Are you planning a visit to Thailand and having hassle deciding the place to go? We get it. There are such a lot of superb locations to go to in Thailand that it may be exhausting to slender it all the way down to a one—or two-week itinerary.
We’ve spent over 4 years touring and residing in Thailand, so we all know a factor or two about this superb nation. We’ve visited all of the vacationer spots and extra. Thailand is one in every of 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 full of life 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 trying to go island hopping and go to a few of the greatest islands, or go to Northern Thailand and expertise extra nature and Thai tradition?
Fast Reply: Greatest Locations in Thailand
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Greatest 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 adore it or hate it. We LOVE Bangkok. It’s our favourite huge metropolis on this planet.
The meals, the temples, the sky bars, the luxurious accommodations, the noise, the smells, the sounds, the visitors, the buying, the chaos—all of it makes for an incredible few days. A number of of our high locations to go to are Wat Pho Temple, a ship journey alongside the Chao Phraya River, people-watching on Khaosan Highway, 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 method to see Bangkok. A personal information will take you to an inventory 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.
With regards to visiting Thailand (Siam), Bangkok is a must-see vacation spot. Identified for its bustling road markets, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok gives a novel mix of conventional tradition and trendy sights.
From exploring the historic Grand Palace to buying on the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market, there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Bangkok.
One in all our favourite issues to do is eat; in all places you go, there may be scrumptious road meals in Bangkok. Earlier than going, be certain that to learn our What to Eat in Bangkok journey information, which is able to clarify completely different Thai meals to attempt to the very best locations to eat in Bangkok.
Greatest Tour in Bangkok – over 2,000 five-star opinions
2. Koh Lipe
The #1 greatest place to go to in Thailand is Koh Lipe. There isn’t any different island in Thailand that can examine. When you’re on the lookout for attractive turquoise blue waters and white sand seashores, that is your house.
If you’re on the lookout for that excellent enjoyable seashore trip, add Koh Lipe to your Thailand itinerary. We recommend staying on Dawn Seashore, the place a beachfront room at a 3-star resort will price you $125+ in the course of the excessive season. Click on right here to verify 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 simplest island to get to. The one method 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 guide Koh Lipe ferry tickets.
The island is sufficiently small you can stroll in all places. There are bike taxis however no different autos on the island. Extra causes to like Koh Lipe: you may 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 recognized for its gorgeous seashores, vibrant marine life, and world-class diving alternatives. Whether or not you’re an skilled diver or simply trying 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 few of the greatest islands in Thailand, take a ferry to Ko Samui or Koh Phangan.
You probably have heard of the total moon get together in Thailand, it’s taking place over on the close by island of Koh Phangan. Completely different vacationers like various things. If a loud get together island isn’t your factor, be certain that to keep away from Ko Phangan in the course of 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 probably the greatest locations to go to in Thailand for households with children who’re on the lookout for a seashore trip. If you’re touring with children or an prolonged household, it’s one of the widespread 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 ambiance appeal to 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 countless.
The island can be crammed with gorgeous cultural landmarks, together with the spectacular 12-meter tall golden Buddha. You also needs to go to the Secret Buddha Backyard, which is positioned deep inside a lush, inexperienced forest.
When the solar units, head to Chaweng Seashore. You’ll discover loads of full of life bars, eating places, and golf equipment that promote low-cost drinks and mouth-watering dishes. When you’re on the lookout for 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 recognized for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and picturesque seashores. There isn’t any airport on Koh Phi Phi. It’s important to 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 Seashore,” or snorkel within the turquoise waters to find colourful coral reefs.
For these in search of journey, mountain climbing to the highest of Phi Phi Viewpoint gives panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. With its laid-back ambiance and breathtaking pure magnificence, Okoh Phi Phi is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody touring to Thailand.
6. Krabi
You 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 the town heart, Krabi City. You may kayak, store, and get massages proper there on Ao Nang Seashore, Krabi City’s largest waterfront seashore. Two different lovely seashores solely accessible by boat to go to are Railay Seashore and Tonsai Seashore.
Krabi can 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 few of the most picturesque landscapes on this planet, and Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park isn’t 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 only some 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.
Moreover the scenic views and pristine seashores, Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park can be flooded with unique wildlife. It’s not exhausting 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 could guide 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, positioned 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, similar 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 unusual accommodations in Bangkok are right here. Keep in an overwater bungalow in Thailand or a floating bubble. The floating bungalows present a novel method to expertise the great thing about the lake, with gorgeous dawn and sundown views.
For these trying to really 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 this present day tour from Krabi.
9. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, referred to as the cultural capital of Thailand, is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Thailand for these trying to immerse themselves within the wealthy historical past and traditions of the nation.
For these open to tattoos and a novel Thailand memento, take into account 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 evening 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.
Make the most of 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 can spend your complete time in Chiang Mai or take a day journey to close by Chiang Dao Valley or Chiang Mai.
