Discover the Top 8 Must-Visit Destinations in Thailand

Discover the best destinations in Thailand, from vibrant cities to serene beaches and stunning national parks.

When contemplating a visit to Thailand, many envision unwinding on a pristine beach with a refreshing beverage in hand. However, Thailand is far more than just its idyllic coastline. This diverse country spans over 513 sq km (198 sq miles) and features untamed jungles, scenic mountains, vibrant nightlife, boisterous markets, and cities rich in unique histories and cultures. Thailand caters to everyone, from adventurous food enthusiasts to those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Beach lovers will soon find themselves drawn to Thailand’s plethora of tropical islands, a common first choice for visitors. Meanwhile, culture seekers gravitate towards bustling urban centers like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Nature lovers venture into the lush mountains of the north and northeast or explore the jungles bordering Myanmar. With a well-developed network of transportation options including railways, buses, ferries, car rentals, and numerous airports, exploring Thailand becomes a seamless experience once you determine the destinations that best align with your interests.

1. Bangkok

Best city for food and nightlife

Numerous travelers arrive in Bangkok only to swiftly transition to other destinations, thereby overlooking a metropolitan hub that remains underappreciated. Amid day trips to nearby floating markets and beaches to the south, as well as well-known national parks to the north, Bangkok proves an ideal city to explore for a couple of days prior to venturing elsewhere in Thailand.

Home to over 10 million residents, Bangkok is an expansive megacity. Nevertheless, navigating this vibrant metropolis requires just a modicum of pre-trip preparation. With more than 320,000 eateries spanning various cuisines, from Thai to Ethiopian, and an abundance of over 500,000 street food vendors operating around the clock, culinary delights await at every corner in the city. In Bangkok, or Krung Thep Mahanakorn (the “City of Angels”), the culinary world is yours to savor, be it a delectable oyster or a bowl of aromatic noodles.

The city boasts a diverse nightlife scene, hosting four establishments ranked on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Moreover, Bangkok’s nightlife incorporates speakeasy-style venues and Japanese-themed bars, reflecting the city’s extensive expatriate community. Whether seeking a crafted cocktail or classic tipple, options abound, including the Q&A Bar’s Pinkish—a refreshing interpretation of the Negroni with rhubarb and grapefruit gin—and the renowned Old Fashioned infused with turmeric at Vesper.

Planning tip:

Be aware that Bangkok’s bars and clubs must close by 1am.

2. Chiang Mai

Best City for Temples

Chiang Mai serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains, caves, and waterfalls—an undertaking that can easily occupy at least three days of your itinerary. As the former capital of the Northern Lanna empire, the Chiang Mai region is home to over 300 temples. Iconic temples such as Doi Suthep, famed for its captivating viewpoints, and Wat Suan Dok, which serves as the final resting place for the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royalty, are noteworthy. Wat Chedi Luang, established in 1385, sits conveniently in the heart of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh, home to the Lion Buddha, glimmers with its golden stupas.

Beyond temples, Chiang Mai offers unique culinary experiences representative of Northern Thai cuisine. Influenced by Chinese ingredients and nearly 200 years of Burmese governance, Northern Thai dishes stand apart from other regional flavors. Additionally, local markets, such as Talat Warorot and Talat Jing Jai, feature food, apparel, and trinkets that serve as splendid souvenirs.

Planning tip:

From late February to early April, Chiang Mai experiences considerable smoke pollution due to agricultural burning in surrounding mountain areas. For optimal visits, consider the Thai “winter” from November to January or the rainy season.

3. The far north

Best region for hiking

The Golden Triangle, located in Thailand’s far north where it converges with Laos and Myanmar, has long attracted nature enthusiasts. Adventure seekers can explore this region by motorcycle, mountain bike, or on foot while encountering remarkable natural landscapes and gaining access to both Laos and Myanmar for brief excursions. Historically recognized as a major opium production zone, the Golden Triangle now attracts visitors seeking to navigate the Mekong River amidst stunning vistas, camp in mild weather, or visit an elephant camp.

Chiang Rai, a sleepy town and former capital of the Lanna dynasty, lies just 9km (6 miles) south of the Golden Triangle, providing a convenient base for exploring the region. This city holds attractions of its own, including the globally famous Wat Rong Khun, also recognized as the White Temple, making it worthy of a day’s exploration.

Planning tip:

The journey from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle takes approximately 1.5 hours. Aside from renting a vehicle, visitors can hire a taxi or board a bus for transport.

