Best Places To Visit In Thailand
The country of Thailand is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world due to its vibrant and enchanting landscape and incredible diversity. With so many opportunities for adventure, you can find the perfect destination to take advantage of this magnificent island with a trip around it. Here we detail some of the best places to visit in Thailand.
We’ve taken the time to make sure that there are things here that you will want to do over and over again, while also showcasing some lesser-known gems that you should definitely add to your itinerary.
1- Chiang Mai
If you love getting lost, then head straight out to Chiang Mai! Be careful, though, as the streets can get crowded and touristy. You will need money to pay for taxis and tuk-tuks. However, don’t let this deter you, as there are plenty of free attractions in Chiang Mai, such as Wat Phra Kaen and the Golden Temple which is actually a temple.
If you fancy exploring some other areas of Chiang Mai like Pai Hla How, this is where to start. It is not only a big city but it also offers great shopping and food, so once you’re done traveling, you shouldn’t have any issue finding somewhere to eat your fill!
This stunning city is full of gorgeous buildings and temples, making it ideal for strolling around along river banks or visiting one of the old ruins. There is even plenty to see in the Old City of Chiang Mai, including Wat Rong Khun and Wat Anasak. Many famous Thai dancers call Chiang Mai home too!
2-Bangkok
You know what? I’m going to spend every penny I earn on travel! That may seem counter-intuitive since my income is based purely on freelance work, but traveling is really about earning a living, and who wouldn’t want to do this?
One of the perks of staying in major cities like Bangkok is that they also house the finest cuisine and nightlife, so it’s easy to justify the cost. Just remember to stay close to the action – the busy central business district is notorious for scams.
Although a lack of tourist infrastructure is one of the drawbacks of Bangkok, there are definitely still lots of things to be seen without spending a lot of money. Make your way down to Chinatown (Khao San Road) and stroll through shops and markets all day before heading home. For those interested in watching the sunset, go to Sukhumvit Avenue.
As well as being able to spot beautiful views across the Chao Phraya River, you can grab drinks at restaurants like Dua Lipa’s swanky Nobu. Alternatively, if you feel brave enough, explore different neighborhoods across Bangkok’s core and beyond by walking or taking public transport.
The old city is lively too, especially around the Soi Cowboy area, but keep an eye out for people selling handcrafted souvenirs at street stalls, or try to squeeze into one of the numerous entertainment spots available all week long, from music festivals to comedy shows. If you fancy seeing some other parts of the capital, just hop on an Uber or taxi and walk around for hours!
3-Mae Hong Son
If you love seafood, then Mae Hong Son is your new favorite! A short boat ride away from the airport will get you here, and it is definitely worth considering. Perhaps you’ll want to see why locals often refer to these boats as “monkey boats” instead of “fish boats” – there are monkeys onboard, but no longer living animals!
Some places to look for include Nang Kwai Rd which is lined with fisherman homes and shops where tours are held. Also, check out Kwan Kanok Beach Hotel which was built by King Mongkut and now boasts views up the entire length of the golden beaches.
These modern-day kitties will provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of Thai life, and who doesn’t love warm sand on their feet? Other popular sites include Pai Noi Water Jetty and Ho Wan Payatsuri which are both popular boat launches. At Kwan Kanok Beach Hotel you can rent paddleboards to cruise around on, but it can get expensive, so consider renting kayaks.
There is nothing better than cruising around the islands off the coast of Sommerville National Park, enjoying amazing sunsets over coral reefs, or diving below sea level for underwater experiences. After sailing past the sandy bays of Phi Phi Islands, you can stop to enjoy lunch at Ko Phi Phi Beach Restaurant. You can take it back to the hotel by ferry at dusk after dinner to catch a glimpse of Phu Phi Island before setting sail for another day at these iconic locations.
Do you know what else you can experience at this resort? Whether you’re looking for tranquillity or relaxation, the spa services are top-notch, from massages and facials to shisha sessions, sauna treatments, and even yoga classes. Plus, you won’t want to leave without booking ahead and splashing out a few hundred dollars just to make the most of this opportunity.
