Thailand is a country with scenery as vibrant as its culture. It’s easy to see why it is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations - glittering Buddhist temples that are tended by orange-robed monks, bustling modern cities brimming with tuk-tuks, lush green landscapes adorned with traditional farming villages, ancient ruins and stunning coastlines peppered with white sand beaches and enticing blue lagoons.
Thailand is also a food lover's paradise and has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best destinations in the world for foodies. From humble street stalls selling incredible street food such as Guay teow, or noodle soup, to classy rooftop restaurants selling the finest seafood, Thailand is home to an eclectic food scene. Whatever your budget and whatever your style, there are endless choices in Thailand.
Here are the top 10 places to visit in Thailand.
No. 10 - Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a province located in western Thailand, best known for its scenic river valleys and its rich history, particularly its association with the notorious Death Railway of World War II.
During the war, the Japanese military built a railway connecting Thailand and Burma (Myanmar) to transport troops and supplies, and the construction was largely carried out by forced labour. The project was plagued by harsh conditions, disease, and death, and it is estimated that over 100,000 prisoners of war and civilians died during its construction. Visitors to Kanchanaburi can take a scenic train ride along the Death Railway, visit the War Cemetery, and learn more about the history of the conflict at the JEATH War Museum.
In addition to its historical significance, Kanchanaburi is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including the River Kwai, which winds through the province, and the nearby Erawan National Park, which is home to breath-taking waterfalls and lush jungle landscapes. We’d also recommend a visit to the hot springs at Hin Dat.
No. 9 - Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical island located in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui's beaches are some of the most beautiful in Thailand, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports, from swimming and sunbathing to snorkelling and diving. The island is also home to a number of impressive waterfalls, such as the Namuang Waterfall, which is one of the most famous attractions on the island.
Koh Samui is also a popular nightlife destination, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a lively atmosphere, particularly in the popular tourist town of Chaweng. Partygoers can also take a boat trip to nearby Koh Phangan, which is famous for its full-moon parties.
If you’re looking for a quieter holiday, the island is also home to a number of Buddhist temples, such as the Wat Phra Yai temple, which features a large golden Buddha statue that can be seen from miles away.
No. 8 - Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is an ancient city located in central Thailand, about 50 miles north of Bangkok. It was once the capital of the Siam Kingdom and is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic temples, palaces, and ruins.
Ayutthaya was a major centre of Thai culture and politics for over 400 years, from the 14th to the 18th century, and its prosperity and cultural achievements were renowned throughout Asia. The city was eventually sacked by the Burmese army in 1767, and its ruins remain as a testament to its former glory.
Today, visitors to Ayutthaya can explore its rich history and cultural heritage by visiting its numerous ancient temples and palaces, such as the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which was once the holiest temple in the kingdom, and the Wat Chaiwatthanaram, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful Khmer-style architecture.
Ayutthaya is also known for its picturesque landscapes, including the river that runs through the city and the ancient ruins that line its shores. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour to see the ruins from the water and learn more about the city's history and cultural heritage.
No. 8 - Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush green forests and vibrant marine life. The tiny 13 square mile island of Tao remained largely uninhabited until the late 1900s and has only recently been developed as a travel destination.
The island is a premier destination for snorkelling and scuba diving due to the many diving sites, shallow bays and gorgeous coral reefs that surround Koh Tao. The island’s coral reefs are home to a broad variety of marine life, including butterfly fish, batfish, whale sharks and bull sharks. Koh Tao also has several locations where hawksbill and green turtles come to breed every year.
Other popular activities on the island include hiking, rock climbing, sailing, mountain biking, game fishing and yoga. Sairee Village is the island’s hot spot and has an assortment of restaurants, bars and clubs.
No. 7 - Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai sits near the borders of Laos and Myanmar and is the capital of Chiang Rai Province. Chiang Rai is brimming with history and culture as an important centre of trade and commerce in the northern region of Thailand. The city is home to a number of interesting sights and attractions, including the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), which is a unique and visually stunning temple complex that blends traditional Thai temple architecture with contemporary art.
Another popular attraction in Chiang Rai is the Black House (Baandam Museum), which is a unique and eclectic collection of wooden buildings and structures that serve as an art gallery and museum. The city is also home to several markets, including the bustling Night Bazaar, where visitors can find a wide variety of locally made products, street food, and souvenirs.
