine coastlines and numerous islands. The famous beach spots like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and Koh Tao fall in this region.

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17 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Thailand

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Jan 19, 2024

Thailand is a travel destination that truly has it all. Basking on the palm-lined beaches in Krabi, climbing stupas in Chiang Mai, and eating sizzling street food in Bangkok are just some of the things that make this a bucket list destination.

But before you become overwhelmed with how much Thailand has to see and do, rest assured that the entire country is well-connected via trains and budget airlines. It even has efficient taxis and car services that can take you long distances for a fraction of the prices that it would be in North America or Europe.

If you're researching destinations and things to do on your next tropical vacation, check out our list of the best places to visit in Thailand.

2. Chiang Mai

3. ayutthaya, 4. koh samui, 7. kanchanaburi, 8. sukhothai, 9. chiang rai, 10. kao sam roi yot national park, 11. hua hin, 12. pattaya, 13. khao yai national park, 15. mae sariang, 16. koh lanta, 17. koh tao.

Thailand's capital is a fast, buzzing city of more than eight million people. Known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life , Bangkok is also a great gateway to the country's best temples and palaces. And while it's easy to forget when walking among Bangkok's skyscrapers, the city's heart is on the water-the many canals networking throughout the neighborhoods and the vibrant Chao Phraya River, which you can tour on a long-tail boat cruise.

Gazing up and down at the skyscrapers that line the Chao Phraya River, with the long-tail boats and water taxis sputtering across, is an unforgettable sight. In fact, it's that first view of the river that will really make you feel like you have arrived in Bangkok. Many of the city's most important historical sites can be found near the river, too, from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho to Charoen Krung Road and Khaosan Road .

For those in a shopping mood, Bangkok is home to many shopping centers, including the über-luxurious Siam Paragon and travel-inspired Terminal21, as well as a number of traditional floating markets . For a more unique experience, nothing can beat Chatuchak Market - one of the largest outdoor markets in the world and a labyrinth of over 8000 stalls (be prepared for the inevitable experience of getting lost there), Chatuchak has it all and sells it at local prices.

At the top of the things to do in Bangkok is the Grand Palace , a complex of buildings that include Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the Royal Reception Halls, and Wat Pho, which houses a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. Across the Chao Phraya River, you'll find Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, which is another stunning structure.

Lumpini Park , located in the heart of the city, extends like a green oasis in the concrete jungle that is Bangkok. Often missed by visitors, the park is a great place to see local life-from seniors practicing Thai Chi near the lake (where you can rent boats to paddle away the afternoon) to massive water monitor lizards.

The best street food in Thailand can be found in Bangkok, as well. Stroll down any side street and you're sure to find vendors dishing out delicious local delicacies. Areas like Khaosan Road and Chinatown are great places to start.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Shrouded in misty, jungly mountains , Chiang Mai is one of the best destinations in Thailand for travelers looking to see a different side of the country: a city of ancient constructions, thick tropical rainforests, hill trekking, laid-back local energy, and surrounding natural beauty.

A good way to see the wild side of Chiang Mai is to head out to Doi Inthanon National Park , which is part of the Himalayan mountain range and home to remote villages and stunning viewpoints.

Chiang Mai is home to more active Buddhist temples than any other city in Thailand, including the famous Doi Suthep (a favorite viewpoint with impressive views over downtown), Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Just outside of the city, you'll also find a number of hill tribes, including the Meo Hill tribe and the Karen tribe. Organized tours can take you there to learn more about their history and lifestyle and to buy handicrafts tribe members sell to sustain themselves.

While in town, take a walk down San Kamphaeng Road, a 10-kilometer-long road where local crafters congregate to sell everything from celadon pottery and lacquerware to silk products.

Chiang Mai's historic Old City is bordered by channels that are the remains of a moat, and sections of the old city wall can be seen around its perimeter. Within the Old City are some of Chiang Mai's oldest temples, the coolest restaurants, and the best hotels. Near the Old City is also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, home to dozens of shopping and food stalls.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai
• From Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Best Ways to Get There

Located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya was once Thailand's capital — back in the 14 th century, when the kingdom of Siam was at its strongest. For people who love ancient history, Ayutthaya is an absolute must because you can walk among the temples which really feels like you are stepping back in time.

Today, the ruins of the kingdom can be toured while walking the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO site. Home to many prang (reliquary towers), wat, and stucco statues, the park is surrounded by three rivers and deep moats and covers an area of 289 hectares.

Wat Phra Mahathat is perhaps the most famous temple here thanks to a statue of a Buddha's head entwined in tree roots. Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest of the temples in the park, features three large silver-looking Chedis, while Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is best known for its giant reclining Buddha and the hundreds of sitting Buddha statues surrounding the temple, all draped in golden cloth.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ayutthaya
• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There

Home to some of the best palm-fringed beaches in Thailand and plenty of luxury resorts, Koh Samui has a lot more to offer than sunbathing heaven.

One of the most popular holiday spots in Thailand, Koh Samui is home to mountainous rainforests, postcard-worthy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. There are also plenty of spas and temples to discover here, including the famous Wat Phra Yai and its 12-meter-tall Big Buddha.

Koh Samui's neighboring archipelagos also have much to offer and are just a quick ferry ride away. Koh Tao , a smaller island right off the coast of Koh Samui, is one of the prime scuba diving destinations in Thailand. Ang Thong National Marine Park (which extends over 42 islands in the area) is a protected area, home to many exotic animal species, and a perfect destination for trekking through the thick Thai jungle.

Tip: Don't miss Maenam Beach on Koh Samui. This quiet area along the north coast has a few beachfront restaurants and shops and is much quieter compared to the other towns on Koh Samui closer to the luxury hotels.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Koh Samui
• From Bangkok to Koh Samui: Best Ways to Get There

Situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is home to some of the country's most visited beaches and is a popular destination for a beach vacation. Travelers can go to Kata Noi beach for quiet scenery, to Nai Harn Beach to find crystal-clear waters under the shade of palm trees, and to Surin Beach if they're looking for luxury resorts and high-end cuisine overlooking the sea.

The spiritual side of Phuket can be found at the top of Nakkerd Hill , where the 45-meter-tall Big Buddha towers over the island. Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket and home to a stupa said to hold a bone fragment of Buddha.

Phuket Town is worth exploring on foot to discover the Sino-Portuguese buildings that line up Thaland Road and the old shophouses converted into thriving businesses and markets.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island
• From Bangkok to Phuket: Best Ways to Get There

Over 200 islands make up Krabi province, with a significant amount of land now designated as national parks. The region is home to some of the best beaches in Asia . Krabi's coast is also rugged, characterized by vertical steep limestone cliffs that are very popular with climbers. Stunning Railay Beach , in particular, attracts climbers from all over the world, though it's also famous for its caves.

If you're trying to plan out your trip here, plan on a boat ride to the stunning Phi Phi Islands , followed by visits to the mainland destinations of Ao Nang and Klong Muang, plus islands like Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lanta. Each destination in Krabi is tropical and sunny with fabulous beaches but has its own distinct vibe.

The Phi Phi Islands are surrounded by limestone rocks and offer coral-fringed waters and some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. Sailing, kayaking, and bird-watching are popular here. Visitors looking for some land activities can head inland to explore Thung Teao Forest Natural Park , a mostly virgin rainforest with warm-water natural pools and lush rainforests alive with exotic fauna.

• Top-Rated Beaches in Krabi
• From Bangkok to Krabi: Best Ways to Get There

Kanchanaburi is best known for its dark connection to WWII, especially the construction of the bridge over the River Kwai. Infamous for being part of the "Death Railway," the bridge was part of the line meant to connect Thailand with Burma (Myanmar), and it was built using forced labor provided by Allied prisoners of war.

Over 16,000 POWs died during the construction of the railway, including many British soldiers. The Royal Air Force bombed and damaged the bridge extensively during the war-but it was quickly rebuilt and still stands today. Most of the railway line, however, was eventually abandoned or not finished.

Nowadays, it's possible to walk across the bridge on narrow side platforms or take a short train from one side to the other. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery nearby is the final resting place of the many prisoners of war who died here, while the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre recounts the story of the railway construction and the men who lost their lives for it, using interactive displays and video exhibits.

Two themed museums-the World War II Museum & Art Gallery and the JEATH War Museum -offer more insight into the times, with collections that cover everything from paintings to documents to WWII weapons.

For those with some extra time to explore, Kanchanaburi also offers a lighter side in the form of stunning nature. About 90 minutes north of the bridge are the Erawan Falls , a seven-tier waterfall and emerald green ponds hidden in the thick rainforest.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kanchanaburi

Sukhothai Thani is a small town better known for being home to the Sukhothai Historical Park , a UNESCO site that houses the ruins of the 13 th -century Sukhothai Kingdom. Surrounded by ancient city walls, the park contains 193 ruins in total-a combination of 26 temples, a royal palace, and many stupas and examples of stucco statuary.

The most impressive temple on the grounds is Wat Mahathat , which features nine large stupas (the main one holding relics of the Buddha), a pillared pavilion, and two nine-meter-tall standing Buddha images. Two other ruins you can't miss are Noen Prasat , a former royal palace, and Wat Si Sawai , the oldest temple in the park. Wat Sa Si, located in the middle of a lake and accessible only through a wooden bridge, is one of the most photographed.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sukhothai

Sitting right on the border with Myanmar and Laos, the mountainous city of Chiang Rai is famous for its trekking in Lam Nam Kok National Park , with trails leading to stunning waterfalls such as the 70-meter-tall Khun Kon waterfall , lush forest, and hilltop tribe villages.

As with most Thai cities, temples are a huge attraction in Chiang Rai, with Wat Rong Khun (or White Temple) coming up at the top of the list. Wat Rong Khun is technically no longer a temple but a privately-owned compound redesigned and rebuilt by Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of Thailand's most famous contemporary visual artists. Another popular temple is Wat Tham Pla (also home to a cave and thousands of wild macaques), which can be reached by climbing a staircase flanked by the guardian Naga serpents.

Tiny Wat Phra Kaew , famous for once housing the Emerald Buddha until it was moved to the Grand Palace in Bangkok , and Doi Tang mountain -home to a botanical garden, a former royal residence, and a temple with fantastic views-are also worth a visit.

Khao Sam Roi Yot (which means "mountain of 300 peaks") national park is home to Thailand's largest freshwater marsh, as well as mangrove swamps, scenic beaches, limestone caves, and lots of tropical jungle trails.

There's too much to see and do here for a quick day trip, so plan on staying for a weekend at least if you want to tick several spots off your list. If an overnight stay is in the books, start at the northwest corner of the park, where Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh is located. You'll get to see many species of waterbirds, as well as a magnificent background of blueish mountains. A small campground and some bungalows are nearby if you need a place to stay for the night.

Pine-lined Sam Phraya Beach also has a basic campground plus a restaurant, while Laem Sala Beach is best known for being the access point to Phraya Nakhon , a massive cave with a royal pavilion built inside. Phraya Nakhon can only be reached after a steep, 30-minute uphill walk, but what awaits you inside is definitely worth it. Sai Cave also requires an arduous climb, but offers a viewpoint and a cool respite from the heat in a stalactite and bat-riddled cavern.

Khao Daeng Canal is another great way to explore the mangrove forests and get a closer look at the animals that call it home. You can hire a boat in the Khao Daeng village or ask near the park about finding a ride.

Once just a quiet town best known for being the king's summer retreat , Hua Hin has become a popular beach resort destination. Don't expect perfect turquoise waters or lively beach life here, though this is more of a destination for those visiting with family, or singles who want to sunbathe in peace, away from the crowds.

Overcrowding is definitely an issue on Hua Hin Beach, so you can try nearby Cham Am Beach or Khao Takiab beach , home to Khao Takiab temple and hundreds of wild macaques. Hua Hin is particularly popular in December and January, when European tourists arrive here to escape their own freezing winter.

Just a few kilometers outside the town towards neighboring Cha Am, you'll find the Thai-Victorian style Maruekhathaiyawan Palace , built completely out of teak wood and once the summer retreat of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). For adrenaline-charged water fun, try Black Mountain Water Park or visit The Venezia , a themed shopping center that even offers Gondola rides.

The Pranburi Mangrove Forest and Kaeng Drachan National Park are both within 1.5 hours from Hua Hin-they offer raised wooden boardwalks; waterfalls; and lots of wildlife, including wild elephants.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hua Hin

Once a quiet fishing village, Pattaya is now the closest beach getaway for Bangkokians, less than two hours away. While most visitors come here to escape the buzz of the Thai capital and soak up some sun, there's much more to do in this beachfront town.

Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) and Koh Samet beach are good places to start your visit-they're full of colorful food stalls, beach umbrellas, and stunning beach resorts. Koh Larn (Coral island) is famous for its glass-bottom boats that offer amazing views of the coral reefs, while Koh Larn Island is the prime destination for active pursuits such as parasailing and windsurfing.

For a quick sightseeing day trip from Pattaya, head to Chanthaburi Sapphire Mine -organized tours will give you a fascinating insight into the mining that's been going on in the area for centuries. Or visit Siam Pattaya , an outdoor park that holds miniature replicas of world-famous monuments, including the Statue of Liberty, Angkor Wat, and the Bridge over the River Kwai.

If you want to see at least one temple while you're here, Wat Phra Yai Temple is the one. Also known as Big Buddha Hill, this wat features an 18-meter-tall golden Buddha overlooking the entire town.

For a fun, relaxed afternoon, try some of Pattaya's museums, including Ripley's Believe It Or Not and the 3D museum , Art in Paradise.

• Read More: From Bangkok to Pattaya: Best Ways to Get There

Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's oldest national park and still one of the most popular because of its large population of wild elephants . Covering an area of just under 2,000 square kilometers, this breathtaking park is home to rainforests, mountains, and grasslands. This variety of terrain means an equally rich fauna, with gibbons, jackals, and even bears calling the park home. Haew Suwat Waterfall , famous for a scene in Leonardo DiCaprio's The Beach movie, can be accessed on foot when hiking the park.

Visitors can take to the trekking and biking trails here, or hire a park ranger to drive them to the usually inaccessible water holes where elephants congregate to drink.

Read More: Exploring Khao Yai National Park: A Visitor's Guide

One of the most popular destinations in the Mae Hong Son province near the border with Myanmar, the small town of Pai has become a favorite among those looking for the slow, more rural side of Thailand. Once known as just a backpacker's paradise, Pai is now attracting hikers and peace lovers as well - or just anybody wanting to explore the less-traveled roads of Thailand at least for a few days.

Pai is surrounded by densely covered hills rolling into green fields, majestic waterfalls, and hiking trails that seem to go on forever. It's all the beauty of the authentic Thai countryside dotted with signs of the western bohemian world - organic food and quirky cafés included. While Pai itself is small, the surroundings will keep you busy. There's the Pai Canyon and its heart-stopping trails to hike, the Tha Pai Hot Springs for a warm bath, and rice terraces as far as the eye can see. You can climb the 353 steps to Wat Phra That Mae Yen for stunning views over the valley, or take a day trip to the massive Tham Lod limestone cave system .

I visited Pai as part of the Mae Hong Son loop, a 600-kilometer mountain loop road that passes through several villages and towns along the way. The loop starts in Chiang Mai and most people who make the journey have Pai in mind as one of the top destinations.

While in Mae Hong Son province, a visit to Mae Sariang is definitely a good idea. Unlike Pai, which is a jam-packed tourist destination, Mae Sariang offers a glimpse into a more traditional and local way of life.

