17 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand & How to Choose

You probably already know the famous trio—Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. And yes, they're popular for good reason, especially for a first trip. But Thailand goes far beyond these three.

I still remember the calm of drifting off to sleep in a floating bungalow in Kanchanaburi, the surprise chill in August at Doi Inthanon—even wearing a light jacket, it was still quite cold—and the energy of a Chiang Rai night market, skewers in hand and music in the air.

There's so much more to explore—and this guide will help you discover both the popular spots and hidden gems that best match your travel style.

This isn't just a list of the most amazing places to visit in Thailand; it's your go-to toolkit for planning, packed with highlights, top attractions, and insider tips for each place.

Best Cities to Visit in Thailand

Thailand isn't just about beaches—it's well worth spending time in its cities. From the non-stop energy of Bangkok to the laid-back vibe of Chiang Mai and the artistic corners of Chiang Rai, each place reveals a different side of Thai culture.

1. Bangkok: A Perfect First Taste of Thailand

Bangkok is usually where your Thailand trip begins. It's busy, vibrant, and full of surprises—and you definitely won't get bored here.

We suggest spending at least 2 full days.

One day, dive into the city's historic heart—visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Museum Siam is a fun stop too, especially if you're traveling with kids. Later, hop on a tuk-tuk to Chinatown and start your street food adventure, or take a longtail boat ride through the canals for a glimpse of everyday life.

On another day, head out to the nearby floating markets—Damnoen Saduak is lively and colorful, and the Maeklong Railway Market is something you won't forget (yes, a train actually runs through it!).

If you're traveling as a couple and want to end the day with something special, book a teakwood Manohra dinner cruise, or grab a table at a riverside restaurant where you can see Wat Arun all lit up. It's easily the prettiest temple view at night. Or head up to a rooftop bar—nothing beats sipping a cocktail while the city lights sparkle below and the Chao Phraya River winds through the skyline.

2. Chiang Mai: Slow Down, Try Something Real

Chiang Mai has a totally different vibe from Bangkok—slower, greener, and more laid-back. It's the kind of place where you might come for two days and end up staying a week.

One of the most meaningful things you can do here is spend a day at an ethical elephant sanctuary. You'll walk alongside them, feed them, and sometimes even bathe them—no riding, just connection. We've picked the best options, whether you're a couple or traveling with kids.

In this cultural hub of Thailand, you can join the morning almsgiving at Wat Phra Singh, chat with local monks at Wat Suan Dok, and witness the sunset chanting at the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep—it's both peaceful and unforgettable.

If your trip lines up, don't miss the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November or the New Year Countdown—both feature magical lantern releases that light up the sky. It's a photographer's dream and one of the most romantic things to witness in Thailand.

For something hands-on, join a cooking class at a local home or on a scenic farm and cook Thai favorites from scratch. Or if you're feeling crafty, head to Bo Sang village and paint your own paper umbrella.

Up for an outdoor adventure? Go ziplining through treetops, hike up the Sticky Waterfall (yes, you can walk up it), or explore the trails around Doi Suthep or Doi Inthanon—Thailand's highest peak.

At night, wind down with a Thai massage (affordable and authentic), or stroll through Chiang Mai's night markets like the Sunday Walking Street or the more local Chang Phuak Market for some street eats and relaxed shopping.

Find out more things to do in Chiang Mai.

3. Chiang Rai: Quiet Charms & Striking Temples

Chiang Rai feels a bit more off-the-beaten-path, but that's exactly what makes it special. It's smaller, quieter, and perfect for those who enjoy art, nature, and a slower pace.

Start with the highlights: the White Temple, Blue Temple, and quirky Black House—each one striking and unforgettable.

Then, head to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. You can enjoy the scenic view, visit a small opium museum, or cruise the Mekong River.

Love learning about local life? Drop by a hill tribe village or visit the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for crafts and dinner in a relaxed setting.

If you're up for a mini-adventure, spend a night in the mountains at a tea plantation in Doi Mae Salong or Doi Tung. It's cooler up there and the landscapes are beautiful.

You can spend a 1–2 nights after Chiang Mai—just enough to see the highlights and enjoy its unique atmosphere without rushing.

Best Islands and Beaches in Thailand

Thailand has over 1,400 islands—some are crowded, some are pricey, some are hard to reach, and others are just right for couples or families. Can't decide where to go? Let me help you narrow it down.