In recent years, Chiang Rai has become a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities, as the surrounding region is home to a number of scenic mountains, waterfalls, and nature reserves. Visitors can explore the nearby countryside by foot, bike, or motorbike, or take a leisurely boat ride down the Mae Kok River.
No. 5 - Pai
Pai is a small, peaceful town located in northern Thailand, approximately 85 miles from the city of Chiang Mai. One of the main attractions of Pai is its picturesque countryside, which is characterised by rolling hills, lush forests, and meandering rivers. Visitors can explore the surrounding area by foot, bicycle, or motorbike, taking in sights such as hot springs, waterfalls, and traditional hill tribe villages.
The town of Pai itself is also a charming destination, with a lively atmosphere and a range of shops, restaurants, and bars. The town is home to a thriving arts community, and visitors can find a variety of locally made handicrafts, paintings, and other works of art in the many shops and markets.
Another popular activity in Pai is yoga and wellness, as the town is home to a number of yoga studios and holistic health centres that offer yoga classes, massages, and other wellness treatments.
No. 4 - Krabi
Stunning coastlines, lush tropical forests, and picturesque islands are in abundance in the province of Krabi. Located along the Andaman Sea, Krabi is one of Thailand's top tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world with its natural beauty and laid-back vibe.
The main hub of tourism in Krabi is the town of the same name, which is located on the mainland and serves as a gateway to the province's many islands and beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Krabi include Railay Beach, Tonsai Beach, and Phi Phi Islands, which are known for their crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning rock formations. Visitors can also explore Krabi’s lush jungle landscapes, which are home to a variety of exotic wildlife and plant species, via activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
The province is also home to a number of historic temples and shrines, including the Tiger Cave Temple, which is one of the most important Buddhist shrines in the region. Krabi is also a hotspot for delicious seafood cuisine, and visitors can find a wide variety of local specialties, such as spicy soups, curries, and grilled seafood.
No. 3 - Phuket
Phuket is a province and the largest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea off the west coast of the country. It is a tropical paradise and popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
One of the biggest draws to Phuket is its beaches - the most famous being Patong Beach, which is known for its lively atmosphere and is a hub for tourists and locals alike. Other popular beaches in Phuket include Kata Beach, Karon Beach, and Surin Beach, which are known for their white sand and clear waters.
If you’re looking for culture, you can discover a number of historic temples and shrines on the island, including the iconic Big Buddha, which is a 45-metre tall statue that offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding seas.
The island is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, including snorkelling, diving, and kayaking, as well as golfing, with several championship-level courses available.
No. 2 - Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a historic city in northern Thailand, and the largest and most culturally significant city in the region. One of the main attractions of Chiang Mai is its stunning temples, including the iconic Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang - two of the city's most important Buddhist temples - and are renowned for their intricate architectural details and beautiful gardens.
Another highlight of Chiang Mai is its vibrant arts and culture scene, with a thriving community of artists, musicians, and craftspeople. Visitors can explore the city's many art galleries, museums, and cultural centres, and experience the local culture through festivals and events, such as the Chiang Mai Flower Festival and the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival.
Chiang Mai is also a great destination for those who love the outdoors. The city boasts a range of parks and nature reserves that offer opportunities for hiking, trekking and wildlife watching. The city is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, and is home to several national parks, including Doi Inthanon National Park and Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
If food is your thing then Chaing Mai won’t disappoint! Visitors will be able to sample the delicious local cuisine on offer, such as northern Thai curries, sticky rice, and khao soi - a flavourful noodle soup.
No. 1 - Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. One of the main pulls of Bangkok is its bustling street life, with a range of vibrant markets, street food stalls, and night markets that offer a taste of the city's diverse cultures and traditions. Some of the most popular markets in Bangkok include Chatuchak Weekend Market, the floating markets along the Chao Phraya River, and the flower markets along the city's canals.
Bangkok is also a city packed full of history and culture. Visitors can explore the city's many temples and palaces, including the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, which are two of the city's most important and iconic landmarks.
If you’re a foodie, Bangkok is certainly a city that shouldn’t be missed! Renowned for being one of the best culinary destinations on earth, Bangkok boasts a plethora of incredible food establishments; from traditional street food stalls to fine dining restaurants. We’d certainly recommend trying som tam (a spicy papaya salad mixed with fish sauce and chillies) and moo ping (grilled pork skewers usually sold with sticky rice).
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Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best places to visit in Thailand. We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments and do let us know your favourite places to visit in Thailand.
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