Are you planning a visit to Thailand and having bother deciding the place to go? We get it. There are such a lot of wonderful locations to go to in Thailand that it may be laborious to slim it right down to a one—or two-week itinerary.
We’ve spent over 4 years touring and dwelling in Thailand, so we all know a factor or two about this wonderful nation. We’ve visited all of the vacationer spots and extra. Thailand is one in all our favourite Asian nations, and it’s a place we name our second residence.
Enterprise past Bangkok’s vibrant capital and uncover the enchanting cities and cities that showcase Thailand’s wealthy cultural heritage and pure magnificence, from charming historic cities to vigorous Thai islands.
We’ve put collectively this checklist of the very best locations to go to in Thailand that can assist you plan the proper journey. Are you seeking to go island hopping and go to a number of the greatest islands, or go to Northern Thailand and expertise extra nature and Thai tradition?
Fast Reply: Finest Locations in Thailand
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Finest Locations to Go to in Thailand
1. Bangkok
Nearly all journeys to Thailand begin within the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. Bangkok is a metropolis you both like it or hate it. We LOVE Bangkok. It’s our favourite massive metropolis on this planet.
The meals, the temples, the sky bars, the posh resorts, the noise, the smells, the sounds, the site visitors, the procuring, the chaos—all of it makes for an excellent few days. Just a few of our prime locations to go to are Wat Pho Temple, a ship trip alongside the Chao Phraya River, people-watching on Khaosan Street, blissful hour at a Skybar for sundown, Chinatown, and extra.
We at all times prefer to rent a personal information for the day, and it’s tremendous reasonably priced. That is the BEST option to see Bangkok. A personal information will take you to a listing of sights you decide. Get a real glimpse into Thai tradition on this one-on-one expertise. We booked this personal Bangkok tour on-line.
In terms of visiting Thailand (Siam), Bangkok is a must-see vacation spot. Recognized for its bustling road markets, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok gives a novel mix of conventional tradition and fashionable sights.
From exploring the historic Grand Palace to procuring on the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market, there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Bangkok.
Considered one of our favourite issues to do is eat; in every single place you go, there may be scrumptious road meals in Bangkok. Earlier than going, be certain to learn our What to Eat in Bangkok journey information, which can clarify completely different Thai meals to attempt to the very best locations to eat in Bangkok.
Finest Tour in Bangkok – over 2,000 five-star opinions
If you’re in search of that excellent enjoyable seashore trip, add Koh Lipe to your Thailand itinerary. We recommend staying on Dawn Seaside, the place a beachfront room at a 3-star resort will value you $125+ through the excessive season. Click on right here to examine charges. They have the very best resort choices & costs in Thailand.
Koh Lipe doesn’t usually get overcrowded as a result of it isn’t the best island to get to. The one option to Koh Lipe is by boat, and the closest airport is 1.5-2 hours from the Pak Bara pier. Don’t let this discourage you. It’s definitely worth the journey. Click on right here to e-book Koh Lipe ferry tickets.
The island is sufficiently small you can stroll in every single place. There are motorbike taxis however no different automobiles on the island. Extra causes to like Koh Lipe: you will get an hour therapeutic massage on the seashore for $12 USD an hour, lease a personal boat to discover the close by islands for the day for $50, and ensure to get a bowl of the Penang curry.
3. Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a picturesque island in Thailand identified for its beautiful seashores, vibrant marine life, and world-class diving alternatives. Whether or not you’re an skilled diver or simply seeking to calm down on the sandy shores, Koh Tao has one thing for everybody.
Don’t miss out on exploring the underwater world with a diving tour, the place you possibly can swim alongside colourful coral reefs and unique fish. If diving isn’t your factor, you possibly can nonetheless benefit from the crystal-clear waters by snorkeling or just lounging on the seashore. Ko Tao is actually a tropical paradise ready to be explored.
If you wish to go to a number of the greatest islands in Thailand, take a ferry to Ko Samui or Koh Phangan.
In case you have heard of the complete moon social gathering in Thailand, it’s occurring over on the close by island of Koh Phangan. Completely different vacationers like various things. If a loud social gathering island isn’t your factor, be certain to keep away from Ko Phangan through the full moon or head to one of many Koh Phangan seashores.
