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17 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Thailand

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

17. Ko Phangan

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

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

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

16. Khao Yai National Park

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

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

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

15. Sukhothai

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

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

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

14. Ko Samui

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

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

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

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

13. Chiang Rai

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Phanom Rung

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

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

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

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

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

9. Khao Sok National Park

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

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

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

8. Ayutthaya

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

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

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

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

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

7. Ko Chang

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

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

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

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

6. Kanchanaburi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Chiang Mai

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

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

1. Ko Phi Phi

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

August 24, 2019 at 10:42 pm

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

August 22, 2019 at 9:01 pm

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

August 12, 2019 at 8:13 am

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

November 15, 2018 at 10:50 am

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

June 6, 2018 at 10:42 pm

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

January 21, 2018 at 1:34 pm

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

November 17, 2017 at 9:37 am

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

November 15, 2017 at 6:38 am

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

November 5, 2015 at 4:30 am

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

May 13, 2015 at 2:05 pm

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

August 22, 2014 at 9:47 am

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

August 4, 2014 at 6:22 pm

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

June 27, 2014 at 2:00 am

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

June 19, 2014 at 4:25 pm

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

June 16, 2014 at 1:13 am

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Koh Phi Phi

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

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

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

Koh Yao Noi

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

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

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

Mae Hong Son Loop

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

Khao Yai National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kanchanaburi

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

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

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

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

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

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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

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

8 of the best places to visit in Thailand

Dec 16, 2023 • 9 min read

Here are the best places to visit in Thailand © Westend61 / Getty Images

When people think of Thailand , they often think of relaxing on a  pristine beach  with a refreshing cold drink in their hand.

Although Thailand is indeed blessed when it comes to diversions of the sandy persuasion, this country of more than 513 sq km (198 sq miles) also boasts virgin forestland, picturesque mountains, lively nightlife, raucous markets and of course, cities with their own unique histories and cultures. Unlike what many would believe, Thailand is a multifaceted destination, appealing to everyone from the hedonistic foodie to the ascetic seeking enlightenment (and everyone in between).

Fly-and-flop aficionados will of course head to a tropical island , as do most first-timers to the country , dazzled by the variety of destinations peppering Thailand’s waters. Likewise, culture vultures are most suited to big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai , while nature enthusiasts will be best served by combing through the emerald-green mountains of the kingdom’s north and northeast or the jungles along Myanmar’s border. With decent railway infrastructure, buses, ferries, cars for hire and many airports, it's easy to get around : you just need to choose the places to visit in Thailand that best match your interests.

Best city for food and nightlife

Many travelers to Thailand land in Bangkok only to immediately transfer to another destination. Although that is all well and good, they may be missing out on a city that, in spite of welcoming more tourists than any other city in the world in 2023, remains strangely underrated. After all, Bangkok is the perfect launching pad for day trips to the surrounding region , with floating markets and beaches to the south and popular national parks to the north. That makes it a great place to stay for a couple of days at least before heading to another part of Thailand.

With over 10 million residents, Bangkok is a sprawling megacity. But all it really takes to navigate Bangkok is a little advance preparation. The city’s more than 320,000 restaurants serve a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Ethiopian to Latvian, and its more than 500,000 street food vendors ensure that food is available anywhere in Bangkok 24 hours a day. In Bangkok, or Krung Thep Mahanakorn (the “City of Angels”), the world is your oyster … or chicken satay skewer, or bowl of soup noodles.

Bangkok's bars and clubs offer a surprisingly wide range of styles and drinks. Of the establishments on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list , four are in Bangkok. The city also has a penchant for speakeasy-type places, as well as Japanese-style bars (Japanese being one of Bangkok’s biggest expat communities). If a drink is what you’re after, you will not go thirsty – spring for Q&A Bar’s  Pinkish, a twist on the Negroni with rhubarb and grapefruit gin, the potent Old Fashioned jazzed up with turmeric at Vesper , or go classic with a good, crisp martini at Bamboo Bar .

Planning tip:  Bangkok’s bars and clubs are not permitted to be open all night – in fact, most close at the relatively early time of 1am.

2. Chiang Mai

Best City for Temples

The former capital of the Northern Lanna empire, the Chiang Mai area boasts more than 300 temples. Some, like Doi Suthep , are famous for their stunning viewpoints; others, like Wat Suan Dok , serve as the burial grounds for the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family. The charmingly weatherbeaten Wat Chedi Luang , founded in 1385, enjoys a convenient location smack dab in the middle of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh , home of the Lion Buddha, dazzles in the sunlight with its golden stupas. 

But there is plenty to see besides temples. Northern Thai cuisine is unlike any other in Thailand, inspired as it is by Chinese elements and nearly 200 years under Burmese rule. Northern Thais also dress and dance in a distinctive manner, as well as speak their own dialect, called kum mueang. Its many outdoor markets, such as Talat Warorot and Talat Jing Jai, sell food, clothing and knick-knacks that make perfect souvenirs.

Planning tip: Chiang Mai is a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains, caves and waterfalls, all of which could take at least three days of your trip. From late February to early April, Chiang Mai is usually inundated with smoke from farmers burning land in the mountains to plant their crops. Opt for the Thai “winter” of November to January or the rainy season .

Best island for a blend of cultures

Although it is the biggest island in Thailand,  Phuket hosts an entirely different culture from the rest of the country: a mix of Hokkien Chinese, Thai and Malaysian elements. Hokkien-style fried noodles, o-aew (a jelly made from plant seeds), o-tao (an oyster omelet topped with pork rinds) and moo hong (braised pork belly stew) are all dishes that originated in Phuket and are difficult to find even in the rest of Thailand. Little wonder, then, why Phuket is one of Thailand’s most-visited destinations.

Phuket’s architecture is also unique – evidence of its past when it was ruled by the Portuguese. Sino-Portuguese shophouses, with their distinctive colors, tiles and fusion of both Western and Eastern styles, line the streets of the Old Town and are reminiscent of the shophouses in Penang and Singapore. With its top-tier beaches and Old Town culture, Phuket is perfect for both first-timers and couples and can easily take up a week of your visit.

Planning tip: September to October is Phuket’s rainy season, so try to avoid the island during this time. There are plenty of other great destinations beyond Phuket to consider visiting too.

4. The far north

Best region for hiking

Known as the Golden Triangle, the apex of Thailand’s far north – where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – has served as a destination for die-hard nature lovers for decades. Be it via motorcycle, mountain bike or simply walking, exploring this area yields not only striking natural beauty but also the chance to visit both Laos and Myanmar (if only, typically, for a short period of time). Once known as a major production spot for opium, the Golden Triangle is now where visitors come to cruise along the Mekong against a spectacular background, camp in moderate (for Thailand) weather, or visit an elephant camp (or all three!)

Sleepy Chiang Rai , the former capital of the Lanna dynasty, is only 9km (6 miles) south of the Golden Triangle, making it an ideal spot from which to trawl through the surrounding area. This city holds its own attractions as well, including the world-famous  Wat Rong Khun , or White Temple, and is worth exploring for a day in itself.

Planning tip: It's a 1.5-hour trip from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle. Aside from renting a car, you can hire a taxi or take a bus, which should cost around 950 or 400 baht, respectively.

5. The Upper Gulf

Best region for floating markets

The region south of Bangkok is easily reached from the capital, taking up a mere hour or so of driving (depending on traffic). Here is where you will find Thailand’s most famous floating markets, including Damnoen Saduak (at its busiest in the early morning) and Amphawa (more popular with locals and with a more nightlife-y vibe).

The famous Maeklong Railway Market can also be found here, where vendors pull up part of their stalls to allow a train to (slowly) pass six times a day. In Bang Kachao , called "the green lung of Bangkok" for its proximity to the capital, you can hire a bicycle to roll through the wilderness on concrete passageways, passing over canals hiding monitor lizards and reaching the island’s own floating market, Talat Nam Bang Nam Phueng. You can even take a day trip from Bangkok to the beach for sea breezes and fresh seafood ( Pattaya is only 2 hours away by car or bus, after all).

Planning tip: Besides driving, you can take a taxi, bus and train to sites such as Damnoen Saduak and Ampawa, where you can also stay overnight along the water.

6. Khao Yai National Park

Best for wildlife

A 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai has been a popular weekend retreat for nature-loving Bangkokians for decades. As a result, the area around the national park – Thailand’s third largest – is generously studded with houses, hotels, restaurants, shops and even amusement parks. Not surprisingly, it is an ideal place to bring the whole family.

The top attraction, of course, is the 2166 sq km (836 sq miles) that comprise Thailand’s most-visited national park. Blessed with a wealth of hiking trails for everyone from a beginner to an experienced trekker, cooling waterfalls and an impressive range of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, bears and elephants, Khao Yai can provide hours of entertainment for people of any age. Park rangers can be hired to help spot animals by guiding visitors to the places where you're most likely to see them, or to direct them to the best viewpoints or waterfalls nearby.

Planning tip: You should hire a guide ahead of time if you are going wildlife spotting. A park ranger can be found through the park’s website .

7. Ko Samui

Best island for water sports

If you were to picture the ideal tropical island with soft beaches and turquoise water, chances are you would be picturing Ko Samui . Although not as popular as Phuket, Thailand’s second-largest island still lures more than 2 million visitors a year, making it one of the most-visited islands in the country.

Besides its many charming beaches, Samui also hosts Ang Thong National Park , an archipelago of islands perfect for snorkeling and sea kayaking, Na Muang waterfalls for casual swimming, snorkelers' favorite Silver Beach, and countless spots for scuba diving. On-land attractions are also abundant, including fishing villages, golf courses and a surprising number of wellness retreats.

Planning tip: Samui has a surprisingly long “dry” season from December to August when chances of rain are minimal.

8. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Best destinations for history buffs

The historic city of Ayutthaya  served as Siam’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries before it was ransacked by the Burmese. The remnants of that city have since been established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect fodder for scrambling and exploring. Bike rentals on the edge of the historical park turn Ayutthaya into an even easier place to navigate, making for a pleasant morning of culture/exercise under a canopy of green leaves.

Sukhothai , Siam’s first capital, was built on a smaller scale and also allows bike rentals, making it an ideal hands-on history lesson for families with smaller children. Also a World Heritage site, Sukhothai’s towers and Buddha statues are less visited than its younger sister down south, making it more pleasant for people who prefer to avoid large crowds.

Planning tip: Ayutthaya can be accessed by river boat, which takes up to an hour from Bangkok (less time than driving there). Get to Sukhothai by plane, train and bus or car. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2023

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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 .

More on Thailand

Here you can find the best things to see and do in various Thailand destinations. Choose the places to visit in Thailand and you will get detailed information about attractions, convenient ways how to get there, best places to stay and weather conditions in the destination.

Bangkok , the capital of Thailand , is one of the biggest and most vibrant cities in Southeast Asia. The city also known as the City of Angels and Venice of the East has many possibilities for sightseeing, shopping, eating, nightclubbing or just relaxing.

Central Thailand

Central Thailand is rich in history with ancient city of Ayutthaya , Khmer temples of Lopburi and Death Railway in Kanchanaburi . It is also known for its natural beauty with its landscape of mountains, forests, rivers, caves and waterfalls.

Eastern Thailand

Eastern Thailand is best known for its beautiful beaches . Pattaya is famous for its nightlife and seaside resorts, Koh Samet is a nice small island in a national marine park and Koh Chang is a big island with white-sand beaches, waterfalls and jungle.

Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand offers a huge variety of options for a perfect beach vacation. On the West coast you can find Andaman sea and it's beautiful limestone islands, on the East coast the Gulf of Thailand and Koh Samui archipelago is waiting for you.

Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand is home to stunning natural scenery featuring dense jungle and stunning mountainous beauty. This part of the country offers a change of pace and is an ideal place to relax and soak up the local authentic Thai atmosphere.

Northeast Thailand

Northeast Thailand , known as Isan , is one of the most authentic areas that is often overlooked when traveling Thailand. If you want to experience Thailand as it once was, rural and agricultural Northeast Thailand should be your choice.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

10 Day Thailand Itinerary – Detailed Plan, Map, and Tips

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 2 Comments

Are you looking to travel to a country with amazing food, fantastic beaches, warm and friendly people, and a range of accommodation options to suit every taste? Well, you have pretty much described Thailand.