It's a crossroads of travelers on motorbikes completing the famous Mae Hong Son loop, so expect to find many affordable guesthouses and small restaurants. The town is also right next to the Salawin National Park, which is cut by the Salween River.

Surrounded by rolling mountains, Mae Sariang is one of the best places to visit in Thailand in order to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the north. Visit the Morning Market for a real look into daily life. Not far from the market is Wat Jong Soong, a centuries-old temple in town.

Krabi is a large province and is often favored for the Phi Phi Islands or the mainland beach town, Ao Nang. While both are fantastic beach destinations, Krabi is also home to Koh Lanta, a lesser-traveled island that is a hidden paradise of beaches, affordable resorts, and delicious food.

Not far from the Krabi mainland, Koh Lanta is easily accessed from Koh Phi Phi or Phuket by water. The other option is to fly into the Krabi airport and drive, as the island is connected by a bridge to the mainland. Still, once you're on the island, it feels like another world away.

The island is approximately 30 kilometers long and six kilometers wide, meaning it is easy to see the whole island in a day. You'll want to take your time, though, as it has many nooks and crannies to explore. Long Beach is the most famous beach here; it stretches for five kilometers. All along the shorefront are small resorts, bungalows, and charming restaurants. The water here is calm, crystal clear, and has endless views out to shadowy islands in the distance.

At the southern tip of Koh Lanta is part of the Koh Lanta National Park, which actually consists of several islands, though the largest is Koh Lanta. The laid-back island is popular among expats and low-key travelers looking to get a bit off the tourist trail, but still have access to many conveniences.

If you're visiting Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, it's only proper to round it out with Koh Tao. The third island in this archipelago, Koh Tao is by far the smallest but offers so much for travelers looking to kick back and relax.

This pint-sized island is small enough to explore in a day, but once you get there, you likely won't want to leave anytime soon. Koh Tao was put on the map for its unparalleled diving but has been growing in popularity among upscale travelers who are drawn to its burgeoning resort scene.

But by and large, what visitors are coming to Koh Tao for is diving, which is what gives this tiny island its monumental reputation. Submerged beneath the blue-green waters are dynamic reefs, shipwrecks, and mesmerizing rock formations. Wildlife is humming, with eagle rays, whale sharks, barracuda, snapper, grouper, blacktop reef sharks, and so much more.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Bangkok: The Thai capital of Bangkok is often the gateway to most destinations in Thailand. If you're landing here first and need tips on what to do while you're here, see our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok .

Exploring Phuket : For ideas on how to make the most of your holiday, check out what there is to see and do in the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island .

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• 48 Tourist Places In Thailand That You May Have Ignored Before

19 Feb 2024

Unpredictably lavish, yet largely wild – there’s a lot to discover in Thailand! With the best tourist places in Thailand , this land of smiles radiates a concoction of flavours through its culture and history, full moon parties, exotic beaches, enticing floating markets, and more. You can visit Thailand around the year since it is a tropical island. However, the months between November to April are when the travel season peaks at its highest. Thailand is the adventure and party capital of Asia. With plenty of tourist attractions to explore, live the island life that you always imagined and explore the stunning locations in Thailand.

48 Best Tourist Places In Thailand

Here’s a list of the best tourist places in Thailand that the traveller in you will yearn to explore. Scroll down to know what all awaits you in this charming land.

• Ayutthaya – Admire The Architecture
• Mu Ko Chang National Park – Explore The Flora & Fauna
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – The Shining Star In Thailand
• Koh Tao – For Peace & Tranquility
• Erawan National Park – Spot The Macaques
• Bangkok – Find Beauty In The Chaos
• Khao Yai National Park – Relish The Natural Beauty
• Koh Chang – Gateway Of Island Hopping
• Khao Lak – For Scuba Diving Adventures
• Pai – For Peace & Calm Vibes
• Railay – The Lesser Known Place In Krabi
• Koh Kood – For Lazy Afternoons
• Koh Lipe – Go Kayaking!
• Mae Hong Son – Visit The Local Night Market
• Lopburi – Relish The History & Culture
• Phuket – Beauty Personified
• Kanchanaburi – Visit The Waterfalls
• Trang – For Food & Culture
• Surin – Find Zen
• Hua Hin – To Relax & Unwind
• Pattaya – The Party Hub!
• Krabi – For The Most Surreal Sunsets
• Phi Phi Island – For White Sand Beaches
• Chiang Mai – The Northern Capital Of Thailand
• Koh Pha-ngan – For Full Moon Parties
• Koh Samui – A Paradise With Sublime Views
• Similan Islands – Explore The Marine Life
• Chiang Rai – Explore The Ancient Temples
• Khao Sok National Park – Lush Green Landscape
• Koh Lanta – Uninhabited Islands
• Sukhothai – For History Enthusiasts
• Khao Laem National Park – For Witnessing Wildlife
• Nong Khai – For Entertainment At Its Best
• Chanthaburi – City Of The Moon
• Mae Sot – The Trading Hub
• Koh Si Chang – A Fishing Village
• Koh Nang Yuan – For Picturesque Views
• Ubon Ratchathani – A Cultural City
• Phetchaburi – The Diamond City
• Surat Thani – An Ancient City
• Sangkhlaburi – A Peaceful Getaway
• Koh Samet – A Colorful Island
• Ang Thong National Marine Park – A Tropical Paradise
• Nakhon Ratchasima – Culture, History And Modernity
• Phra Nakhun – Explore The Old City In Bangkok
• Chong Buri – Visit This Hub Of Industrial Activity
• Phang-Nga – Rejuvenate Yourself While Exploring
• Dream World Amusement Park – Indulge In Fun-Filled Activities

1. Ayutthaya – Admire The Architecture

Image Credit: Stefan Fussan for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best tourist places in Thailand, stroll around the Thai capital for 417 years and you will get the feel of an open – air museum. Every corner of Ayutthaya speaks of structures dating back to centuries, ruins of the second capital of Siam and marvels of art and architecture. This is one of the best places to see in Thailand to learn about the country’s glorious past.

This place is ideal for those who really have some interest in the history of a particular country as every monument situated at this place tells us about the past of Thailand. This place comes under the World Heritage Site and has been protected by UNESCO. Most of the things that were built here no longer sustain and what we see here is the remains of it.

Whatever is left and is seen by people was recollected by UNESCO. Most of the idols that we see here are of Buddha, but they are not in good condition at all. Some do not have their head and others do not have some other parts of the idol. One can come here by any of the local transport services and can spend the whole day watching these amazing and beautiful art forms.

Location: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Entry Fee: THB 50 Things To Do: Royal Palace: Take A Look At How The Kings Lived, Ayutthaya Historical Park: Travel Back In Time, Million Toy Museum: Bring Out The Child In You, Ayutthaya Island: Take A Boat Trip Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: November to February Tourist Attractions: Temples How To reach : The bus takes around 90 minutes, buses leave from Mo Chit station twice hourly

Must Read:  Wat Arun Temple In Thailand

2. Mu Ko Chang National Park – Explore The Flora & Fauna

Image Credit: Niels Mickers for wikipedia

Soak yourself in this jewel of 50 islands and also one of the top places to visit in Thailand. Spend your mornings with wilderness and bookmark the evenings for the thriving parties. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park is other beautiful place to explore flora and fauna of Thailand. Cherish doing nothing on the white sand beaches and then break the day’s rhythm with snorkelling and diving. From being around the whimsical waterfalls to fishing to diving to kayaking, do something new every day. So, while you’re wondering what to do in this scenic place, try exploring one of the best places to visit in Thailand in March !

Location: 23/7 Village No. 3, Koh Chang Subdistrict, Ko Chang Subdistrict, King Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, Thailand Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee: Foreigners: 200 Baht -100 Baht, Thai citizens: 40 Baht – 20 Baht Places To Stay: Evergreen Koh Chang Resort, The Erawan Koh Chang, Marina Sands Resort, Little Sunshine Boutique Beach Resort & Spa, 15 Palms Beach Resort Best Time To Visit: December to March Tourist Attractions: Wildlife and views How To Reach: Take the bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Ao Thammachat Pier. Take the car ferry from Ao Thammachat Pier to  Ko Chang .

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3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – The Shining Star In Thailand

Image Credit: calflier001 for Wikimedia Commons

The shining star in Thailand’s night sky is the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar . It sweeps across several city blocks embracing footpaths, inside buildings and temple grounds. Pick up handicrafts, arts, clothing, and souvenirs from here. This market was the stopping point of Yumnanese trading caravans along their ancient trade route between Siama and Mawlamyaing. So, while you’re out and about, make sure you explore one of the best shopping places to visit in Thailand with friends.

Apart from the nightlife, it has many other things that it offers to the tourists who come to visit this place. One such thing is the awesome food that it has. If you are a real foodie and love to try new food, then you are going to love this place. Along with the continental food, this place gives you some really awesome Thai food that is worthy of a try. It has been said that once you will eat the local cuisine that the restaurants here offer you, then you will become a fan of that food. Not just the food, this place has become the hub for the wanderers. While you are in Chiang Mai, then you could also enjoy cruises in Thailand .

Location: Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand Timings: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM Things To Do: Take a tour of the Umbrella Factory, Bathe an elephant, Get the best Thai massage, Enjoy some action at the Muay Thai Boxing Match Places To Stay: Rachamankha A Member of Secret Retreats, Rimping Village, Shewe Wana Suite Resort, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Best Time To Visit: All throughout the year from 6 PM till 12 AM Tourist Attractions: Shopping How To Reach: A good way to check out the whole thing is to start at Tha Phae Road and work your way south towards Loi Khro. Once you  reach  the end of the  market , cross the street and work your way back along the other side.

Suggested Read: 12 Kickass Water Sports In Thailand 

4. Koh Tao – For Peace & Tranquility

Image Credit: Visions of Domino for Wikimedia Commons

The smallest island in Thailand, Koh Tao is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for young adults. It owes its name to the copious sea turtles that inhabit its shores. Drifting tranquillity in the Gulf of Thailand, this island is famed for its laid-back nature. It’s got diverse diving sites off its shores. Do dance with sharks and raise a toast to Thailand on its white beaches. Ko Tao is also called Turtle Island and is considered one of those places that are a must-visit in Thailand. This place is perfect for the person who loves scuba diving. One cannot just do diving for fun and with the help of an instructor, but can also learn it by doing a diving course at a very reasonable price and with the help of a really good and admirable instructor.

The best part about learning to dive is that one does not need to go to the pool and can actually learn it in the sea only. It may sound a bit difficult and indifferent but is actually very easy and one will enjoy it here more as compared to the pool. If you are a person who is not much into these water sports then you can go for trekking and all as there are some good trekking sites also. Even if you do not like trekking and hiking also you can go to the various beaches that are on the island and can chill over there. So, together we can say that this island has at least something for every person of different taste and this is that one thing that makes it the place that one must visit whenever they come to Thailand.

Things To Do: Scuba diving, Shopping, Nightlife, Sightseeing Best Time To Visit: March to May Tourist Attractions: Beaches, swimming, snorkeling How To Reach:  Services run from the mainland leaving Chumphon and Surat Thani, and from the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Pha-ngan. There is no airport, and no bus or train stations on Koh Tao.

5. Erawan National Park – Spot The Macaques

Image Source

Erawan Falls owes their name to the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology – Erawan. Walk around this impressive seven-tiered waterfall and spot macaques and water monitor lizards. Whilst exploring this park, stop at Tham Phra cave. And if geology is your area of interest, analyse the visible fault lines of the cave. Another spot can be Si Nakharin. This is amongst the most beautiful tourist places in Thailand.

Location: Moo 4 Tha Kradan, Erawan National Park 71250 Thailand Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee: Foreigners: 300 Baht-200 Baht, Thai Citizens: 100 Baht- 50 Baht Things To Do: Witness the magical waterfalls, Enjoy a walk to remember on the spellbinding trails, Explore the mysterious caves, Go wildlife spotting Best Time To Visit: November to January Tourist Attractions: Wildlife How To Reach : To get to Erawan Falls by bus, you can take Bus number 8170 from the Kanchanaburi Bus Station to the Srinakarind Market, from where it is a 1 km walk. The bus leaves hourly (approximately – this is Thailand!) and takes two hours. The last bus back to Kanchanaburi leaves at 4 pm.

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In Thailand 

6. Bangkok – Find Beauty In The Chaos

The next place that should be mentioned in the list is Bangkok which is often called the ‘city of angels’. There would not be any single person in this whole world who would not know about Bangkok and the kind of life you get to experience here and shopping in Bangkok is the most exciting thing to do. The things that you experience here are unparalleled as compared to any other place in this whole world. The city is ranked among one of the most happening places of the world and there are enough reasons available to make you fall in love with the city. The experience that this place has to gift its visitors makes it a place that everyone must visit once in their lifetime and especially in the time of their youth. Make your visit worth it by trying all the exciting things to do in Bangkok .

Tourist Attractions: Chinatown, Floating Market, Chao Phraya, House Of Jim Thompson Things To Do: Chinatown, Go On A Floating Market Tour, Chao Phraya: For A Romantic Dinner, Backwater Excursions, Visit The Magnificent House Of Jim Thompson Places To Stay: Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel, Bangkok Saran Poshtel, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, Anajak Bangkok Hotel, Oriental Heritage Residence Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best Time To Visit: November till early December How To Reach : Bangkok is well connected by air to the rest of the world and there are two airports in the city. Buses to and from other parts of Thailand including Pattaya, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui and also to neighbouring countries operate in Bangkok.

7. Khao Yai National Park – Relish The Natural Beauty

Image Credit:  BerryJ for Wikimedia Commons

Thailand is full of natural beauty and therefore it has a number of beautiful national parks. One of the most beautiful national parks of this place is the Khao Yai National Park. The main attractions of this national park are the Asian elephants, gibbons, pythons, bears etc. It is said that this is the first national park and one of the best tourist places in Thailand. If we talk about today, then there are more than 120 national parks in Thailand that one can visit. One can come here and visit the whole jungle by hiring any road transport available. Also, one can go and camp in the jungle and spend the night here. All these activities here make it so much fun and the tourists love coming to this place.

Location: Hin Tung, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Nakhon Nayok 26000, Thailand Opening Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM Entry Fee: Foreigners : 400 Baht – 200 Baht for children, Thai Citizens: 40 Baht -20 Baht Places To Stay: Hotel Labaris Khao Yai, Pakchong Center Poshtel, Green Pix Khaoyai, Green Pix Khaoyai, The Day Home Hotel Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: November to February Tourist Attractions: Wildlife How To Reach:   If you want to visit the park, you’ll need to head to Pak Chong — it’s the closest town. Buses leave frequently from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Station and the journey takes 3-4 hours. Expect to pay around 150-200 THB for the bus.

Suggested Read: Thailand In April

8. Koh Chang – Gateway Of Island Hopping

Koh Chang is said to be the most beautiful and the most visited Island of the country and the saying is very correct. You will also feel the same, once you will visit the place. Situated in the north of Thailand, this island has become the gateway of island hopping. The best part about this place is that it has mountains all around and you can get small huts on rent here. There are white sands all over and these add charm to the beauty of this place. Also, due to these awesome reasons, this island happens to be the most crowded island of all. Apart from the beauty and crowd this also has an excellent resort, where one can really spend some quality time. So, if we add all these points, this place is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for couples.

