There is a fact that no matter how many times you visit Thailand, the country will show you a different side of itself. The southern regions are enchant with pristine beaches and lush islands, while the northern landscapes contrast with cool, verdant mountains and historical temples. Determining the best places to visit in Thailand can be daunting given its rich array of destinations. We compose this article, in order to assist you in refining your choices and guide you through Thailand’s diverse attractions, ensuring your itinerary captures the essence of this dynamic country.
Bangkok – One of The Best Places To Visit In Thailand
For most first-time visitors to Thailand, Bangkok is always the first stop before embarking on an adventurous journey across Thai soil. Upon arrival in Thailand, the majority of tourists choose to land at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok, the largest and most modern airport in Thailand. Therefore, Bangkok becomes the starting point for exploring Thai culture, ancient temples, major shopping centers, and the majestic Royal Palace.
Bangkok – Venice of the East
Bangkok is a vibrant, restless city. When you come to Bangkok, you will easily find many local markets selling delicious Thai dishes such as Jodd Fairs, Huamum (the most famous night market), Pratunam, China Town, or traditional floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa. At these markets, you can easily enjoy unique dishes such as som tum, Pad Thai, Tom Yum, vermicelli noodles, mango sticky rice, ChaTraMue milk tea, laeng saeb, and coconut ice cream and enjoy activities such as cruises at the river.
Beyond the famous markets of Bangkok, you can indulge in shopping and dining at major shopping centers to witness the modern and bustling vibe of Bangkok, such as Icon Siam, Siam Paragon, Central World, Big C, Terminal 21, and Asiatique The Riverfront. One thing you can’t miss at these malls is savoring the desserts from After You – a famous Thai dessert brand.
You can not overlook the ancient temples where visitors can seek blessings for luck, health, and happiness, as well as capture memories in traditional Thai costumes, including Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Suthat, Wat Phra Kaew, and more.
In addition to these experiences, you should try riding a TukTuk to explore Thailand by night, feeling the cool breeze and the thrill of speed.
If you are in Bangkok but want to immerse yourself in nature, Khao Yai National Park is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok for you, just a few hours away from the city center. It is the oldest and third-largest national park in Thailand, with a network of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, herds of elephants, and fields of flowers.
You might need to spend an entire week or even longer to fully explore a city here. A perfect tour of 4 days in Bangkok is neither too short nor too long, making it ideal for a leisurely adventure to discover the highlights.
Chiang Mai – Rose of The North
After the adventure in Bangkok, the second destination is the northern city of Chiang Mai. In Chiang Mai, life is not as bustling as in Bangkok, but gentle and poetic. As a city in the Land of the Golden Temples, Chiang Mai also boasts many famous temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, and more.
Chiang Mai – Northern Rose
A special experience that most tourists look forward to in Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival. Originating from Lanna culture, during the full moon week of the twelfth lunar month, the locals organize a ceremony to venerate the Buddha’s relics, hoping for blessings. The relics of the Buddha are believed to be kept in Heaven, so people light lanterns and release them into the sky to send their wishes.
The Ping River is a favorite spot for locals to release Krathong sky lanterns. If you’ve ever dreamed of a romantic world filled with sky lanterns like in Disney’s famous animated film “Tangled”, the Yi Peng Festival is the real-life embodiment of that magical scene many yearn for.
Moreover, you must make a point to visit Phu Ping Palace, also known as the Summer Palace. Perched atop the lofty peak of Doi Buak Ha-Suthep, this place boasts a crisp, cool ambiance, with fragrant flowers blooming in vibrant colors all year round, creating a truly ethereal landscape.
Interestingly, Chiang Mai is also known as the “Rose of the North” in Thailand.
>>> Check out this 7-Day Northern Thailand Discovery Tour to uncover the secrets of Chiang Mai and other interesting destinations of the Northern regions.
Pattaya – Hawaii of The East
Once you have set foot in Thailand, you cannot miss a place dubbed the “Hawaii of the East” – Pattaya. With its clear blue seas, white sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, your trip is sure to be more exciting.
Pattaya – Hawaii of the East
Pattaya, this beach city has distinct seasons and numerous natural, untouched tourist spots. If you love animals and enjoy immersing yourself in nature, consider the following destinations:
- Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: This is a sprawling 242-hectare botanical garden that features an exquisitely landscaped terrain (a recipient of numerous international awards), blending European and Thai inspirations. Additionally, you can explore unique areas such as an orchid garden, fountains, ornamental plants, waterfalls, cacti, ferns, bonsai, and even a miniature Stonehenge!
