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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Thailand: 7 Must-Visit Places
The Land of Smiles, Thailand is widely famous for its mesmerizing Buddha temple, exotic beaches, tempting street food and vibrant nightlife. With lots of beautiful temples, islands and beaches, everything about Thailand is especially unique in its own way. Thailand is a happening place that never fails to amuse every time you visit. It has its own unique charm and quirks that make it distinct and incomparable to any other destination.
Spread across a vast area, it is quite a daunting task to decide where to go first in Thailand, south or north. Well, you should definitely try both as both are interestingly beautiful in their own way. The south side of Thailand has exotic beaches and coral reefs whereas the north side holds historic and cultural places.
In this blog, you will explore some of the must-visit places in Thailand that will leave you spellbound and longing to return.
Spread across a vast area, it is quite a daunting task to decide where to go first in Thailand, south or north. Well, you should definitely try both as both are interestingly beautiful in their own way. The south side of Thailand has exotic beaches and coral reefs whereas the north side holds historic and cultural places.
In this blog, you will explore some of the must-visit places in Thailand that will leave you spellbound and longing to return.
Table of Contents
The Must-Visit Places in Thailand
Well, listing out the best places in Thailand may end up in a long list. So here are the top must-visit places in Thailand that you shouldn’t miss when you travel to the land of smiles.
1. Bangkok
Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok is no less mesmerizing with its absolutely awe-inspiring cityscape. It has many surprises for first-time visitors and makes you realize that Bangkok is a lot more than you expected.
Despite being an ultra-modern city, Bangkok is a perfect mix of modern and traditional settings.If you want to have a unique shopping experience, then the floating market is the right place. With over 100 vendors, there are many shopping centers in the floating market as well.
Bangkok is the perfect place where you can taste the best street food in Thailand. On every street, you’ll find many food stalls lined up one after the other. Make sure you visit the Chatuchak market, which is the biggest street food market in the world having more than 15,000 stalls. It sells a wide variety of products at very low prices which anybody can afford.
Apart from busy crowds, Bangkok has peaceful and tranquil temples and palaces that relax your soul and mind. One such place is Wat Pho, a famous Buddhist temple that contains the largest reclining statue of lord Buddha, measuring 151 feet long. The spiritual ambience which the temple offers is truly impeccable and rejuvenates your mind. At the temple, you can see several Thai monks performing their specialized rituals and prayers in groups.
From ancient temples to vibrant nightlife, Bangkok has it all! Thai traditions and architecture will surely leave you amazed and wanting to visit it again.
Top Attractions: Temple of Dawn(Wat Arun), Lumpini Park, Temple of the Reclining Buddha(Wat Pho), Chatuchak Weekend Market, & The Grand Palace.
Despite being an ultra-modern city, Bangkok is a perfect mix of modern and traditional settings.If you want to have a unique shopping experience, then the floating market is the right place. With over 100 vendors, there are many shopping centers in the floating market as well.
Bangkok is the perfect place where you can taste the best street food in Thailand. On every street, you’ll find many food stalls lined up one after the other. Make sure you visit the Chatuchak market, which is the biggest street food market in the world having more than 15,000 stalls. It sells a wide variety of products at very low prices which anybody can afford.
Apart from busy crowds, Bangkok has peaceful and tranquil temples and palaces that relax your soul and mind. One such place is Wat Pho, a famous Buddhist temple that contains the largest reclining statue of lord Buddha, measuring 151 feet long. The spiritual ambience which the temple offers is truly impeccable and rejuvenates your mind. At the temple, you can see several Thai monks performing their specialized rituals and prayers in groups.
From ancient temples to vibrant nightlife, Bangkok has it all! Thai traditions and architecture will surely leave you amazed and wanting to visit it again.
Top Attractions: Temple of Dawn(Wat Arun), Lumpini Park, Temple of the Reclining Buddha(Wat Pho), Chatuchak Weekend Market, & The Grand Palace.
2. Phuket
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and the most popular beach destination which is a dream travel destination of many. Situated on the southern side of Thailand, the beach here has crystal clear water with palm trees by the shore leaning to the beach. This paradise island has more to offer apart from being just a beach location.
With over 30 beaches to choose from, Phuket has something for everyone. If you like party beaches with lots of activities, then go to Patong Beach. Embark on the water sports at the beaches like snorkeling or scuba diving to feel the mesmerizing underwater experience. Patong is the party capital of Phuket. With a variety of live music bars and nightclubs, the nightlife here is worth experiencing. Ya Nui and Freedom Beach are more quiet and serene beaches where you can relax peacefully without any crowd.
There are many cafes and food stalls like the Sunday walking street market or Indy Market in Phuket town where you can relish local Thai dishes. The rich history of Phuket is reflected in the architecture of the town where you can find colorful European-style houses.
Being an iconic island, island hopping is a must-try activity that you should definitely try. You can Engage in island hopping in speed boats or ferries where you can explore nearby islands. Explore James Bond Island which is a quite famous island which lots of tourists visit ever since the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” was released.