4-Phuket
If you love trekking around mountains, lapping waterfalls, and admiring ancient archaeological sites, then this is the place for you. Located right on both sides of the sprawling, picturesque beach of Ao Tan on Krabi, Phuket is the epitome of luxury tropical holiday accommodation and the ultimate backpacker mecca.
Once here, it is the easiest thing to figure out why everyone likes to come to this quiet island! It might be hard to believe, but you can actually go hiking anywhere you wish. The hills are pretty low and flat, making them perfect for camping, trekking, and exploration. Moreover, you can do all this at relatively affordable prices, and the roads leading back to Ao Tan Beach are very scenic.
Not all of the hotels are air-conditioned, but they are well-maintained in rooms with private bathrooms – think luxurious resorts with pools, hot tubs, and outdoor showers. Rooms for sale here cost anything between 10,000 – 15,000 baht per night, depending on location. For a bit of peace and quiet alone in nature, book yourself into either of the two boutique resorts named Paradise Bay Resort & Spa in Koh Chang or Pure Luxury Villas Resort & Garden Villa in Mae Fah Luong, each offering unique features. Each has a local owner, chef, and staff that will cater to your needs and desires.
Apart from relaxing on high-end beds, you also have access to a host of amenities including a massage room, Jacuzzi, and barbeque! Why bother hiring accommodation when you can simply stay in paradise in Koh Chang and indulge in that luxe lifestyle?
5-Samui
Known for its white sands and clear blue waters, swimming in crystal clear waters is perhaps the highlight of visiting this paradise on the south coast of Thailand. Of course, the weather is great year-round, meaning there is always something to keep travelers entertained. Most tourists arrive here during the school holidays and usually head straight to Palawan.
From there, they will head inland – the road to Samui is fairly straightforward, and it will take roughly three hours to reach the heart of the island. Take care not to get stuck in traffic here, as there are only four bridges linking the mainland.
Otherwise, you’ll need to hire a rickshaw or taxi to drive around the countryside, and you’ll be amazed at how much wildlife you can discover, whether spotting tigers and bears whilst trekking through dense woodlands or observing the colorful flowers and fruit of the mango tree. Don’t forget to pick up supplies along the way and pack clothes and essential items for your journey. Aside from the natural beauty that surrounds each day, the surrounding towns and villages mean you can soak up the atmosphere and culture without having to step foot inside.
When taking pictures in front of temple ruins in Ayutthaya, take note that you will most likely be asked to tip. The rest of the day is spent wandering around the main square of Patpongs, which you can visit for free. Those who prefer to relax will head towards Lumphalay Palace which has breathtaking views of the ocean and lagoon.
Meanwhile, those who need to use the toilet can find the open toilet in Pa Baat Thani. Another reason to visit Samui would be because it is considered one of the best snorkeling destinations in Southeast Asia, welcoming divers from all over the globe. If you’re not feeling seasick before hitting the surf and waves, there’s plenty more to discover. There’s even the option to join a tour of Thailand’s oldest colonial town in the bay of Maen Som, which is filled with traditional Thai crafts and artifacts to marvel at, alongside surfing lessons.
6-Pattaya
Pattaya is easily overlooked from mainstream popular destinations due to its tiny size but it is the crown jewel of the southern chain of islands of Ko Tao. While many locals refer to Ko Tao as “Terraced Land”, Pattaya is the real deal.
Its small population is made up of expatriates and retirees, many of whom use the area to do yoga and meditation sessions. Additionally, it is a good base for exploring nearby sights like Koh Lipeo National Park and Prachinburi Province as well as taking part in cultural events like Buddhist ceremonies. On weekends, Pattaya’s many clubs host dancing and music clubs every weekend.
And if you’re lucky enough to snag a bus ticket out of Samarkham, Pattaya, you will gain the chance to gaze upon the spectacular limestone cliffs of Baddha Burudom Village. Wherever you stay.
There are many more places to see in Thailand than it would take to cover this blog too long. In short, the country is full of sights.
My other related blog
