The adventure in the tropical forest, the outstanding street foods, and the palm-lined beaches will welcome you warmly as soon as you reach Thailand. Here, you can get the holy touch of Buddhism when the throbbing nightlife will add more life to you.
You can visit the local tribes and their serene villages and also the bustling city life in Bangkok. The gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins, blue lagoons, and fabulous weather of this country are ready to make your trip memorable.
Here are the top 20 places you should never miss on your trip to Thailand:
1. Bangkok
To begin the list of the best places to visit in Thailand, there is nothing better than the capital city, Bangkok. This buzzing city will give you a cosmopolitan feeling and the street life is quite vibrant. Bangkok is also a shopping paradise for tourists.
You will find numerous traditional floating markets over there. The Chatuchak Market is one of the largest outdoor markets over there. Bangkok is also a city of several beautiful temples and palaces.
Location: Central Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Grand Palace: Visit the opulent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
- Wat Arun: Explore the iconic Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn.
- Chatuchak Market: Shop at one of the largest weekend markets in the world.
- Nightlife: Experience the lively nightlife in areas like Khao San Road and Sukhumvit.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
- By Train: Well-connected by the BTS Skytrain and MRT.
2. Pattaya Floating Market
If you want to experience authentic Thai life, you can visit Pattaya Floating Market. There are four sections of the market, selling flowers, herbs, fruits, incense, etc.
Besides, you will also find lots of handicrafts, made by local craftsmen, get a picture in a Thai dress, and also go for a special Thai massage.
Location: Pattaya, Eastern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Boat Rides: Take a boat ride to explore the market.
- Local Cuisine: Try delicious Thai street food and snacks.
- Cultural Shows: Watch traditional Thai cultural performances.
How to Reach:
- By Air: U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport (40 km).
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or local transport from Pattaya city center.
3. Ko Pha Ngan
Thailand is also a country full of stunning beaches. Ko Pha Ngan is the fifth largest beach in the country where you can find lush green forest, rolling hills, and white sand beaches.
Till now, this beach is not developed that much. Therefore, the crowd is lesser here than on other popular beaches around. Enjoy the serene nature and try your hand at several outdoor activities here.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Things to Do:
- Full Moon Party: Join the vibrant Full Moon Party at Haad Rin Beach.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world.
- Yoga Retreats: Participate in yoga and wellness retreats.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Koh Samui Airport, followed by a ferry to Ko Pha Ngan.
- By Boat: Regular ferries from Koh Samui, Surat Thani, and Koh Tao.
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4. Phuket
This is the largest island in Thailand and has everything you expect from the country. It is full of golden beaches, outstanding marketplaces, colorful nightlife, and adventurous watersports to woo tourists.
Beaches like Surin and Kata are perfect for family holidays. But, if you are visiting Phuket with your friends and want to shout loud and go crazy, specifically after the sunset, you can always head towards Patong Beach.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Beaches: Relax on popular beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon.
- Big Buddha: Visit the iconic Big Buddha statue.
- Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bangla Road.
- Island Tours: Take day trips to nearby islands like Phi Phi and James Bond Island.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Phuket International Airport (HKT).
- By Road: Well-connected by road and buses from major cities.
5. Chiang Mai
Talking about the best places in Thailand always includes Chiang Mai as one of the tourist attractions. While the mountainous landscape blows your mind, the historical temples of this city will introduce you to ancient Thai culture.
Chiang Mai is also famous for night markets and Sunday Walking Street. Also, you should not miss Elephant Nature Park to visit to meet your giant friends.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Temples: Explore Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.
- Elephant Sanctuaries: Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries.
- Night Markets: Shop at the Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy trekking, zip-lining, and rafting.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
- By Train: Overnight trains from Bangkok.
- By Bus: Regular buses from major cities.
6. Khao Sok National Park
To feel the pristine nature and to witness various species of wild animals, Khao Sok National Park is the best.
The limestone mountains, the emerald-green lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the gushing waterfalls have made the national park one of the best destinations for tourists.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Things to Do:
- Trekking: Explore the jungle trails.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy water activities on Cheow Lan Lake.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot gibbons, elephants, and various bird species.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airports are Surat Thani and Phuket, followed by a bus or taxi.
- By Road: Accessible by bus from Surat Thani, Phuket, and Khao Lak.
7. Ayutthaya
The previous capital of Thailand in the 14th Century, Ayutthaya is the ancient city of Thailand with the ruins of the Kingdom of Siam. The Ayutthaya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is surrounded by three rivers and spread across 289 hectares. You will find numerous wat, prang, and stucco statues in this ancient park.
Location: Central Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Temple Ruins: Explore Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
- Ayutthaya Historical Park: Visit the ancient ruins and learn about their history.
- River Cruises: Enjoy a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
How to Reach:
- By Train: Regular trains from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
- By Bus: Buses from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
- By Road: Accessible by car or taxi from Bangkok.
8. Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park is the largest one in Thailand and it is located in the Sankamphaeng Mountain Range. As it is located at elevation, you will find the amalgamation of two types of vegetation here- the billowy grasslands, and the evergreen rainforest.
The picturesque beauty of this national park will blow your mind while you visit the cascading waterfalls and the exotic wildlife. Here you will find pig-tailed macaques, freshwater crocodiles, sambar deer, Asian black bears, etc.
Location: Central Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Wildlife Watching: Spot elephants, deer, and various bird species.
- Trekking: Enjoy the park’s numerous hiking trails.
- Waterfalls: Visit Haew Narok and Haew Suwat waterfalls.
How to Reach:
- By Car: Best reached by car from Bangkok (about 3 hours).
- By Bus: Buses from Bangkok to Pak Chong, followed by a local taxi.
9. Phi Phi Islands
We can’t miss the wonderful Phi Phi Islands where you can find six islands, full of the panoramic view. Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don are the two significant islands that welcome tourists from around the world throughout the year.
Visit the ‘Viking Cave’, the only selling point of edible bird nests on Ko Phi Phi Leh Island.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral reefs and marine life.
- Beaches: Relax on Maya Bay, Loh Dalum, and Long Beach.
- Boat Tours: Take island-hopping tours.
- Nightlife: Enjoy beach parties and bars on Phi Phi Don.
How to Reach:
- By Boat: Regular ferries from Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta.
10. Trang
The secluded beaches and the magnificent islands have made Trang one of the most famous tourist destinations in Thailand.
The beautiful color contrast of the lush green forest on the shoreline and the crystal clear blue water will soothe your tired eyes. Go snorkeling and swimming here to explore the hidden beaches around.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Beaches: Relax on Pak Meng Beach and Hat Chao Mai National Park.
- Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands like Koh Kradan, Koh Muk, and Koh Libong.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy Trang’s unique culinary offerings.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trang Airport (TST).
- By Train: Regular trains from Bangkok to Trang.
- By Road: Accessible by bus or car from major southern cities.
11. Phitsanulok
This is an ancient town in Thailand that often goes unnoticed by the busy eyes of tourists. If you want to have a peaceful holiday in Thailand, the temples and monasteries are the perfect places to roam around.
Visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat where you will be mesmerized by the intricate architecture, and the awesome deity of Lord Buddha, sitting on a golden lotus.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat: Visit the famous temple housing Phra Buddha Chinnarat.
- Sukhothai Historical Park: Explore the ancient ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom.
- Night Bazaar: Enjoy shopping and local food at the night market.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Phitsanulok Airport (PHS).
- By Train: Regular trains from Bangkok.
- By Bus: Buses from major cities.
12. Koh Samui
Lined with the best palm trees on the shoreline and full of several luxurious resorts, Koh Samui welcomes you to have a lavish holiday in Thailand.
The picture-perfect beaches, mountainous rainforests, and jaw-dropping scenery here will entertain you. Take a quick ferry ride and visit the nearby archipelago like Koh Tao, a perfect destination for scuba diving.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: December to February
Things to Do:
- Beaches: Relax on Chaweng, Lamai, and Bophut beaches.
- Water Sports: Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
- Nightlife: Experience the nightlife at Chaweng Beach.
- Day Trips: Visit Ang Thong Marine Park and nearby islands.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Koh Samui Airport (USM).
- By Boat: Ferries from Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
13. Sukhothai
Sukhothai was the first capital of Thailand and now exists as the epitome of ancient Thai culture. Visit Sukhothai National Park and find lots of monuments, relics, statues, etc. of ancient times.
Explore the temples, caves, statues of Lord Buddha, lotus-shaped stupa, and stucco reliefs here.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Sukhothai Historical Park: Explore the ancient temples and ruins.
- Wat Mahathat: Visit the central temple complex.
- Cycling: Rent a bicycle to tour the historical park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Sukhothai Airport (THS).
- By Train: The nearest train station is in Phitsanulok, then a bus to Sukhothai.
- By Bus: Buses from Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
14. Krabi
This is another old provincial town in Thailand that builds a bridge between traditional and modern living in the country.
This is a coastal town where you can find spectacular beaches, fantastic islands, and unique lime formations. Explore the corals while enjoying scuba diving at Krabi.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Beaches: Relax on Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and Phra Nang Beach.
- Island Hopping: Visit nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Hong Island.
- Rock Climbing: Experience rock climbing on the limestone cliffs of Railay.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Krabi International Airport (KBV).
- By Boat: Ferries from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta.
- By Road: Buses from major cities.
15. Railay Beach
The sinking sand stretch of Railay Beach gives you a soothing feeling under your feet while walking around.
