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 superb locations to go to in Thailand that it may be exhausting to slim 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 superb nation. We’ve visited all of the vacationer locations and extra. Thailand is certainly one of our favourite Asian nations 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 listing of the perfect locations to go to in Thailand that can assist you put collectively the right journey to Thailand. Are you seeking to island hopping in Thailand and go to a few of the finest islands OR go to Northern Thailand and expertise extra nature & Thai tradition?
Fast Reply: Greatest Locations in Thailand
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Greatest 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 adore 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 inns, the noise, the smells, the sounds, the visitors, the purchasing, the chaos, all of it makes for a fantastic few days. A number of of our high locations to go to are: Wat Pho Temple, a ship trip alongside the Chao Phraya River, individuals watching on Khaosan Street, glad hour at a Skybar for sundown, Chinatown, and extra.
We all the time prefer 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 choose. Get a real glimpse into Thai tradition on this one-on-one expertise. We booked this non-public Bangkok tour on-line.
In relation to 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 fashionable sights.
From exploring the historic Grand Palace to purchasing on the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market, there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Bangkok.
Certainly one of 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 is able to clarify totally different Thai meals to attempt to the perfect locations to eat in Bangkok.
Greatest Tour in Bangkok – over 2,000 five-star opinions
2. Koh Lipe
The #1 finest place to go to in Thailand is Koh Lipe. There isn’t a different island in Thailand that can evaluate. In case you’re searching for attractive turquoise blue waters and white sand seashores, that is your home.
If you’re searching for that excellent enjoyable seaside trip, add Koh Lipe to your Thailand itinerary. We recommend staying on Dawn Seashore, the place a beachfront room at a 3-star lodge will price you $125+ in the course of the excessive season. Click on right here to verify charges. They have the perfect lodge 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 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 you can stroll all over the place. There are motorbike taxis however no different automobiles on the island. Extra causes to like Koh Lipe: you will get an hour therapeutic massage on the seaside 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 beautiful seashores, vibrant marine life, and world-class diving alternatives. Whether or not you’re an skilled diver or simply seeking 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 seaside. Ko Tao is really a tropical paradise ready to be explored.
If you wish to go to a few of the finest islands in Thailand, take a ferry to Ko Samui or Koh Phangan.
In case you have heard of the complete moon celebration in Thailand, it’s taking place over on the close by island of Koh Phangan. Totally different vacationers like various things. If a loud celebration island isn’t your factor, ensure to keep away from Ko Phangan in the course of 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 seaside trip. If you’re touring with youngsters or an prolonged household, it’s one of the vital widespread locations in Thailand to lease a home for an extended time frame.
Located within the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui’s sandy seashores and tropical ambiance 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 full of beautiful cultural landmarks, together with the spectacular 12-meter tall golden Buddha. You also needs to 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, you then’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 surprising island situated 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 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 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 looking for journey, mountain climbing 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, Okayoh 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, sights, and vacationer sights.
No go to to Krabi could be full with out seeing the 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 stunning 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 precise). You’ll be able to 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 a few of 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.
In case you’re coming from Samui, there are just a few 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.
In addition to the scenic views and pristine seashores, Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park can also be flooded with unique wildlife. It’s not exhausting 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 e-book 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, equivalent to kayaking, mountain climbing, and wildlife recognizing. We loved going out on a non-public boat tour of Khao Sok Nationwide Park. We spent the complete day cruising across the lake.
A number of the most original inns in Bangkok are right here. Keep in an overwater bungalow in Thailand or a floating bubble. The floating bungalows present a singular solution to expertise the fantastic thing about the lake, with beautiful dawn and sundown views.
For these seeking to really 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 this present day tour from Krabi.
9. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, often called the cultural capital of Thailand, among the finest 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, 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 choose, 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 historical temples in Chiang Mai like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to wandering via the bustling evening markets full of native handicrafts and scrumptious road meals, there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Chiang Mai to take pleasure in on this vibrant metropolis.
Make the most 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 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 further particular to us, as we referred to as it dwelling on and off for 4 years. Chiang Mai is a giant metropolis with all the large 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 reasonably priced, and the listing of why we love Chiang Mai may 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 beautiful temples, lush landscapes, and wealthy cultural heritage.
One of many must-see sights in Chiang Rai is the well-known White Temple, a singular and complex masterpiece that’s not like every other temple in Thailand. You can even go to the colourful Blue Temple and the paranormal 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, 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.
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 automobile and drive like we did.
Have you ever ever seen luxurious inns in Thailand with an elephant park on the property? Essentially 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 price it. The drive from Chiang Mai to Pai takes about 2 to three hours. Previously, you could possibly fly to Pai from Chiang Mai on a small aircraft, however at the moment, it doesn’t seem you may, and people flights had been usually canceled.
As you wind your manner via 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 mountain 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 a few of the finest views in all of Thailand.
For one thing extra adventurous, head to Mo Paeng Waterfalls, the perfect setting for jungle mountain climbing and swimming. Another choice is to go tubing or white water rafting down the river. You’ll discover a number of store house owners and operators alongside the river offering leases and excursions.
In case you’d somewhat spend the time enjoyable, you too can go to the tranquil Tha Pai Sizzling Springs. It’s one of the vital widespread 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 below 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 full of wildlife, from wild boars and deer to blackbirds and rose finches. We advocate this present day 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 certainly one of Thailand’s most affluent cities. Based in 1238, Ayutthaya is understood for its historical 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 web site is full of stone temples, big towers, and historic monasteries.
A number of the finest 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 excellent pictures. In case you have ever been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, it jogs my memory of this.
14. Sukhothai
Because the Kingdom’s capital in the course of the thirteenth and 14th centuries, Sukhothai is a uncommon glimpse into Thailand’s historical 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.
Essentially the most spectacular factor to see in Sukhothai is Wat Mahathat, an outdated temple which comprises an attractive 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 around the globe.
15. Erawan Nationwide Park
There are a whole lot of waterfalls in Thailand, however none are extra stunning 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 manner via 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 enjoyable 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 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, an enormous and biodiverse park situated only a few hours from Bangkok. making it a well-liked vacation spot for nature lovers and outside fanatics.
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. Totally different vacationers like various things, if you happen to like mountain climbing, bird-watching, or just having fun with the peace and quiet of the nice outdoor, 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. One of the vital well-known sights within the space is the Bridge over the River Kwai, a World Warfare II landmark that pulls in historical past fanatics from around the globe.
Go to the Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall, a stunning seven-tier waterfall in Sriagarindra Dam Nationwide Park, among the finest waterfalls in Thailand. Embark on a scenic practice trip via 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.
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 listing.
Conclusion
Thailand is an attractive 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 perfect 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 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 the earth, it’s no surprise why individuals preserve coming again for extra. Who is aware of, chances are you’ll find yourself like us and find yourself shifting to Thailand.
As you embark in your journey, keep in mind to maintain an open thoughts and embrace all that Thailand has to supply. As one of the vital visited nations on the earth, Thailand really 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.