Things To Do: Diving, Snorkeling, Jungle hiking, Fishing, Neon parties Tourist Attractions: Koh Chang Waterfalls, Klong Prao Beach Places To Stay: Koh Chang Paradise Hill, The Erawan Koh Chang, Fine Times Resort, VAYNA Boutique Koh Chang, The Dewa Koh Chang Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November to February How To Reach : The best and most popular way is to catch the #999 bus from Ekamai (Eastern) Bus Terminal to the two piers at Laem Ngop, where you can then proceed to catch the ferry over to Koh Chang. The times for departure are 07.45 & 09.00 every day and the journey takes between 5 – 6 hours, depending on traffic.

9. Khao Lak – For Scuba Diving Adventures

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Khao lak is among those beautiful, but unlucky islands which were almost destroyed by the Tsunami waters in the year 2004. This was ruined almost completely, but it has been restored now. The beauty of this place may not be the same as it was before, but it is no less. The authorities have set up a museum kind of place for the people to empathize with what had happened back in 2004. It is one of the best places to visit on your Thailand honeymoon .

Apart from this, the reason why one should visit this place is that there is everything that an ideal island should give to its visitors. It offers you everything that you need to chill. The island is located in the Andaman Sea.

Not just the chilling ventures, but the beaches of Khao Lak also offer you amazing water sports out of which scuba diving is among everyone’s favourite. So, if you are up for some underwater experience, then you can come to this place to learn scuba diving from some good instructors.

Things To Do: Water sports, Marine life Tourist Attractions: Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park, Bang Niang Beach, Surin Islands Places To Stay: The Retreat Khaolak Resort, MJ Boutique Hotel Khao Lak, Casacool Hotel, The Haven Khao Lak, Ruk Gozy, Baramate Khao Lak Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November to February How To Reach : The easiest way to get to Khao Lak is to fly into Phuket (closest way) or Krabi. Then you can take a taxi or bus to  Khao Lak  from there. Both airports serve both international and domestic destinations.

Suggested Read: Paragliding In Thailand

10. Pai – For Peace & Calm Vibes

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Not everyone wants to go to a place that is overcrowded and commercialized. Some of us want to go the places that are out of the world and offer us peace and calmness. If you too come in that category, then there is such a place for you in Thailand. The name of this place is Pai which is a village. The life that you will get to experience here is very simple and unique.

The best thing about this one of the best tourist places in Thailand is that you will get to see the lifestyle of the local people very closely here. Also, there is utmost quietness, which will ultimately lead to peacefulness and solitude. You can spend your afternoon along the riverside, chilling and relaxing. If you are visiting this place, then do not miss the local food that people eat here, after all, this too comes in their tradition. These are the reasons why this place has become a must-visit for the tourists that are coming from outside.

Things To Do: Trekking, Hiking Tourist Attractions: Pai Canyon, WWII Memorial Bridge Places To Stay: Baan Pai Nai Wieng, Ai Pai Hotel, Baan Kon Pai, Namu Hotel, Medio De Pai, Serene Resort, Aether Pai Villa Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: December to January How To Reach : Kan Airlines is the only airline operating between Chiang Mai and Pai. It is the only airline that flies in and out of the Pai airport. Travellers can also fly into Bangkok or Chiang Mai and then reach Pai by road.

11. Railay – The Lesser Known Place In Krabi

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The next place on the list is the island of Railay. This is again one of the most visited places in Thailand and is normally the home of people who love trekking and adventure. This is not ideally an island, but the reason why it is called so is that there is no other means of transport than a boat to reach here. The area where this island is located s called Krabi. This place is the perfect example of the natural beauty personified. The moment you arrive at this place, you will feel as if you have landed in heaven and this feeling is incredible.

It has almost 4 beaches to explore and all are very near to each other. so, all those who come to this place take a tour of all four beaches and then go. There are many trekking sites and it is sod that one of the most beautiful of all is Railay viewpoint, which is said to be something one, cannot miss after coming to this place. So, this small place has a lot to offer you. Therefore, before coming here, make sure you plan out everything so that you do not miss anything and give a try to each and everything possible.

Things To Do: Diving, Kayaking, Rock Climbing Tourist Attractions: Tham Phra Nang Cave, View Point and Lagoon Places To Stay: Macaque and Languor Villa, Railay Phutawan Resort, Sand Sea Resort, Sunrise Tropical Resort, Railay Bay Resort & Spa Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: December to April How To Reach : The closest ports of embarkation to get to Railay are Ao Nang, Nopparat Thara and Ao Nam Mao, although you can also get there from Krabi Town. From Ao Nang, you need to purchase your ticket at the Ao Nang Long-Tail Boat Service Club booths located at both ends of Ao Nang Beach Road, respectively next to.

Suggested Read: Ayutthaya Historical Park

12. Koh Kood – For Lazy Afternoons

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Koh Kood is one of the best tourist places in Thailand although has nothing much to offer its tourists but still ranks among one of those places where you would like to spend your lazy and relaxed afternoons and evenings. This is definitely a place not so popular and not everybody comes to this place. But once you will come here, you will become a fan of this place. Although the place does not have much development, this is the best place to sit and relax and one should definitely come here.

There is plenty you can do in Thailand in October and visiting this place is one of them. One will get bored and tired of places where there is just the crowd and even the beauty of the place is vanished due to it. So, if you too are tired of visiting such places, you should come here and spend some quality time. Not just the beach, but this island has a beautiful waterfall too for you. The name of this waterfall is Klong Chao and it is mesmerizingly beautiful. So, there are enough reasons for which one can come and visit this place.

Things To Do: Fishing, Snorkeling, Scuba diving Tourist Attractions: Waterfalls Places To Stay: Escape Life Koh Kood, Suan Nai Kokut Resort, The Lodge at Koh Kood, Wooden Hut Koh Kood, Baan Bua Cottage, Suan Maprao Ko Kut Resort Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October to February How To Reach : From Bangkok to Koh Kood you can travel by minivan/bus/plane + ferry. All the vans and buses from Bangkok  go to Trat City. Travel by bus/van from Bangkok to Trat takes about 5-6 hours and bus tickets start at $10. That is about 40 km north of Koh Kood Island.

13. Koh Lipe – Go Kayaking!

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Next up on our list of best tourist places in Thailand is the small island of Koh Lipe. This island is again part of the Andaman Sea. This island is small but is extremely beautiful and offers a lot of things to its visitors that come here. One such thing is hiring a Kayak and going to the nearby beaches and places.

This could be done in just 10 minutes. The still water of the island makes it even more beautiful by adding more charm to its beauty. Apart from this, there are other options also for having fun on this island.

Those who love trekking can come here all prepared as there are many trekking sites here. You can easily plan day-long hikes and treks on this island as there are plenty of trails and routes to explore. This happens because the view of sunset looks fabulous here and nobody wants to miss it. Therefore, people start their trekking a few hours before sunset, so that they can be there on time. All these reasons together make this place a must-visit attraction.

Things To Do: Kayaking, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving Tourist Attractions : Beaches Places To Stay: Ten Moons Lipe Resort, AKIRA Lipe Resort, Serendipity Beach Resort Koh Lipe, Ananya Lipe Resort, Castaway Resort Koh Lipe Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: November to April How To Reach:  The nearest airport to Koh Lipe is Hat Yai. The cheapest and easiest way to get from Bangkok to  Koh Lipe is to fly to the Hat Yai airport. Then take a shuttle bus to Pak Bara Pier for 250 baht, and then at Pak Bara Pier, you can get on a ferry to Koh Lipe for 650 baht.

Suggested Read: Sukhothai Historical Park

14. Mae Hong Son – Visit The Local Night Market

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One must have heard about this place and the reason why this place is popular is that it this by far one of the most adventurous places in Thailand. This is the ideal place for those who love bike riding and racing. One must have tried these rides on a plane road, but if you want some real adventure, come to Mae Hong Son and visit the 1,864 curves that this place has. It is requested to the people who do not have that strong heart, to not come here and ever try this as this is very risky. These loops and curves are in northern Thailand.

This place is also one of the most beautiful places in Thailand which is chosen by the treks to jump. So, there are quite a number of insane activities that you can do here. Apart from this dangerous cum adventurous bike sport this place offers you some calm and beautiful places also. The other centres of attraction are the beautiful pond and the temple in this place.

These two things are also a must-visit when you come here. If you are not up for the bike ride and then also want to have some good view from the top of a mountain then you can go up on the hills t,o visit a temple that is there. Also, if you want to taste the local cuisine or some good Thai food, then you can head to the local night market that is there every night. The market seems very happening and has some really good food and other stuff to offer you. So, there are plenty of reasons for which you can come to these reasons and then go happily.

Things To Do: Trekking, Kayaking, Shopping Tourist Attractions: Night markets Places To Stay: Jungle Guest House, The Imperial Mae Hong Son Resort, Hotel Siblanburi Resort, Ngamta Hotel, Baan Mai Guesthouse, Sang Tong Huts Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: March How To Reach : Train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong or hop on a long-distance bus at Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit), then transfer to a mini-bus once you arrive in Chiang Mai. Whichever option you choose, Chiang Mai will be your transfer point.

15. Lopburi – Relish The History & Culture

For those who are a travel enthusiast and also have a keen interest in history and culture, this place is ideal for them. Thailand is more popular for being a party place, so the idea of visiting a place of history and tradition may look less appealing to you. But there are such places in Thailand also where you will get a close glimpse of the tradition and history. Lopburi happens to be one of the oldest cities and one of the best tourist places in Thailand. It was one of the former capitals of the country.

This city has a lot to say about the history of the island. There are a lot of old monuments and cultural heritage sites here, through which you can see the history of the country. Apart from this, the place is home to a lot of monkeys. It is advised to keep your bag and items with you carefully unless these monkeys will do their work neatly. Not just this, this place too is good for hiking, trekking and rock climbing, so interested people can come with a plan prepared. The historical site of Ayutthaya is very near to this place, so one can go to that place from here very easily. So, it is advisory that either come to this place from there only or go to that place from here and this will be more convenient.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Trekking, Rock climbing Tourist Attractions: Ban Vichayen, Phra Prang Sam Yot, King Narai’s Palace Places To Stay: Hop Inn Lopburi, The Tempo Lopburi, Privacy Residence Lopburi, Narai Iyara Palace, Pannara Hotel, Oasis Hiso Hotel Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: May till October How To Reach : To  go  to  Lopburi  you can choose the train or take one of the buses that leave from Mochit Bus Terminal in Bangkok every 20 minutes. Trains from Bangkok leave every hour and a half or so.

Suggested Read: 14 Thailand Airports For Easy-Breezy Commute 

16. Phuket – Beauty Personified

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Coming to Thailand means coming to the best tourist places in Thailand that have all the charm and all the heat within it. Almost all the places in Thailand are beautiful and therefore it is said that the whole country is beauty personified and this is one of the best places to see in Thailand. So, among every other beautiful city that Thailand has, Phuket is the most popular one. This is the most visited place in Thailand. Phuket is known for the incredible nightlife that it offers to its tourists. You could also go bungee jumping in Thailand and scuba diving in Phuket for an adrenaline boost. 1-2 days are not enough for anyone to have a complete tour of this beautiful place. If you are coming to this place then you will have to come with a foolproof plan and a list of places and things that you want to explore and do respectively Kayaking in Phuket is always a fun thing to do.

Things To Do: Nightlife, Shopping Tourist Attractions: Patong Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Karon View Point Things To Do: Boat Tour, Old Phuket Town, Beaches, Nightlife, Big Buddha Statue Places To Stay: Club Med Phuket, Angsana Villas Resort, Thavorn Palm Beach Resort, Surin Beach Resort, Como Point Yamu Resort Ideal Duration: 4 Nights/5 Days Best Time To Visit: November to February How To Reach : The Phuket International Airport is the second busiest airport of Thailand after the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.

17. Kanchanaburi – Visit The Waterfalls

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Located in the western part, Kanchanaburi is one of the unique places in Thailand that you can visit on your vacation. What makes this place fascinating to visit are the waterfalls and national parks where you can explore a variety of flora and fauna. Death Railway is a prominent attraction in Kanchanaburi that you have to check out. The railway tracks were constructed during World War II at a very dangerous place.

Things To Do: Trekking, Walking Trails Tourist Attractions: Mon Bridge, Khao Laem Lake Places To Stay: Makan Resort, Milin Villa, Princess River Kwai Hote, Kanchanaburi City Hotel, Natee The Riverfront Hotel Kanchanaburi, Chez Bure – Bure Homestay Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best time to visit: November- February How To Reach : Kanchanaburi’s  only bus station is located among a clutch of markets and shopping centres at the centre of town, just north of Sangchuto Road.

Suggested Read: Kui Buri National Park

19. Surin – Find Zen

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Amongst the best places in Thailand, you need to plan a visit here. Can you find any quiet and peaceful spots in Thailand? It may sound hard but it is not impossible. Surin is one of the quiet Thailand tourist attractions. The only time you will experience the fanfare in this town is during the Surin Elephant Round-Up when the place is drenched in festivities. It is altogether a different part of Thailand.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Trekking Tourist Attractions: Ban Tha Wang Silk, City Pillar Shrine, Surin National Museum Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: November for attending the fest, otherwise the rest of the year How To Reach : The only way to reach Surin Islands is via a speed boat or private yacht. The islands are located at a distance of 40 km from Kuraburi, Khao Lak to Surin Islands is 90 km and Phuket to Surin Islands is approximately 150 km.

Suggested Read: 5 Best Amusement Parks In Thailand 

20. Hua Hin – To Relax & Unwind

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One of the best places in Thailand, if you are not hard on partying and being drunk all the time on your vacation, then you could invest your time lazing off on a seaside resort in Hua Hin. It once used to be the holiday spot for royals and now travellers and nationals come to enjoy a relaxing time. No wonder it is one of the most famous places in Thailand.

Things To Do: Experience nightlife, Shopping Tourist Attractions: Cicada Market, Kaeng Krachan National Park Places To Stay: Bonne Nuit Hotel, Triple Z Hotel, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Cape Nidhra Hotel, Fancy Carp Resort, Villa Seville Ideal Duration: 2 NIghts/3 Days Best time to visit: November-February How To Reach : Hua Hin and Cha-am can be easily reached by train, bus or mini-van from the city. Air-conditioned buses leave for the three-hour journey to Hua Hin from the Southern Bus Terminal on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River

21. Pattaya – The Party Hub!

One of the best places to go in Thailand, Pattaya is Thailand’s party hub and the most happening destination that gets the tag of being a popular coastal city that offers myriad watersports and nightlife options. Pattaya is ideal for bachelor and bachelorette parties, making friends and partying it up like there’s no tomorrow. The streets are all lined with fancy bars, beach shacks, bright neon lights, roadside eateries and cabaret shows, Pattaya is one of the best tourist places in Thailand. 

Things To Do: Chanthaburi Sapphire Mines, Cabaret Shows – Experience The Lively Side, Flight Of The Gibbon – Enjoy The Thrill, Museums And Temple Tours – Dig Into History Places To Stay: Grande Centre Point Pattaya, Noursabah Pattaya, The Classroom Hotel, DeeProm Pattaya Hotel, Villa Oranje Pattaya Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit : November to February Tourist Attractions : Sanctuary of Truth, Jomtien Beach, Pattaya Floating Market, Mini Siam How To Reach : The nearest airport to Pattaya is the U-Tapao Airport located 30 kilometres away from Pattaya at Sattahip and offers limited connectivity to a handful of destinations. Pattaya is well-connected to Bangkok by rail

Suggested Read: 6 Best Places For Paragliding In Phuket 

22. Krabi – For The Most Surreal Sunsets

One of the most famous and best tourist places in Thailand, Krabi is a popular beach destination with sublime views and surreal sunsets. This beach destination offers plenty of souvenir shops and has a certain charm that will sweep you off your feet and get you swooning, it is one of the best places to go in Thailand.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Experience nightlife Ideal Duration: 5 Nights/6 Days Best Time To Visit : November to April Tourist Attractions : Railay Beach, Tiger Cave Temple How To Reach : Direct buses to Krabi operate daily from the Southern Bus Terminal of Bangkok and take up to 10 hours to reach Krabi. There are also daily buses plying between Phuket and Krabi which take up to 3-4 hours to reach.