In this guide, I’m going to share with you a detailed 10 day Thailand itinerary. I’ve spent months travelling in Thailand, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit many parts of this wonderful country. Based on my experiences, I wanted to share my highlights. These are the places I would recommend to first-time visitors to Thailand who are planning to spend around 10 days in Thailand.

I wanted this itinerary to cover a range of what Thailand has to offer, which includes ancient temples, gorgeous beaches, spectacular jungle scenery, and cultural attractions. I also wanted to make sure that you spend more of your time sightseeing and less time just travelling from Point A to Point B. With that in mind, the itinerary doesn’t have you rushing around too much. After all, you want to spend your Thailand trip seeing attractions rather than the inside of a train, bus, or plane!

This guide starts off with a detailed idea for how to spend 10 days in Thailand. I’ll then cover a number of practicalities for your visit so you can plan the perfect Thailand adventure! Let’s get started.

10 Day Thailand Itinerary

Bangkok – 3 days.

Our Thailand itinerary starts in Bangkok. This is the capital city of Thailand and where most international travelers will arrive in the country.

I recommend you allocate 3 days to explore. This will give you time to adjust to the climate and any time difference. It will also give you time to sightsee in the city itself, and also to take a day trip to a nearby UNESCO world heritage site. More on that shortly. First, let’s look at what you should get up to in Bangkok.

There’s a huge amount to see in the city, which has excellent nightlife, a wide range of restaurants and street food vendors, and of course, a great many temples.

My first suggested stop for your time in Bangkok is the city’s most popular attraction: The Grand Palace . From the 18th century this was the official residence of the Kings of Siam, which later became known as Thailand. Today the palace isn’t home to the monarch, but it is still used for a number of official ceremonies and events.

It’s a good starting point to learn a bit about the history and culture of Thailand. There is a lot to see at the Grand Palace, however, one location you mustn’t miss is Wat Phra Kaew. Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, this is the most sacred Buddhist temple in the country. It is home to an image of the meditating buddha which is made from jasper.

I’d recommend allocating half a day to visiting the Grand Palace. It’s open every day, and you can either buy tickets on the door, or in advance from the official website .

Another highlight I’d recommend in Bangkok would be a visit to a floating market. Here you’ll find local vendors selling a range of products, with some delicious street food on offer as well.

There are quite a few floating markets to choose from in the Bangkok region, and some of them are quite far from the city centre. Khlong Lat Mayom is a good option which is relatively easy to visit by yourself. There are also tours like this which will take you to some of the more popular floating markets and provide transport.

One of my favourite locations in Bangkok is Wat Arun. This is a temple, of which there are of course many to choose from in Bangkok. However, I think Wat Arun (full name Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan), which means Temple of Dawn, should be on your short list.

There’s been a temple on this location since at least 1656. The temple is known for its large central “prang”, a large tower which is originated from the Khmer architecture. This is covered in white porcelain tiles, and at sunrise and sunset in particular, the light striking it is quite beautiful.

The temple has a small fee for visiting. You can find out more about opening hours and pricing on the official website here .

For your final day in Bangkok, my recommendation is to take a day trip out to the nearby UNESCO world heritage listed city of Ayutthaya.

Found around 90 minutes north of Bangkok by car (2 hours by train), Ayutthaya was once the largest city in the world. At its height, it had over a million inhabitants, and the city was the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, a precursor to modern Thailand which existed from 1350 to 1767. This Kingdom fell in 1767 when the Burmese invaded, and burnt the majority of Ayutthaya to the ground.

The good news is that parts of the old city survived, particularly the large temple complexes which were primarily built from stone. The new city of Ayutthaya arose around the ruins of the old, and a visit today offers an interesting glimpse across two time periods of Thailand’s history.

There are many sights to see in Ayutthaya, and I have a guide to the highlights of Ayutthaya here . In short though, be sure to visit Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and Wat Buddhaisawan.

Getting to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is easy. You can either do it yourself by public bus or train, you can hire a private driver like this , or you can take a tour. A tour is definitely the easiest way. Most tours include pickup from your accommodation, tickets to a number of the temples, and some also include soft drinks and meals.

The tour we’d recommend is this one , which also includes a boat cruise back from Ayutthaya to Bangkok. However there are lots of options to choose from, you can see more here .

Another option is to pick up a Go City Bangkok Pass . These include a number of attractions in Bangkok, as well as a tour to Ayutthaya. Worth checking out to see if it might save you money.

A quick side note on scams in Bangkok, which you should be wary of on your first visit. The two most common that you’ll likely encounter are the “closed temple” trick and the “tuktuk scam” trick. Read more on these scams in the section on “Safety in Thailand” which I cover later on in the post.

That rounds up your three days in Bangkok. Now we’ll provide some tips on where to stay, and how to get to your next destination.

Where to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a large city, and there are a huge range of accommodation options to choose from. These range from budget friendly backpacker hotels through to five star luxury hotels, and everything in between.

Here are some suggestions to get you started across a range of price points, which are approximately ordered from budget to high end.

• Baan U-Sabai Hostel – Less than a mile from the popular Khao San road, this highly rated hostel offers great value rooms with shared bathrooms.
• Siam Eco Hostel – Found in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district, this is a very highly rated hostel with air conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen and a shared lounge. Free breakfast is included.
• Old Capital Bike Inn -a good value well rated 3* hotel with individually styled air conditioned en-suite rooms. Breakfast is included, and it’s close to the Khao San road area
• Inn a Day – this well rated 4* hotel offers river side views and is just 650 yards from the Grand Palace. Air-conditioned rooms feature balconies and en-suite facilities, and breakfast is included
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok – a luxurious and well located 5* hotel with pools, a range of restaurants and spacious en-suite rooms
• Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – a spectacular high end 5* hotel with beautiful river views, on-site spa, high end restaurants, and wonderful rooms.

Of course, there are a great many more options in Bangkok to choose from! You can see listings for Bangkok on Booking.com here , Hostelworld here , Agoda here , and Vrbo here .

Getting to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok

Your next stop on this 10 day tour of Thailand is the town of Kanchanaburi. This is around 100 miles west of Bangkok, and you have a few options for getting here.

First, you can take public transport. A train runs from Bangkok’s Thonburi station, and takes around 3 hours to Kanchanaburi. This was my preferred option as the scenery is lovely. Alternatively, you can take a public bus, with both minibuses and larger public buses making the route. These take around 2 hours, although it will vary depending on traffic.

You can also hire a private transfer that will take you from your accommodation in Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. This is obviously less hassle than navigating the public transport system and will save you time, with the downside that it will be slightly more expensive.

Another option is to take a tour from Bangkok. For example, this 2 day tour includes your transportation, overnight accommodation and visits all the major attractions in the area. A good option if you’d like everything to be arranged for you.

Finally, you might prefer to drive. It is possible to rent a car in Thailand, usually all you need is a valid driver’s license and an international driving permit. The traffic in and around the cities can be quite hectic, but outside of the cities the roads are usually pretty good, with road signs in both Thai and English.

For this itinerary though, I’d suggest that driving wouldn’t be my first choice, as the public transport system is easy to use and works well.

Kanchanaburi – 2 Days

Your next overnight stop is the town of Kanchanaburi. This was made famous by the 1957 film The Bridge over the River Kwai , which tells the story of the hardships faced by civilian labourers and prisoners of war who were forced to build the Burma railway by the Japanese military.

Whilst the characters in the film were fictional, the story behind them was very much real. It’s estimated that 100,000 civilians and 13,000 prisoners of war lost their lives building what became known as the Death railway.

As a result of the movie, the Bridge over the River Kwai (River Kwae in Thailand) became a popular location for visitors, and there is a lot to see and do here. I have more detail in my guide to things to do in Kanchanaburi , but I’ve outlined some highlights below.

First, of course, there’s the bridge over the River Kwai itself. The titular bridge built during the war was destroyed by Allied forces before the war’s end, and was in fact in a a different location. However there is a bridge that carries rail traffic which you can walk across, so this is where visitors go.

There are also some museums that tell the story of the war and the railway’s construction. These include the JEATH War museum and the Thailand-Burma railway centre . There is another museum, the WWII Museum and Art Gallery which is close to the bridge, but this museum has fairly poor reviews so probably one to skip.

Next, many of those prisoners of war who died in the construction of the railway were buried in Kanchanaburi. There are two cemeteries in Kanchanaburi, which are the final resting place of almost 9,000 souls.

If you stay in our recommended location near the Kanchanaburi railway station, you’ll be within a mile’s walk of most of the attractions in the area. Alternatively, there are plenty of local buses to get around, and bicycle hire is another popular transport option. We hired bicycles and explored the local area thoroughly, which was a lot of fun.

There are a number of other attractions in and around Kanchanaburi. One we highly recommend is Erawan Falls. This is a series of stunning waterfalls, arguably the most beautiful in Thailand, which cascade down through the jungle and create a number of wonderful swimming pools.

Erawan Falls are found in Erawan National Park, which is around a 90 minute public bus ride from Kanchanaburi. From the park entrance (a fee is charged) it’s around a two hour round trip hike to see the full extent of the falls, which are spread out across seven tiers. You’ll want to bring water, sunblock and a bathing suit. Expect to spend at least half a day making the trip.

You can do this trip yourself using public transport, or you can take a tour like this which includes Erawan Falls as well as some other attractions in the area.

Finally, there are also a number of temples in and around Kanchanaburi, and the night market is also excellent for delicious food.

As you can see, there’s plenty to do in Kanchanaburi and the area, and we’ve only scratched the surface. This is why we feel two full days is very much justified! Now, let’s look at where to stay and how to get to your next stop on this itinerary.

Where to stay in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is not a huge town in terms of population, but it is geographically spread out. There are three main locations – the northern area around the famous railway bridge, the area near the main train station which is around 1.5 miles along the bridge, and then the main part of the town which is 3 miles along the river from the bridge.

My recommendation is to stay in the area near the train station on the river. This puts you within an easy 30 minute walk (or short bike ride) of the main attractions, and you’ll also be near the night market that happens in the vicinity of the train station.

Here are some suggested accommodation options in this area, again ranging from budget to more expensive.

• T & T Hostel – this is a well reviewed and great value budget hostel location. It’s around a mile from the bridge and 750 yards from the train station, with a lovely riverside location. Both private and shared rooms are available.
• Sam’s House Kanchanaburi – this is a popular and well located great value three star property that features both raft house style accommodation and bungalows. There’s an on-site restaurant and a great value breakfast option is available.
• Natee The Riverfront Hotel – a very well reviewed 4* river front hotel around a mile from the famous bridge. Rooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, there are good river views and an on-site wellness centre with hot tub.
• River Kwai View Hotel – this 4* hotel is found 450 yards from the River Kwai bridge, making it a great option if you’d prefer to be close to this attraction. Rooms are air-conditioned, en-suite, and offer good views.
• Dheva Mantra Resort – if you’d prefer a resort option, this 5* property is a fantastic option. It’s a little way out of town, but features everything from a fitness centre through to on-site restaurants and a large landscaped pool.

Again, there are lots more options beyond the above. You can see listings for Kanchanaburi on Booking.com here , Hostelworld here , Agoda here , and Vrbo here .

Getting to Khao Sok from Kanchanaburi

Your next stop is the Khao Sok National Park, which is in the Surat Thani province. This is around 300 miles / 500 km south of Bangkok, and will be one of the longer journeys you make on this trip.

First, you will need to get back to Bangkok as there’s no direct route from Kanchanaburi to Khao Sok. So you can follow the previous instructions in reverse.

Then, to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok you have a few options. The nearest transport hub is the city of Surat Thani, from where you can take a local bus, or arrange private transport to Khao Sok.

The fastest option for getting from Bangkok to Surat Thani is to fly. Good value direct flights are available, with a number of flights operating each day.

Another option, which was what we did, is to take the overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani. These depart at varying times, and arrive at Surat Thani in the morning. This is quite a popular route, so you will want to book this well in advance, especially if you want a first class ticket (which includes a bunk bed).