4. Koh Samui
There’s extra to Koh Samui than being Thailand’s second-largest island. It’s additionally top-of-the-line locations to go to in Thailand for households with youngsters who’re in search of a seashore trip. If you’re touring with youngsters or an prolonged household, it’s one of the crucial in style locations in Thailand to lease a home for an extended time period.
Located within the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui’s sandy seashores and tropical environment entice backpackers, households, honeymooners, and everybody in between. Whether or not you’re hitting up the seashores or partying late into the night, the actions in Koh Samui are infinite.
The island can also be crammed with beautiful cultural landmarks, together with the spectacular 12-meter tall golden Buddha. You must also go to the Secret Buddha Backyard, which is situated deep inside a lush, inexperienced forest.
When the solar units, head to Chaweng Seaside. You’ll discover loads of vigorous bars, eating places, and golf equipment that promote low cost drinks and mouth-watering dishes. When you’re in search of enjoyable and leisure, then you definitely’ll be blissful to know that the events don’t cease till the early hours of the morning.
5. Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a shocking island within the Andaman Sea identified for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and picturesque seashores. There is no such thing as a airport on Koh Phi Phi. You must take a ferry to Phuket from Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Lanta.
Ko Phi Phi was the primary island in Thailand we visited. When planning our honeymoon in Thailand, a visit to the well-known Maya Bay was a should. Many vacationers wish to go to the well-known Maya Bay, made well-known by the film “The Seaside,” or snorkel within the turquoise waters to find colourful coral reefs.
For these looking for journey, mountain climbing to the highest of Phi Phi Viewpoint gives panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. With its laid-back environment and breathtaking pure magnificence, Okayoh Phi Phi is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody touring to Thailand.
6. Krabi
You possibly can simply spend a number of weeks or months exploring Krabi alone. This southwestern area of Thailand is big, with dozens of sights, sights, and vacationer sights.
No go to to Krabi could be full with out seeing town heart, Krabi City. You may kayak, store, and get massages proper there on Ao Nang Seaside, Krabi City’s largest waterfront seashore. Two different lovely seashores solely accessible by boat to go to are Railay Seaside and Tonsai Seaside.
Krabi can also be residence to dozens of tropical islands (200 to be precise). You may lease a long-tail boat and spend the day island hopping, or you possibly can select your favorites and calm down for an extended weekend at a beachside resort or bungalow.
7. Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park
Thailand is residence to a number of the most picturesque landscapes on this planet, and Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park is not any exception. This tropical archipelago is comprised of 42 islands and is residence to white-sand seashores, jagged limestone rocks, and cascading waterfalls.
When you’re coming from Samui, there are just a few islands inside boating distance. Koh Wua Ta Lap and Koh Mae are two of the most well-liked locations for vacationers who’ve restricted time to spend in Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park.
In addition to the scenic views and pristine seashores, Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park can also be flooded with unique wildlife. It’s not laborious to identify long-tailed monkeys, sea turtles, eagles, and even otters throughout your time within the park.
Because the space is protected by the federal government, entry is strictly regulated. You should e-book a pre-arranged tour by an official government-approved boat. We extremely recommend reserving prematurely. That is the Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park Tour we booked.
8. Khao Sok Lake
Khao Sok Lake, situated in southern Thailand, is a hidden gem in Thailand for nature lovers and journey seekers. Surrounded by lush rainforest and limestone cliffs, this picturesque lake gives a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life.
There are a ton of distinctive issues to do at Khao Sok Lake, equivalent to kayaking, mountain climbing, and wildlife recognizing. We loved going out on a personal boat tour of Khao Sok Nationwide Park. We spent the whole day cruising across the lake.
A few of the most original resorts in Bangkok are right here. Keep in an overwater bungalow in Thailand or a floating bubble. The floating bungalows present a novel option to expertise the great thing about the lake, with beautiful dawn and sundown views.
For these seeking to actually immerse themselves in nature, Khao Sok Lake is a must-visit vacation spot in Thailand. If you’re staying in Krabi and wish to go to Khao Sok Lake, you possibly can take at the present time tour from Krabi.
9. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, often called the cultural capital of Thailand, is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Thailand for these seeking to immerse themselves within the wealthy historical past and traditions of the nation.
For these open to tattoos and a novel Thailand memento, contemplate getting a Sak Yant tattoo in Chiang Mai as we did. Getting a tattoo by a monk that you just didn’t decide, and also you don’t know what it’s or the place in your physique he’ll put it. Now that’s superior and tremendous distinctive!