With its laid-back ambiance and welcoming locals, Chiang Mai is bound to depart a long-lasting impression on any traveler on the lookout for an genuine Thai expertise.
It left such a final impression we saved coming again! Chiang Mai is additional particular to us, as we known as it residence on and off for 4 years. Chiang Mai is a giant metropolis with all the massive metropolis facilities. There’s a massive 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 may go on and on.
10. Chiang Rai
When planning a visit to Thailand, take into account together with Chiang Rai in your itinerary. This charming metropolis within the northern a part of the nation is a hidden gem recognized for its gorgeous 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 complex masterpiece that’s in contrast to every other temple in Thailand. You can too 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 luxurious inexperienced hills is a should. Chiang Rai gives a mix of tradition, historical past, and pure magnificence that can go away 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 automotive and drive like we did.
Have you ever ever seen luxurious accommodations in Thailand with an elephant park on the property? Essentially 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 value it. The drive from Chiang Mai to Pai takes about 2 to three hours. Up to now, you might fly to Pai from Chiang Mai on a small aircraft, however presently, it doesn’t seem you possibly can, and people flights have been typically canceled.
As you wind your method by means of the valleys and mountains of northern Thailand, you’ll come throughout Pai, a relaxed backpacker city positioned 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 dust paths that take you thru lush jungles and rolling hills. The sunrises and sunsets from the highest of the canyon additionally boast a few 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. An alternative 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 quite spend the time enjoyable, you too can go to the tranquil Tha Pai Sizzling Springs. It’s one of the widespread actions in Pai!
12. Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park
As one of the picturesque pure reserves in Thailand, Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park is a sprawling area filled with pure wonders. Nicknamed “the roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is a good day journey from Chiang Mai that’s beneath two hours away.
The park is understood 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 be crammed with wildlife, from wild boars and deer to blackbirds and rose finches. We suggest this present day 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 every of Thailand’s most affluent. Based in 1238, It’s recognized for its historic temples and ruins. Though the Burmese destroyed it within the mid-1700s, it stays probably the greatest 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, big 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 can too go to three royal palaces – the Grand Palace, Chantharakasem Palace, and Wang Lang Palace.
Attempt to be there for dawn at Ayutthaya for the attractive reflections within the pond. It makes for excellent images. You probably have ever been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, it jogs my memory of this.
14. Sukhothai
Because the Kingdom’s capital in the course of 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.
Essentially the most spectacular factor to see in Sukhothai is Wat Mahathat, an outdated temple which comprises a ravishing Buddha statue. The structure and artwork in Sukhothai have additionally left their mark on Thai tradition. Identified 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 lots 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 impressive seven-tiered waterfall filled with emerald inexperienced waters and white rapids.
As you make your method 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 luxurious jungle as your backdrop, there’s nothing extra enjoyable than the sound of cascading water.
Erawan Nationwide Park can be residence to 4 caves. When you enter the cave, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone stalactites and stalagmites. Ta Duang Cave is value 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 positioned only a few hours from Bangkok, making it a well-liked vacation spot for nature lovers and outside fanatics.
Khao Yai is stuffed with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and various wildlife and gives guests an opportunity to discover the great thing about Thailand’s pure landscapes. Completely different vacationers like various things, for those who like mountain climbing, bird-watching, or just having fun with the peace and quiet of the nice open air, Khao Yai Nationwide Park has all of it.
17. Kanchanaburi
Nestled in western Thailand, Kanchanaburi is a picturesque vacation spot recognized for its lush landscapes, historic websites, and outside actions. One of the crucial well-known sights within the space is the Bridge over the River Kwai, a World Battle II landmark that attracts in historical past fanatics from all over the world.
Go to the Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall, a beautiful seven-tier waterfall in Sriagarindra Dam Nationwide Park, probably the greatest waterfalls in Thailand. Embark on a scenic prepare journey by means of the countryside on the Loss of life Railway. With its mixture of cultural heritage and pure magnificence, Kanchanaburi gives a very unforgettable expertise for vacationers trying to delve into Thailand’s wealthy historical past and scenic wonders.
To high off your journey, keep in one of many many distinctive River Kwai overwater bungalows. They’re far more reasonably priced than you assume. This overwater bungalow in Kanchanaburi is on our bucket checklist.
Conclusion
Thailand is a ravishing nation with an abundance of lovely locations to discover. From the Thai capital of Bangkok to the serene seashores and islands and the cultural Buddhist temples of Chiang Mai, there’s something for everybody.
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 guide, and those that don’t journey learn just one web page.”
So, pack your baggage and expertise the wonders of Thailand for your self. As one of many high vacationer locations on this planet, it’s no surprise why individuals preserve 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, bear in mind to maintain an open thoughts and embrace all that Thailand has to supply. As one of the visited nations on this planet, Thailand really has one thing for everybody. So, don’t simply examine it. Go and expertise it for your self.
Go and create your personal unforgettable reminiscences 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 under!