Thailand is a truly magnificent country. I’ve lived in Thailand for over 10 years and still haven’t managed to see all the places on my list.
Known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, Thailand is a fantastic travel destination in Southeast Asia for nomads, couples, families, vacations, retirees and so on. It’s truly got something for everyone.
From the bustling streets of Bangkok where traditional markets rub shoulders with modern malls, to the serene beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand offers a diversity that caters to every traveller’s wish list.
If you’re planning a trip or already travelling through this marvellous country, here is a selection of my recommended best places to visit in Thailand;
34 Best Places to Visit in Thailand
1. Bangkok
Obviously one of the best places to visit in Thailand is its capital!
Bangkok is a city where tradition meets modernity at every corner. Having explored its streets on multiple occasions, I’ve experienced first hand the bustling energy of this city.
From traditional Thai tuk-tuks weaving through the traffic, offering a lively way to navigate the city, historical gems like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, and modern huge skyscrapers like the Mahanakhon building, Bangkok presents a fascinating mix of eras and styles.
Despite the rapid urban development, Bangkok retains its unique character, with skyscrapers and shopping malls sitting alongside traditional wooden houses by the canals. It’s a city that’s constantly evolving, yet firmly rooted in its heritage, making every visit here a journey of new discoveries.
Highlights:
- Grand Palace: A dazzling complex showcasing Thai architecture.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market: Asia’s largest market with diverse goods.
- Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn, an iconic riverside landmark.
Best Activity: Explore the city’s street food scene in places like Chinatown and Khao San Road for an authentic culinary adventure.
Hot Tip: Experience the contrast between the serene Wat Pho and the bustling energy of Sukhumvit Road for a well-rounded Bangkok visit.
2. Chiang Mai
I love Chiang Mai. Hence why it’s so high on my list of the best places to visit in Thailand.
Nestled in northern Thailand, this energetic city is a cultural haven surrounded by lush mountains. Known as the “Rose of the North,” it has a mix of ancient temples, vibrant markets, modern shopping malls, artisanal shops, and a dynamic nomad and backpacker scene.
I love just wondering around the old town, experiencing the street markets, indulging in the local Khao Soi (my favourite Thai dish) and fried ice cream, (yep fried ice cream – gotta be seen to be believed) and doing a bit of cafe hopping.
Highlights:
- Doi Suthep: A sacred mountain housing the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
- Night Bazaar: A shopper’s paradise with crafts, textiles, and local cuisine.
- Yi Peng Lantern Festival: Takes part during Loi Krathong in November, it a beautiful scene of hundreds of thousands pf lanterns floating in the sky!
Best Activity: Participate in a traditional Thai cooking class to savor the local flavors and bring home culinary skills.
Hot Tip: Visit during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November for a magical experience, but book accommodations well in advance.
3. Phuket
I’ve lived in Phuket for the bulk of our time here in Thailand. My daughter has been brought up here attending an International School, and I have watched it change significantly from what it was 10 years ago when we first arrived.
As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, gorgeous hotels, and diverse water activities.
It is a truly beautiful island with a range of places to visit and things to do such as the buzzing Phuket Old Town, Muay Thai fighting, chilling in the Andaman Ocean and enjoying one of the many beach clubs. However, since Covid, this little island has become extremely busy, without a supporting infrastructure.
This means that the traffic has become intolerable at times, and house prices, hotel prices, car rental prices, food, taxi’s etc have all become very expensive. I’d hazard an educated guess that Phuket is now one of the most expensive places to visit in Thailand.
With that being said, if you’re looking for a beach holiday in Thailand, Phuket is more beautiful with more things to do than places like Koh Samui or Hua Hin for example, so I would certainly recommend a visit! It’s also super easy to jump on a boat from here and see Krabi, Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi and lots of other surrounding islands.
Highlights:
- Beaches: Pretty much any beach. They’re all beautiful and the water is warm! (most of the time)
- Phi Phi Islands: Jump on a boat for a day trip or overnight stay. Phi Phi is beautiful with iconic limestone formations and crystal-clear waters.
- Big Buddha: A monumental statue offering panoramic views.
Best Activity: Embark on an island-hopping tour to explore the beauty of nearby gems like Phi Phi and James Bond Island.
Hot Tip: Visit later in the dry season to avoid crowds and experience lower prices (March / April). Beware though, it’s pretty hot that time of year.
4. Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya just North of Bangkok is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand if you love to experience the cultural history of a place.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya stands as the historical heart of Thailand, boasting ancient temples and magnificent ruins. The second capital of the Siamese Kingdom, it reached it’s heights during the 14th to 18th centuries and was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767.
Highlights:
- Majestic Wat Mahathat with the iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree.
- Grand Ayutthaya Palace, reflects the grandeur of the past.
- Ayutthaya Historical Park, is a sprawling complex with numerous ancient temples.
Best Activity: Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where the Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet showcase the grandeur of the ancient kingdom.
Hot Tip: Read about the history of Thailand and in particular Ayutthaya before you visit so you can get a feel for what it may have been like in the 14th – 18th centuries.
5. Sukhothai
Sukhothai, another UNESCO-listed gem, is celebrated as the birthplace of Thai civilization.
The first capital of Siam in the 13th and 14th centuries, the kingdom of Sukhothai laid the groundwork for many aspects of Thai culture, with significant contributions attributed to King Ramkhamhaeng. Recognized as the Thai Nation’s Founding Father, his influence shaped the core elements of what is known today as Thai identity.
The city’s well-preserved historical park showcases the grandeur of the Sukhothai Kingdom, marked by stunning temples, Buddha statues, and peaceful surroundings.
Highlights:
- Sukhothai Historical Park: A vast area dotted with ancient temples and sculptures.
- Ramkhamhaeng National Museum: Offering insights into the region’s history.
Best Activity: Cycle through the Sukhothai Historical Park to absorb the serenity (seriously it’s truly serene), and enjoy the beautifully restored temples, including Wat Si Chum and Wat Mahathat.
Hot Tip: Visit during the Loy Krathong Festival when the park transforms with enchanting candlelit displays, adding a magical touch to the historical ambiance.
6. Krabi Province
Definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand, Krabi Province is quite a large area that encompasses parts of Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi. Quite simply it’s absolutely stunning and well worth a few days visit.
A tropical paradise that balances natural beauty with adventure, you’ll find limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. Whether you’re a beach lover or a thrill-seeker, you’ll enjoy stunning islands, vibrant nightlife, and a myriad of outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination if you’re seeking a diverse and picturesque getaway.
Highlights:
- Railay Beach – known for its towering limestone formations (and other things…)
- Phi Phi Islands – offers postcard-perfect beaches and vi