23. Phi Phi Island – For White Sand Beaches

Phi Phi islands consist of a group of six islands, that lie between the large island of Phuket and the Straits of Malacca coast of Thailand. These islands feature pristine beaches with glistening white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. These islands also feature striking cliffs, thick forests and a beautiful shoreline, making it a must-visit place in Thailand.

Things To Do: Swimming, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Scuba diving, Longtail boat ride Places To Stay: Holiday Inn Phi Phi Island, Harmony House, Ivory Phi Phi Islands, The Cove Phi Phi, Phi Phi Andaman Beach Resort Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit : November to April Tourist Attractions : Ko Phi Phi Lee, Ton Sai Beach, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach How To Reach : The ferry is by far the most popular method of reaching the islands. Ferries take about two hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta. The main departure/arrival port in Phuket is Rassada Pier, located in Phuket Town. 

Suggested Read: Explore The Pattaya Floating Market 

24. Chiang Mai – The Northern Capital Of Thailand

Considered as the northern capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its laid-back vibes, several temples and monasteries with lush countryside. Chiang Mai trekking is another adventure that travellers love exploring apart from exploring the pristine beaches, and the historical sites and partying it up with a happening nightlife making it one of the best tourist places in Thailand. 

Things To Do: Take a tour of the Umbrella Factory, Bathe an elephant, Get the best Thai massage, Enjoy some action at the Muay Thai Boxing Match Places To Stay: Enjoy some action at the Muay Thai Boxing Match, Rimping Village, Shewe Wana Suite Resort, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Sireeampan Boutique Resort and Spa Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best Time To Visit : December – February Tourist Attractions : Wat Phra Singh, Doi Inthanon National Park, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Mon Jam How To Reach : Several trains run between Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station and Chiang Mai Station every day. The journey usually takes between 12 and 15 hours. Delays are fairly common.

25. Koh Pha-ngan – For Full Moon Parties 

One of the top places to visit in Thailand, famous for full moon parties, is the land of coconut trees and is part of the Chumphon Archipelago which is located between the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao. surrounded by jungle and serene beaches, it is ideal for partygoers, backpackers and families making it one of the best tourist places in Thailand.

Things To Do: Fishing, Diving, Kite-boarding Best Time To Visit : June to September Tourist Attractions : Full Moon Party, Thong Sala Night Market, Yang Na Nai Tree How To Reach : Indians can take a flight to Koh Samui and then a ferry to Koh Pha-ngan. Another option is to take a flight to Bangkok, then a bus/ferry to Koh Pha-ngan. Flights take off from all the major cities of Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Banglore.

Suggested Read: Visit These 5 Gorgeous Islands Near Bangkok

26. Koh Samui – A Paradise With Sublime Views

Amongst the best Thailand tourist places, this island is a paradise which lies in the Gulf of Thailand, a hidden gem for travellers exploring the offbeat destinations of Thailand. Chewang and Lamai are famous for their nightlife experiences and get overcrowded in peak seasons. Unwind and relax on these pristine beaches that offer sublime views.

Things To Do: Snorkeling And Scuba Diving, Elephant Trekking, Go Karting, Crocodile Show, Mummified Monk Places To Stay: Sky Dream Villa, Boujis Boutique Resort, Anantara Lawana Resort, Sea Dance Resort, Four Seasons Resort Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit : December to May Tourist Attractions : Wat Phra Yai, Ang Thong National Marine Park, Wat Khunaram How To Reach : The most convenient way to get to Koh Samui is flying with Bangkok Airways either from Bangkok itself or from Singapore, Phuket or Pattaya. There are over twenty flights a day from Bangkok alone. Alternatively, several ferries and catamarans run from Surat Thani or Don Sak on the Thai mainland.

27. Similan Islands – Explore The Marine Life

Amongst the best Thailand tourist places, an archipelago of 9 islands, this island is culturally influenced and has a national park as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is Thailand’s one of the most treasured places to visit with great marine life and a stunning shoreline ideal for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Things To Do: Fishing, Shopping Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit : November to April Tourist Attractions : Ko Bangu, Donald Duck Bay, Ko Miang How To Reach : The fastest travel option you can do is take the night bus to Ranong or Khao Lak from Bangkok and from there arrange a boat to the Similan islands. In total, it will probably cost you around 13 hours before you can relax on the Similan Islands. It will take you around two hours from Khao Lak to Similan Islands.

Suggested Read: 7 Festivals In Bangkok 

28. Chiang Rai – Explore The Ancient Temples

Lying near the borders of Laos and Myanmar, this city is home to many ancient temples, tribal villages along the Mekong River and one of the best Thailand tourist places. It has plenty of historical monuments and cultural attractions for travellers to explore the traditional side of Thailand and immerse in art, food and music.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Experience, nightlife Places To Stay: Nak Nakara Hotel, Nak Nakara Hotel, Mora Boutique Hotel, Baansilp Hotel, Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai, Doowall Hotel Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit : October to February Tourist Attractions : Wat Rong Khun, Clock Tower, Baan Dam Museum How To Reach : To reach Chiang Rai by train, you need to get to the nearby city of Chiang Mai by train, and then take the Green Bus to Chiang Rai. Chiang Mai is approximately 200 km away from Chiang Rai, and the Green Bus will take approximately 3 to 3 and a half hours to cover this distance.

29. Khao Sok National Park – Lush Green Landscape

One of the best tourist places in Thailand, this national park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park boasts a lush green landscape, rugged mountains with thick forests, marvellous waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and majestic mountains. It is one of the best things to do on a budget trip to Thailand. 

Location: 62 Khlong Sok, Phanom District, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand Opening Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Entry Fee: Foreigners: 300 Baht- 150 Baht, Thai Citizens: 40 Baht- 20 Baht Places To Stay: Khao Sok Jasmine Garden Resort, Khao Sok Country Resort, Khao Sok Nature Place, Chillax Khaosok Hostel, K.K. Park Resort, Khao Sok Jungle Hostel Best Time To Visit : November to April Tourist Attractions : Khao Yai Art Museum, Scenical World How To Reach : Surat Thani Airport is the nearest one but you can also choose Phuket Airport. By train: Surat Thani train station is the nearest one.

Suggested Read: 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Thailand

30. Koh Lanta – Uninhabited Islands

A cluster of 52 islands, most of them are uninhabited and travellers can enjoy the balmy weather, and the sublime views from these isolated islands. People looking for some quiet can opt to vacation on these islands and choose the less crowded areas. You can also indulge in various water sports activities here. It is one of the best tourist places in Thailand.

Things To Do: Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Getting inked, Thai massage Places To Stay: Lanta Casa Blanca, The Hotel Zealonta, The Hotel Zealonta, Riviera Boutique House, Redrock Lanta Beach Resort & Villas Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best Time To Visit : November to February Tourist Attractions : Mu Ko Lanta National Park, Sala Dan, Koh Lanta Yai How To Reach : If you are on foot the easiest way to travel to the Lanta Islands is by passenger ferry. You can take a taxi from Krabi Airport to the pier in Krabi Town for 350 baht, a journey time of approximately 15 minutes, or to the pier in Ao Nang for 600 baht, a journey time of 30 minutes.

31. Sukhothai – For History Enthusiasts

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If you are up to dig some history or do some excavation then this one of the amazing Thailand destinations is the right place for you. Sukhothai is home to more than 200 sites of ancient ruins that will leave you baffled as well as awestruck. One of the most adventurous places to see in Thailand, and it must be on your bucket list. It is said that this city led to the creation of the civilization of Thailand. And the best part is that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Things To Do: Camping, Waterfall trekking, Shopping, Sightseeing, Experience nightlife Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best time to visit: November to February Tourist attractions: Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Chum How to reach: Sukhothai is the nearest airport

Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Thailand 

32. Khao Laem National Park – For Witnessing Wildlife

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If you want to spend a day with nature and witness the wildlife of Bangkok then head to Khao Laem National Park. It is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for wildlife enthusiasts. Surrounded by forests and home to innumerable species of flora and fauna, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The park is situated in Bangkok and is not an ordinary national park. Apart from witnessing wildlife, you will also get to stay in a houseboat which is a mesmerizing experience in itself.

Location: Moo 4 339 Prang Phe, Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi 71240, Thailand Opening Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Entry Fee: 200 baht for adults, 100 baht for children Places To Stay: Sripech Home, Kingfisher House, Chanakarn Guesthouse Sangkhla Buri, Baan Khun Mon Resort, Villa Scenns Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best time to visit: November to February Tourist attractions: Khao Laem Lake, Koreng Kra Wia, Kra Teng Jeng How to reach: Suvarnabhumi is the nearest airport

33. Nong Khai – For Entertainment At Its Best

Nong khai might be a little town but it is not less when it comes to offering entertainment and fun in Thailand sightseeing. From mesmerizing waterfalls to temples, there is something for all kinds of travellers in Nong Khai. One of the best places to visit in Thailand, this city is for those who want to absorb the culture of Thailand. You can seek blessings at the temples, refresh yourself at the waterfalls and soak in the culture.

Things To Do: Shopping, Sightseeing, Trekking Places To Stay: Wixky Hotel, Rest Time Hotel, Hop Inn Nong Khai, Park & Pool Resort, Royal Nakhara Hotel and Convention Centre, Tanzania Hotel Nongkhai Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: November to February Tourist attractions: Sala Keaw Khu, Sadet market, Luang Por Phra Sai How to reach: Udon Thani is the nearest airport

Suggested Read: 8 Best Churches In Thailand 

34. Chanthaburi – City Of The Moon

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You might call Chanthaburi one of the best places in Thailand for the fact that it has everything that a traveller wants on their vacation. May it be the right vibe, unique tourist attractions, picturesque waterfalls, recreative forests or more, you will find it all right in Chanthaburi. It is one of the best places to spend a weekend. And if you have a soft heart for seafood, then you will definitely love Nong Thai.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Experience nightlife, shopping Places To Stay: Blue Rabbit Hotel, Blue Bed Hotel, Baan Ton Chan, Riverawan Hotel, Ban Chankrajang Hotel, Kasemsarn Hotel Chanthaburi Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best time to visit: November to February Tourist attractions: Taksin shrine, Cathedrals, temples How to reach: You can reach Chanthaburi from Bangkok via road, it takes 3 h 15 m

35. Mae Sot – The Trading Hub

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In the Western corner of Thailand, Mae Sot is the trading hub and one of the best tourist places in Thailand. The city is popular for pottery culture, brims and a variety of other products. You can enjoy a wide range of street food and visit various clothing and jewellery shops in the city. Do not miss out on the Buddhist temples and monasteries with beautiful architectural features in the area. 

Things To Do: Cooking, Shopping Ideal Duration: 2 Days Best Time To Visit: February to April Tourist Attractions: Taksin Maharat National Park,  Chinese Temples, Hot Springs Maekasa How To Reach: Board a bus from the Tak Bus Station and it will take around 30 minutes to reach

Suggested Read: Thai Language Guide

36. Koh Si Chang – A Fishing Village

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Located in the Chonburi Province, Koh Si Chang is a fishing village and one of the popular Thailand tourist attractions. You will love the relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle of Koh Si Chang Island. There are a lot of things that you can indulge in on the island which includes boating as well as kayaking. You can also enjoy visits to the royal palace and the place perfect for a beachy vacation. 

Things To Do: Boating, Kayaking, Sightseeing Ideal Duration: 2 Days Best Time To Visit: December to February Tourist Attractions: Tham Phang Beach, Old Town How To Reach: Board a minibus from Victory Monument in Bangkok to Sriracha

37. Koh Nang Yuan – For Picturesque Views

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This picturesque island is a group of three tiny islands that are connected by a stretch of white sand. The island is surrounded by greenery and offers picturesque views during your vacation. You can wake up to views of turquoise blue waters. The beaches are the centre of attraction on this island, and you can enjoy sunbathing and relaxing in the peaceful ambience. You can also enjoy a wide range of snorkelling trips in one of the best tourist places in Thailand and enjoy a fascinating experience. 

Things To Do: Snorkeling, Hiking Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best Time To Visit: November to March Tourist Attractions: Beaches, Viewpoints How To Reach: From Chumphon Airport, you can take a ferry to Koh Tao and then a long tail boat taxi can be taken to the island of Koh Nang Yuan Location: Gulf of Thailand towards Northwest of Koh Tao just 15 minutes away Entry Fee: 100 Bahts Opening Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Suggested Read: Loy Krathong

38. Ubon Ratchathani – A Cultural City

This is a small city and one of the best Thailand tourist attractions and is rooted in Buddhist culture. There are a lot of Buddhist monasteries in the city and also temples with Lao influence. This small city is very developed and happening and is popular for its glowing temples and the Candle Festival. History enthusiasts will definitely love the place because it is full of culture and museums that narrate an engaging tale. 

Things To Do: Sightseeing Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best Time To Visit: November to March Tourist Attractions:  Ubon Ratchathani National Museum, Wat Thung Si Meuang, Thung Si Muang Park How To Reach: You can take a flight from the Bangkok Airport to Ubon Ratchathani International Airport

39. Phetchaburi – The Diamond City

Also known as the Diamond City, the city is situated on River Phet and is home to a lot of beautiful temples and the famous Royal Palace and also one of the best tourist places in Thailand. You can enjoy a little of all including history, nature, architecture and food while enjoying a trip to the island. The city is an agricultural place with rice paddies, salt farms and fishing villages around. 

Things To Do: Shopping, Sightseeing, Experiencing nightlife Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best Time To Visit: November to March Tourist Attractions: Phra Nakhon Khiri, Wat Mahathat Worawihan, Tham Khao Luang How To Reach: Board a train from Hualamphong Station to Phetchaburi Location: On the banks of Phet River

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Chonburi 

40. Surat Thani – An Ancient City

Surat Thai is an important trade and transport hub of Thailand and is also an ancient city. The city has a flourishing local Thai culture with bustling night markets and cheap bars. You can also enjoy delicious local street food in this city and make the most of your vacation. Overall, it is one of the best tourist places in Thailand for foodies!

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Nightlife Ideal Duration: Day trip Best Time To Visit: July, August and December to February Tourist Attractions: Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan, RockFish Museum, Namtok Vibhavadi How To Reach: Take a flight to the Surat Thani International Airport from Bangkok

41. Sangkhlaburi – A Peaceful Getaway

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Covered with dense forests and limestone ranges, the city is a peaceful getaway in Thailand. A culturally diverse area, you will find a variety of temples and monasteries here. The city also has a beautiful lake where you can enjoy boating. The weather in the city is cool due to its high altitude. The city is divided into the ‘town centre’ and ‘Mon Village’ which are connected by the second longest handmade bridge in the world. The city is one of the best tourist attractions in Thailand.