Finally, you can also take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani. This takes around 10 hours, and a number of routes are available. We’d advise against taking a daytime bus though as this will use up a lot of your sightseeing time—instead we’d recommend an overnight bus. Our overall preference would be an overnight train though as they tend to be more comfortable.

Khao Sok – 2 Days

When people ask me for tips on where to visit in Thailand, I always tell them that they must visit Khao Sok National Park, and specifically Cheow Larn Lake within the park. You can read my experiences visiting here if you need some convincing.

The National Park was established in 1980, and covers 739 square kilometres, much of which is made up of virgin rainforest which predates the Amazon.

Naturally, there is a lot to see and do in the park, with popular activities including trekking and caving. There’s a huge number of species of both flora and fauna in the park as well, with the massive endangered Rafflesia kerrii plant being the most well known.

To get around the park you can take public transport, or you can take a tour which includes transport. Most of the hotels and hostels in the park can also arrange private transport.

My favourite area of the park is Cheow Lan lake. This is a man-made lake which was created after the construction of the Ratchaprapha Dam in 1982. The dam created the 165 square kilometre lake, which sits amongst the stunning karst limestone formations.

Spread out across the lake are a series of lake house hotels. These floating hotels offer beautiful views of the surrounding scenery and the opportunity to disconnect from the world. A stay at one of these hotels is, in my opinion, a must for any visitor to this region.

Because the lake house hotels are floating on the lake, and therefore only accessible by boat, you will need to book your stay in advance of your visit. There are a number of lake house hotels to choose from across a range of styles and budgets. Many of these offer round-trip transport options from nearby locations, including Surat Thani.

Of course, if you would prefer to visit other parts of Khao Sok National Park instead of the lake, this is also an option. There are a number of hotels within the park, most of which are clustered around Khao Sok village near the National Park headquarters. From here you can take advantage of the plethora of hiking opportunities.

I have stayed both on the lake, and at a hotel in Khao Sok village. If I was on a limited timescale, I would definitely choose the lake option, but of course the choice is yours!

Where to stay in Khao Sok National Park

There are two main locations for accommodation in Khao Sok National Park. There’s Khao Sok village, which is home to a range of hotels, guesthouses and restaurants. This is also where you’ll find the Khao Sok National Park headquarters. Here are some options in Khao Sok.

• Sunshine Khao Sok Hostel – at the budget end of the spectrum is this highly rated and great value hostel. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature mountains views, with shared facilities. Breakfast is also available.
• Khaosok Good View Resort – this is a great value well rated hotel with private en-suite rooms that feature balconies and jungle views. There’s also a pool and on-site restaurant.
• The Bliss Khao Sok Boutique Lodge – this boutique hotel features comfortable en-suite rooms with air-conditioning and terraces. There’s also a restaurant and bar.
• Khao Sok Jasmine Garden Resort – this 3* resort features a pool and restaurant. Accommodation is in en-suite air-conditioned bungalows.

The other main area where you can stay is around Cheow Lan Lake, where you’ll find the lake house resorts. This would be my recommended place to stay. The scenery is beautiful, staying in a floating lake house is a unique experience, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from the world.

There are around 15 lake hotels where you can stay the night and these need to be booked in advance. Here are some options to choose from.

They vary from very basic through to more luxurious options, and as always, we’d advise reading reviews before booking to avoid disappointment. It’s also worth being aware that many properties do not have cell coverage or WiFi reception, and might require payments in cash.

• Keereetara – this is one of the lakehouses which is closer to the pier. It offers good value accommodation with breakfast included.
• Keereewarin – comfortable cabins at a reasonable price with good reviews. Breakfast is included
• Panvaree Resort – this lake house resort offers a number of accommodation options, which include individual floating cabins. All rooms are air-conditioned, breakfast is included, and the reviews are good
• 500 Rai Floating Resort – if you’re looking for the best, this is the lake house to go for. The air-conditioned floating bungalows are large and spacious and some come with hot tubs! It is the most expensive option, but reviews suggest it is worth it.

Getting to Phuket from Khao Sok

The next stop on this Thailand itinerary is the city of Phuket. This is around 110 miles / 150km south of Khao Sok. Phuket doesn’t have a train connection, so for public transport you’ll be looking at either a bus or minibus. The trip from Khao Sok to Phuket by bus takes about 4 hours.

You can also arrange a private transfer, which most hotels will be happy to arrange for you. This will cost you more, but should save you a couple of hours of driving time.

Phuket – 3 Days

It’s time for some time on the beach and in the sea! For this, I recommend you head to the island of Phuket. This is Thailand’s largest island, and also one of the most popular destinations in the country for beach goers.

If you’d rather not be amongst the crowds, then you might prefer to head further south, perhaps down to the Trang region, which you can reach by train from Surat Thani. The coastal region near the town of Trang is lovely, as are the nearby islands of Ko Muk, Ko Libong and Ko Ngai.

Anyway, back to our recommended destination of Phuket, which is popular for a reason. It has many beautiful beaches, a plethora of tourist services, and some of its own local attractions.

Phuket is also an excellent base from which to explore two wonderful locations in Thailand. These are the Similan Islands and Ao Phang Nga National Park, both of which are easy to reach as a day trip from Phuket.

So my suggestions for Phuket would be to spend your three days as follows, in any order you prefer.

One day spent on Phuket discovering its beautiful beaches (most of which are on the west coast), as well as local attractions such as the Thai Hua Museum, Chinpracha Mansion and Big Buddha Statue.

Then, spend two days doing day trips to nearby spots such as the Similan Islands and Ao Phang Nga National Park.

Of course, if you just want to hang on the beach and not spend money day tripping, some days on the beach are a good plan too!

If you want to do day trips from Phuket, I’d plan and book in advance any day trips you want to do. If you want to do two day trips, I’d recommend taking tours to visit the Similan Islands on one day and Ao Phang Nga National Park on a second day.

The Similan Islands are a group of islands found about 60km / 40 mi off Thailand’s west coast, slightly to the north of Phuket. They are a world famous snorkelling and diving location, and also have some absolutely spectacular white sand beaches ringed with turquoise waters.

Obviously, as these are islands you need some kind of boat to get to them. Basically, you have to book a tour. The best option is to take a tour which includes a transfer via high speed speedboat, as otherwise you lose a lot of the day on the transfer.

My suggestions are this tour or this tour . These both feature hotel pickup from Phuket, your national park fee, snorkelling equipment, meals, and soft drinks. I actually did an overnight tour to the Similan Islands, and it was a highlight of our time in Thailand. You can read about that here .

The other day trip I recommend is to Ao Phang Nga National Park . This is a huge national park which spans the Strait of Malacca, and is filled with beautiful limestone karst islands.

The most famous of these is the so called James bond Island (Khao Phing Kan), which appeared in the James Bond movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun “. The island is particularly recognisable for the tall but narrow karst tower (Khao Ta Pu) that is just offshore.

Again, as this is a trip that requires a boat, you’ll want to take a tour. there are a number of tours from Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park, most of which style themselves as tours of James Bond Island.

My recommendation is to pick a tour which includes time canoeing around some of the rock formations in the park, as well as your meals, soft drinks and your national park fee.

This is an early-bird tour which aims to skip the crowds. It can get busy in the park and on James Bond island in particular, so this is a good option. This is another option which uses a longtail boat. Finally, if you want a private experience, this is a private tour option.

Of course, it’s up to you how you spend your three days in the area. You might choose to relax on the beaches, take different tours, visit the attractions or buy souvenirs. It’s up to you!

Where to stay in Phuket

Phuket is a popular destination, and as such there is no shortage of places to stay. For ease of transport I’d recommend staying in Phuket Town itself. Alternatively, if you would prefer to be close to a beach and have access to more evening entertainment, then consider Patong which is the island’s main resort town.

Here are some suggested places to stay on Phuket, ordered from budget to higher end.

• Aekkeko hostel – This is a centrally located and well rated hostel in Phuket Town offering both shared and private accommodation. There’s a shared kitchen, lounge and garden area
• Book a Bed Poshtel – another very well rated centrally located hostel in Phuket Town featuring both private and shared rooms. There’s also a pool, shared kitchen and evening entertainment.
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel – this centrally located 3* hotel in Phuket Town offers private en-suite air conditioned rooms with tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also a pool and garden for guest use.
• The Memory at On On Hotel – a well reviewed and centrally located 3* hotel in Phuket Town . All rooms are en-suite and air-conditioned
• WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel – this is a very well rated boutique hotel with air-conditioned en-suite rooms in Phuket Town . Breakfast and room service are available and there’s an on-site restaurant
• Rak Elegant Hotel Patong – found just near Patong Beach, this 4* hotel has a fitness centre, swimming pool, room service and private en-suite air-conditioned accommodation
• Lady Naya Villas – if you’re looking for a 5* experience on Phuket, this is a great option. Private villas with pool are available, as are standard rooms. Naturally all rooms are en-suite and air-conditioned, and there’s an on-site restaurant and spa. This is found in the south of Phuket Island.

Again, there are lots more options beyond the above. You can see listings for Phuket on Booking.com here , Hostelworld here , Agoda here , and Vrbo here .

Getting from Phuket to Bangkok

Now all you have to do is return to Bangkok from Phuket. I’m going to suggest you fly as there’s no direct train. There are multiple direct flights a day from Phuket Airport, which take around 90 minutes. From Bangkok, you can fly home.

You can of course also take a bus to return to Bangkok, but it’s a 10 – 12 hour trip, and not one I’d recommend unless you really love long bus rides! If you do want to take the bus, you can book tickets in advance here .

10 Day Thailand Itinerary Summary

Here’s a quick summary of this itinerary for easy reference.

• Days 1 – 3: Bangkok
• Days 4 & 5: Kanchanaburi
• Days 6 & 7: Khao Sok
• Days 8 – 10: Phuket

10 Day Thailand Itinerary Map

To help you visualise this trip, here’s a map of Thailand with the key locations marked. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

Tips for Travel in Thailand

Now that you have an idea of where to go for your Thailand adventure, I wanted to share some tips on travelling in this wonderful country.

Getting to Thailand

Most visitors to Thailand arrive by plane into Suvarnabhumi Airport (code BKK), which is also often referred to as Bangkok Airport. Bangkok does have another airport, Don Mueang International Airport, which despite the name is primarily used for domestic flights.

From Suvarnabhumi Airport there are a number of options for getting into the city, with the easiest and fastest being the Airport Rail Link. This special purpose train connects the airport with the centre of Bangkok.

Getting Around Thailand

I’ve provided some recommended options for getting between the stops on this itinerary. I also just wanted to share in general the options you have for travelling around Thailand. I’ll cover both travel inside the destinations as well as travel between the stops.

Transport within Cities and Towns in Thailand

Like most other countries, the cities in Thailand have a range of transport options. For the smaller towns, you might find you can easily get around on foot or bicycle. Bike rental is quite easy, and many guest houses and accommodation providers will be able to arrange this for you.

However, for the larger cities like Bangkok, you will likely want to use some form of transport as distances might be too far to easily walk.

Different options are available. Bangkok has the widest range, from the excellent metro system, through to taxis, tuk-tuks, and ride hailing firms like Uber and Grab. If you hail a taxi, make sure they put the meter on. Some drivers may be reluctant to do this, if so, just wave them on and get another taxi.

Transport between Cities in Thailand

First, there are the bus services. There are two types of bus in Thailand. The first are the large and comfortable long distance buses. These are usually air-conditioned and run to a schedule, and they connect many of the major cities in the country. You can buy tickets from the major bus stations (make sure to go to a ticket counter), or online in advance here .

The second type of buses are the small minibuses. These tend to run on an ad-hoc basis on shorter routes. In my experiences, they are faster than the larger buses, although the ride can be slightly hair-raising and sometimes uncomfortable depending on the number of passengers the driver tries to squeeze in.

After the bus is the train. Thailand has a fairly extensive train network which covers quite a lot of the country. The trains are usually slower than the buses, but make for a good overnight option if you can get a sleeper bunk. You can book tickets online in advance from the official Thai railways website here (you need to click the option to put it in English).