- Coral Island (Koh Larn): As one of the most beautiful coral islands in Thailand, Coral Island captivates visitors not only with its stunning beaches but also with its diverse ecosystem and breathtaking coral reefs.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo: Visit Thailand’s first zoo, home to over 8,000 animal species and more than 300 species, living in an open, uncaged world. With three main goals – conservation, education, and research – this zoo is committed to providing a humane environment for visitors, especially children, to experience and learn about wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Sriracha Tiger Zoo: Sriracha Tiger Zoo is one of the largest places in Thailand and Asia to conserve and care for numerous lions, as well as various other wildlife species. Located 97 km from Bangkok and on the outskirts of Pattaya, the zoo is home to over 400 Bengal tigers, 10,000 crocodiles, and countless other wild animals such as elephants, monkeys, camels, giraffes, pigs, and more.
- Pattaya Elephant Village: It is one of the best places in Pattaya for elephants to be cared for and protected. Additionally, it offers stage performances, showcasing the capture of wild elephants, elephants at work in the forest, elephants playing football, a grand battle, and elephant parades. Notably, you can experience elephant rides around the village.
One of the things to do in Pattaya is attend the Cabaret Shows, a transgender show that attracts many visitors. For just $2 per photo, you can take pictures with transgender artists. Additionally, you should visit the iconic Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, also known as the Temple of Truth, made entirely of wood and designed to last for 600 years.
Ayutthaya – Best to Explore Thai Culture
Ayutthaya – One of The Best Historic Places to Visit in Thailand
Many cities in Thailand have the power to make visitors feel as though they are turning back the clock. But few create a vivid illusion that Ayutthaya – the historic city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, ranks among the most enticing destinations in the land of golden temples. Once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtakingly beautiful and haunting. Just an hour away from Bangkok, it’s an easy day trip or a fantastic overnight excursion.
If you’ve watched the Thai film “Love Destiny” (2018), you will see an Ayutthaya that is serene, ancient, gentle, and romantic. Wat Chaiwatthanaram, an ancient temple featured in “Love Destiny” (2018), is built in traditional Khmer style and attracts thousands of visitors on weekends to pose and take photos in traditional Thai attire.
Wat Phra Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana in Ayutthaya are also ancient temples that have survived fierce wars between Myanmar and the Thai army. Notably, Wat Lokaya Sutta is a famous pilgrimage site for Thai and foreign Buddhists, with the only Buddha statue that remained intact after being burned in the war.
Generally, 1 or 2 days in Ayutthaya is advisable for travelers seeking to explore and immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of this old Thai city, as well as to savor its unique local delicacies.
Phuket – Jewel of The Andaman Sea
In the list of the best places to visit in Thailand, Phuket is a name that cannot be missed. Phuket is renowned as a tourist island with clear blue beaches, fine white sand, fresh seafood, pristine and rich nature, along with many famous architectural structures. The climate in Phuket, Thailand is quite similar to Saigon, Vietnam, with only rainy and dry seasons. Typically, November to April is the ideal time for beach experiences in Phuket, and the weather is also cool. Phuket boasts countless other tourist destinations.
One of the best places to visit in Phuket is the Phi Phi Islands. Koh Phi Phi is dubbed the cleanest beach on the planet, with fine white sand and majestic, pristine nature. Besides swimming, visitors can experience diving with sharks, beach walking, enjoying seafood, or mountain climbing. Visitors can also head to Patong Beach, a beach with captivating natural beauty, bustling with activities day and night, and offering shopping opportunities. Additionally, visitors can stroll through Phuket’s old town to admire the ancient architecture combining Chinese and Portuguese styles and explore unique cafes here.
Not only famous for its beautiful beaches, Phuket is also known for Wat Chong Temple. Thais believe that this is a spiritual land that can heal all kinds of diseases.
Phuket – Pearl of the Andaman Gulf
>>> Immerse in the stunning beauty of Phuket with our 7-Day Package Tour to Phuket.
Chang Rai – The Rose Silently Blooms
Chiang Rai lies at the heart of the infamous Golden Triangle, known for its intriguing and bloody stories of the opium wars. In Chiang Rai, visitors can admire the handicrafts of various ethnic minorities, such as weaving, crafts, and especially unique and exotic dishes.
When in Chiang Rai, you cannot miss the Opium Museum, which displays artifacts related to the fierce drug war. However, the first thing you must do upon arriving in Chiang Rai is to visit the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, with its “one-of-a-kind” architecture featuring white as the dominant color, unlike the traditional yellow of other Thai temples. Wat Rong Khun, often called the White Temple, exudes a pure beauty as if snow covers the entire temple. The temple’s gate is always bustling with visitors. Wat Rong Khun is considered a symbol of purity and the radiance of Buddhism. Surrounding the temple is a park with a pond and many strange sculptures following Thai folklore.
Chang Rai – The Rose Silently Blooms
Thailand is not only famous as the Land of the Golden Temples but also renowned for its pristine natural landscapes, bustling urban life, and unique aspects of its diverse and rich Thai culture. For first-time visitors to Thailand who are unsure of how to plan their trip, consider consulting our Thailand travel tips here for guidance. If you’ve decided on a trip to Thailand to experience these wonderful things, contact us for the best local support.
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