Things To Do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Boating Ideal Duration: 2 Days Best Time To Visit: November to March Tourist Attractions: Sunken Temple, Temple Wat Mon, Vajiralongkorn Lake How To Reach: You can take direct buses from Mo Chit station in Bangkok to Sangkhlaburi

Suggested Read: 7 Things To Do On Your Budget Trip To Bangkok 

42. Koh Samet – A Colorful Island

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This gorgeous t-shaped island is known for its pristine blue waters, colourful corals and white sand beaches and is one of the best tourist places in Thailand. One of the most popular islands of Thailand, the place is most visited by backpackers. If you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful location with a great nightlife this is your perfect match. You can enjoy a luxurious stay in the lavish resorts on the island or can also indulge in a variety of thrilling water activities including scuba diving. 

Things To Do: Scuba diving, Sightseeing, Shopping, Nightlife Ideal Duration: 2 Days Best Time To Visit: November to March Tourist Attractions: Wat Ko Kaew Pitsadan, Sai Kaew Beach How To Reach: Take a public bus, minibus, or private taxi southeast from Bangkok to the Nuan Thip Pier in Ban Phe

43. Ang Thong National Marine Park – A Tropical Paradise

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Protected by an archipelago of 42 islands, the tropical paradise is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. It features limestone mountains, thick jungles and white sandy beaches which makes it popular among Thailand tourist attractions. The marine park houses a variety of exotic species of mammals, sea creatures, birds and reptiles. If you are an adventure enthusiast, this is just the place for you with numerous exciting activities like hiking, snorkelling, kayaking and diving. 

Location: 45/1-2 Moo 1, Thongsala Koh Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand Things To Do: Hiking, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Diving, Sightseeing Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best Time To Visit: February to October How To Reach: Take a ferry from Koh Samui or Koh Pha-ngan Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals: THB 300 -THB 150, Thai Residents: THB 50- THB 25 Timings: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Suggested Read: Thailand In May

44. Nakhon Ratchasima – Culture, History And Modernity

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Nakhon Ratchasima is one of the most modern cities that is well-connected to the major parts of Thailand. You will find a mix of culture, history and modernity while staying in this area. The imposing statue of Thao Suranaree, a warrior woman, is the centre of attraction, and the city is a great stopover for people searching for the best tourist places in Thailand. 

Things To Do: Sightseeing Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best Time To Visit: December to February Tourist Attractions: Khao Yai National Park, Phimai Historical Park, Sai Ngam How To Reach: You can board a bus or a train from the Bangkok bus and railway station

45. Phra Nakhon – Explore The Old City In Bangkok

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One of the Thailand tourist spots that are a must-visit is Phra Nakhon which happens to be an old city in Bangkok. You will get to explore monasteries, temples, palaces, and statues. For your ultimate relaxation, places around Phra Nakhon are a must-visit when exploring Thailand. Explore the museums in Bangkok to enhance your vacation.

Best Time To Visit: Anytime during the year or between November and April Tourist Attractions: Boat trips and Central Park Location: Bangkok, Thailand Things To Do: Visit museums, temples, universities and palaces, cycling, biking Ideal Duration: 2 Days Places To Visit: Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Phraya Nakhon Cave How To Reach: You can reach by train or by flight. The nearest airport is Don Mueang airport and there are taxis available at a very cheap rate after getting off the train.

Suggested Read: Special Tourist Visa To Thailand 

46. Chong Buri – Visit This Hub Of Industrial Activity

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Chong Buri is also known as Mueang Chon which is an agricultural site of economic plants such as rubber trees and sugar cane and is known as the best place in Thailand. The word Chong Buri means the city of water with a population of more than 1,000,000. For people who want to seek adventure in unknown territory, Chong Buri is one of the best tourist places in Thailand.

Best Time To Visit: Between November and April Tourist Attractions: Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan) Location: Bangkok, Thailand Things To Do: Scuba diving, Jet-skiing, shopping, elephant show Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days Places To Visit: Wat Chai Mongkon, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden How To Reach: You can reach by cab or taxi and you must hire a metered taxi as taxi drivers tend to cheat.

47. Phang-Nga – Rejuvenate Yourself While Exploring

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One of best tourist places in Thailand to include in your itinerary is Phang Nga, which is a beautiful place where you can explore spectacular James Bond islands, breathtaking Krabi, and stunning beaches. Plan your stay in one of the resorts in Thailand and rejuvenate yourself.

Best Time To Visit: Between November and April Tourist Attractions: James Bond Island, Krabi, Koh Nang Yuan Beach Location: Bangkok, Thailand Things To Do: Snorkelling, Kayaking, Rock Climbing Ideal Duration: 2 Days Places to Visit: Wat Chai Mongkon, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden How To Reach: You can reach by cab and you must hire a metered taxi as taxi drivers tend to cheat.

Suggested Read: Goa Vs Thailand

48. Dream World Amusement Park – Indulge In Fun-Filled Activities

Among the best tourist places in Thailand is the Dream World Amusement Park where there is a plethora of activities which you can indulge in with your friends and family. If you are looking for entertainment and fun-filled activities, then Dream World Amusement Park is a perfect destination for you.

Location: 62 Village No. 1 in Rangsit-Ongkharak Road, Bueng Yitho, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani 12130. Best Time To Visit: Anytime during the year or between November and April Tourist Attractions: Colour of the World Street parade Timings: The park is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM; Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 7 PM. Entry Fee: 1000 Thai Bhat (approx.) Things To Do: Adventure rides, fun-filled and thrilling water rides Ideal Duration: 1 Day How To Reach: You can reach by air, road or railway. The nearest airport is Suvarnabhumi Airport and the nearest station is Skytrain station and there are taxis available.

Further Read: Thailand Waives Visa-On-Arrival Fee For Indians

So, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand that you cannot miss if you are coming to this country. With so many amazing tourist places in Thailand, the country definitely is sure to greet you with myriad experiences. What are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Thailand and have the time of your life.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas for Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places In Thailand

How many tourists go to Thailand?

In 2016, Thailand had 32.6 million visitors, a rise of nearly nine per cent from 2015. In 2017 the number of tourists visiting Thailand exceeded 35 million.

Why is Thailand famous for tourism?

Thailand is located in southern Asia and is known for amazing cuisine, martial arts, beaches, and many temples. Thailand also has many islands that are well known and have numerous resorts for tourists. The chicken rice of Thailand may not be as famous as Singapore's, but it is still a popular comfort food.

What is the best month to go to Thailand?

Although the climate varies throughout Thailand, you can visit all year round. The Best time to travel is during the cool and dry season between November and early April.

What is Thailand famous for?

Thailand is world famous for its spa massages, beaches, Buddhist temples, nightlife, and, of course, shopping.

Is Thailand the most visited country?

According to official UNWTO stats, Thailand ranks #10 - most visited in Southeast Asia; China is Asia's #1 country with the most visitors. The world's most visited country according to World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is France, with 82.6 million overseas visitors.

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26 Top Tourist Attractions in Thailand

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Affectionately known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, Thailand is arguably Southeast Asia’s premier travel destination. Steeped in tradition and history, you will find all the modern conveniences and technology you need. But also plenty of roads less traveled and bucket list experiences too.

With pristine beaches dominating its south and verdant mountain villages characterizing its north, the country is a gift that keeps giving.

Its capital city, Bangkok, and bustling Chiang Mai are vibrant centers with plenty of attractions. But to really experience Thailand, you need to venture into remote areas where you can scuba dive world-class reefs. Or enjoy some quality time with elephants.

Thailand is full of incredible natural beauty, mystery and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. If you are planning a holiday to this wonderful country and looking for some fun things to do, here are our recommendations for the top tourist attractions in Thailand.

26. Erawan Falls

Thailand has its fair share of exceptional waterfalls. But few can compare with the one at Erawan National Park. Just a short trip from Kanchanaburi , the Erawan Falls are the major attraction of the Erawan National Park in Western Thailand.

Sprawled across seven tiers, Erawan Falls is a mesmerizing site. The falls are named after the iconic white elephant that accompanies Indra, the Hindu god, on her travels. This is because the tiers loosely resemble the shape of an elephant’s head.

Each tier has its own name. If you want to get right to the top of them, it is worth noting they become increasingly harder to reach the more you ascend. At the fifth tier, you will need to navigate bosky vegetation and slippery ladders to proceed.

That said, most people tend to stick to the first three. These are defined by green pools which you can swim in, cascading waters and a small cave.

25. Ao Nang

Want to explore the remote beaches of Koh Poda, Railay and the island of Koh Phi Phi? Then you will have to head over to Ao Nang in southern Thailand .

Providing easy access to the various islands around Krabi , many travelers use its pier as a departure point. However, Ao Nang is worthy of being classed as a tourist destination in its own right. So it is worth spending some time there.

The bustling port is as good a place as any to start, and no shortage of longtail boats can take you out to the water. If you prefer to relax on its excellent beach, you can do that instead. There are also plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and street food vendors to check out.

24. Floating Markets near Bangkok

To get an idea of what shopping in Bangkok used to be like before all the canals were filled in, many people visiting the capital take a day trip to one of the floating markets outside the city.

Though today floating markets typically function as tourist attractions and community meeting places rather than vital aspects of local farming economies, they still remain vibrant places brimming with scrumptious food.

The most popular floating market for foreign tourists is Damnoen Saduak while most Thai favor the Amphawa Floating Market.

23. Hua Hin Beach

There are no beaches in Bangkok. So when locals want some time on the sand, they head to the powder-white paradise of Hua Hin.

This vibrant seaside destination resides about 124 miles from Thailand’s capital. Its beach is massive and runs down from Khao Takiab in the south up to Klai Kangwon Palace.

Offset beautifully by the Gulf of Thailand, its stunning turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. There are also plenty of excellent resorts, restaurants, shops and bars to visit away from the sand.

As the beach is one of Thailand’s premier tourist attractions, you can expect it to be busy. However, if you head there during the shoulder season, the chances are it will be much quieter.

22. Prasat Hin Phimai

While many visitors to Thailand head to Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, Prasat Hin Phimai often gets overlooked. But it is worth visiting it if you are in the Nai Mueang area.

The site was home to one of Thailand’s largest and most sacred Hindu Khmer temples. It was once connected to Angkor in Cambodia, which could be reached by the ancient Khmer roadway.

Dating back to the 11th or 12th century, much of its incredible, ornate architecture matches that of Angkor Wat. Its central prang features clear inscriptions dedicated to Buddha.

Overall, the site is in good condition compared to similar ancient temples and historical sites in Thailand. You can choose to tour it independently or hire a local guide.

21. Khao Yai National Park

One thing you will notice in Thailand is that the locals worship elephants.

Throughout the country, you will find paintings and statues of them everywhere, including at most temples and royal residences.

However, nothing beats being able to experience them in their natural home. Which is why visiting Khao Yai National Park is one of the best things to do in Thailand.

Situated about three hours northeast of Bangkok, you can see elephants frolicking near rivers. In addition, plenty of monkeys and birds of prey reside at the park as well.

Animals aside, the park is also noted for its waterfalls. They include Haew Narok, which plunges 150 metres and Haew Suwat, which was made famous by the film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

20. Mu Ko Ang Thong

Nestled within the Gulf of Thailand, The Ang Thong National Marine Park is a spectacular archipelago of 42 islands.

Ang Thong, which means “Bowl of Gold,”, is renowned for its gorgeous white beaches, dense jungle and soaring limestone mountains. Within it, several waterfalls, lakes and hidden coves yield idyllic places to spend an afternoon. These provide visitors with excellent opportunities to go hiking, sea kayaking, diving, swimming and snorkeling.

Many tourists visit the marine park on a day trip or via boat charter. Most typically from the nearby islands of Koh Phangan or Koh Samui .

However, for those visitors who want to stay overnight, camping, bungalow and food options are available at Mu Ko Ang Thong.

19. Sukhothai Historical Park

If you are into history, or for that matter, photography, you should pencil in a trip to Sukhothai Historical Park.

Located in the Mueang Sukhothai District, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features the remains of ancient Sukhothai. It includes royal palaces, walls, city gates, Buddhist temples, moats and even a water dyke.

The site served as the capital of the Sukhothai kingdom from around the 14th century. It is now one of the country’s most historically significant structures.

One of the main features of the site is its various wats. Arguably the most impressive is Wat Mahathat. A stunning temple that enshrines a massive Buddha, it dates back to the 13th century. Surrounding it are impressive stuccoed sculptures, stupas and depictions of Buddha.

18. Koh Nang Yuan

Ko Nang Yuan is a tiny island very close to Ko Tao. It is a popular day trip from Ko Tao, so it’s beautiful beaches can be crowded at times. It comprises a trio of islets joined together by idyllic sandy beaches.

Due to its clear waters snorkeling and scuba diving are popular things to do here. Coral reefs and several caves reside in abundance just offshore. But if you prefer to sunbathe, you can readily do so on its immaculate white sand.

The beaches are at their best at sunrise or sunset. To visit the island, you will have to pay a maintenance fee of 100 baht for tourists – which goes towards ensuring the area is kept pristine.

17. Bangkok Rooftop Bars

Bangkok boasts some of the classiest rooftop bars in the whole world. Offering incredible views and a fabulous selection of innovative cocktails, they rank among the city’s most popular evening attractions.

Unfortunately, they are not cheap experiences. But the chance to sip on fine champagne as the sun sets over Bangkok or a Grey Goose L’Aristocrate, while millions of city lights twinkle before you, should not be missed.

The Octave Rooftop Bar at the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, the Three Sixty at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok and CRU Rooftop Champagne Bar above Centara Grand at CentralWorld, are some excellent venues to frequent.

Wherever you decide to visit, they should open until at least 1 am. But expect there to be a dress code.

See also: Where to Stay in Bangkok

16. Wat Arun

Thailand has many temples for tourists to visit. But few can match the Wat Arun for its sheer wow factor.

Nestled on the Thonburi west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok , the impressive Buddhist temple dates back to the 19th century. It is named after Aruna, the Hindu god Aruna and is known as the Temple of Dawn.

Ironically, the best time to visit this religious site is at sunrise or sunset. The vibrant hues of the rising or ascending sun give the temple an ethereal quality. It also provides visitors with marvellous photography opportunities.

The temple features a striking 104-metre Khmer-style tower decorated with porcelain. It also incorporates four smaller towers, a giant Buddha statue and a bell tower.

15. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

The famous Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai sprawls along several city blocks along footpaths, inside buildings and temple grounds. It has handicrafts, arts, clothing and and imported products of all descriptions, and a number of large, well-appointed modern shopping centers.

At first, the market was owned by Chinese merchants, but since it grew in size as more commercial buildings were built, it was no longer owned by a single group of people. Instead, there are many owners, and most of them are Thai.

Today, visiting the night bazaar is one of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai in the evening.

See also: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

14. Ko Lipe

Located within the Tarutao National Marine Park and just 35 km from the Malaysian border , Ko Lipe should be on every visitor’s travel list.

The country’s southernmost island, Ko Lipe, is affectionately known as the ‘Maldives of Thailand’ due to its pristine white-sand beaches . It is also an area rich in lush palm trees and turquoise water. Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach are two of its most popular tourist destinations. The latter is best to visit at daybreak.

Both provide excellent opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing throughout the day. They also have plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes and shops you can visit. Those wanting to venture further into a field can book a tour of the surrounding islands.

13. Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you love to ‘shop till you drop’, then you should make a point of visiting The Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Launched in 1942, Chatuchak is comfortably Thailand’s largest market. It features over 15,000 stalls and 11,500 vendors and is so big it is divided into 27 different sections.

