Thailand, often called the Land of Smiles, is one of the most visited countries in the world. It boasts beautiful tropical islands and pristine beaches. But that’s not all!

Also, it is rich with culture and has magnificent nature, beautiful temples, and excellent cuisine.

Thailand has lots to offer every type of traveler. If you are traveling on a budget, your money will go a long way here. But if you are coming for a relaxing luxury holiday, you won’t be disappointed, too.

Thailand is a large country, and there are plenty of amazing places to visit in Thailand. There are hundreds, perhaps even thousands of awesome places in the whole of Thailand but unfortunately, we can’t tell you about every one of them. It would be such a long list!

So, here are seven of the best places we think you should visit in Thailand.

7 Best Places to visit in Thailand

1. Bangkok

Bangkok, also known as the City of Angels, or Krung Thep, is one of the most visited cities in the world, and one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Most tourists traveling to Thailand first end up here, in this bustling, hot and humid Asian megalopolis. Some even don’t venture out of their hotel because they think that there’s nothing to see in Bangkok, and next morning goes straight to the islands in the south or to the relaxed little towns of the North.

But it’s not true! Bangkok is rich with sights and landmarks, and there are a lot of things to do.

In Bangkok spend time visiting numerous impressive temples and other authentic places like the floating markets and the Mae Klong railway market. Don’t miss Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which is home to 15 meters high and 46 meters long reclining Buddha statue. It is one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.

Visit a couple of Bangkok’s many vibrant markets which are perfect for cheap shopping. Bangkok is also home to some of the largest shopping malls in Asia, as well as the trendiest bars.

Fun fact: Bangkok is actually not the name of Thailand’s capital. It’s Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit! It’s the longest capital name in the world!

2. Kanchanaburi Province

Kanchanaburi is a picturesque province in western Thailand.

Its capital, the town of the same name, Kanchanaburi is home to the Bridge of the River Kway which is one of the most notable parts of the Death Railway.

Death Railway (a.k.a the Siam–Burma Railway) has a horrific history. It was constructed during the 2nd World War by the prisoners of war of the Japanese. What makes it even more gruesome is that it was built at a cost of so many lives. Tens of thousands never returned home.

Hellfire pass, a part of the railway 75 km from the Kanchanaburi town, was the most difficult section to build.

When you have paid remembrance to the gruesome history explore the beautiful and serene area of the countryside. Rent a car or a motorbike and visit the province’s beautiful waterfalls – Erewan waterfall and Huai Mae Khamin waterfall. They are located 60 and 100 km from Kanchanaburi town, respectively.

3. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, a city in Northern Thailand, is famous for its grand temple – Wat Rong Khun.

Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is a privately owned contemporary temple. At the end of the 20th century, the original Wat Rong Khun was in a need of repair and funds were not available for its renovation. So, a local artist decided to completely rebuild the temple and pay for the project with his own money.

You might feel that when you have seen one or two temples, you have seen them all, but it’s not true. This one is so different from the other temples we’ve seen in Thailand in neighboring Southeast Asian countries. We really recommend you to visit it if you are heading to the north of the country.

Exploring the White Temple is not the only thing you can do in Chiang Rai. Different kind of nature activities can be arranged from Chiang Rai.

In the evening head to Phu Chi Dao mountain to enjoy the sunset above the clouds.

4. Pai

This charming little town of Northern Thailand is not among the most popular tourist hotspots in Thailand (yet) but it doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Surrounded by hills and beautiful nature, Pai boasts beautiful waterfalls and numerous hiking trails. Pai is a perfect place to visit if you love outdoors or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Don’t miss Pai Canyon and Yun Lai Viewpoint!

5. Ko Phangan

Visiting Thailand during the Full Moon? Head to Koh Phangan, one of the top party islands in Thailand, for the best Full Moon Party.

Haad Rin beach is the party capital of Koh Phangan. It’s home to countless bars and beach clubs.

Not only Koh Phangan is the perfect place for party animals, but it also boasts beautiful beaches. If you are a hardcore beach bum, but not a party animal, Ko Phangan still is a good place to be.

6. Ko Lipe

Spend some lazy time in the Maldives of Thailand!

This tiny island is the most southernmost island in all of Thailand. Ko Lipe is also regarded by many as the most beautiful island in Thailand and is even called Maldives of Thailand.

Snorkeling in Ko Lipe is possible right off the coast. Just rent the equipment from one of the shops and you are set.

Even though it is off the main tourist path, don’t give it a miss, especially if you are traveling to Southern Thailand.

7. Krabi Province

Krabi is one of the provinces in the south of Thailand. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches and its many little islands (more than 100).

There are plenty of places to visit in Krabi province.

Soak in Krabi Emerald pool and visit the hot spring waterfall. Go on an island hopping tour!

Railay has some of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi province, and it’s easy to reach. Just take a boat from Krabi town pier or Ao Nang. There are also numerous hotels and restaurants on the Railay peninsula, so you can even stay the night there.

Ao Nang is a perfect place for a quick beach getaway. Located just 15 km from Krabi town, it boasts nice beaches, has lots of restaurants and numerous shops.

Klong Muang beach is another beautiful beach not far from Krabi. Unfortunately, it’s not reachable by public transport. Rent a motorbike or take a taxi to get there.

Krabi province is also a perfect place for hikers. There are several trails in the surrounding hills. Dragon Crest and Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail are especially scenic.

—

Thailand travel tips

 

1. You don’t need a visa to travel to Thailand. Citizens of most European Union countries are entitled to visa-free entry – for up to 30 days when entering Thailand by air, and up to 15 days when traveling by land.
2. It’s easy to get around in Thailand. The roads are good, and the transport system is well organized. There are five intercity train lines in Thailand and a well-developed government bus system. Buses are a very popular mode of transport in Thailand. They’re in good condition, and the bus rides are inexpensive. Minibusses are the best option for short (2-3 hour) distances. Prices of domestic flights are very affordable, too. For instance, a plane ticket from Bangkok to Krabi costs starting at 16 EUR. So, to save time travel by air.
3. Bring mosquito repellent as mosquito illnesses, such as dengue and malaria, exist there. It’s rare but there are occasional reports of travelers getting dengue. Malaria is very rare, and it’s highly unlikely that you’ll get it.
4. Be a responsible tourist. Do not ride elephants and bypass other animal attractions!
5. Don’t pet, feed and play with the monkeys! They might look cute and friendly but they are not. They are wild animals that can bite and act aggressively. Also, hide all your shiny stuff in your bag. Everything that glistens and shimmers, and rustles. The sneaky monkeys can steal these things from you.
6. People in Thailand are extremely friendly and kind but there still are a few scams you should know about when traveling to Thailand. The most popular are the Bangkok tuk-tuk scam, gem scam, taxi meter scam, and the Patpong scam. Do research before your trip and you’ll be fine.
7. Know when the festivals take place. Loi Krathong (Floating Lantern festival) and Songkran (Thai New Year) festivals are two of the most popular festivals in Thailand. Full moon parties are also very popular and take place every month.