Are you planning a visit to Thailand and having bother 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 laborious to slim it right 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 among our favourite Asian international locations, and it’s a place we name our second house.
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 energetic Thai islands.
We’ve put collectively this listing of the most effective locations to go to in Thailand that will help you plan the right 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
Virtually 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 large metropolis on this planet.
The meals, the temples, the sky bars, the posh lodges, the noise, the smells, the sounds, the visitors, the purchasing, the chaos—all of it makes for an awesome few days. A couple of of our high locations to go to are Wat Pho Temple, a ship trip alongside the Chao Phraya River, people-watching on Khaosan Street, glad hour at a Skybar for sundown, Chinatown, and extra.
We all the time prefer to rent a personal information for the day, and it’s tremendous inexpensive. That is the BEST method to see Bangkok. A non-public information will take you to an inventory of points of interest you decide. Get a real glimpse into Thai tradition on this one-on-one expertise. We booked this non-public Bangkok tour on-line.
On the subject of visiting Thailand (Siam), Bangkok is a must-see vacation spot. Identified for its bustling road markets, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok provides a singular mix of conventional tradition and trendy points of interest.
From exploring the historic Grand Palace to purchasing on the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market, there isn’t a scarcity of issues to do in Bangkok.
One among our favourite issues to do is eat; all over the place you go, there’s scrumptious road meals in Bangkok. Earlier than going, ensure to learn our What to Eat in Bangkok journey information, which can clarify totally different Thai meals to try to the most effective locations to eat in Bangkok.
Finest Tour in Bangkok – over 2,000 five-star critiques
2. Koh Lipe
The #1 greatest place to go to in Thailand is Koh Lipe. There is no such thing as a different island in Thailand that can examine. In case you’re searching for attractive turquoise blue waters and white sand seashores, that is your home.
In case you are searching for that excellent enjoyable seaside trip, add Koh Lipe to your Thailand itinerary. We propose staying on Dawn Seashore, the place a beachfront room at a 3-star resort will price you $125+ throughout the excessive season. Click on right here to examine charges. They have the most effective 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 ebook Koh Lipe ferry tickets.
The island is sufficiently small that you may stroll all over the place. 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 seaside 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 gorgeous seashores, vibrant marine life, and world-class diving alternatives. Whether or not you’re an skilled diver or simply seeking to chill out 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 seaside. 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.
When you have heard of the complete moon celebration in Thailand, it’s taking place over on the close by island of Koh Phangan. Completely different vacationers like various things. If a loud celebration island isn’t your factor, ensure to keep away from Ko Phangan throughout 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 searching for a seaside trip. In case you are touring with youngsters or an prolonged household, it’s some 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 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 limitless.
The island can also be stuffed with gorgeous 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 Seashore. You’ll discover loads of energetic bars, eating places, and golf equipment that promote low-cost drinks and mouth-watering dishes. In case you’re searching for enjoyable and leisure, then you definitely’ll be glad 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 need 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 looking for journey, mountaineering to the highest of Phi Phi Viewpoint provides 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 possibly can simply spend a number of weeks or months exploring Krabi alone. This southwestern area of Thailand is big, with dozens of sights, points of interest, and vacationer points of interest.
No go to to Krabi can be full with out seeing town heart, Krabi City. You’ll be able to kayak, store, and get massages proper there on Ao Nang Seashore, Krabi City’s largest waterfront seaside. Two different lovely seashores solely accessible by boat to go to are Railay Seashore and Tonsai Seashore.
Krabi can also be house to dozens of tropical islands (200 to be actual). You’ll be able to lease a long-tail boat and spend the day island hopping, or you possibly can select your favorites and chill out for a protracted weekend at a beachside resort or bungalow.
7. Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park
Thailand is house to a number 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 house to white-sand seashores, jagged limestone rocks, and cascading waterfalls.
In case you’re coming from Samui, there are only some islands inside boating distance. Koh Wua Ta Lap and Koh Mae are two of the preferred locations for vacationers who’ve restricted time to spend in Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park.
Apart from 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.
For the reason that space is protected by the federal government, entry is strictly regulated. You will need to ebook 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 provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life.
There are a ton of distinctive issues to do at Khao Sok Lake, corresponding to kayaking, mountaineering, 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.