4. Phuket: Where Every Traveler Finds Their Beach

Phuket is Thailand's largest and most developed island, great for first-timers. You'll find everything—from lively beaches and luxury resorts to quiet corners and island-hopping tours.

Kata Beach is our top pick for couples and families, with its laid-back vibe, soft sand, and stunning sunsets. Patong, on the other hand, is ideal for those who love nightlife and shopping.

Phuket is a great jumping-off point for island adventures. Snorkel at Koh Racha, kayak among limestone cliffs in Phang Nga Bay, relax on the beach at James Bond Island, or enjoy water sports around the Phi Phi Islands.

For something more special, we can arrange a private charter or traditional longtail boat to create more intimate moments for you and your loved ones.

Beyond the beach, don't miss Old Phuket Town for its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and laid-back cafes. Visit the Big Buddha for panoramic views, or explore local temples and markets.

If you're craving greenery, Khao Sok National Park—with its ancient rainforest and floating lake bungalows—is just a few hours away and easy to add as a side trip.

5. Koh Samui: Tropical Luxury with a Laid-Back Vibe

If you're after a quieter, more upscale beach getaway, Koh Samui is a great pick over Phuket. With its palm-lined beaches, stylish resorts, and relaxing wellness spots, it's perfect for couples, honeymooners, or families who want a bit of luxury—without the big crowds.

Chaweng Beach is the liveliest area, with beachfront restaurants and shops, but for a calmer stay, we recommend Lamai or the northern beaches like Maenam and Bophut. Bophut's Fisherman's Village, in particular, is perfect for family strolls, seaside dining, and browsing stylish boutiques.

For a truly restful stay, consider one of the island's luxury resorts. Some favorites include Six Senses, Banyan Tree, and Anantara, all known for their privacy and stunning design.

While Koh Samui doesn't have quite as many island-hopping options as Phuket, there are still plenty of day trips worth doing. You can take a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park, snorkel off Koh Tao, or visit postcard-perfect Koh Nang Yuan.

6. Krabi: Scenic Cliffs and a More Untouched Vibe

Krabi is less crowded and more rugged compared to Phuket. It's ideal if you want to slow down and enjoy nature up close. The area is famous for dramatic limestone cliffs and clear turquoise waters.

The highlight is Railay Beach, which you can only reach by boat. It feels like a tropical getaway surrounded by cliffs and jungle, but with enough comfort. Here, you can kayak through mangroves, try rock climbing, or chill on quiet beaches like Phra Nang and Tonsai.

For more convenience, stay in Ao Nang—there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Island-hopping is easy from Krabi. Don't miss Koh Poda and Chicken Island, or hop on a day trip to the famous Phi Phi Islands.

Related reading: Phuket vs Krabi: Which is Better for Your Beach Vacation?

7. Phi Phi Islands: Best for Dramatic Scenery & Snorkeling

Whether you're based in Phuket or Krabi, Phi Phi Islands is one place you absolutely shouldn't miss. This stunning island group sits between the two, and shot to fame after The Beach was filmed here. But it's not just about the movie — the soaring limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and powdery white beaches are truly breathtaking in real life.

Most people visit on a day trip from Phuket or Krabi, which is easy to arrange. But if you can, stay overnight — you'll experience a totally different vibe once the crowds leave and the island slows down. Sunset views, fire shows on the beach, and early-morning swims are just better without the rush.

Want to make the most of your visit? Book a speedboat tour if you want more time at each stop (like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Bamboo Island). For something slower and more personal, hire a private long-tail boat for the day. It's perfect for snorkeling at your own pace.

8. Koh Lipe: Thailand's Version of the Maldives

Koh Lipe is often called the "Maldives of Thailand", and it's easy to see why. This tiny island in the far south boasts powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and some of the clearest snorkeling straight off the beach in Thailand.

The sunsets are incredible, especially from Sunset Beach, and the laid-back vibe makes it perfect for couples or anyone seeking peace and natural beauty.

It feels like a hidden paradise, far removed from the crowds—but getting there requires extra effort. Koh Lipe has no airport, so you'll need to fly to Hat Yai or Satun, drive to Pak Bara Pier, then take a 1.5–2 hour boat ride. The journey usually takes half a day or more, but the island's remoteness is exactly what keeps it peaceful and unspoiled—making it well worth the trip.