For longer distances, we’d usually recommend flying. Thailand has a number of domestic flight routes between a number of towns and cities, and they are both inexpensive and quick. You can see flight times and prices and book online here .

Private transfer services can also usually be arranged to take you from one place to another, such as from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi . These can be more comfortable ways to get round but are also going to be more expensive.

Another option is to rent a car and drive yourself. It is possible to rent a car in Thailand, usually all you need is a valid driver’s license and an international driving permit. The traffic in and around the cities can be quite hectic, but outside of the cities the roads are usually pretty good, with road signs in both Thai and English.

For this itinerary though, driving wouldn’t be my first choice, as the public transport system is easy to use and works well.

Finally, if you’d rather not plan and book a trip like this yourself, you can also take a tour. The next section has some recommended tours that you might enjoy.

Tours of Thailand

If you would prefer to take a tour rather than plan your own trip, we’ve put together some suggestions. Tours have the advantage that you can relax and know someone else is handling all the logistics, so you can get on with having fun.

You’ll also get to meet and hang out with some fellow travellers, and the tour leader will be on hand to share information about the culture and history of Thailand as you travel.

Here are some tour options to give you an idea of what is available in Thailand.

• This 8 day tour of Thailand with G Adventures includes Bangkok, Ko Tao, Ko Phangan, and Khao Sok
• This 8 day National Geographic Journeys small group tour of Thailand with G Adventures includes Bangkok, Ko Samui, Khao Sok, and Krabi
• This 12 day tour of Thailand with G Adventures includes Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, and is designed for families

If you do decide to book a tour and are comparing different options, don’t forget to check all the inclusions and exclusions. Some tours might seem more expensive, but might include more comfortable accommodation options or extra meals and activities that make it worth it for you.

When to Visit Thailand

Thailand can be visited year round, however there are times of year where the climate is more pleasant than others.

Thailand has a tropical climate, with a wet season and a dry season. The dry season is between November and March. Temperatures will be pleasant at this time of year, and it won’t rain so much.

The rainy season is April through October, with the hottest part of the year between March and May, when the rain can make rural areas more inaccessible, and the temperatures can be hot and humid.

If you’re travelling more on a budget, then be aware the prices will be higher in the November – March time as this is the most popular time to visit, and prices will be a little lower in the off-season.

Safety in Thailand

Thailand is overall considered a safe and welcoming place, with friendly people. The most common problems that tourists are likely to encounter are similar to those elsewhere in the world. There are some common scams to be aware of, and of course, in popular locations you’ll want to keep a close eye on your belongings from opportunistic pickpockets and thieves.

The most popular scams in Thailand are the “closed temple” scam and the “cheap tuktuk” scam.

The closed temple scam usually involves a helpful person outside a temple, who will inform you that the temple you are trying to visit is closed. This often happens at the temple’s back gate or emergency exit, which will obviously look closed. Luckily, the helpful person will know of a much better nearby temple, which he can take you to.

On the way to this temple, if it even exists, you will take a detour via a range of stores and tour operators. If you buy anything at these locations, which will often be at inflated prices, the person guiding you will get a commission. Ultimately, you will generally just lose time in this scam. If a temple looks closed, make sure you are at the right entrance, and if it really is closed, I’d recommend finding another temple yourself.

The cheap tuk-tuk trick will feature a helpful tuk-tuk driver who will promise to take you anywhere you want to go for some ridiculously cheap price that seems too good to be true.

Ultimately, you might get to your destination. However, on your way you will stop at a series of, you guessed it, shops and tour operators! Again, generally you’ll just lose time, but it’s best to avoid this altogether.

Overall, just practice the same sensible behaviour you would when you are at home, like not exploring unknown locations late at night, letting someone know of your location and trip plans, etc. Overall, I never had a problem in Thailand, and would expect the majority of travellers to have a similarly safe experience.

There is a low risk of malaria in parts of Thailand, particularly in the forested and hilly areas of the country. It is generally not recommended that most tourists take anti-malarial medications, because the risk is so low in most tourist spots, but those planning to travel into more malaria prone areas or may be particularly at risk should check with a medical professional before traveling.

Internet Access in Thailand

Thailand is a very well connected country with free WiFi available in most locations all across the country.

There’s also excellent 3G and 4G coverage across much of the country, and if you have an unlocked device you can buy pay as you go SIM cards for very reasonable prices.

To get an idea of what’s available, take a look at this page , which lists all the pay as you go options for Thailand, with a focus on data prices. For more on information on connecting to the web when you travel, see my guide to getting online when travelling .

Of course, internet access and WiFi is not totally universal. Some of the National Parks and islands might not always have connectivity, so do keep this in mind.

Food in Thailand

Thai food is seriously amazing (in my opinion anyway!), with different regions offering different cuisines and cooking styles. The food features a range of flavours and fresh ingredients, with spicy curries and flavourful stir fries being popular options. You’ll probably recognise many favourites such as Pad Thai, Red & Green Curries, and spicy soups.

In my experience, the southern cuisine was spicier than the northern cuisine, with the yellow curry in the far south being eye wateringly hot.

Some of my personal highlights of Thai cuisine include Pad Thai, Khao Soi (unique to the north), green, red and yellow curries, Som Thai, and my absolute favourite, mango sticky rice. In reality though, it’s hard to go wrong, pretty much all Thai food is fantastic!

Budget in Thailand

Thailand is popular amongst budget travellers, and it very easy to travel in the country on $10 – $50 USD a day. However, Thailand is not just for budget travellers, with plenty of high end hotels, restaurants, and private tour options also available.

When planning your budget, think about your accommodation, transport, food and tour / entry costs.

Power Outlets in Thailand

Thailand uses a 220v system, so if you are travelling from the United States or other countries which use a 110v system then you need to be sure your devices support this standard.

In my experience, most low power electronics like smartphones and cameras automatically switch voltages and you don’t need to buy new chargers, just check it’s rated for 220v on the label.

Higher powered items like hair dryers usually don’t support dual voltages unless you have a specific travel model. You can read more about this topic in my guide to travel adaptors for travel .

Plug socket wise, Thailand confusingly has two types of socket, one with round holes that matches most European style plugs, and a two pin flat plug that will match a US two pin plug. So sometimes you may have the right plug and other times you won’t, so it is best to bring along some plug adaptors no matter where you are coming from for your electronic devices.

A good option, and what we do, is travel with a universal travel adaptor and a power strip , thus ensuring you don’t have any power issues.

Further Reading and Information for your Thailand Itinerary Planning

We have a lot of content about Thailand on our site. Here are some of our more relevant posts to check out.

• If you have more time on your hands, I also have a detailed 2 week Thailand itinerary
• We have a guide to dealing with street dogs in Thailand
• We have a detailed guide to visiting Ayutthaya
• A guide to what to do in Kanchanaburi
• A guide to the beautiful Khao Sok National Park
• Our experiences visiting the Similan Islands and Ao Phang Nga National Park
• If you’d like a guide book, we recommend the Lonely Planet Thailand and the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide books

And that just about sums up my guide to visiting Thailand for 10 weeks, as well as everything you might need to know to make the best of your trip!

If you’ve got any thoughts on feedback on this post, or ideas for where you’d recommend, do pop them in the comments below!

This post was written by me in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as part of a paid campaign to help promote travel to Thailand. You can read more about travel in Thailand here . All opinions are my own, and you can see how we work with companies and what that means for our content in our code of ethics .

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reyhan says

7th November 2021 at 4:05 am

thanks alot of information

Laurence Norah says

8th November 2021 at 12:44 pm

My pleasure Reyhan

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The 18 Most Incredible Places To Visit in Thailand: Where To Visit For the Ultimate Thailand Vacation

Exploding with vibrant history, culture, and natural beauty, these are the best places to visit in Thailand for your first-timers .

Thailand is a country steeped in stunning beauty, magical history, and rich, cultural traditions. This country, in Southeast Asia, has become a hugely popular destination for travelers thanks to its low crime rate, affordable lifestyle, and huge variety of places to visit in Thailand.

My family absolutely adored our time in the country. We visited famous cities such as Chiang Mai, and Bangkok, and wandered through historic centers including Ayutthaya . We hiked to mountain caves in Koh Sok National Park, experienced ethical elephant sanctuaries, and even chilled out on the islands and beaches of Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands. It was a country that we absolutely fell in love with, not just for the range of attractions, but for the warm people, mouthwatering food, and how easy it was to travel through Thailand.

I spent weeks touring the country with my family, exploring where to visit in Thailand to have the most phenomenal and memorable travel experience. If you’re looking at where to visit in Thailand for your travels, I’ve got you covered

Why Should You Travel To Thailand?

Table of Contents

Thailand shocked us.

This massive Southeast Asian country quickly became one of our favorite family travel destinations . Thailand ranked up with the Philippines , Iceland , and Peru among the top. The country has become massively popular among ex-pats searching for affordable, beautiful, and safe destinations. And after seeing this for myself, I can understand its popularity.

Thailand is a huge country. You’ll find vastly different experiences in the northern, central, and southern regions. The northern regions of Thailand have stunning forests, unique tribal cultures, and vast, mountainous landscapes that have helped the country protect its borders for so long. Here you’ll find many of the country’s ancient Buddhist temples, mountaintop monasteries, and unique cultures such as the long-neck Karen hill tribes .

In the center of Thailand lies the massive economic hub of Bangkok, the most populous city in the country. Here you’ll find some of the country’s award-winning food experiences, great shopping, and crowded markets. But venture off the beaten path and you’ll also find historical treasures such as the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railroad as well as beautiful national parks and river lodges.

Southern Thailand offers up some of the world’s most pristine beaches, intensely beautiful islands, and fascinating communities that live like nowhere else on Earth. You’ll find the region has its own unique cuisine that food lovers will adore while still retaining those magnificent Thai flavors.

The fact is that Thailand is, quite simply, a pleasure to explore. Everywhere that my family went, we encountered warm, wonderful people, inspiring stories, and those precious moments that lead to memories that last a lifetime. If you travel to any of these incredible places to visit in Thailand, you’ll come home with countless stories to tell.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand?

Thailand is a world-class destination that offers amazing travel experiences year-round. However, you’ll find that choosing the times that you visit Thailand will greatly impact your experience.

For the best weather, November through May is the dry season for most of Thailand. The exception to this is southern Thailand , where you’ll find cities such as Ko Samui, Phuket , and Ko Tao. In this region, the rainy season is from October through December .

Thailand is notoriously hot and humid. So if you’re looking for the coolest temperatures in Thailand, consider a visit between November and February. These months tend to offer the most comfortable temperatures. They average in the low 80s with little rain and humidity.

Thailand sees its hottest temperatures between March and April. However, if you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices than the November-to-February peak travel time, this makes for a great option. April tends to be the best time for shoulder-seasoned travelers. There are many great festivals and the heaviest rains are usually still a month away.

The Best Places To Visit in Thailand

If you’re planning your travels and are wondering where to visit in Thailand, you’ve come to the right place. Below, I lay out all of the best places to visit in the country and what makes each one so special.

The sprawling capital of Thailand, Bangkok will be the start and end point for most visitors to Thailand. But Bangkok is far more than a jumping-off point for the best destinations in Thailand. Bangkok is a destination on its own worthy of a few days of your Thailand itinerary.

Bangkok is a fast-moving, exciting city of over eight million people. It’s where you’ll find some of the best hotels in Thailand, and some of the most exciting things to do.

The city is connected by a network of canals and rivers that meander through neighborhoods and past golden temples. The rivers are dotted with Bangkok’s famous floating markets, royal palaces, and awe-inspiring temples. Tucked amidst glass skyscrapers are food markets, incredible parks, and some of the most mesmerizing Buddhist temples in Thailand.

Among the top things to do in Bangkok are visits to the Grand Palace, a monumental complex that houses Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha). You’ll also find famous streets such as Khao San Rd, and the epic Chatuchak Market with its labyrinth of over 8,000 stalls.

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.

You can find our guide to visiting Bangkok with kids right here .