4. Phuket

Best island for a blend of cultures

As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket offers a distinct cultural landscape. It is a unique amalgamation of Hokkien Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian influences. Traditional dishes originating from Phuket, such as Hokkien-style fried noodles, o-aew (plant seed jelly), o-tao (an oyster omelet topped with crispy pork), and moo hong (braised pork belly stew), cannot be easily found elsewhere in Thailand. With its captivating cultural offerings, Phuket ranks among Thailand’s most frequented destinations.

Architecturally, Phuket features Sino-Portuguese shophouses, distinguished by vibrant colors and intricate tiles, reflecting its colonial past under Portuguese rule. The Old Town’s atmosphere fosters a perfect backdrop for visitors who desire to immerse themselves in both beach relaxation and cultural exploration. Whether traveling as a first-time visitor or as a couple seeking romance, Phuket can comfortably fill a week’s itinerary.

Planning tip:

To avoid rain, it is best to steer clear of Phuket during the rainy season from September to October. Numerous other enticing destinations can be explored beyond Phuket.

5. The Upper Gulf

Best region for floating markets

Located south of Bangkok, the Upper Gulf region is easily accessible from the capital, typically within an hour’s drive, depending on traffic. This area is notable for Thailand’s iconic floating markets, including the bustling Damnoen Saduak (best visited in the early morning) and locals’ favorite Amphawa, which boasts a lively evening ambiance.

The renowned Maeklong Railway Market is another unique experience, where vendors temporarily adjust their stalls as a train navigates through the market multiple times a day. In Bang Kachao, often referred to as “the green lung of Bangkok,” visitors can rent bicycles and wander along the scenic passageways, encountering wildlife and even visiting a floating market, Talat Nam Bang Nam Phueng. Day trips from Bangkok to coastal areas allow for fresh seafood and beach relaxation, as destinations such as Pattaya lies just a two-hour journey away.

Planning tip:

Options for transportation include taxis, buses, and trains to various sites, including Damnoen Saduak and Ampawa where you can opt for overnight stays along the waterways.

6. Khao Yai National Park

Best for wildlife

Just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai National Park has long been a favored getaway for nature aficionados residing in Bangkok. The surrounding region surrounding this expansive park, Thailand’s third largest, is richly developed with housing, hotels, restaurants, shops, and amusement centers, presenting an inviting environment for families to bond with nature.

The park spans 2,166 sq km (836 sq miles) and is replete with a variety of hiking trails accommodating all levels, mesmerizing waterfalls, and an impressive diversity of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, bears, and elephants. Guided excursions led by park rangers can enhance the experience, helping visitors locate wildlife and discover the park’s most stunning vistas and waterfalls.

Planning tip:

It is advisable to book a guide beforehand for optimal wildlife spotting opportunities. Explore the park’s website for more details.

7. Ko Samui

Best island for water sports

If you envision an idyllic tropical island featuring golden beaches and azure waters, chances are you are envisioning Ko Samui. Despite being less popular than Phuket, Thailand’s second-largest island attracts over two million visitors annually, solidifying its status as one of the country’s most-visited islands.

Alongside its captivating beaches, Samui is home to Ang Thong National Park, a collection of islands renowned for snorkeling and sea kayaking, Na Muang waterfalls for serene swimming opportunities, and numerous ideal spots for scuba diving. Land-based attractions abound, including fishing villages, golf courses, and an impressive variety of wellness retreats.

Planning tip:

Samui enjoys an extended “dry” season from December to August, minimizing chances of inclement weather.

8. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Best destinations for history buffs

The historic city of Ayutthaya functioned as the capital of Siam from the 14th to the 18th centuries until it fell to Burmese invaders. The remnants of this illustrious city have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a rich cultural experience filled with exploration. Bicycle rentals available at the borders of the historical park make navigating Ayutthaya convenient and enjoyable amidst picturesque greenery.

Meanwhile, Sukhothai, recognized as Siam’s inaugural capital, is comparatively smaller, also providing bicycle rentals—ideal for a hands-on educational experience suitable for families with younger children. As another World Heritage site, Sukhothai’s historical structures and Buddha statues encounter fewer visitors than their counterparts in Ayutthaya, making it an attractive alternative for those wishing to avoid the crowds.

Planning tip:

Ayutthaya can be approached by a riverboat, which takes less than an hour from Bangkok—making it quicker than driving. Sukhothai can be reached via airplane, train, bus, or car.