From exploring historic temples in Chiang Mai like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to wandering by means of the bustling night time markets crammed with native handicrafts and scrumptious road meals, there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Chiang Mai to take pleasure in on this vibrant metropolis.
Benefit from Chiang Mai’s proximity to lush jungles and mountains, with tons of out of doors actions like trekking, zip-lining, and even visiting rescue elephant sanctuaries. You possibly can spend your entire time in Chiang Mai or take a day journey to close by Chiang Dao Valley or Chiang Mai.
With its laid-back environment and welcoming locals, Chiang Mai is certain to go away a long-lasting impression on any traveler in search of an genuine Thai expertise.
It left such a final impression we saved coming again! Chiang Mai is further particular to us, as we referred to as it residence on and off for 4 years. Chiang Mai is a giant metropolis with all the massive metropolis facilities. There’s a giant expat group in Chiang Mai; Chiang Mai is protected, and there may be an abundance of tasty Thai meals and Western eating places, too; it’s tremendous reasonably priced, and the checklist of why we love Chiang Mai might go on and on.
10. Chiang Rai
When planning a visit to Thailand, contemplate together with Chiang Rai in your itinerary. This charming metropolis within the northern a part of the nation is a hidden gem identified for its beautiful temples, lush landscapes, and wealthy cultural heritage.
One of many must-see sights in Chiang Rai is the well-known White Temple, a novel and complicated masterpiece that’s not like another temple in Thailand. You too can go to the colourful Blue Temple and the magical Black Home, which showcases a group of darkish and unconventional artwork items.
For nature lovers, this small group tour to the Golden Triangle, the place Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, gives breathtaking views of the Mekong River and plush inexperienced hills is a should. Chiang Rai gives a mix of tradition, historical past, and pure magnificence that can depart you mesmerized.
If you’re staying in Chiang Mai, you possibly can simply take a day journey to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai on a tour like this. There are additionally tons of buses to Chiang Rai, or you possibly can lease a automobile and drive like we did.
Have you ever ever seen luxurious resorts in Thailand with an elephant park on the property? Probably the most well-known and moral elephant resort in Thailand is the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, 90 minutes exterior of Chiang Rai.
11. Pai
The notorious drive to Pai from Chiang Mai has 762 curves. Sure, you learn that proper 762! All these curves are price it. The drive from Chiang Mai to Pai takes about 2 to three hours. Previously, you could possibly fly to Pai from Chiang Mai on a small airplane, however presently, it doesn’t seem you possibly can, and people flights had been typically canceled.
As you wind your manner by means of the valleys and mountains of northern Thailand, you’ll come throughout Pai, a relaxed backpacker city situated on the banks of the Pai River.
Throughout your go to to Pai, don’t miss the chance to go to the Pai Canyon. There are many mountain climbing trails and grime paths that take you thru lush jungles and rolling hills. The sunrises and sunsets from the highest of the canyon additionally boast a number of the greatest views in all of Thailand.
For one thing extra adventurous, head to Mo Paeng Waterfalls, the best setting for jungle mountain climbing and swimming. Another choice is to go tubing or whitewater rafting down the river. A number of store house owners and operators alongside the river present leases and excursions.
When you’d fairly spend the time enjoyable, you may as well go to the tranquil Tha Pai Scorching Springs. It’s one of the crucial in style actions in Pai!
12. Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park
As one of the crucial picturesque pure reserves in Thailand, Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park is a sprawling area stuffed with pure wonders. Nicknamed “the roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is a superb day journey from Chiang Mai that’s beneath two hours away.
The park is thought for being a part of the Himalayan Mountain vary. It’s additionally residence to Doi Inthanon Peak, the very best mountain within the nation.
There are additionally a number of waterfalls all through the park, together with the cascading Sirithan Waterfall. The park can also be crammed with wildlife, from wild boars and deer to blackbirds and rose finches. We suggest at the present time tour from Chiang Mai or this tour that visits Toi Inthanon and an Elephant Sanctuary.
13. Ayutthaya
The historic metropolis of Ayutthaya is taken into account one in all Thailand’s most affluent. Based in 1238, It’s identified for its historic temples and ruins. Though the Burmese destroyed it within the mid-1700s, it stays top-of-the-line examples of Thai historical past and structure.