Chiang Mai is among the most popular places to visit in Thailand. This stunning city in northern Thailand is centered by an old city, surrounded by moats and walls, dating back to 1292. The city is packed with ancient Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. You’ll also uncover incredible food experiences and narrow lanes packed with unique shops.

Chiang Mai is a city built to explore. But the region surrounding it makes Chiang Mai a hub for day trips as well. Near Chiang Mai are fascinating attractions including the Doi Suthep hiking trail that takes adventurers to the mountaintop monastery known as Wat Phra That Doi.

If you love experiencing unique cultures, Chiang Mai is what most visitors use as a base to visit the hilltop Karen tribes. Most of these communities were created by refugees fleeing nearby Myanmar (Burma). There are several different Karen communities with unique cultures all living in the mountains near Chiang Mai and their stories are as fascinating as those of Thailand itself.

Our visit to the Karen hill tribes near Chiang Mai opened up some debate surrounding ethical tourism. You can read all about our visit the Karen hill tribes near Chiang Mai here .

Home to one of the most iconic experiences in Thailand, the ancient city of Ayutthaya is one of the must-see stops in the country. The city, founded in 1350, is about 50 miles north of Bangkok. In the 14th century, Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and today it is home to some of the most magnificent temples in Thailand.

At the heart of the city is Ayutthaya Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive collection of temples, reliquary towers, and wats is one of the most sought-after experiences in Thailand.

Wat Phra Mahathat is among the most famous sites in Thailand. Nestled within the complex is the head of a statue of Buddha that nature has attempted to reclaim. Now, the peaceful visage peeks out from among a nest of roots, drawing visitors by the thousands.

Other awe-inspiring things to do in Ayutthaya include a visit to Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, which is the home of a giant reclining Buddha and the statues of dozens of sitting Buddha statues, many of which have been draped in golden sashes.

You can read our complete guide to Ayutthaya here .

Kanchanaburi

History and nature buffs will find Kanchanaburi to be one of the top places to visit in Thailand. This region of the country has risen to fame due to its dark connections to the country’s Japanese occupation during WWII.

Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous Bridge of the River Kwai and much of the horrific “death railway” linking Myanmar(Burma) to ports of Southern Thailand. The railway was built using forced labor provided by Allied prisoners of war and Chinese slaves. In the process, thousands of prisoners perished under inhumane working conditions.

Today, the narrow bridge brought to fame by the Hollywood movie can be sauntered across at leisure. Other stops along the way include the Kanchanaburi war Cemetery and “Hellfire Pass” one of the most tragic sections of the railway line.

It’s not all dark tourism in Kanchanaburi though. The province is home to the Erawan and Sai Yok National Parks. These stunning Thailand National Parks are home to magnificent waterfalls such as Erawan Falls, a seven-tier wonder in the depths of the rainforest. You’ll also find wondrous cave systems and beautiful resorts floating right on the river.

You can check out our complete guide of things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand here .

The small city of Pattaya is Bangkok’s beach getaway. The city, which is about an hour and a half south of Thailand’s capital draws visitors from the city in droves on weekends and holidays. If you have a chance to make the journey during the week, you may feel like you have it all to yourself.

Apart from beautiful beaches, this Thai holiday destination also features beautiful islands, glass-bottom boat tours, and the Chanthaburi Sapphire Mine, where you can enjoy tours.

Those visiting Thailand with kids might get a kick out of Siam Pattaya. This outdoor park has an impressive display of miniature monuments from around the world. Among them are the London Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, Angkor Wat, and even the Bridge of the River Kwai.

Among other touristy attractions are a Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum and a 3D museum known as “Art in Paradise.”

Koh Samui is an island located off the shores of Suratthani in southern Thailand known for having some of the best beaches in the country. This resort island is cored by luscious green mountains, rainforests, and soft, white sand beaches where you can catch some of the best sunsets in the world.

Koh Samui is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand for family vacations. Along with the natural beauty of the island are resorts that are home to some of Thailand’s best spas, and stunning temples such as Wat Phra Yai, home to a nearly 40-foot-tall statue of Buddha

A visit to Koh Samui wouldn’t be complete without exploring some of the marvelous islands and archipelagos nearby. The area is where you’ll find Ang Thong National Marine Park, which covers 42 islands. This protected area is home to sharks, rays, turtles, and countless species of birds.

North of Koh Samui off the western coast in the Gulf of Thailand sits the island of Koh Lanta. The island is part of the same archipelago as its southern neighbor but is a significantly smaller and more relaxing destination.

Although you can see the entire island in less than a day, it’s a popular destination for multi-day getaways, especially for those who want to unwind amidst a jam-packed Thailand itinerary.

Koh Tao is among the best SCUBA diving destination in Thailand. With endless visibility, bright corals, and fascinating shipwrecks, the reputation of this tiny island is catching on among visitors to Thailand. Underwater explorers will often come face-to-face with massive grouper, barracuda, peaceful whale sharks, eagle rays, black-tipped reef sharks, and other fascinating undersea creatures.

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Thailand, the island of Phuket hosts the most popular beaches in the country. Not only are there a wealth of incredible things to do in Phuket such as a nearly 150-foot Buddha on Nakkerd Hill that gazes out over the island.

Phuket draws visitors by the thousands thanks to its dramatic scenery that has been the backdrop of famous Hollywood movies including Khao Phing Kan, otherwise known as “James Bond Island,” and  Phi Phi Ley, made famous in the Leonardo di Caprio movie “The Beach.”

Exploring the amazing day trips from Phuket is one way to experience this glorious region on the west coast of southern Thailand. But don’t miss exploring the city itself. Phuket is home to a wealth of wonderful shops, restaurants, temples, and outdoor markets that shouldn’t be missed.

You can read our guide to the best things to do in Phuket here .

Located off the eastern shores of Phang Nga Bay across from Phuket are the 200 islands and vast forests of Krabi Province. Known for its luxurious beaches, the shores of Krabi are also popular for their dramatic landscapes. The shoreline features rugged limestone cliffs that drop majestically into the ocean. The cliffs often draw rock climbers from around the world.

Krabi day trips include some of the most popular ones in Phuket as well such as the Phi Phi Islands and Koh Panyee  a fascinating Muslim village floating deep in Phang Nga Bay. Krabi province is also home to the majestic Thung Teao Forest Natural Park.

This incredible park is home to mostly virgin rainforest and features magnificent warm water pools, a 1.7-mile hiking trail, and crystal-clear ponds that are very popular swimming holes. Visitors can wade in nearby waterfalls and experience some of the wonderous and unique flora and fauna of the park.

Sukhothai Thani

Home to Sukhothai Historical Park, the 13th-century ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the small town of Sukhothai Thani is one of the most fascinating places to travel in Thailand. The park is home to 193 ruins dotted across 26 Buddhist temples. Among them are the remains of a royal palace and a series of dramatic stupas.

What draws most visitors to Sukhothai Thani is Wat Mahathat. This gorgeous temple features a pillared pavilion centered by two nine-meter tall Buddha statues. Among some of the other popular attractions are Wat Si Sawai, which is the park’s oldest temple and sits in the middle of a lake, and Noen Prasat, which was once a royal palace.

The city of Chian Raig is the northernmost major city in Thailand. Sitting close to the borders of both Myanmar(Burma) and Laos and surrounded by lush national parks and filled with historic Buddhist temples, this is one of the most sought-after, but rarely visited places in Thailand.

Chiang Rai draws visitors with a penchant for exploring. Lam Nam Kok National Park, which is just 30 minutes from the city, features a series of cascading waterfalls. Among the most popular is the 230-ft Khun Kon waterfall, which drops dramatically into a shallow stream.

Chiang Rai is also known for its access to some of Thailand’s most vibrant hilltop communities including the Karen, Akha, Hmong, Lahu, Lisu, Palong, and Mien (Yao) tribes. Some of these villages require long hikes to reach, but they offer some of the most authentic and unique experiences in Thailand.

Kao Sam Roi Yot National Park

There are many amazing national parks in Thailand, but Khao Sam Roi Yot is one of the most impressive. The park, whose name translates to “Mountain of 300 peaks”) is packed with pristine beaches, impressive caves and caverns, and the largest freshwater marsh in Thailand.

The park offers camping near Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh where visitors will have easy access to hiking trails and swimming holes and epic views of the mountain range.

One of the biggest draws of Kao Sam Roi Yot National Park is Phraya Nakhon, an immense cave system. The cave itself isn’t the top draw though, within Phaya Nakhon sits a delightful royal pavilion that’s often bathed in light from above.,

Running through the center of the park is the Khao Daeng Canal. Visitors can take a boat tour through the park and experience the dense mangrove forests right to the beautiful coastal waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

Khao Yai National Park

Three hours northeast of Bangkok is Khao Yai National Park, home to one of Thailand’s largest populations of wild elephants. The park, which covers a massive 1,250 square miles is jam-packed with mountains, rainforests, and grasslands.

Along with the 140-200 elephants that roam free within the park are gibbons, jackals, the Malayan sun bear, and the Asiatic black bear. and for those chasing scenes from the movie “The Beach,” the park is also home to the breathtaking Haew Suwat Waterfall.

Among the most popular experiences here are hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also hire a park ranger who can bring them to rarely visited sections of the park including watering holes that are popular with the wildlife of the park.

The town of Pai sits in the northwest section of Thailand just a short distance from the border with Myanmar(Burma). This quaint town, 3 hours from Chiang Mai, has become one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand thanks to its relaxed pace.

Pai offers a glimpse of the “less-touristy” side of Thailand. The city is surrounded by lush hills teeming with waterfalls and crisscrossed with scenic hiking trails. Among the attractions surrounding Pai are Pai Canyon, which is home to a 3.7-mile hiking trail with mind-blowing views and some of the best sunsets in northern Thailand.

Other attractions that draw visitors to Pai are the scenic rice terraces, the towering Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple, the immense Tham Lod limestone caves, and the Pai hot springs, which offer travelers the chance to relax after a long day of exploring.

Situated off the coast of Krabi province in Phang Nga Bay is Koh Lanta, an often overlooked island destination in Thailand with magical beaches, incredible parks, and beautiful towns.

Koh Lanta offers a southern Thailand getaway that is far more peaceful than the bustling cities of Phuket and Krabi. The island, which sits just a short distance from the mainland, and is connected by a bridge, offers an easy escape that still gives you access to the mainland attractions.

Koh Lanta is over 18 miles long and features some excellent small resorts, lots of fantastic, locally-run restaurants, and countless quaint shops and markets.

One of the most famous spots to visit in Koh Lanta is Koh Lanta National Park. Koh Lanta National Park consists of a series of 16 major islands (and several smaller ones) off the southern shores of Koh Lanta. Nearly half of the island park is covered in lush rainforest and mangrove forests. It’s a wonderful destination for laid-back travel and popular with ex-pats.

Koh Sok National Park

Although far from the most famous places to visit in Thailand, Koh Sok National Park is one of my personal favorites. The park is located just an hour and a half from the town of Suratthani.

This massive rainforest is packed with incredible plants and animals, including a small population of wild elephants. Among the limestone hills, waterfalls, and hiking trails are a series of jaw-dropping floating lodges in Cheow Lan Lake where guests can enjoy kayaking, nature trails, and guided boat rides through the flooded wilderness.

One of the park’s biggest attractions is Elephant Hills, a luxury lodge and elephant sanctuary where former working elephants, along with their mahouts (trainers/caregivers) are rehabilitated and given shelter and food. Visitors have the chance to feed and interact with these magnificent animals in a safe and ethical way.

Are You Ready To Visit These Incredible Places in Thailand For Yourself?

Thailand was a magical destination for family travel. The hot weather, brilliant beaches, delicious food, and stunning history were just the icing on the cake. If you’re looking for a memorable travel destination, these stunning places to visit in Thailand are sure to delight

If you love family travel as much as we do, please join our  Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.

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Thailand cities map

You can find on this page the Thailand cities map to print and to download in PDF. The Thailand map city presents main cities, towns and presents the capital of Thailand in South-Eastern Asia.