Often referred to as JJ Market, it sprawls across the Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road in Chatuchak. On any given weekend, some 200,000 shoppers come here hoping to find a bargain.

While prices can be dearer than at other markets (depending on your bartering skills!), you can buy pretty much anything you want here.

Even if you don’t want to go shopping for merchandise, it is worth coming just for the diverse food options available.

12. Khao Sok National Park

For those who enjoy reconnecting with nature, Khao Sok National Park is a terrific place to visit.

Situated in southern Thailand, it comprises several different ecosystems. They include the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest. It also incorporates a spectacular limestone mountain range replete with tower-like karst formations.

Throughout the park, several miles of trails lead you through a bosky virgin jungle that houses mysterious caves. There is also a river and man-made lake that you can explore on bamboo rafts or via canoes.

The park accommodates a diverse range of wildlife species. With the likes of Malayan sun bears, wild elephants and tigers all residing there.

For those who enjoy glamping, it is also home to eco-luxury camps that provide guests with en-suite bathrooms.

11. Phanom Rung

Officially called Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, this 900-year-old UNESCO historical site is a Hindu Khmer Empire temple.

Sitting atop Phanom Rung Mountain, on the rim of an extinct volcano, it is notable for its Khmer ruins. The entire construction of which took place between the 10th and 13th centuries.

Originally made from limestone and laterite, the site sits atop Phanom Rung Mountain. It features incredibly ornate carvings and engravings and sits at an elevation of 402 meters.

One of its most noted elements is a lintel depicting a reclining Vishnu Anantasayin. It resides above the central sanctuary’s eastern entrance.

To visit this iconic landmark, you should go to Buri Ram. Once there, we recommend walking up the fantastic stone staircase that showcases magnificent views of the surrounding area.

10. Similan Islands

Thailand is a renowned spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. One of the best places in Thailand to do this is around The Similan Islands.

Situated 120 km from Phuket, this spectacular archipelago lies in the Andaman Sea. Topographically, it features coral white sand and huge boulders that line the shores of its islands. However, it is best known for stunning coral growths and marine life that resides beneath its sparkling azure waters.

Many people come here on a day trip from Phuket. However, to do the Similan islands justice, it is worth staying on them overnight. In doing this, you will not only have the beaches to yourself in the morning and evening. You will also get some incredible sunset and stargazing opportunities.

9. Full Moon Party at Haad Rin

If you love a good party, then head to the island of Ko Pha-ngan for The Full Moon Party. Since 1985, Haad Rin has been the venue for boisterous all-night beach parties. Typically it occurs on the day, or either side, of the full moon.

During this time, thousands of tourists and backpackers descend upon the beach to blow off steam and have fun. To spur them on, its entire row of beachside bars dish out gallons of cocktails and beers while blasting out banging tunes.

The party starts at dusk and continues until the wee hours of the morning. Aside from dancing and singing on the sand, the shops, tattoo artists, restaurants and bars that flank the beach stay open for the long haul.

8. Thai-Burma Death Railway

The two-hour train journey along the notorious Thailand–Burma Death Railway from Kanchanaburi, via the Bridge over the River Kwai, to Nam Tok is one of Thailand’s most scenic and most popular train rides. Though the views are lovely, it’s the history that makes the ride so special.

During WWII, the Japanese built the railroad to connect Yangon, the then-capital of Burma, with Bangkok, enlisting POWs and Asian laborers in a horrifying and deadly race to the finish. Today, only a portion of the original rail line is in operation.

7. Ayutthaya

Also known as Ayutthaya Historical Park , this popular tourist attraction contains the ruins of the second capital of Siam, which was founded around 1350. By 1700 Ayutthaya had become one of the largest cities in the world with a total of 1 million inhabitants.

In 1767 the city was destroyed by the Burmese army, resulting in the collapse of the kingdom. Fortunately, renovations that began in the late 1960s restored the once-vibrant city to much of its former glory.

This allows visitors to experience the eclectic array of architectural styles that can be found amid its grid-like patterns of moats, roads and canals.

6. Mu Ko Chang National Park

Located in the Trat Province of eastern Thailand, this exquisite national park is made up of more than 50 islands. Without a doubt, Ko Chang is the most notable of the bunch and is famous for its steep peaks, lush jungles and relaxed atmosphere.

White Sand Beach is where people from around the world congregate to have a great time. The islands also feature white sand beaches, premium snorkeling and diving sites and many waterfalls.

From fishing to dining to kayaking, there’s something for everyone here in Koh Chang. Though still far quieter than islands like Phuket or Ko Samui, it’s probably better to go now than later.

5. Visit the Northern Hill Tribes

The Hill Tribes of Thailand are a fascinating ethnic group whose roots date back hundreds of years. Residing in the hills of the northern part of the country, they are descendants of people who migrated from Laos, China and Myanmar.

Overall there are seven main groups of hill tribes in Thailand. Each has its own customs, culture and language that has changed little over the years. If you want to gain an insight into their way of life, there are a couple of ways you can do this ethically.

The first is to hire a hill tribe guide who will introduce you to locals on a day visit. The second is to spend a couple of days living like they do in a homestay.

Those looking for an exotic beach destination to visit during their holiday in Thailand should consider Railay Beach .

Often referred to as ‘Rai Leh’ by locals, this stunning stretch of sand sits on a peninsula that is only accessible by boat. Soaring limestone cliffs prevent you from getting there from the mainland. For this reason, many people mistakenly think it is an island between Ao Nang and Krabi.

Flanked by a verdant coastline of dense jungle, the area has a remote feel. It is a terrific spot to swim, snorkel, sunbathe and relax for an afternoon. However, if you are feeling adventurous, you can also go hiking, rock climbing, cave exploring, kayaking, or on a tour of the surrounding islands.

3. Grand Palace in Bangkok

Going to Bangkok without visiting The Grand Palace would be like visiting Paris and not checking out The Eiffel Tower. Viewed as the country’s spiritual heart, the construction of the magnificent complex of buildings began in 1782. For over 140 years, it served as the official residence of seven kings of Siam.

Situated in Phra Nakhon – Bangkok’s central district – this stunning complex of buildings includes the iconic Wat Phra Kaew. Otherwise known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha, which dates back to the 14th century.

If you want to visit here, be aware that there is a strict dress code. Men must wear long pants and shorts with sleeves. Similarly, women should not wear clothing that does not reveal bare shoulders, cleavage or above the knee.

2. Phang Nga Bay

Located just over 95 km (60 miles) from the island of Phuket , Phang Nga Bay is one of the top tourist attractions in Thailand and one of most scenic areas in the country.

It consists of beautiful caves, aquatic grottoes and limestone islands. The most famous island in the bay is a sea stack called Ko Ping Kan (more commonly known as James Bond Island) which was featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”.

A popular way of visiting Phang Nga Bay is by sea kayak as they are the only way to get inside the grottoes and sea caves.

1. Ko Phi Phi

Phi Phi is a beautiful archipelago located in the Krabi Province not too far from Phuket.

Ko Phi Phi Don is the only island in the group with permanent inhabitants while the smaller Ko Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming location for the 2000 movie “The Beach”.

Travelers go here enjoy the beaches and to participate in a variety of water recreation activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. As a result of the masses of tourists, Ko Phi Phi is becoming less and less attractive but for now it is still a very beautiful place to visit.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Thailand

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Reader interactions.

September 7, 2015 at 2:41 am

Beautiful listed..Very inspiring work…

April 26, 2014 at 12:28 am

Hey but where is Krabi???? Krabi is soo amazing! it should be on the list too

March 28, 2014 at 4:38 am

wow thailand is one of the best tourist place in the world.

December 4, 2013 at 8:22 pm

I really love Thailand I will come there coming soon

October 25, 2013 at 10:18 pm

i realy love thailand… hope to go there soon… i love phi phi island..

October 24, 2013 at 12:11 pm

looking for recommendations for some of the islands thst are a must see in thailand 🙂

August 9, 2013 at 4:24 am

Phi Phi totally ruined now by tourism: http://bbqboy.net/phi-phi-thailand/ A real shame because it was one of the most beautiful places in the world. Now it’s a mini-Phuket. Frank (bbqboy)

August 2, 2013 at 1:01 am

Wonderful.awesome Going to Thailand in this Eid…I wish this City will be wonderful 😀

June 27, 2013 at 4:24 pm

Cannot wait to get to Thailand. Even though I usually stay away from “touristy” things, it all looks amazing. I just bought my ticket to Thailand for November, CANNOT WAIT!

June 13, 2013 at 4:23 am

The photo you used for illustrating the NIght Bazar in Chiang Mai actually shows the Sunday Walking Street in a totally different location in the city.

June 5, 2013 at 4:23 am

Ohh love Ayutthaya & Phi Phi Island!

May 3, 2013 at 2:52 am

Wonderful collections. similan islands the great one.

May 1, 2013 at 11:39 pm

if you want to go somewhere truly spectacular but completely off the tourist map, go to Wat Pha Sorn Kaew in Khao Kor, Phetchabun, in north central Thailand, about 5 hours drive north of Bangkok. Khao Kor is called the Switzerland of Thailand because of the beautiful mountain scenery and cool, fresh air.

October 10, 2012 at 3:05 am

Great little review and good to see the glorious Similan Islands in the top 10

November 26, 2010 at 7:55 am

Good selection, though there happen to be a few national parks in Thailand that are worth to mention, as well. I have been to many national parks around the world. Khao Yai national park is definitely amongst the best national parks for watching wildlife. It is famed for its birds, though I’ve personally seen gibbons, Malayan Sun Bear!, wild elephants, flying dragons (yes, really), huge Burmese and Reticulated Pythons, Water Dragons, Great Hornbills, macaques, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Slow Loris, 6 species of civets, Siamese Fireback, Red Junglefowl and I can go on for a while. And there is still the chance to see Clouded Leopard and even tigers.

November 24, 2010 at 10:11 pm

Wow please keep sending people to these over-run places. Never tell them about the good places. Please everyone go up to Pai as well.

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

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

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

So, where to go in Thailand?

2. Kanchanaburi and the Bridge Over the River Kwai

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

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

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

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

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the Best Places to visit in Bangkok:

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

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

Kanchanaburi is located 130 km northwest of Bangkok .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the 6 temples included in the pass:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The site features several ruined temples spread over 3 areas:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chiang Rai is the other major city in northern Thailand .

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

What to see in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Krabi, Thailand:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand.

After Phuket, it’s the second largest island .

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

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

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

Ko Pha Ngan is located next to Ko Samui.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s also prohibited to use drones.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the most famous diving places in Thailand:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thailand travel Guides

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

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

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

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

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Top 20 BEST Cities in Thailand to Visit and Explore

Thailand , a land of Buddhism, pristine natural beauty, unexplored eye-pleasing architecture and art, hidden wile life, adorable scenic views, adventurous water activities, Lush green forests, mind-boggling and brainstorming modern architectural designs, and unprecedented views.

When a country has so many things to explore, then it becomes difficult what to see and what to leave, so a visitor always tries to make most of it in a visit. This guide contains each and every detail about the cities to visit in Thailand.

So don’t leave any stone unturned to reveal the hidden treasure of Thailand with the help of this guide which will help you the most to make a decision about visiting those cities which will satiate your travel hunger from the cities in Thailand list:

Table of Contents

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a town, this town is located in west Thailand . Kanchanaburi is one of Thailand’s most visited cities. This town is loaded with historical views and nature, along with wildlife.

On one side where historical monuments like Death Railway bridge, Thailand Burma Railway Centre & Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, Hellfire Pass & Memorial Museum, JEATH War Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, War Museum at the Bridge, and Ban Kao National Museum will hold your hand to let you through the history of Kanchanaburi.

While on another side mother nature will keep you around via its stunning waterfalls like Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, National parks like Khuean Srinagarindra National Park, Prasat Muang Singh National Park, Erawan National Park, and Elephants World.

Surat Thani

This is a city in Amphoe Mueang Surat Thani , which is located in southern Thailand . This city completes the Tapi River with its existence at the mouth of this river.

This city deals with rubber and coconuts. Surat Thani is a “city of good people,” so this should be in the list of must-see cities in Thailand of every tourist. This city keeps up the spirit high of traveling for every tourist with catering to all their needs.

It has National parks like Ang Thong National Marine Park, elephant sanctuary, Cheow Lan Dam, Limestone lake rainforest, and Khao Sok National Park for the wildlife explorers. It has historical views like Surat Thani city pillar shrine and Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya for history lovers.

If you love shopping , then it has something in its kitty for you as well that is its Night Market. If none of the above is capable of exciting you, then don’t be disappointed; it has Khanom Beach with mesmerizing sunrise, sunset views, water activities, Sonchana farm, and Tham Khao Wang Thong caves with iron and copper walls.

To get from Surat Thani from Bangkok, read our guide here .

Surin is a city, which is located in the northeastern provinces of Thailand . This is one of the best cities to go to Thailand. One village is there named Ban Tha Sawang Silk Weaving village; it has kept the old tradition of weaving alive, so having a walk around or buy something from here will give you a cherishable memory for life.

Wildlife explorers cant be disappointed here; this city has various national parks like Phanom Sawai Forest Park. Historical viewers also get a surprise here with awsome views of historical places and religious sites like Surin National Museum, City Pillar Shrine, Wat Chang Mop, and Wat Burapharam.

Those tourists who would like to have water fun or adventurous experience or want to do some shopping, their needs also taken care of by other sites here like Saran Water Park, Surin Elephant Round-up, Robinson Surin.

This city is situated in the province of Krabi , which is on the west coast of southern Thailand. This city is one of the most popular cities in Thailand .

This city is the main point of attraction for history, nature, and adventure-loving tourists. Tiger Cave – Wat Tham Sua temple , Wat Kaew Korawaram Buddhist temple, and The Krabi Contemporary Art Museum are its historical and religious sites.

For mountaineers, hikers and tropical adventure seekers, Khao Khanab Nam mountains, Ao Luk Mangrove & Caves, and Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint are the main attractions over here. Those tourists who want to relax and enjoy, Krabi Emerald Pond is the best.

This is a hot water waterfall which is well-known to be therapeutic and soothing for various diseases due to its natural healing ailments. Krabi riverside & Thara Park river sidewalk on a large manmade footpath with access to Chao Fah Night Market every evening can make a wow vacation of shopping lovers.

This is a city in the southeast of Phuket island , which is in Thailand. This city is one of the best cities to go to Thailand. Here no one will disappoint with its main attractions.

This city is the perfect blend of historical places, religious places, markets, art, and brain puzzling sites. Historical places are like Phuket Old Town, Baan Chinpracha- Sino-colonial is a mansion which was built-in 1903, Thai Hua Museum, Phuket Trickeye Museum- a three-dimensional illusion built on a two dimensional (flat) support.

And Jui Tui Chinese Temple. Markets are Phuket Weekend Market and Phuket Walking Street. Art & theatre place is Siam Niramit Phuket, which shows great theatrical shows related to Thai artistical, cultural facts , beliefs, and historical facts in performance. A Brain puzzling place is Baan Teelanka – The Upside Down House.

This city is one of the top cities in Thailand to visit . Main attractions include Walking Street till beach, Sanctuary of Truth- the teak structure which displays religion, philosophy, and art.

Tiffany Cabaret Show- topped up with dazzling costumes, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden-International awards winner garden with customized landscape designs of flowers and plants, Pattaya Floating Market- Market on the water which spread up to Four Regions- the north, northeast, central and south, Wat Phra Khao Yai – Big Buddha Hill of 18 meters in height which is positioned nearly 100 meters above sea level.