Among the most unusual lodges in Bangkok are right here. Keep in an overwater bungalow in Thailand or a floating bubble. The floating bungalows present a singular method to expertise the fantastic thing about the lake, with gorgeous dawn and sundown views.
For these seeking to actually immerse themselves in nature, Khao Sok Lake is a must-visit vacation spot in Thailand. In case you are staying in Krabi and need to go to Khao Sok Lake, you possibly can take at the present time tour from Krabi.
9. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, generally known as the cultural capital of Thailand, is among 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 singular 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 way of the bustling night time markets stuffed with native handicrafts and scrumptious road meals, there isn’t a scarcity of issues to do in Chiang Mai to get pleasure from on this vibrant metropolis.
Reap the benefits of Chiang Mai’s proximity to lush jungles and mountains, with tons of outside 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 ambiance and welcoming locals, Chiang Mai is bound to depart an enduring impression on any traveler searching 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 house on and off for 4 years. Chiang Mai is an enormous metropolis with all the massive metropolis facilities. There’s a giant expat group in Chiang Mai; Chiang Mai is protected, and there’s an abundance of tasty Thai meals and Western eating places, too; it’s tremendous inexpensive, and the listing 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 gorgeous temples, lush landscapes, and wealthy cultural heritage.
One of many must-see points of interest in Chiang Rai is the well-known White Temple, a singular and complex masterpiece that’s in contrast to some other temple in Thailand. You can even go to the colourful Blue Temple and the magical Black Home, which showcases a set of darkish and unconventional artwork items.
For nature lovers, this small group tour to the Golden Triangle, the place Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, provides breathtaking views of the Mekong River and luxurious inexperienced hills is a should. Chiang Rai provides a mix of tradition, historical past, and pure magnificence that can go away you mesmerized.
In case you are 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 lodges 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 outdoors 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 possibly can fly to Pai from Chiang Mai on a small aircraft, however at present, it doesn’t seem you possibly can, and people flights had been usually canceled.
As you wind your means by way 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 mountaineering 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 number of the greatest views in all of Thailand.
For one thing extra adventurous, head to Mo Paeng Waterfalls, the perfect setting for jungle mountaineering 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.
In case you’d reasonably spend the time enjoyable, you can too go to the tranquil Tha Pai Sizzling Springs. It’s some of the widespread actions in Pai!
12. Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park
As some 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 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 house 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 stuffed 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 among 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 Web site that was as soon as the middle of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. This archeological web site is stuffed with stone temples, large towers, and historic monasteries.
Among the greatest issues to see in Ayutthaya are the Phet Fortress, Phra Chedi Suriyothai, and Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit. You can even 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 nice pictures. When you have ever been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, it jogs my memory of this.
14. Sukhothai
Because the Kingdom’s capital throughout the thirteenth and 14th centuries, Sukhothai is a uncommon glimpse into Thailand’s historic previous. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, 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 comprises a fantastic 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 world wide.
15. Erawan Nationwide Park
There are a whole bunch 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 filled with emerald inexperienced waters and white rapids.
As you make your means by way of the park, you possibly can cease by the totally 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 house 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 only a few hours from Bangkok, making it a preferred vacation spot for nature lovers and out of doors fans.
Khao Yai is stuffed with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and numerous wildlife and provides guests an opportunity to discover the fantastic thing about Thailand’s pure landscapes. Completely different vacationers like various things, for those who like mountaineering, bird-watching, or just having fun with the peace and quiet of the good open air, 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 out of doors actions. One of the well-known points of interest within the space is the Bridge over the River Kwai, a World Struggle II landmark that pulls in historical past fans from world wide.
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 prepare trip by way of the countryside on the Dying Railway. With its mixture of cultural heritage and pure magnificence, Kanchanaburi provides a really unforgettable expertise for vacationers seeking 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 inexpensive than you assume. This overwater bungalow in Kanchanaburi is on our bucket listing.
Conclusion
Thailand is a fantastic nation with an abundance of gorgeous 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 most effective 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 ebook, 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 folks maintain coming again for extra. Who is aware of, you might find yourself like us and find yourself shifting 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 some of the visited international locations 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? Depart a remark under!