Map of Thailand with cities

Map of Thailand city

The map of Thailand with cities shows all big and medium towns of Thailand. This map of cities of Thailand will allow you to easily find the city where you want to travel in Thailand in South-Eastern Asia. The Thailand cities map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Thailand divides its municipalities (thesaban) into three levels - cities (thesaban nakhon), towns (thesaban mueang) and townships (thesaban tambon) as you can see in the Map of Thailand with cities. The national capital Bangkok (pop. 5,713,288: Feb 2009) and the special governed city Pattaya (pop. 107,289: August 16, 2010) are outside of these divisions. Bangkok was established as a city on November 17, 1936. Thonburi was established as a city on November 17, 1936. The original announcement gave the name Thesaban Nakhon Krung Thonburi (Thai: กรุงธนบุรี), but this was corrected to simply Thesaban Nakhon Thonburi in the Royal Gazette two weeks later.

The Map of Thailand with cities shows the location of following Thailand cities and towns: Aranyaprathet, Ayutthaya (formerly the second Siamese capital), Ban Takhun, Bangkok, Betong, Bua Yai, Buriram, Chachoengsao, Chaiyaphum, Chanthaburi (Gem city), Chiang Mai (largest and culturally most significant city in northern Thailand), Chiang Rai (base for hill tribe trekking), Chon Buri, Chumphon, Fang, Hat Yai, Hua Hin (seaside resort), Kalasin, Kanchanaburi (Bridge On The River Kwai), Khon Kaen (Isan capital), Krabi (a must visit beach town), Lampang, Loei, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sai, Mae Sariang, Mae Sot, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nam Tok, Nan, Narathiwat, Nong Khai, Nonthaburi (part of the Bangkok Metropolitan Area and second most populous city). Pattani, Pattaya (notorious beach resort), Phang Nga, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phetchaburi, Phitsanulok, Phuket, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Samut Prakan, Sattahip, Songkhla, Sukhothai (the first Siamese capital, a UNESCO World Heritage historical park.), Sungai Kolok, Suphan Buri, Surat Thani, Surin, Tak, Thung Song, Trang, Trat, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Uthai Thani, Uttaradit, Yala, and Yasothon.

There are 263 cities in Thailand that have populations of at least 10,000, as well as other less populated towns as its shwn in the Map of Thailand with cities. Breaking the numbers down by city show how this country is one of the most populated in the world. From the figures stated above, it is apparent that many people live in the more urbanized and developed cities because of the industries, job opportunities, landmarks and attractions that are available there. However, data from 2015 show that the population is actually split in half between rural and urban residents. 50% of Thailand residents live in the rural areas away from the bigger cities. To get an idea of how much urbanization has occurred, in 1960 80% of residents lived in rural areas. The relocation of native residents, as well as immigration from areas all over the world including Europe and the United States, has led to population growth and expansion of urban areas throughout this country.

Map of Thailand with major cities

Map of Thailand with main cities

The map of Thailand with major cities shows all biggest and main towns of Thailand. This map of major cities of Thailand will allow you to easily find the big city where you want to travel in Thailand in South-Eastern Asia. The Thailand major cities map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia at the center of the Indochinese peninsula. It encompasses an area of 198,000 square miles, making it the 51st largest country in the world. Its population size is 67.959 million. Bangkok is by far the largest city in Thailand with 5.8 million residents. In the entire metropolitan area, the population is over 14 million. It encompasses an area of around 605.7 square miles. Because of its size, Bangkok as you can see in the Map of Thailand with major cities is considered a primate city, which means it is significantly larger than any other urban area in the country. This city was first established during the 15th century as a trading center and has been an important part of the country development ever since. Today, Bangkok is the economic center of Thailand, making up 29% of the gross domestic product (GDP). Its biggest economic sector is in wholesale and retail. Additionally, this city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The large population size of Thailand has prompted a number of environmental threats throughout the country. This is particularly true of Bangkok, which continues growing rapidly. Urban runoff and untreated sewage are contributing to water pollution. Thailand constant population growth is leading to increased urban development, which land degradation, habitat loss, and an overall decrease in biodiversity. The second most populated city in Thailand is Nonthaburi as its shown in the Map of Thailand with major cities. This city has a population size of 270,609, which is significantly less than Bangkok. Because it is located near Bangkok, Nonthaburi is often considered a suburb of the much larger city. Residents here are able to use the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority public transportation facilities. This city has been established since before European colonization. It became a provincial administrative center in 1917.

Nakhon Ratchasima is the third largest city in the country and has a population size of 174,332. In the entire metropolitan area has a population of 444,023 as its mentioned in the Map of Thailand with major cities. This city is located on the western side of the Khorat Plateau, which was previously the border between Siam and Laos. It was established in the 17th century as a military fort of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Since then, the city has continued to be an important economic and political century. Its economy is largely dependent on agriculture, particularly rice, tapioca, and sugar. These three crops provide the majority of employment opportunities in the district. Additionally, Nakhon Ratchasima serves as a retail center for the region, including Laos and Cambodia.

Capital of Thailand map

Map of Thailand capital

The capital of Thailand map shows the main city of Thailand. This capital map of Thailand will allow you to easily plan your travel in the capital of the country Thailand in South-Eastern Asia. The capital of Thailand map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Bangkok is the capital city of and largest urban area in Thailand. It is known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (กรุงเทพมหานคร, pronounced [krūŋ tʰêːp máhǎː nákʰɔ̄ːn]) or simply Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels". Bangkok is by far the most densely populated city in Thailand with about 12 million people. Bangkok was a small trading post near the mouth of the Chao Phraya River during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century. It eventually grew in size and became the site of two capital cities as you can see in the Capital of Thailand map: Thonburi in 1768 and Rattanakosin in 1782. Because of its strategic location in Southeast Asia, Siam (later Thailand) acted as a buffer-zone between the French and British colonial empires. Bangkok itself has gained a reputation as an independent, dynamic and influential city.

Bangkok is the political, social and economic centre of Thailand, and one of the leading cities in Southeast Asia as its shown in the Capital of Thailand map. Due to the 1980s and 1990s Asian investment boom, many multinational corporations make their regional headquarters in Bangkok and the city is a regional force in finance and business. Its increasing influence on global politics, culture, fashion and entertainment underlines its status as an Alpha global city. In 2009, it was the second most expensive city in South-East Asia behind Singapore. The capital is a center of the megalopolis of 20 million people, situated in a heavily urbanized triangle of central and eastern Thailand, which stretches from Nakhon Ratchasima to the heavily Industrialized Eastern Seaboard. Bangkok borders five other provinces: Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon and Nakhon Pathom; all five provinces are joined in the conurbation of the Bangkok Metropolitan Area. It is served by two international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport, four rapid transit lines operated by the BTS, MRT, and the SRT, with plans to add additional lines by 2020.

Bangkok is one of two special administrative areas in Thailand, the other being Pattaya, in which citizens vote to choose their governor, unlike in Thailand 76 provinces (changwat) as its mentioned in the Capital of Thailand map. In the 2009 gubernatorial election, M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra was elected governor. The urban sprawl of the greater Bangkok Metropolitan Area extends beyond the borders of Bangkok province, spilling into the neighbouring provinces of Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom and Samut Sakhon. The province as it is today was created in 1971 when the previous Bangkok province, changwat Phra Nakhon, merged with Thonburi province. Bangkok is subdivided into 50 districts (khet, also sometimes called amphoe in the other provinces), which are further subdivided into 169 kwaeng (แขวง, equivalent to tambon in other provinces). Each district is managed by a district chief appointed by the governor. District councils, elected to four-year terms, serve as advisory bodies to their respective district chiefs.

The Best Cities to Visit in Thailand

A trip to Thailand often involves some really amazing scenery and resorts. While wandering through jungles and along tropical beaches is great, the resorts are so beautiful that sometimes just unwinding at the hotel can make for a great vacation as well. Regardless of what you’re looking for when traveling, Thailand will always have something to offer to you, your friends, and family.

Next time you start planning a vacation in Thailand , consider these five cities. Each has stunning resorts coupled with equally exciting activities and picturesque views that make them ideal locales for all visitors.

In addition, make sure you prepare for your trip to Thailand. Do some research, learn more about the culture, and even consider learning Thai online to make your experience all the more enjoyable!

This tropical island in the Chumphon Archipelago is an area rich in tourism. Filled with sandy beaches and swaying palm trees, it’s an island paradise that appeals to many. Though there are thousands of hotel rooms on Koh Samui , there are also a variety of bungalows and private beachside villas.

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and just spend time at the beach, then you should definitely visit this city. Koh Samui has some of the best beaches that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

There is plenty to keep you busy while exploring Koh Samui . In addition to relaxing on the beach, take part in a sightseeing, kayaking or jeep tour in the deep jungle.

If you’re planning to visit this city, make sure to look for accommodations early. This will allow you to find the best accommodation around the city and even score some deals and discounts.

Visitors may also enjoy snorkeling, yachting and ziplining as well as visiting the nearby national marine park. In town, take a cooking class to experience authentic Thai food or get a Thai massage.

If you want to try out every single activity when you’re in Koh Samui, prepare an itinerary ahead of time. Decide if you want to enjoy the waters or jungle first. An itinerary will allow you to make the most out of your trip and keep stress at bay!

Although it is also an island, Phuket doesn’t necessarily feel like one. It’s the largest island in Thailand, and feels more like a Southeast Asian paradise than a waterfront destination. Here, you’ll find some incredibly luxurious high-end resorts—with four or five stars.

The mountainous area of Phuket offers plenty to do. With a local zoo and an aquarium in addition to a variety of Buddhist temples featuring gardens and artwork, there’s much to take in.

Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Tiger Kingdom animal sanctuary and nature lovers can visit local waterfalls. Mini golf and scuba diving are also popular options in Phuket. These attractions are the reasons why more and more families would choose to visit Phuket.

If you’re looking forward to bond with your family in this city, start looking for timeshare deals in Phuket . Aside from knowing which attractions to visit, your accommodation can significantly affect the success of your trip to this city.

Located on the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is perfect for a more laidback trip. This quiet seaside fishing town is home to plenty of waterfront villas that offer private beach access. There are also high-class hotels along the main stretch of beach.

Because the area is less visited than some of the other cities in Thailand, it’s easier to stop by the beach for the day without encountering crowds. Water sports are popular here, with beaches, rivers and lakes conducive to kite surfing, rafting and waterfall tours.

There are also plenty of water parks nearby as well as wineries, sheep farms, historical homes and mangrove forests that are perfect for touring.

Hua Hin might be quieter than other cities in Thailand but that doesn’t mean this city is boring. On the contrary, Hua Hin is the perfect destination for people who want to enjoy their vacation in peace while enjoying the beach and different types of water activities.

The capital of Thailand , Bangkok is known for its vibrant shrines, unique city landscape and canals. Because the city is so important to the country as a whole, it’s also big for tourism. Expect to find some stunning five-star beach resorts here—the perfect place for the trip’s home base.

Those interested in the spirituality aspects of Thailand will enjoy the many opulent temples, shrines and monuments located in Bangkok . With some covered in gold, they’re a sight to behold.

But the city has a lot of other things to offer travelers as well. Various zoos, museums and shopping centers provide endless opportunities for exploration in Bangkok.  

Bangkok is also known for its shopping centers. If you plan on going on a shopping spree in Thailand, you should definitely visit Bangkok first. The shopping centers in this city offer goods produced by the locals, and brands from different parts of the world. Make sure to allocate several hours for shopping as you can visit hundreds of shops when you’re in Bangkok!

Photo credit:  Twang_Dunga   (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

Another mountainous region, Khao Lak is home to a group of villages mainly visited by tourists. Hotels in this area are some of the most beautiful in all of Thailand. With infinity pools and waterside walkways covered in palm trees, sunsets are truly spectacular. The resorts are much quieter than in nearby Phuket and the beaches are no where near as crowded.

Khao Lak is a major destination for scuba divers, due to its proximity to the Similan Islands. The region isn’t wild, making it a good destination for families to explore even in the nighttime.

Aside from the beaches and scuba diving, try snorkeling, river rafting, wildlife tours and souvenir shopping. Visitors can also attend a cabaret show or visit the unique tsunami museum.