Water Parks-Ramayana Water Park and Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark, Pattaya Viewpoint-the best viewpoint to visit to get shot of Pattaya’s sweeping, crescent bay, Coral Island, Art in Paradise- visitors can become part of via using its optical illusions and last but not the least Buddha Mountain The largest engraving of Buddha in the world.

This city is one of the tourist cities in Thailand. Here shopping market attractions are Central Festival Hat Yai , Asean Trade Bazaar, Kim Yong Market, and Greenway Night Market. Nature lovers can experience being with mother nature in these parks and sights: Hat Yai Municipal Park, Kho Hong Mountain.

One remarkable religious SIGHTS over here to explore is Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol- a temple made from most of the stainless steel, unlike other temples and Wat Hat Yai Nai – famous for huge reclining Buddha statue . If you are looking for an excellent picnic place, then Namtok Ton Nga Chang is the best with its waterfalls .

If you want to experience another world, then this magic museum is all set to take you to Magic Museum Hatyai by Black Crystal.

Nakhon Pathom

This city doesn’t forget to surprise you the most with its attractions, that is why this city is one of the beautiful cities in Thailand.

There are museums like Woodland Muangmai- where art speaks everywhere in the form of wood, Jesada Technik Museum – displays vintage cars collection, and Human Imagery Museum- a museum of realistic wax figures.

Religious sights are also eye-pleasing to visit once like Wat Samphran – a dragon temple, Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, Wat Bang Phra Temple, a temple where you can have a tattoo on your body, and Wat Rai Khing.

Other sites which are famous like Phutthamonthon – a sight with big buddha statue, Sanam Chandra Palace – a historic palace which was built for King Rama IV 100 years ago.

This city is one of the top cities in Thailand. A city that is familiar to everyone, but it has more to unleash.

It has religious sites like Wat Phra Chetuphon – This is One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok, which is famous for more than 150 feet lengthy reclining BuddhaBuddha, Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun), Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)- enriched with Thai culture and art, Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit)- famous for Buddha statue which is made of pure gold.

The Golden Mount (Wat Saket)- most iconic temples with a great view of Bangkok from the top, a visit in yearly carnival when it is decorated with lights will fill up your eyes with a mesmerizing view.

This city has other unique sites to visit like Jim Thompson House-A well maintained architectural house upholding Thai culture and antiques. Other attractions to check out here are BTS Skytrain, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Siam Paragon.

• Chiang Mai Night Safari in Hang Dong – Where you can enjoy hand-feeding to wild animals and you can even petting tiger cubs, here you can see laser light show and ‘dancing’ fountain as well
• Wiang Kum Kam-the Underground Ancient City
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
• Doi Inthanon National Park
• Karen Long Neck Tribe & Chiang Dao Cave
• Doi Pui Tribal Village and National Park
• Bo Sang Handicraft Village
• Lanna Folklife Museum

It was assumed that they would have leaped across waterways, this is a deep blue color with the interior featuring intricate paintings detailing the life of Buddha.

You can visit the Black House Museum, which is a museum and gallery made by a Thai artist. You can satiate your hunger with khao soi which is an egg noodle is bathed in a coconut yellow curry soup. And you can wander through the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar where you will find plenty of shops selling food, handicrafts, clothing, etc.

Ubon Ratchathani

This city is one of the best cities to travel to Thailand. You can see the tree of life at Phu Prao Temple. You can see pristine natural beauty over here by just checking out Pha Taem National Park, Soi Sawan Waterfall, Long Roo or Sang Chan Waterfall, Na Yoi National Park – Waterfall, Huai Luang Waterfall, Pra Oan La Oar Waterfall.

Just walk on the streets in Khemarat, all along with the rustic wooden houses on sides. Count the number of holes and check out their shapes in Sam Phan Bok rock reef. Experience the sunset at Had Hong Sand Dunes.

• Water and amusement parks – Vana Nava Water Jungle
• Black Mountain Water Park, Museum
• Huay Mongkol Temple, Cicada Market
• Nature & Parks Hutsadin Elephant Foundation
• Outdoor activities – Hua Hin Beach
• Shopping spots – Market Village HuaHin
• Tamarind Market
• BLUPORT Hua Hin Resort Mall
• Spots for Food & Drinks – Monsoon Valley Vineyard

• Nature & Parks – Si Satchanalai Historical Park
• Sukhothai Historical Park, Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary
• Other sights and landmarks – Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Chum, Wat Sri Sawai, Wat Sa Si, Wat Saphan Hin
• Wat Chang Lom, Museums – Ramkhamhaeng National Museum.

Chanthaburi

This city is one of the cities to see in Thailand. In this city, you can discover a unique cultural blend at Chanthaboon Waterfront Community, go on a pilgrimage to paradise at Khao Khitchakut National Park, get back to nature, and recharge at Phliu Waterfall.

Go on treasure hunting at the weekend gem market, pay respect to the helmet-shaped King Taksin Shrine, laze around on the tranquil beaches , check out Chalerm Burapha Chonlathit Road, learn more about the coastal ecosystem at Khung Kraben Bay Royal Development Study Center Delight with durians and other culinary creations, trace the darker era of the city, make life colorful with Chanthaboon mats, and visit the home of red hawks at Bang Chan Fishing Village.

This city is one of the top tourist cities in Thailand. This city has lots of attractions like sights and landmarks – Sala Kaew Ku (Wat Khaek), Wat Pho Chai, Tha Sadet Market, The First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, Lan Phaya Nak, Phrathat Bang Phuan, Wat A-Hong Silawas, food and drinks point – Issan Rum Distillery, Zoos and Aquariums – Nong Khai Aquarium, and fun and games point – Nong Khai Muay Thai Gym.

The list of Buddhist temples which are here is Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Lokaya Sutha (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Viharn Phra Mongkhonbophit and Wat Panan Choeng (Golden Buddha), Ayutthaya Historical Park and Wat Phra Mah that – comes under most photographed spots in Ayutthaya .

Art is projected here on another level of perfection – Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon. What about boat Tour from Ayutthaya to Bangkok sounds interesting? Yes, it is for every tourist to explore it up to a great extent. Last but not least, Bang Pa-In Palace, which was constructed in Ayutthaya in the 17th century.

This city is one of the best cities in Thailand to visit . It has Nature and parks – Chae Son National Park, Thai Elephant Conservation Center, sights & Landmarks – Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao, Wat Pong Sanuk Temple, Wat Chedi Sao Lang, Wat Si Rong Mueang, Shopping spots: Kad Kong Ta Street Market, Museums: Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum, Ban Sao Nak.

This city is one of the most famous and visited cities in Thailand. It has sights & Landmarks – Wat Nong Wang, Wat Thung Setthi, Wat Pa Thamma Utthayan, Phrathat Kham Kaen, Bueng Kaen Nakhon, Chao Por Lak Muang Khon Kaen Shrine, Prasat Pueai Noi, Shopping spots: Khon Kaen’s Day & Night Markets, Museum spots: Khon Kaen National Museum, Water and amusement park spots – Dino Water Park.

Nakhon Ratchasima

This city is one of the best cities in Thailand. Things a tourist should do here are: explore Khao Yai National Park, visit Thap Lan National Park, go rafting at Lam Takhong, Marvel at Sai Ngam, breathe fresh air at Wang Nam Khiao, Admire the gorgeous Wat Ban Rai, step back in time at Phimai Historical Park.

Learn about local history at Ban Prasat Archaeological Site, have family fun in Pak Chong, Farm Chokchai park, Thongsomboon Club Amusement Park, enjoy diverse attractions in the provincial capital, and relax at Chom Tawan Beach.

This list carried forward every fine detail of cities in Thailand, it will take you to visit one of them.

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Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Thailand

Thailand is arguably the most popular country for tourists to visit in South East Asia, renowned for its tropical beaches with crystal clear waters, incredible street food scene, and great value for money.

Looking at Thailand from a glance, there are so many beautiful places to visit that you’ll be like a kid in a candy shop when trying to choose where to visit on your holidays. Here at Kiwi.com, we’ve compiled a list of vacation ideas and spots in Thailand to take the stress out of planning your trip.

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Thailand?

November to March are the dryest months in Thailand, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 30 °C and the busiest among travelers. Like every major travel destination, the prices of everything go up during the high season; in Thailand, it’s no different.

From the middle of March until July, it’s the hot season where temperatures will reach highs of 38°C and lows of 29°C, but this varies from region to region. If you’re not used to this type of weather, it can be uncomfortable outside.

The rainy season in Thailand is between July and October. But there’s a common misconception that during the rainy season in Thailand, it rains all day, every day, but this isn’t true. Yes, it rains often, but not all the time. Downpours usually last around a couple of hours and then pass by. If you can rough the showers, this is an incredibly cheap time to visit Thailand.

Five Cool Places To Go In Thailand

• Phi Phi Islands

Bangkok – The Capital City That Never Sleeps

Bangkok is a mega city that everyone has to visit once in their travel career. Once you get used to the chaos and the traffic, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all of what Bangkok has to offer. Think of tourist attractions like the reclining Buddha, bustling clubs with loud music on Khaosan Road, intriguing art museums like MOCA Gallery Bangkok, spacious parks with heavenly lakes such as Lumpini Park, and vibrant street markets like the Chatuchak Market.

Iconic Places To See And Things To Do In Bangkok

Spend the day at Wat Arun – Thailand is known all over the world for its incredible temples, but Wat Arun is one that’s truly special. Sitting on the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is 79 meters high and is designed with charming ceramic tiles making it that bit more unique.

Party on Khaosan Road – At least one of your nights in Bangkok should be spent on the infamous Khaosan Road. The city district is known for its noisy, loud music, packed out clubs and bars, and is seen as a meeting place for backpackers and tourists to come together.

Visit a floating market – Discover how business was conducted back in the good old days in Thailand by visiting a floating market. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the popular one that everyone goes to, but prepare to travel 100 kilometers outside the city center. It’s well worth it, though.

Must Try Food And Drink In Bangkok

Pad Thai – Pad Thai is a huge part of Bangkok and Thailand’s culinary scene. It’s a rice noodle dish that contains shrimp/chicken, peanuts, egg, bean sprouts, and lime on the side to squeeze the juice on top. Pad Thai is typically found at street markets in Bangkok for less than 100 baht.

Chang – Chang has acted as a good friend to the Thai people for many years. The beer is sold all over Bangkok and throughout Thailand, full of flavor and hop aroma that will have you begging for more after your first bottle.

Tips For First Timers Visiting Bangkok

• Download the Grab application on your phone before you arrive. It’s a taxi-hailing app only the price for the fare is determined before you book the driver.
• Don’t be afraid to haggle at the street markets for products (not food). Haggling is a part of Thai culture, but don’t go too far.
• Discover the flavors of bustling Bangkok from Singapore.
• Fly high to vibrant Bangkok from Kuala Lumpur.
• Get ready to explore Bangkok – flights from Denpasar.
• Soak up the culture of Bangkok from Phnom Penh.
• Let Bangkok take your breath away – book now from Seoul.

Chiang Mai – The City With The Nicest Weather

Chiang Mai is a city situated in the mountains in northern Thailand and has a lot more of a relaxed vibe than Bangkok. Chiang Mai provides visitors with endless adventures, whether you want to see elephants in their natural habitat or learn about the history of the Lanna Kingdom.

Chiang Mai – What To Do There

Make the trip up to Doi Suthep – Only about 12 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai city is Doi Suthep mountain which houses the region’s most talked about the temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Dating back to the 13th century, the sacred area is popular among locals for worshipping, which you’ll be able to see when you’re there.

Take a boat tour up the Mae Ping River – The Mae Ping River flows through Chiang Mai. Take a boat trip down it to scout out traditional teak houses, local farms, and hidden restaurants you would never even know existed until you saw them.

Have a dip at Chiang Mai Canyon – Just outside of the city is the Chiang Mai Canyon which has a fully functioning water park you can pay into and use for the day. It has everything you need for a hit of adrenaline, from ziplines to wakeboarding, as well as huge water slides.

Food And Drinks Everyone Should Try In Chiang Mai

Khao Soi – Chiang Mai’s signature dish is Khao Soi, a rich, creamy yellow curry with noodles and a chicken drumstick. It can be either mild or extremely spicy, depending on where you buy it from. It would help if you mentioned how you would like it cooked to whoever is serving you, so you don’t get your mouth blown off.

Mekhong – Mekhong was the first ever locally distilled spirit in Thailand. Some Thais say Mekhong is a whiskey, but the majority will tell you it’s a rum made from sugar cane and rice. When you order Mekhong in a bar, you’ll be asked if you would like soda water with it; that’s the typical way to drink it.

Tips For Visiting Chiang Mai

• Taking off your shoes before entering some establishments or temples is common. It’s a sign of showing respect, and you should do so to follow suit.
• You can’t drink tap water in Chiang Mai or anywhere else in Thailand. Stick to bottled water at all times to avoid illness.
• Chiang Mai becomes the warmest city in Thailand in April during the summer, with temperatures sometimes even reaching 40 degrees°C. While Chiang Mai is one of the main warm places in Thailand already, the heat during this time can be unbearable for many.
• Fly to Chiang Mai from Singapore – discover the land of the rising sun!
• Escape to peaceful Chiang Mai – book your flight from Kuala Lumpur now.
• Chiang Mai is calling – fly from Hanoi today.
• Get ready to explore – flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai.
• Take off to Chiang Mai from Seoul – book now and experience the beauty of Thailand!

Koh Samui – A Secluded Paradise Surround Ice Blue Colored Sea For Honeymoons And Couples

Koh Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand and is the country’s second-largest island after Phuket. There’s no better location than Koh Samui to unwind after a dose of Thai cities. Spend your days chilling out on Chaweng Beach or enjoy a day of a fun-filled day of water-based activities at Ang Thong National Marine Park.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Koh Samui?

Immerse yourself in some nature at the Na Muang Waterfalls – Head deep into the jungle to scout out some of Koh Samui’s gorgeous waterfalls, Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2. Only 12 kilometers from Nathon Bay, the Na Muang Waterfalls is the ideal spot to take refuge from the island’s heat.

Go see what the fuss is about Elephant Rock – Before you get your hopes up, Elephant Rock looks nothing like an elephant, but it’s one of the top places to visit on the island. The rock got its name from locals who described it as an elephant because of its sheer size.

Check out the Mummified Monk – In 1973, the Buddhist monk Luong Pordaeng passed away, and his body remains have been preserved and left in a glass case on Koh Samui. You can go take a look at it for yourself at the Wat Khunaram temple.

Food And Drink You Need To Try In Koh Samui

Kalamae – Kalamae is a sweet sticky candy consumed mainly in southern Thailand; the reason for this is that there are a lot more coconut trees down this part of the country. You can buy Kalamae in almost every local market in Koh Samui. If you’re a fan of French caramel, you’ll love Kalamae.

Sugarcane Juice – Wandering through the markets of Koh Samui, you’ll probably spot bottles filled with a pale yellow color liquid; this is Sugarcane Juice. Street vendors will put the actual sugarcane through a blender and extract the juice for you on the spot. As you probably already guessed, the juice is very sweet, so brace yourself.