Most guests come to Ayutthaya to see the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that was as soon as the middle of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. This archeological website is crammed with stone temples, large towers, and historic monasteries.
A few of the greatest issues to see in Ayutthaya are the Phet Fortress, Phra Chedi Suriyothai, and Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit. You too can go to three royal palaces – the Grand Palace, Chantharakasem Palace, and Wang Lang Palace.
Attempt to be there for dawn at Ayutthaya for the beautiful reflections within the pond. It makes for excellent pictures. In case you have ever been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, it jogs my memory of this.
14. Sukhothai
Because the Kingdom’s capital through the thirteenth and 14th centuries, Sukhothai is a uncommon glimpse into Thailand’s historic previous. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Website, the ruins of Sukhothai metropolis have over 20 temples and numerous monuments and shrines. Sukhothai sits on an island surrounded by the Pa Sak, Chao Phraya, and Lopburi Rivers.
Probably the most spectacular factor to see in Sukhothai is Wat Mahathat, an previous temple which accommodates a ravishing Buddha statue. The structure and artwork in Sukhothai have additionally left their mark on Thai tradition. Recognized for its distinct brick and carved stucco look, Sukhothai’s design has influenced many different temples all over the world.
15. Erawan Nationwide Park
There are tons of of waterfalls in Thailand, however none are extra lovely or highly effective than the Erawan Falls. Named after the three-headed elephant in Hinduism, Erawan Falls is an imposing seven-tiered waterfall stuffed with emerald inexperienced waters and white rapids.
As you make your manner by means of the park, you possibly can cease by the completely different ranges of the swimming pools for a fast, refreshing dip. With the plush jungle as your backdrop, there’s nothing extra enjoyable than the sound of cascading water.
Erawan Nationwide Park can also be residence to 4 caves. When you enter the cave, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone stalactites and stalagmites. Ta Duang Cave is price visiting for the rock work and sculptures tucked contained in the cave.
16. Khao Yai Nationwide Park
The third largest nationwide park in Thailand is Khao Yai Nationwide Park. This huge and biodiverse park is situated just some hours from Bangkok, making it a preferred vacation spot for nature lovers and outside fans.
Khao Yai is stuffed with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and numerous wildlife and gives guests an opportunity to discover the great thing about Thailand’s pure landscapes. Completely different vacationers like various things, should you like mountain climbing, bird-watching, or just having fun with the peace and quiet of the nice outside, Khao Yai Nationwide Park has all of it.
17. Kanchanaburi
Nestled in western Thailand, Kanchanaburi is a picturesque vacation spot identified for its lush landscapes, historic websites, and outside actions. One of the well-known sights within the space is the Bridge over the River Kwai, a World Struggle II landmark that attracts in historical past fans from all over the world.
Go to the Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall, a beautiful seven-tier waterfall in Sriagarindra Dam Nationwide Park, top-of-the-line waterfalls in Thailand. Embark on a scenic practice trip by means of the countryside on the Dying Railway. With its mixture of cultural heritage and pure magnificence, Kanchanaburi gives a really unforgettable expertise for vacationers seeking to delve into Thailand’s wealthy historical past and scenic wonders.
To prime off your journey, keep in one of many many distinctive River Kwai overwater bungalows. They’re far more reasonably priced than you suppose. This overwater bungalow in Kanchanaburi is on our bucket checklist.
The important thing to experiencing the very best of Thailand is to do your analysis and plan accordingly. So, whether or not you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or a tradition fanatic, Thailand has all of it. Because the saying goes, “The world is a e-book, and those that don’t journey learn just one web page.”
So, pack your luggage and expertise the wonders of Thailand for your self. As one of many prime vacationer locations on this planet, it’s no marvel why folks maintain coming again for extra. Who is aware of, chances are you’ll find yourself like us and find yourself transferring to Thailand.
As you embark in your journey, keep in mind to maintain an open thoughts and embrace all that Thailand has to supply. As one of the crucial visited nations on this planet, Thailand actually has one thing for everybody. So, don’t simply examine it. Go and expertise it for your self.
Go and create your personal unforgettable recollections within the Land of Smiles.
What’s your favourite place in Thailand? The seashores, Central Thailand, Northern Thailand, or Bangkok? Are you aware of a hidden gem in Thailand? Go away a remark beneath!