No matter which city you choose, look in to the resorts listed on Voyage Privé for great deals on holidays in Thailand.

LOVE THAI FOOD? OUR FAVORITE THAI RECIPES: CLICK PHOTO ↓

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20 Cities in Thailand

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Thailand is a country filled with some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, incredible cuisine, friendly locals and more things to see than you could ever hope to tick off. Although its islands often get all the limelight, Thailand’s cities are buzzing hubs where visitors can get to the heart of the country, admire towering temples, snack on street food, trek out into the countryside or hit the beaches.

The capital of Bangkok offers a perfect starting point for those wanting to dive straight into the deep end of this eclectic country, while other popular cities like Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket offer stunning natural wonders, great nightlife and a chance to explore Thailand’s history.

Under-the-radar destinations like Nong Khai, Surat Thani and Sukhothai are still relatively untouched and outside the tourist trail, meaning traditional palaces and wats, cascading waterfalls, wildlife and unique cultural activities await those that decide to explore less visited cities. No matter where you decide to go, if you have one week or six months, Thailand’s cities and towns are distinctly different and each offers its own take on authentic local experiences.

2- Chiang Mai

3- chiang rai, 7- chanthaburi, 8- nong khai, 10- kanchanaburi, 11- ayutthaya, 12- koh tao, 14- nathon, koh samui, 15- surat thani, 16- nakhon ratchasima, 17- phang nga bay, 18- sukhothai, 20- ubon ratchathani, thailand cities and towns.

• Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market – most popular day trip from the city of angels. 
• From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples – small group tour with lunch that’s perfect for anyone who loves Asian history. 
• Phang Nga Bay: Early Bird James Bond and Beyond Tour – cruise around the islands, swim snorkel and enjoy the views. 

20 Towns And Cities in Thailand 

One of the most unusual capital cities in the world that recently became the most visited city on earth, Bangkok is likely the first place you’ll step off the plane on your visit to Thailand.

Its peaceful Old Town is where you can admire the famous Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, as well as a cruise along the Chao Phraya River or party on Khao San Road.

Contrastingly, taking the modern SkyTrain into downtown Bangkok, you’ll be surrounded by skyscrapers, glitzy designer shopping malls and world-class food.

It’s also perfect as a base for day trips, whether to the popular floating markets, Maeklong Train Market or other nearby Thai cities.

Recommended tours:

• Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market
• Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour
• Bangkok: Maeklong Railway an d Amphawa Floating Market Day Trip

There’s one word to describe Chiang Mai and that’s ‘laid-back’.

Located in northern Thailand, this city is the polar opposite of the capital, offering lush fields, wooden buildings, great local coffee shops and restaurants and regular processions of monks.

Wander along the Ping River or shop for handicrafts at one of the night markets, before sampling fresh Thai cuisine.

Chiang Mai has more than three hundred temples, so you’ll need a few days to even make a dent – Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra That Doi Kham and Wat Sri Suphan are some of the most visited.

On a short walk or tuk-tuk ride you can be chasing waterfalls, cycling rice fields or washing elephants in the same day.

Recommended tour: From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip

Even further north than Chiang Mai lies Chiang Rai, a countryside city most famous for its jaw-dropping structure, Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple.

Actually an art exhibit, this intricately carved glittering white building draws visitors from around the world.

Chiang Rai is also popular with travellers looking to explore other countries, as it lies near the borders of both Laos and Myanmar.

Other attractions, such as tea plantations, elephant sanctuaries and the night bazaar make Chiang Rai popular with backpackers willing to brave the long journey.

Recommended tour: From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples Small Group/Private Tour

Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most popular island.

The city of Phuket sits on the island’s southern coast, also encompassing the often-visited Phuket Old Town, home to brightly coloured Chinese shophouses and quirky cafes.

Within the city itself, there are non-stop things to do thanks to the sheer number of tourists here.

Thalang Road buzzes through day and night with markets, bars, shops and restaurants, plus it makes the perfect place to stay if you’re keen to explore the island.

The western beaches, the Big Buddha statue and Wat Chalong are all easily accessible, while boats to other islands such as James Bond Island, Maya Bay and the Phi Phi Islands also leave from the area.

Recommended tour: Phuket: Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch

Pattaya is a lively nightlife-centric city to the southeast of Bangkok, sitting right on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand.

Pattaya often gets a bad reputation for being seedy, thanks to the many massage parlours and go-go bars that line the city’s downtown area, but Pattaya has so much more to explore.

Avoid the walking streets in favour of Pattaya’s beaches; Pattaya Beach has tonnes of watersports, beach bars, waterfront cafes and other activities, plus great sunsets and is in close proximity to modern shopping centres, top restaurants, nightclubs and luxe hotels.

For more tranquillity, stay in Pattaya South instead, with the Jomtien Beach area being popular with expats and providing a quiet stretch of sand that’s mostly used for snorkelling and diving trips to nearby islands such as Ko Lan and Ko Khrok.

• From Bangkok: Pattaya Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Day Trip
• Pattaya: Alcazar Cabaret Discounted Admission Ticket

On Thailand’s southwestern coast, Krabi is both the name of the city and the province in which it sits.

The city itself is mainly a tourist base, with some excellent markets, shops and bars but it works perfectly as a base for the surrounding attractions and makes for a useful place to stay.

The city’s river, Pak Nam, is a peaceful place to take a stroll to get a glimpse into locals going about daily life, while the most popular sight is the Tiger Cave Temple, which lies around half an hour from the city and is home to a giant gold Buddha and 360-degree views.

From Krabi, you can also take boat trips through dense mangrove forests, catch a ride to the stunning beaches in Railay or take a dip in the mineral-rich Emerald Pool.

Recommended tour: From Krabi: Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Day Tour

Chanthaburi sits in Thailand’s eastern region on the banks of the Chanthaburi River.

The main area of interest is Chanthaboon Old Town, lined with cute wooden houses, local markets and the Gem Market, where you can browse for precious stones if you’re searching for a souvenir.

A short distance outside the city on the coast, you’ll also find the pretty Khao Laem Sing Forest Park, which hides waterfalls and nature trails – although head here in the morning to avoid the heat!

Other popular sights include the stunning Wat Phai Lom, also known as the Royal Monastery and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the latter of which gives a glimpse into French architectural influences in Thailand.

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One of Thailand’s lesser-visited northeastern cities, Nong Khai is often bypassed by travellers coming and going from Laos, as it’s just a stone’s throw from the Lao capital of Vientiane.

However, it’s definitely worth staying awhile and exploring the area, which sits right on the Mekong River.

The best attraction here is Sala Kaew Ku, a lush park filled with ancient sculptures, carvings and statues of various deities.

There is also a selection of beautiful wats and temples, such as Wat Pho Chai and Phrathat Klang Nam, the latter of which is said to contain the feet bones of Buddha himself.

For something more scenic, visit the Skywalk just outside the city in Wat Pha Tak Suea, a glass bridge suspended over the countryside with epic views, from where you can look over the Mekong and into Laos on a clear day.

Hua Hin is just south of Bangkok, taking around four hours by bus.

Although the city was formerly only popular with locals looking to escape the city on weekend beach escapes, this coastal destination has quickly become popular with tourists too, thanks to some great restaurants and glamorous hotels popping up.

The most incredible thing to see here is Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, which means ‘300 peaks’ in Thai.

Dramatic mountains, lakes and villages are ripe for exploring for those looking for adventure, or alternatively, admire it from a distance while chilling out on Sam Roi Yot beach.

There are a multitude of beaches in Hua Hin, getting quieter as you get further from the city, plus there’s also a bustling night market and more than one waterpark if you’re travelling with kids.

• Hua Hin: Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand Full-Day Visit
• Hua Hin: Full – Day Trip To Sam Roi Yot By Sail Boat

Kanchanaburi is one of Thailand’s most historic and fascinating places.

It can be reached either via air-conditioned bus from Bangkok or via a rickety old train, which is far more fun.

The city is most famous for being home to the original Bridge on the River Kwai, which you can still visit.

This railway, also known as the ‘Death Railway’ is a dramatic track that runs into the hills, so make sure to visit both the River Kwai bridge and the full length of the railway – the train still runs twice a day and tourists can ride on it for epic views.

Learn more about its dark WWII history and the prisoners of war who built it at the Death Railway Museum and Kanchanaburi Cemetery.

An hour out of town is the magnificent Erawan National Park, home to glittering emerald waterfalls and freshwater pools that you can swim in, along with jungle hikes, giant caves and mountain ranges.

Recommended tour: From Bangkok: Historical Day Tour to River Kwai

Before the country was Thailand, it was Siam, and Ayutthaya was one of its ancient capital cities.

Only around an hour by train from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage sight and an unmissable destination when visiting Thailand.

Originally home to more than 400 temples, many of which are now ruins, the city is reminiscent of Angkor Wat, with endless history to explore.

Whether you walk, tuk-tuk or cycle, don’t miss some of the most famous ruins, including the Buddha’s head wrapped in a tree at Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and The Golden Mount.

After dark, the city’s night market comes alive selling souvenirs and freshly made food, and don’t miss visiting the Summer Palace, the former home of the Thai royal family.

The best way to visit Ayutthaya isn’t on a stuffy train or bus – instead, catch a boat up the Chao Phraya on a day trip.

Recommended tour: From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch

Koh Tao isn’t a city as such, but as one of Thailand’s smallest islands, it’s an entity of its own and not to be missed.

There are only a few things to do here, and they all involve beaches and the ocean.

One of South East Asia’s most popular diving destinations, whether you’re a pro or looking to get certified, Koh Tao is where you’ll spot incredible marine life under the impossibly clear waters.

A few gorgeous white-sand beaches, John Suwan viewpoint and some laid-back beach clubs make up the activities, or if you’re just not the relaxing type, hiking, Muay Thai and cycling around the island are also fun activities.

Recommended tour: Ko Tao: Snorkeling Day Trip to Koh Nang Yuan with Meals

Thailand’s north is brimming with underrated places, including the charming city of Pai.

Completely immersed in nature, the landscapes here are mist-covered hills, rice paddies and canyons, which outdoor types will love.

Pai Canyon is the most popular attraction, which does what it says on the tin – you can climb, hike and wander around this lush canyon on a fun day trip.

Around Pai are also a tonne of stunning waterfalls, such as Pam Bok and Mo Paeng along with the Tha Pai hot springs, where you can relax for a few hours.

Finally, don’t miss climbing the 353 steps to reach the White Buddha, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Pai and the surrounding countryside, covered in mountains, hills, cascading rice terraces and winding rivers in an array of greens and yellows.

Recommended tour: Pai Highlights Private One Day Trip From Chiang Mai

Koh Samui is a Thai island that needs little introduction: crystalline waters, soft white sand beaches and endless beach bars, water sports and relaxing activities; most people visit for a chance to chill out.

However, Koh Samui’s capital Nathon, more of a town than a city due to its size, is rarely visited yet full of interesting sights.

Shopping is a fun pastime in Nathon, which has tonnes of affordable local shops selling everything from fabrics to souvenirs, clothes and more – also useful if you forget to bring something with you!

Nathon is Koh Samui’s major port, so seafood is vital here and it will be some of the freshest you’ve ever tasted if you visit one of the many markets.

Also don’t miss wandering among the old Chinese shophouses, Hainan Temple and Wat Chaeng, along with Hi Lad waterfall which is a short walk from the town.

Recommended tour: Koh Samui: Half-Day Island Highlights Tour with Hotel Pickup

Surat Thani is in southern Thailand and is a gateway to the islands of Koh Samui and Ko Pha Ngan, along with a plethora of other amazing sights.

Before catching a boat, make your base here so that you can make a trip out to Khao Sok National Park, which is covered in dense forests, hiking trails, giant lakes, caves and mountains.

Surat Thani also has a lovely Old Town, full of the region’s best food markets, cafes and restaurants such as the Hokkien Shrine Night Market.

On top of the most popular islands, also don’t forget to visit the incredible Mu Ko An Thong Marine Park, Thamma Park and Ban Nam Rad Forest for more waterfalls, rainforests, lookout points and local wildlife.

Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat, sits slightly northeast of Bangkok and is a hugely underrated destination in Thailand.

There’s lots of history to be found here, such as Phimai Historical Park, which features amazing Khmer-style architecture, Wat Ban Rai and Wat Dhammachakra, the oldest reclining Buddha in Thailand.

For explorers, Khao Yoi National Park is not far from the city and has thundering waterfalls, Khao Yai (known as the Blue Mountain) and an abundance of wildlife including elephants and monkeys, which you can spot on hiking and cycling trails.

Another Thai destination that’s not technically a city; however, this collection of scattered islands has so much to see and do that it may as well be.

Home to multiple natural wonders such as James Bond Island, Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park and Ao Phang Nga National Park, the sheer number of rainforests, caves and waterfalls is astounding, not to mention the incredible land and marine wildlife.

Cruises, boat trips, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, hiking and swimming are just the beginning of the plethora of activities to do in both Phang Nga province and the nearby islands in Phang Nga Bay.

Recommended tour: Phang Nga Bay: Early Bird James Bond & Beyond Tour

Just over midway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Sukhothai is another ancient capital that’s frequently overlooked on the way to more touristy places.

The city is bursting with historical ruins in Sukhothai Historical Park, similar to that of Ayutthaya and also a UNESCO-listed site.

After exploring by bike or on foot, there’s also the beautiful Si Satchanalai (if you’re not templed out) to see more crumbling palaces, giant Buddhas and towering Wats.

For more context to the site, check out Sukhothai’s National Museum, and after all that exploring, the city’s night market will spoil you for food choices – try Sukhothai’s signature boat noodles, made with pork and green beans.

Recommended tour: Sukhothai: Historical Park & Countryside Cycling Tour

Surin is a province of Thailand rather than a city, but as one of the smaller ones, it packs in a fair bit to see and do, sitting out of the way of the tourist trail right on the border with Cambodia.

First on the list is the magical 12th Century temples at Sikhoraphum Sanctuary, while elsewhere, the Phanom Sawai Forest Park is home to the famous White Buddha and three peaks worth climbing for the view.

Thanks to its location, you’ll notice a heavy Khmer influence both in architecture and elsewhere, which you can learn more about at the Surin National Museum.

Surin is also famous within Thailand for producing silk, so don’t miss visiting one of the local villages where textiles are handmade, or pick yourself up an intricately designed scarf or piece of clothing at a local market.

Recommended tour: From Khao Lak: Full-Day Snorkeling in the Surin Islands

Another province (and city) rarely visited by tourists, Ubon Ratchathani lies in an out-of-the-way location on the Thai border with Laos.

A number of famous Wats live here, but the best is Wat Phu Prao, also known as the ‘Glowing Temple’ as at night the carefully carved and painted Tree of Life on the front glows in the dark.

Another fascinating attraction lies in Pha Tam National Park, where ancient petroglyphs and carvings can be seen in the rocks, and the park also has some stunning hikes to viewpoints and waterfalls.

Spend a day or two checking out the history, along with a visit to Ubon Ratchathani’s National Museum before day-tripping elsewhere in the province for untouched jungles, lakes and national parks, or even hop across the border to beautiful Pakse.

For more incredible cities in Asia and Africa, read:

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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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From the hubbub of Bangkok , to the rolling countryside of the Mae Hong Son Loop, and the balmy turquoise waters and countless islands studding its coastline, Thailand is an astonishingly varied treasure trove for travellers. Discover the best this diverse destination has to offer, from rock climbing above the Andaman seascapes, or wandering the historic walled city of Sukhothai , to kayaking among the awesome limestone outcrops in Ao Phang Nga . Use our map of Thailand below to start planning your trip.

Take to the water and learn to dive in spectacular undersea world of Ko Tao , an island that boasts a glittering coastline flecked with coral reefs. In Chiang Mai visit ancient Buddhist temples, or indulge in an improving cooking, massage or meditation class. Tuck into the finest seafood at Hua Hin’s beachside restaurants and in be dazzled by the beautiful Grand Palace in Bangkok.

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City of Thailand Map: Main Cities of Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia for tourists from around the world, and has been named as the top tourist destination for European tourists. It is a country of varying climates and weather systems. Traveling to Thailand can actually be done throughout the year, if you choose your destinations carefully.

Main Cities of Thailand & the Location Map

Thailand is not just a country of varying climates, but it also has a variety of landscapes, from the mountainous north to the plains of central Thailand and the narrow isthmus of the south, with its small ridge of mountains. The country also has more than 1,400 small islands off its coastline, which lies in both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

Extending from the 20th parallel in the north to as far down as the 5th parallel in the south, Thailand stretches from just below the Tropic of Cancer in the north to slightly above the Equator, covering around 15 degrees of latitude from north to south.

With Myanmar to the west and northwest, Laos to the northeast, east, and southeast, and the Gulf of Thailand to the south, Malaysia along the southernmost border of the isthmus, Thailand borders only three countries, and has one of the longest coastlines in Southeast Asia, with the most beaches.

The capital city: Bangkok As one of the most popular cities to visit in Thailand, the national capital of Bangkok is also one of the most remarkable cities in the world.

Skyscrapers dominate the skyline and stunning local markets can be found throughout the city, while sparkling gilded Buddhist temples can be found on every street corner and the ancient buildings lie side by side with modern architecture.

On top of the beauty of the city, Bangkok has the most sumptuous and buzzing nightlife around the world, and the unique Thai cuisine in Bangkok is available in thousands of restaurants.

The second largest city of Thailand: Chiang Mai Chiang Mai is the second largest city of Thailand and it's in the north. It has a population of approximately 1.76 million people which ranked number five in the country. It used to be the capital of the Lanna Kingdom.

Containing more than 300 temples, Chiang Mai, the “northern capital”, is also one of the coolest places to visit in Thailand. A charming and laid-back city, Chiang Mai is the perfect contrast to Bangkok, and ideal for relaxing and taking in the local northern culture.

The famous Buddhist temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep sits on the hilltop just outside the city, and gives a fantastic view over the whole area.

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Other main cities of Thailand

Ayutthaya Lying just outside the capital of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is one of the most historic cities in Thailand, and was once the largest city in the world, back in the 17th century.

While much of the ancient city was destroyed, enough remains to gaze in awe and wonder at the structures that hint of Ayutthaya’s rich and lucrative past. And once you have had your fill of ancient Buddhist temples, head off to the floating markets and do your shopping by boat.

Chiang Rai Located in the far north of Thailand, Chiang Rai is most famous for the breathtakingly beautiful sight of the famous White Temple. The city is often used as a base for exploring the north of the country, especially the area of the Golden Triangle.

Chiang Rai has a strange past, and the Opium Museum in the city explains the role of the plant that was grown in massive quantities in the past to export around the world as one of history’s most prolific narcotics.

Kanchanaburi Made famous around the world by the Film “Bridge over the River Kwai”, which showed the horrors of the POWs and locals that dies constructing Japan’s Death Railway, Kanchanaburi is actually a beautiful city set in lush green surroundings.

The breathtaking scenery of the area is popular with trekkers that come to hike in the hills, and the nearby Erawan Park is a stunning place to visit, with the Erawan and Sai Yok Noi waterfalls are spectacular sights to behold.

Pattaya Once the most popular beach resort with American soldiers stationed in Bangkok during the Vietnam War, Pattaya is not for everyone, with go-go bars, massage parlors with added extras, and the inimitable sex trade being the main draw for most travelers.

However, with some of the sex trade in the city now being cleaned up, it is once again a delightful place to spend at the beaches that lie close by the city, with a wide range of watersports and shopping centers for more normal tourists.

Nakhon Ratchasima Locally referred to as “Korat”, this lively city is filled with expansive markets, small street stalls, and little else. However, the nearby Khao Yai National Park is a great place to visit, and is home to a variety of local species, including Asian elephants, monitor lizards, gibbons, and a lot more.

Stunning scenery and expansive hiking trails also make this a great place to spend a few days, and the Phimai ruins nearby are reminiscent of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat in style and design.

Sukhothai Once the capital of ancient Siam, Sukhothai sits with a wealth of historical sites on its doorstep. There is little to see in the city itself, though it is a laid back and relaxing place to visit.

Most of the ruins of the ancient capital lies in the Sukhothai Historical Park, where archaeological sites show ruins that date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, which has often been referred to as the golden age of Thai civilization.

Surat Thani Located on the southern coast, on the Gulf of Thailand, Surat Thani is the gateway to many of the beautiful islands that lie in the shining azure waters of the Gulf. From here, most tourists travel to the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, which are the more popular of the local islands.

However, while most people pass through on the way to the stunning island beaches, the town itself has plenty of bustling markets and an authentic traditional Thai feel that makes it an interesting place to explore.

Krabi Town Possibly the smallest city in Thailand, Krabi Town is one of the most authentic destinations in the country for traditional Thai culture and artifacts. The local night markets sell a huge variety of local crafts, and the small back streets are filled with massage parlors, which only give massages and spa treatments.

Outside the town is the glittering Tiger Temple, there sets on a high hilltops with amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

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Main tourism cities of thailand & the location map.

After knowing the main cities of Thailand, the most important thing for us tourists is to know the best place to have your Thailand tours . Do not worry, because in the following text, we will list the most famous cities to spend your holidays in Thailand. Just read on!

Those are the most popular cities in Thailand for its beauty and charm: Bangkok: Thailand’s vibrant capital, blending tradition and modernity. Go to visit the historic Grand Palace and ornate temples like Wat Pho, and experience the lively street markets. Don't miss the delicious street food and the tranquil canals that wind through the city. Chiang Mai: In the northern mountains of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a charming city known for its rich culture and thriving arts scene. It's a hub for Thai handicrafts. Here are ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh, and you can trek through lush jungles, and participate in cultural festivals. Phuket: Phuket, as Thailand's largest island, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, electrifying nightlife, and mouthwatering seafood. Whether you seek relaxation on the white sands, adventure in the clear waters, or vibrant entertainment in Patong Beach, Phuket has it all! Koh Samui: Koh Samui is a picturesque island situated in the Gulf of Thailand. From pristine beaches like Chaweng and Lamai to lush waterfalls, the natural beauty here is unparalleled. Remember to explore historic temples, quaint villages, and rejuvenate at world-class wellness spas. Read more on why is Thailand so popular .

How to Travel among the Cities in Thailand

Compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, Thailand has a well-maintained transport system. From the very north to the South, Thai landscape embraces with jungle and shoreline. Fortunately, there are many options for you to refer to here, let's see which one you most admire!

Plane: The fastest way to traverse long distances in Thailand, but often comes at the biggest cost. It is Ideal for those with limited time. Train: Trains in Thailand offer good value for money and provide travelers with enchanting landscapes along the way. It's a scenic and budget-friendly choice for exploring the country. Bus: Thailand offers a wide variety of bus routes that can be faster than taking a train, especially for shorter distances. Buses are a convenient option for flexible travel. Tuk-tuk: A fun and iconic way to get around Thailand's cities, tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles that add a touch of adventure to your journey. Negotiate the fare with the driver for a unique experience. Metro and skytrain: In Bangkok, the metro and skytrain systems are the first choice for getting around the city efficiently. They provide easy access to many of the city's popular sites and are a great way to beat traffic. Ferry and boat: When you want to reach pristine beaches from the airport or explore islands, hopping on a ferry or boat is the way to go. It's a scenic and enjoyable way to start your beach vacation.

17 Days Thailand Beach Tour with Temple Expedition

A tour of the main cities alone can be a long and exciting time, and for those with a love of Thailand’s long and varied history, these major cities tell the story in their own way, in terms of ancient architecture, long-lost civilizations, exciting cuisines, and traditional cultures.

While you can explore all the beaches in Thailand, you will not find the excitement that comes with exploring the back alleys of Bangkok, or the museums of Kanchanaburi, or trekking in the hills above Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, for that ultimate feeling of awesome adventure that few places in the world bring to you as well as Thailand, the Land of Smiles.

Many more exciting attractions lie in the wondrous cities of Thailand, which are waiting for you to explore in the upcoming future. Now come and contact us to obtain the most cost-effective travel information!

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