9. Similan Islands: World-Class Diving & Snorkeling Paradise

If you love snorkeling or diving, the Similan Islands are absolutely worth the trip. Known as one of Thailand's top underwater spots, the beach here is clean and white, the water is super clear, the coral reefs are vibrant, and the sea life is amazing.

The islands are only open from November to May, so plan your visit during those months. You can join day trips or even liveaboard tours from Phuket or Khao Lak.

Just remember to book early, as permits and tours fill up quickly during the open season.

Best Places for Natural Wonders

Thailand isn't just about sun and sand. Head inland, and you'll discover national parks, jungle lakes, and dramatic landscapes you won't want to miss.

10. Khao Sok National Park: Rainforest Retreat with Floating Bungalows

If you want to experience Thailand's wild side, Khao Sok National Park is a must-visit. It's one of the oldest rainforests in the world, offering dramatic limestone cliffs, dense jungle, and diverse wildlife. Since it's off the main tourist trail, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and more peace here.

My favorite part is staying on Cheow Lan Lake, a stunning green lake surrounded by towering cliffs. I still want to go back and experience that peacefulness again—waking up to silence, paddling a kayak at sunrise, and having dinner under the stars.

Beyond the lake, you can go jungle trekking, canoe through mangroves, visit waterfalls, and join guided tours to spot animals like elephants, gibbons, and colorful birds.

Khao Sok is a perfect add-on before your beach vacation in Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui. Our tours include this amazing experience.

11. Doi Inthanon National Park: Cool & Misty Mountain Escape

If you want to escape the tropical heat and enjoy a refreshing nature retreat, Doi Inthanon National Park is the place to go. It is Thailand's highest mountain at 2,565 meters (8,415 feet) and just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai. It is a great day trip or an overnight stay if you want to explore deeper.

You can choose from easy forest walks or more challenging hikes to explore deeper into the park. Highlights include the twin King and Queen pagodas with their beautiful gardens, the impressive Wachirathan Waterfall, and peaceful nearby hill tribe villages.

Don't forget to bring a light jacket—when I visited in August, it was around 12°C (54°F) up on the mountain!

12. Erawan Waterfalls: 7-Tier Waterfall You Can Swim In

Nestled in Erawan National Park near Kanchanaburi, this stunning 7-tier waterfall is one of Thailand's most photogenic and swim-friendly natural spots. Each tier features emerald green pools surrounded by lush jungle, and some are home to fish that give your feet a gentle "spa". The first few levels are easy to access, while the upper tiers require more hiking but reward you with fewer crowds and peaceful views.

Erawan is about 3 hours from Bangkok and is best visited as a day trip or as part of a 2-day trip to Kanchanaburi.

13. Khao Yai National Park: Thailand's Wild Side Near Bangkok

Khao Yai is Thailand's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just 2.5–3 hours from Bangkok, it's a lush escape packed with jungle trails, giant banyan trees (so big it takes several people to hug them!), scenic waterfalls, and if you're lucky, wild elephants, gibbons, and hornbills.

You can hike through jungle trails and visit Haew Suwat Waterfall, which was featured in the movie The Beach.

While a day trip is possible, we recommend an overnight stay so you can experience a night safari or witness thousands of bats streaming out of a cave at dusk.

Best Places for Ancient Sites & Spiritual Heritage

Looking to experience Thailand's deeper cultural side? Ayutthaya and Sukhothai are perfect for that.

14. Ayutthaya– Thailand's Ancient Royal Capital

Just an hour from Bangkok, Ayutthaya makes for an easy cultural day trip.

Unlike many heritage sites, the Ayutthaya Historical Park isn't fenced off. The ruins are spread throughout the old town, giving it an open-air museum feel. The most famous sight is the Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat—one of Thailand's most iconic images.

Yes, it's another temple stop, but Ayutthaya feels totally different from Bangkok. The ruins are raw, quiet, and full of atmosphere. Walking past crumbling stupas and headless Buddhas really gives you a sense of the city's royal past.

Many people rent bikes to explore, but from experience, I'd say it's not the safest option. A boat ride or private car is a much safer and more relaxing way to explore.

15. Sukhothai– The Cradle of Thai Civilization

If Ayutthaya was Thailand's grand royal capital, Sukhothai is where it all began. As the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam in the 13th century, Sukhothai is known as the birthplace of Thai art, language, and architecture.

