Planning a visit to Thailand and having a tough time deciding on the place to go in Thailand? We get it. There are such a lot of wonderful locations to go to in Thailand that it may be onerous to slender it all the way down to a one or two-week Thailand itinerary.

We’ve spent over 4 years touring and residing in Thailand, so we all know a factor or two about this wonderful nation. We’ve visited all of the vacationer locations and extra. Thailand is considered one of our favourite Asian international locations on the earth, and it’s a place we name our second dwelling.

Enterprise past the colourful capital of Bangkok 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 checklist of the most effective locations to go to in Thailand that can assist you put collectively the right journey to Thailand. Are you trying to island hopping in Thailand and go to among the greatest islands OR go to Northern Thailand and expertise extra nature & Thai tradition?

Fast Reply: Finest Locations in Thailand

*Don’t neglect to buy journey insurance coverage. We use Security Wing journey insurance coverage. 

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 large metropolis on the earth.

The meals, the temples, the sky bars, the luxurious motels, the noise, the smells, the sounds, the site visitors, the purchasing, the chaos, all of it makes for an ideal few days. A couple of of our high locations to go to are: Wat Pho Temple, a ship trip alongside the Chao Phraya River, folks watching on Khaosan Street, pleased hour at a Skybar for sundown, Chinatown, and extra.

We at all times wish to rent a non-public information for the day, and it’s tremendous reasonably priced. That is the BEST solution 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.

In relation to visiting Thailand (Siam), Bangkok is a must-see vacation spot. Recognized for its bustling avenue markets, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok affords a novel mix of conventional tradition and fashionable sights.

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 in all our favourite issues to do is eat; in all places you go, there’s scrumptious avenue meals in Bangkok. Earlier than going, be sure that to learn our What to Eat in Bangkok journey information, which is able to 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 opinions

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 may examine. Should you’re searching for attractive turquoise blue waters and white sand seashores, that is your house.

If you’re searching for that good stress-free seashore trip, add Koh Lipe to your Thailand itinerary. We advise staying on Dawn Seashore, the place a beachfront room at a 3-star lodge will value you $125+ throughout the excessive season. Click on right here to verify charges. They have the most effective lodge choices & costs in Thailand.

Koh Lipe doesn’t sometimes get overcrowded as a result of it isn’t the simplest island to get to. The one solution 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 that you could 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 non-public 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 loosen up 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 may swim alongside colourful coral reefs and unique fish. If diving isn’t your factor, you may nonetheless benefit from the crystal-clear waters by snorkeling or just lounging on the seashore. Ko Tao is really a tropical paradise ready to be explored.

If you wish to go to among the greatest islands in Thailand, take a ferry to Ko Samui or Koh Phangan.

When you have heard of the total moon occasion in Thailand, it’s occurring over on the close by island of Koh Phangan. Completely different vacationers like various things. If a loud occasion island isn’t your factor, be sure that to keep away from Ko Phangan throughout the full moon.

4. Koh Samui

There’s extra to Koh Samui than being Thailand’s second-largest island. It’s additionally among the finest locations to go to in Thailand for households with youngsters who’re searching for a seashore trip. If you’re touring with youngsters or an prolonged household, it’s one of the vital common 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 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 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 positioned 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. Should you’re searching for enjoyable and leisure, you then’ll be pleased to know that the events don’t cease till the early hours of the morning.

5. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a surprising island positioned within the Andaman Sea, recognized for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and picturesque seashores. There’s not an airport in Koh Phi Phi. You need 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 searching for journey, climbing to the highest of Phi Phi Viewpoint affords 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 may simply spend a number of weeks or months exploring Krabi alone. This southwestern area of Thailand is gigantic, with dozens of sights, sights, and vacationer sights.

No go to to Krabi can be full with out seeing town heart, Krabi City. You possibly can 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 also be dwelling to dozens of tropical islands (200 to be actual). You possibly can lease a long-tail boat and spend the day island hopping, or you may select your favorites and loosen up for an extended weekend at a beachside resort or bungalow.

7. Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park

Thailand is dwelling to among the most picturesque landscapes on the earth, and Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park isn’t any exception. This tropical archipelago is comprised of 42 islands and is dwelling to white-sand seashores, jagged limestone rocks, and cascading waterfalls.