Tips For Visiting Koh Samui

• While Koh Samui is an island, it does have an airport. Flying is the easiest and fastest way to get there. Alternatively, you can take a ferry.
• Bring your own sunscreen with you to Koh Samui. It’s much more expensive to purchase on the island than on the mainland.
• Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Ko Samui to enjoy the island life.
• Discover the beauty of Ko Samui with our flights from Singapore.
• Book a flight now from Denpasar to relax on the beaches of Ko Samui.
• Ho Chi Minh City to Ko Samui – your gateway to paradise.
• Seoul to Ko Samui flights – escape to the tropics now.

Phi Phi Islands – One Of The Most Famous Places In The World

The Phi Phi Islands are the postcard cover of Thailand, and for good reasons; this picturesque set of islands in the Andaman Sea boasts colorful corals, white sandy beaches, and unbelievable snorkeling experiences. Just a short 90-minute ferry boat ride from Krabi, the Phi Phi islands must be on your Thailand travel itinerary.

Things To Do On The Phi Phi Islands For Sun Lovers

Hike up to the top of the Phi Phi Viewpoint – Enjoy the odd shape of Phi Phi Don on the island’s viewpoint. The climb only takes about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how many stops you have in between. From above, you’ll be treated to incredible views of Tonsai Bai and the Andaman Sea.

Hop on a boat to Maya Bay – Maya Bay is an awe-inspiring bay surrounded by three 100-meter cliffs. The easiest way to get there is by taking a speed boat from Phi Phi Don to Phi Phi Leh, where Maya Bay is located. Access to the bay is limited to a certain amount of people every 10/15 minutes, but don’t worry; you’ll get to see it with your own eyes.

Go snorkeling – Who said you need your scuba diving license to go snorkeling? Tour operators offer snorkeling excursions to places like Phak Nam Bay , where you can see plankton when it gets dark if you’re lucky enough.

Delicious Food And Tasty Drinks To Try At The Phi Phi Islands

Tom Kha Gai – If you’re someone who has a low tolerance for spice, well, then Tom Kha Gai is for you. It’s a rich coconut chicken soup that caters to fans of the other traditional Thai dish, Tom Yum, but can’t deal with how spicy it is.

Singha – Another Thai beer that everyone loves and a massive competitor with Chang is Singha. Singha was Thailand’s first ever domestically produced beer and is now exported to over 50 countries. All over the Phi Phi Islands, you’ll see tourists and backpackers with their hands firmly wrapped around an ice-cold bottle of Singha.

Need To Know Tips For Visiting The Phi Phi Islands

• Don’t worry about withdrawing cash on the Phi Phi Islands. Yes, it’s a tiny island, but some ATMs are available to use 24/7.
• The Phi Phi Islands has an international standard hospital and some general clinics, so if you ever run into any trouble and need assistance, there’s someone there to help you at all times.
• From Singapore to Phuket City – escape to a tropical paradise.
• Kuala Lumpur to Phuket City flights – discover the beauty of Thailand.
• Denpasar to Phuket City – enjoy a stunning destination the way you like.
• Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket City – escape to the beaches of Thailand.
• Istanbul to Phuket City – discover the wonders of Southeast Asia now.

Krabi – Where Everyone Begins Their Trip In Southern Thailand

Krabi has everything you need for an action-packed holiday, whether it’s for families, groups of backpackers, or solo travelers. The resort town sits in the space of landscapes underlined by limestone and lush green rainforests. Take a long tail boat to the charming Railay Beach, walk through the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, and have a dip in the Klong Thom Hot Springs.

Fun Things To Do In Krabi

Check out Railay Beach – Railay Beach is a contender to be one of the prettiest beaches in the world. The only way you can get there is by taking a boat from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi. There are no cars, bikes, or any other sort of vehicles there, which adds to its untouched beauty.

Go whitewater rafting – Head to the Songprak River for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience. Join your experienced instructor as they take you down the 7-kilometer river around sharp twists and turns, hoping nobody falls out. Nothing’s guaranteed, though.

Hit the sea for some kayaking – Krabi is all about watersports, and there’s kayaking where there are water sports. From Ao Nang Beach, you’ll be able to hire a kayak for the day and go at your own pace. Alternatively, some vendors offer organized group tours where you’ll stop at a couple of locations along the coast which are equally as fun.

Tasty Food And Drinks To Try In Krabi

Khao Man Kai – This simple dish consists of rice that has been cooked in a rich broth with some added tender chicken, salad, and a spicy dip. It’s similar to Hainanese chicken rice, a Chinese dish that you might have tried before. Almost every traditional Thai restaurant sells some variation of Khao Man Kai. If they don’t understand, just say you want some chicken rice.

Krating Daeng – Energy drinks are massive in Thailand; everyone drinks them. If you walk into any local convenience store, you’ll find someone rooting in the fridge where the energy drinks are. Krating Daeng is the Thai version of Red Bull, but much more potent. Avoid having one before bedtime, or you won’t be able to sleep.

What To Know Before Visiting Krabi

• Krabi isn’t the cheapest place in Thailand, so to save money, shop for goods in 7-Eleven, a convenience store chain that is very affordable and has a place on every corner of Thai towns, cities, and villages.
• If you decide to stay a couple of nights in Railay Beach, remember that after 6 pm, the boats stop running, so you won’t be able to get back to the Ao Nang until the following morning.
• Explore the beauty of Krabi – book your flight from Kuala Lumpur today!
• Fly high to a Thai paradise – Krabi flights from Singapore.
• Ready for an adventure? Fly to Krabi from Denpasar.
• Escape to Krabi – Seoul to Krabi flights available now.
• Discover the hidden gems of Krabi – book your Hanoi to Krabi flights.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

Christmas to mid-March is the best time of year to travel to Thailand as it's the weather, and the weather is nice but never gets cold enough for some skiing, and there's barely any rain. Some people will avoid traveling to Thailand during these months as it gets incredibly touristy, and they'll leave it until the monsoon season because it's better value.

Here at Kiwi.com, our goal is to make sure you visit the destinations on your bucket list. Through our travel hacks and technology, we find our customers the cheapest fares online that no other flight website will show you.

To get started booking your Thailand holiday, visit our Thailand destination page, select the city where you want to begin your adventure, and we'll provide you with endless flight options for the dates you're traveling.

Thailand is known as the land of smiles because Thai people are some of the happiest in the world. You'll notice when you see locals interacting with each other or when someone serves you something in a supermarket you'll always be greeted with a smile.

Choosing the best food in Thailand is difficult because there's so much to choose from.

First-time visitors in Thailand should start with classic dishes like Pad Thai or Khao Soi. But, if you have already had your fair share of them, sample a Papaya Salad or indulge in a tasty Pad Krapow.

One month is the perfect amount of time to spend in Thailand. To get the most out of your trip and see all the best places to travel, start in the north of the country in Chiang Mai and slowly make your way down to the islands in the south while stopping in Bangkok along the way.

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The 5 best cities to visit in Thailand

Thailand offers something for everyone. While the first thing that comes to your mind is often the pristine white beaches and sunbathing, this paradise has cosmopolitan cities, historical grand palaces and ancient temples, nature trails to rival any country as well as some of the best shopping in Southeast Asia.

Besides the world famous capital city, Bangkok, there are so many other bustling or serene cities to visit in Thailand that are definitely worth the visit. Beautiful coastal towns offering some of the best beachfront accommodations are peppered around the country, as well as cities that provide nature-lovers with beautiful scenery and the ability to immerse themselves in the natural splendours of this tropical paradise.

Here are our top 5 cities to visit in Thailand

The best cities in thailand according to our team:, kanchanaburi, discover the best cities to visit in thailand.

There are many good reasons why Bangkok is the most visited city in the world . There are plenty of things to do in this bustling metropolis where modern skyscrapers are nestled alongside centuries-old temples and landmarks. Bangkok is not only one of the best cities in Thailand, it also made it on our top 10 best cities in the world .

Being well-known for friendly and beautiful people, Thailand’s capital city is a nightlife hotspot, cultural centre as well as food and shopping paradise.

As both the social and economic heart of Thailand, this city offers something for most visitors and even offers an efficient public transport system that includes their popular Bangkok Mass Transit System, better known as BTS or the Skytrain makes it easy to travel around the city and avoid the traffic.

READ MORE: Thailand transportation – The ultimate getting around Thailand guide

What to do in Bangkok

While you will never run short of things to do in Bangkok, one of the must-sees include Wat Phra Kaew, better known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Considered to be the most sacred temple in the country, it is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Siam until 1925.

The temple now serves as a museum of sorts, where visitors can walk the same halls, pavilions, and courtyards of the world’s richest royalty. Just a short 10-minute walk away is Wat Pho, which is home to a 46-meters-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf, if you want to experience even more of Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage.

A shopping paradise, Bangkok has a number of massive shopping malls , but a favourite for many is the Chatuchak Weekend Market – the world’s largest outdoor weekend market. With over 8,000 market stalls selling everything from handicrafts, food, clothes, and antiques, this is the best place to find whatever you might need.

If it is nightlife you want there is always Khao San Road, a great place for shopping and street food, and most popular with backpackers and tourists. This area is known for its lively atmosphere at night, with live music, street performers, and amazing open-air restaurants.

READ MORE: Check out our expert guide to Thailand nightlife

For travellers looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the big city, Chiang Mai might just be the perfect city for you. The laid-back city is very easy to navigate and ideal base for the outdoorsy.

The city is surrounded by national parks, waterfalls, and mountains dotted with historic temples, including Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon.

Chiang Mai is also tourist-friendly and spending time there won’t hurt the wallet. Being so close to the farms, there are vegetarian and numerous fresh food options for everyone.

Things to do in Chiang Mai

A popular activity for all Chiang Mai visitors is hill tribe trekking, where visitors get a chance to trek the local hillside and mountains to visit the tribe villages.

There is also the Chiang Mai Night Safari , which is not your typical zoo. Starting after sundown, visitors get to spend some up close and personal time with exotic animals such as white porcupines and raccoons. Visitors even get to play with giraffes and baby hogs as you tour the park in an open top bus.

If you are looking for heritage and culture, you are in luck as Chiang Mai is also a great place to see temples, including the 14th-century golden Wat Phra Singh and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

ABOUT CHIANG MAI: Annual celebrations of the Thai New Year in Chiang Mai made our list of best and biggest festivals in the world .

Just a short car ride (200 kilometers) south of Bangkok, Hua Hin evolved from a little fishing village to a genuine summer getaway destination and one of the best cities to visit in Thailand. The city has become a popular beach resort destination for families, couples, and those who want the joy of a beach holiday without the hustle and bustle of nightlife.

Due to the proximity to the capital city Bangkok, the locals often make it a weekend getaway, so the town tends to be busy year-round. It is also a golf haven between December to mid-March, which is the dry season.

READ MORE: Thailand beaches – What are the best beaches in Thailand?

What to do in Hua Hin

This beautiful city has a major water park – Vana Nava – for those looking for clean and wholesome family fun.

Shoppers also have the option of two themed shopping centers including Plearn Wan, a unique and fun retro open-air mall that aims to recreate the 1920 and 30s shophouses of Thai-Chinese immigrants in Bangkok.

For those looking for a more local flavour, there is a night market; and the royal teak Klai Kangwon Summer Palace.

Probably the main attraction in Hua Hin is the 20-kilometer stretch of beautiful sandy beach that reaches all the way to Khao Takiap Mountain. On the other side of this rocky bay there is also the famous Suan Son beach, making this city a beach-lover’s paradise.

READ MORE: What is the best time to go to Thailand?

Visitors to west Thailand should not miss the town of Kanchanaburi. Best known for being the location for the well-known war film Bridge over the River Kwai, it is a land steeped in history.

Visitors will definitely see the Japanese-built bridge that was meant to be part of the infamous Burma railway during WWII.

While it has a sordid history, it is an important part of the country’s history during that period.

Visitors to Kanchanaburi can hop on the regular local train that crosses over the bridge. This short ride is both picturesque and a sombre reminder of times long past.

READ MORE: Thailand sightseeing – A guide to Thailand tourist places

What to do in Kanchanaburi

History-buffs will definitely enjoy this city, where they can visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, which offers an in-depth look into WWII and the trials and tribulations of the allied forces in this city.

There is also a cultural landmark, such as the Wat Tham Phu Wa temple. This temple is located inside a nearby cave, offering a different experience. Nature-lovers can also visit the Erawan National Park, which is home to the stunning seven-tiered fall of the same name.

READ MORE: Tallest, highest and largest waterfalls in the world

Northern city Chiang Rai, which is located near the borders with Laos and Myanmar, is not as crowded as the other cities, but offers amazing sights and scenery for those who do make it up there.

One of the must-dos in Chiang Rai is to catch the sunrise at the Phu Chi Fa national forest park.

What to do in Chiang Rai

In a place best known for culture, it makes sense that one of the best-known spots in the city is Wat Rong Khun (also known as “white temple”). But, it is not actually a religious building but an art installation of a local visual artist – Chalermchai Kositpipat.

The temple mixes traditional with elaborate modern murals of pop culture icons from Harry Potter, Star Wars and comic book heroes.

For a more traditional cultural experience, visitors can go to Wat Huai Pla Kang, a temple with 23-story-high statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, and a nine-story high pagoda.

READ MORE: Thailand hidden gems – discover what makes Thailand unique

These are just five of the best cities to visit in Thailand, but you will be spoiled for choices as a visitor to this fantastic country. Thailand is also known for its beautiful islands and hidden gems that make it an amazing place for any visitor.

Don’t miss out on our Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for tips on everything you need to know when planning your trip to Thailand so you can make the most of your time in the Land of Smiles!

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Thailand achieves top honors in travel and leisure awards.

The awards were based on votes from Travel+Leisure readers between January and March 2024.

Samui Airport ranked fourth among the best airports in the Asia-Pacific region. It is located in Ko Samui’s Bo Phut subdistrict. The airport is roughly 2 km north of the main city and largest resort center on the island, Chaweng.

The magazine emphasized Koh Samui's charm, noting its small bungalows, fishing villages, and stunning natural scenery, which make it one of the most visited destinations in Thailand.

These recognitions highlight Thailand’s potential in the tourism sector, showcasing its beauty and the convenience offered to travelers.

Chai Wacharonke, government spokesperson, announced that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin prioritizes the development of Thailand’s tourist destinations to make the country a global tourism hub.

The spokesperson noted that these achievements reflect the Thai tourism industry’s capability to provide exceptional experiences for tourists, enhancing the country's status as a premier global destination.

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28 Jun 2024 - 4 min read

Explore Secondary Cities 2024: Where to visit and latest news

Discover Secondary Cities 2024 (Traveloka does not participate in this tax deduction program)

Traveling to Thailand's secondary cities during the low season is an excellent way to reduce taxes and support the local economy. The Cabinet has approved this tax measure to stimulate the economy and promote domestic tourism, specifically targeting 55 secondary provinces from May to November 2024.

Important Note: Traveloka does not participate in this tax deduction program. This information is provided solely for tourism purposes.

Traveloka has a list of places to visit in 2024. What provinces are worth visiting? Let's try to see..

Central region

Northeastern region

Eastern Region

Western Region

Advantages of traveling to secondary cities

Traveling to secondary cities during the low season offers numerous benefits. In addition to experiencing beautiful nature and local culture, it supports the community economy and provides tax deductions. Accommodation and plane tickets are cheaper than during the high season, and destinations are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. Therefore, plan your trip and book accommodations and flights in advance for a convenient and smooth journey. Go experience tourism in exciting secondary cities in 2024 ! Think of Travel , think of Traveloka Traveloka !

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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