Top Attractions: The Big Buddha, James Bond Island, Patong Beach, Wat Chalong, & Freedom Beach.
With over 30 beaches to choose from, Phuket has something for everyone. If you like party beaches with lots of activities, then go to Patong Beach. Embark on the water sports at the beaches like snorkeling or scuba diving to feel the mesmerizing underwater experience. Patong is the party capital of Phuket. With a variety of live music bars and nightclubs, the nightlife here is worth experiencing. Ya Nui and Freedom Beach are more quiet and serene beaches where you can relax peacefully without any crowd.
There are many cafes and food stalls like the Sunday walking street market or Indy Market in Phuket town where you can relish local Thai dishes. The rich history of Phuket is reflected in the architecture of the town where you can find colorful European-style houses.
Being an iconic island, island hopping is a must-try activity that you should definitely try. You can Engage in island hopping in speed boats or ferries where you can explore nearby islands. Explore James Bond Island which is a quite famous island which lots of tourists visit ever since the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” was released.
Top Attractions: The Big Buddha, James Bond Island, Patong Beach, Wat Chalong, & Freedom Beach.
3. Chiang Mai
Located in the Northwest of Thailand, Chiang Mai is an exotic destination that holds a rich history with stunning temples and architecture. Unlike the city hassles, Chiang Mai has a tranquil ambience filled with a peaceful and enchanting aura.
If you have come in search of spiritual experience, then you’ve come to the right place! In Chiang Mai alone, there are around 300 Buddhist temples which are all located within walkable distances. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous temple of all. In the evenings, you can witness the monks chanting prayers and it is a great place to watch the sunset. You will find many handicraft shops that sell clothes, pottery and many other items.
Besides temples, Chiang Mai has some amazing viewpoints where you can view the whole town from the top. One such spot is Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand which offers a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains. Apart from the viewpoint, the park is filled with many wonderful waterfalls and hiking trails to keep you engaged.
To add a little adventure to your trip, you can cruise down the Mae Ping River in a kayak or take a boat tour through the beautiful, scenic sights of Chiang Mai.
Top Attractions: Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh, Doi Inthanon National Park, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, & Elephant Nature Park.
If you have come in search of spiritual experience, then you’ve come to the right place! In Chiang Mai alone, there are around 300 Buddhist temples which are all located within walkable distances. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous temple of all. In the evenings, you can witness the monks chanting prayers and it is a great place to watch the sunset. You will find many handicraft shops that sell clothes, pottery and many other items.
Besides temples, Chiang Mai has some amazing viewpoints where you can view the whole town from the top. One such spot is Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand which offers a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains. Apart from the viewpoint, the park is filled with many wonderful waterfalls and hiking trails to keep you engaged.
To add a little adventure to your trip, you can cruise down the Mae Ping River in a kayak or take a boat tour through the beautiful, scenic sights of Chiang Mai.
Top Attractions: Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh, Doi Inthanon National Park, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, & Elephant Nature Park.
4. Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand, situated on the southern side. With palm-fringed beaches and mountain landscapes, Koh Samui has a wide variety of beaches. You can explore the underwater by indulging in adventurous activities like scuba diving or snorkeling.
If you are looking for something tranquil, Lipa Noi Beach is perfect. With shallow water, it is the best beach to spend time with your family. Another main attraction is the breathtakingly beautiful Secret Buddha Garden. Set in the lush jungle surroundings, this garden is a perfect place for nature lovers. The peaceful ambience makes you easily blend in with nature. Not just the hilly landscape, there are beautiful waterfalls like Na Muang waterfalls where you can relax in the fresh, cold water.
Being one of the many islands in the archipelago, it feels incomplete if you haven’t done island hopping to nearby islands. You can either embark on a boat tour to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, which are the sister islands of Koh Samui. Both are incredible and worth visiting at least once.
Top Attractions: Na Muang Waterfall, Angthong National Marine Park, Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, Secret Buddha Garden, & Bophut Fisherman’s Village.
If you are looking for something tranquil, Lipa Noi Beach is perfect. With shallow water, it is the best beach to spend time with your family. Another main attraction is the breathtakingly beautiful Secret Buddha Garden. Set in the lush jungle surroundings, this garden is a perfect place for nature lovers. The peaceful ambience makes you easily blend in with nature. Not just the hilly landscape, there are beautiful waterfalls like Na Muang waterfalls where you can relax in the fresh, cold water.
Being one of the many islands in the archipelago, it feels incomplete if you haven’t done island hopping to nearby islands. You can either embark on a boat tour to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, which are the sister islands of Koh Samui. Both are incredible and worth visiting at least once.
Top Attractions: Na Muang Waterfall, Angthong National Marine Park, Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, Secret Buddha Garden, & Bophut Fisherman’s Village.
5. Krabi
With white sand beaches and dense mangrove forests, Krabi is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Thailand. Like all the other islands, at Krabi too, island hopping is a must-try. It covers multiple islands where you can explore the unexplored islands and indulge in snorkeling in the clear blue waters.