Should 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.

Apart from the scenic views and pristine seashores, Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park can also be flooded with unique wildlife. It’s not onerous 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.  It’s essential to e-book a pre-arranged tour by an official government-approved boat. We extremely counsel reserving upfront. 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 affords a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life.

There are a ton of distinctive issues to do at Khao Sok Lake, akin to kayaking, climbing, and wildlife recognizing. We loved going out on a non-public boat tour of Khao Sok Nationwide Park. We spent the whole day cruising across the lake.

A few of the most unusual motels in Bangkok are right here. Keep in an overwater bungalow in Thailand or a floating bubble. The floating bungalows present a novel solution to expertise the great thing about the lake, with gorgeous dawn and sundown views.

For these trying to actually immerse themselves in nature, Khao Sok Lake is a must-visit vacation spot in Thailand. If you’re staying Krabi and wish to go to Khao Sok Lake, you may take at the present time tour from Krabi.

9. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, referred to as the cultural capital of Thailand, among the finest 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 simply 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 evening markets stuffed with native handicrafts and scrumptious avenue meals, there isn’t a scarcity of issues to do in Chiang Mai to get pleasure from on this vibrant metropolis.

Benefit from 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 may 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 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 dwelling on and off for 4 years. Chiang Mai is a giant metropolis with all the massive metropolis facilities. There’s a giant expat neighborhood in Chiang Mai; Chiang Mai is secure, and there’s 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, 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 complicated 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, affords breathtaking views of the Mekong River and luxurious inexperienced hills is a should. Chiang Rai affords a mix of tradition, historical past, and pure magnificence that may depart you mesmerized.

If you’re staying in Chiang Mai, you may 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 may lease a automotive and drive like we did.

Have you ever ever seen luxurious motels in Thailand with an elephant park on the property? Probably the most well-known and moral elephant lodge 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 value 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 may, and people flights had been typically 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 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 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 among the greatest views in all of Thailand.

For one thing extra adventurous, head to Mo Paeng Waterfalls, the best setting for jungle climbing and swimming. An alternative choice is to go tubing or white water rafting down the river. You’ll discover a number of store homeowners and operators alongside the river offering leases and excursions.

Should you’d moderately spend the time stress-free, it’s also possible to go to the tranquil Tha Pai Sizzling Springs. It’s one of the vital common actions in Pai!

12. Doi Inthanon Nationwide Park

As one of the vital 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 understood for being a part of the Himalayan Mountain vary. It’s additionally dwelling to Doi Inthanon Peak, the 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 considered one of Thailand’s most affluent cities. Based in 1238, Ayutthaya is understood for its historic temples and ruins. Though it was destroyed by the Burmese within the mid-1700s, it stays among the finest 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 website is stuffed 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 nice images. 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 outdated temple which incorporates an exquisite 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 impressive seven-tiered waterfall filled with emerald inexperienced waters and white rapids.

As you make your means by way of the park, you may 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 stress-free than the sound of cascading water.

Erawan Nationwide Park can also be dwelling 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, an enormous and biodiverse park positioned just some hours from Bangkok. making it a preferred vacation spot for nature lovers and outside fanatics.

Khao Yai is filled with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and numerous wildlife and affords guests an opportunity to discover the great thing about Thailand’s pure landscapes. Completely different vacationers like various things, when you like climbing, 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 recognized for its lush landscapes, historic websites, and outside actions. Some of the 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, among the finest 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 affords a really unforgettable expertise for vacationers trying to delve into Thailand’s wealthy historical past and scenic wonders.

Keep in one of many many distinctive River Kwai overwater bungalows to high off your journey. They’re far more reasonably priced than you suppose. This overwater bungalow in Kanchanaburi is on our bucket checklist.

Conclusion

Thailand is an exquisite 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 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 e-book, and people who 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 the earth, it’s no surprise why folks maintain coming again for extra. Who is aware of, it’s possible you’ll 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 one of the vital visited international locations on the earth, Thailand actually has one thing for everybody. So, don’t simply examine it. Go and expertise it for your self.

Go and create your individual 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 beneath!