This is a wonderful honeymoon spot that offers luxurious beach villas, water sports, jaw-dropping views of limestone cliffs, and many more.
Location: Krabi, Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Rock Climbing: Experience world-class rock climbing.
- Beaches: Relax on Railay West, Railay East, and Phra Nang Beach.
- Kayaking: Explore the coastline by kayak.
How to Reach:
- By Boat: Accessible only by boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
16. Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is still carrying the dark history of World War II but has also come a long way and become one of the major tourist spots in Thailand.
Visit the museums like World War II Museum & Art Gallery and the JEATH War Museum to witness the weapons, documents, and paintings during World War II.
Location: Western Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Bridge over the River Kwai: Visit the iconic bridge and the nearby museums.
- Erawan National Park: Explore the waterfalls and natural beauty.
- Hellfire Pass: Learn about the history of the Death Railway.
How to Reach:
- By Train: Regular trains from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.
- By Bus: Buses from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal.
17. Pai
A quaint village in Northern Thailand, Pai is known for its charming valley and pleasant atmosphere. If you are an explorer, you will find this place happening. Go for trekking to experience the tribal life in Thailand when you are in Pai.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Pai Canyon: Explore the scenic Pai Canyon.
- Hot Springs: Relax in the Tha Pai Hot Springs.
- Waterfalls: Visit waterfalls like Mo Paeng and Pam Bok.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Chiang Mai, followed by a bus or taxi.
- By Bus: Buses from Chiang Mai to Pai.
18. Koh Lipe
Though this island was flourishing as a tourist spot in the 1990s, it took no time to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. The talcum beach and the expansion of the coral reefs are the exclusive attractions of this island.
Location: Southern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral reefs and marine life.
- Beaches: Relax on Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach, and Sunset Beach.
- Island Hopping: Take boat trips to nearby islands.
How to Reach:
- By Boat: Ferries from Pak Bara, Langkawi, and Koh Lanta.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Hat Yai, followed by a bus and boat.
19. Mae Hong Son
This place is the natural habitat of the Shan group, the biggest ethnic minority in Thailand. This place is located remotely and is a hidden gem from the crowd of tourists. If you want solitude, this is the place to find it.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu: Visit the hilltop temple with panoramic views.
- Long Neck Villages: Explore villages inhabited by the Karen Long Neck tribes.
- Tham Pla Fish Cave: Visit the unique fish cave.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mae Hong Son Airport (HGN).
- By Road: Buses and minibusses from Chiang Mai and Pai.
20. Chiang Rai
For the trekkers, Chiang Rai is a great destination. Lam Nam Kok National Park has trails for trekking that lead to the stunning waterfalls, of Khun Kon. The hilltop tribal villages and the lush forest around are a plus.
Location: Northern Thailand
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Things to Do:
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): Visit the stunning contemporary temple.
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Explore the vibrant blue temple.
- Golden Triangle: Visit the meeting points of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI).
- By Bus: Buses from Chiang Mai and other major cities.
So, these are the best places to visit in Thailand. Plan your trip wisely and make a bucket list so that you can grab the best time in Thailand.
More Information on Thailand:
- 10 Famous Reasons to See Thailand
- Thailand’s Most Popular Beaches
- 10 Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand
- Romantic Destinations in Thailand for Honeymoon
- Things To Do In Pattaya, Thailand
- Thailand Tour in January for Best Places
- Top10 Tourist Destinations to See in Thailand in February
- 10 Best Things to Do in Thailand
FAQs About Visiting Places in Thailand
1. What are the must-visit places in Thailand?
Must-visit places in Thailand include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, the Phi Phi Islands, Ayutthaya, Pattaya, and Koh Samui.
2. When is the best time to visit Thailand?
The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season from November to February. This period offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
3. What should I pack for a trip to Thailand?
Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, swimwear, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget a power adapter and any necessary medications.
4. What are the top attractions in Bangkok?
Top attractions in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Chatuchak Weekend Market, and the floating markets.
5. How can I get around in Thailand?
In Thailand, you can get around by tuk-tuks, taxis, motorbike taxis, buses, and the BTS Skytrain and MRT in Bangkok. For longer distances, trains, buses, and domestic flights are available.
6. Is it safe to drink tap water in Thailand?
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Thailand. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available, and avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it’s made from bottled or purified water.
7. What are the best places for beach vacations in Thailand?
The best places for beach vacations in Thailand include Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Pattaya.
8. Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of in Thailand?
Yes, always show respect to the Thai Royal Family, remove your shoes before entering temples or homes, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and avoid touching people’s heads or pointing your feet at them.
9. What are some famous Thai dishes to try?
Famous Thai dishes include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Som Tum (papaya salad), Massaman Curry, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice.
10. Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?
It depends on your nationality. Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Thailand for short stays (15-30 days). Check with the Thai consulate or embassy in your country for specific visa requirements.