Unlike Ayutthaya's ruins, which blend into a modern town, the Sukhothai Historical Park is much calmer. It's smaller, super peaceful, and filled with old temples surrounded by moats, lotus ponds, and quiet tree-lined paths. Exploring by bike is one of the best ways to take it all in.

It's worth spending a night or two—sunrise and sunset here are magical, with golden light, cooler temperatures, and hardly any crowds.

Off the Beaten Path Destinations

Want to go beyond the usual tourist trail? These places may not be as well-known, but they offer something special.

16. Kanchanaburi: Nature, History, and Floating Bungalows

Just a few hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is surprisingly under-the-radar. But it's absolutely worth visiting. This laid-back town offers a bit of everything: lush jungle waterfalls, meaningful elephant care experiences, and powerful World War II history. And, it is cooler than Bangkok, making it a great escape from the heat.

You can swim in emerald pools at Erawan Falls, ride a scenic local train across the Death Railway, or spend a full day at Elephants World or Elephant Haven, where you'll feed, walk with, and bathe rescued elephants.

One of the highlights? Staying in a floating bungalow on the River Kwai. It's peaceful, romantic, and feels worlds away from the city.

17. Mae Hong Son – Remote Mountains and Ethnic Charm

Tucked away in the misty mountains near the Myanmar border, Mae Hong Son feels like a different world. It's one of the most remote provinces in Thailand, known for its Shan-style temples, hill tribe villages, and scenic roads.

Think small mountain towns, local night markets, and laid-back vibes. If you're into slow travel or cultural experiences off the tourist trail, this is your place. Pai is nearby too—more popular, but still a chill mountain escape.

How to Choose Where to Visit in Thailand

So, where should you go? That really depends on what kind of traveler you are. Here's how to pick the right spots based on what you're into:

If This Is Your First Time in Thailand:

Not sure where to begin? Start with the classic trio: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. These three destinations offer the perfect mix of culture, nature, and beach time—ideal for a well-rounded introduction to Thailand. You'll get temples and tuk-tuks, elephants and night markets, plus some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

See our 10-day itinerary for inspiration.

Best for Couples:

Planning a romantic getaway? Besides the top three (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket), consider heading to Koh Samui for luxury resorts and sunset dinners, or Koh Lipe, a small island paradise perfect for laid-back beach days and snorkeling together in clear blue waters.

Best for Families:

Traveling with kids? You can't go wrong with Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket—they're easy to navigate and full of family-friendly activities.

Add Krabi for fun beach adventures and island-hopping, or Kanchanaburi for history, riverside stays, and soft adventures like riding the Death Railway or visiting elephant sanctuaries.

If you love culture and history:

You gotta hit Bangkok and Chiang Mai first — the temples, the palaces, the stories behind every corner.

Then, for some seriously cool ancient vibes, Ayutthaya is just a short drive away. It's full of old ruins and that famous Buddha head wrapped in tree roots.

If you want something more peaceful and less crowded, check out Sukhothai — it's like stepping back in time with beautiful temples surrounded by lotus ponds and quiet paths.

If you're all about beaches and islands:

Phuket is the classic choice — big island, lots going on, and beaches for every mood. But if you want something a bit quieter and fancy some chill vibes, Koh Samui is great for that.

For a real tropical paradise feel, you should try Koh Lipe — it's like Thailand's answer to the Maldives, with crystal-clear water but fewer people.

And don't miss the Phi Phi Islands for stunning views and snorkeling. If you're a diver or love snorkeling, the Similan Islands are absolutely world-class.

If you want nature and adventure:

You'll love Khao Sok National Park. It's super peaceful and perfect if you want to get away from the crowds.

If you're short on time and based in Bangkok? Erawan Waterfalls or Khao Yai are great for a quick escape. Erawan Waterfalls is perfect for a family splash or romantic swim, while Khao Yai gives a taste of real jungle, with with scenic hikes and possible wildlife sightings.

And if you want cooler mountain air and great hiking, head up to Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak.

If you want to get off the beaten path:

Try Kanchanaburi. It offers waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries where you can actually help care for the elephants (no riding!), and some powerful WWII history. Staying in floating bungalows along the River Kwai is really something special too.

Or go way up north to Mae Hong Son. It's remote, with beautiful mountains, local hill tribes, and a chilled-out vibe that's perfect if you want to slow down and experience real local life.

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