Situated outside Krabi town, the Tiger Temple is definitely worth a visit. In the olden times, tigers once lived in this temple, and that is how it got its name. There is a cave in the temple and you have to climb the 1,260 steps to reach the top of the temple which offers an impeccable view of the Andaman Sea.
If tranquility is more your vibe, there are many secluded islands where you can enjoy your vacation in peace. Ao nang beach is a great place to admire the Andaman Sea and relax yourself. Although it gets a little crowded and noisy with all the boats cruising around, it is the best spot to watch the sunset. After sunset, there is a mesmerizing fire show at the beach which sure is a wonderful sight to witness. Apart from the calming beach, Ao Nang is a pretty town that has delightful nightlife with nightclubs and live music bars where you can dance the night away.
Top Attractions: Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, Tiger Cave Temple, Koh Lanta, & Krabi Town.
Situated outside Krabi town, the Tiger Temple is definitely worth a visit. In the olden times, tigers once lived in this temple, and that is how it got its name. There is a cave in the temple and you have to climb the 1,260 steps to reach the top of the temple which offers an impeccable view of the Andaman Sea.
If tranquility is more your vibe, there are many secluded islands where you can enjoy your vacation in peace. Ao nang beach is a great place to admire the Andaman Sea and relax yourself. Although it gets a little crowded and noisy with all the boats cruising around, it is the best spot to watch the sunset. After sunset, there is a mesmerizing fire show at the beach which sure is a wonderful sight to witness. Apart from the calming beach, Ao Nang is a pretty town that has delightful nightlife with nightclubs and live music bars where you can dance the night away.
Top Attractions: Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, Tiger Cave Temple, Koh Lanta, & Krabi Town.
6. Ko Phi Phi
Ko Phi Phi island is one of the must-visit places in Thailand which is a true paradise with its picturesque beaches. This island got all the tourist attention through the famous blockbuster movie, Beaches. As it is located near Krabi, you can either take a ride on a speed boat or ferry to reach Phi Phi island.
Being one of the fun and vibrant islands in Thailand, every view from this island is jaw-droppingly beautiful. The serene beach is so photogenic that you’ll feel like clicking pictures from every nook and corner. The Thai massage here is definitely a must-try that soothes your whole body. Scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the activities that you can do on the beautiful Phi Phi island.
You can also explore the hidden beaches around the island in boats. Maya Bay is the main attraction on Phi Phi island, where you can see the beautiful bay. The sand here is very light and powdery. Being a prominent tourist place, it can be very crowded. So make sure you visit this place early in the morning to enjoy it peacefully.
Top Attractions: Monkey Beach, Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Lee, Bamboo Beach, Ton Sai Beach, & Viking Cave
Being one of the fun and vibrant islands in Thailand, every view from this island is jaw-droppingly beautiful. The serene beach is so photogenic that you’ll feel like clicking pictures from every nook and corner. The Thai massage here is definitely a must-try that soothes your whole body. Scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the activities that you can do on the beautiful Phi Phi island.
You can also explore the hidden beaches around the island in boats. Maya Bay is the main attraction on Phi Phi island, where you can see the beautiful bay. The sand here is very light and powdery. Being a prominent tourist place, it can be very crowded. So make sure you visit this place early in the morning to enjoy it peacefully.
Top Attractions: Monkey Beach, Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Lee, Bamboo Beach, Ton Sai Beach, & Viking Cave
7. Pattaya
Popularly known for its pristine beaches and Thai massage, Pattaya is something that you shouldn’t miss in Thailand. It has plenty of attractions with vibrant nightlife, beaches and delicious Thai food. It’s dynamic culture and magnificent surroundings give you a different vibe.
Pattaya has become a family-friendly destination due to the temples, water theme parks and aquariums. Jet skiing, banana boating and parasailing are some of the popular activities which you can relish on the beach. You can indulge in the regional cuisines and fresh seafood while relaxing by the beach.
If you want to shop in a unique way, you can do it in Pattaya’s floating market. With over 100 vendors and stalls, the floating market offers a completely distinctive shopping experience.
Sanctuary of Truth is an amazing place which is definitely worth a visit while in Thailand. This beautiful wooden museum is completely hand-carved out of wood with such perfection.
If you are traveling with kids, Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park is the best place to take your kids. With many thrilling and enjoyable rides, your kids will surely love it. Pattaya is a very lively and happening place, especially during the night. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife on the walking street and party hard at the nightclubs.
Top Attractions: Walking Street, Buddha Mountain, Koh Larn, Nong Nooch Village, & The Floating Market.
Thailand is one such destination which you should definitely add to your bucket list. And now you have read everything about Thailand’s iconic places, it’s time to experience them for real. Book your tickets at the best price with us. We help you organize your trip perfectly, making your travel dreams come true. At Athidhys, we prepare itineraries and packages according to your interest and within your budget. Embark on a memorable trip with us and relish Thailand’s idyllic beauty and experience its unique culture.
Pattaya has become a family-friendly destination due to the temples, water theme parks and aquariums. Jet skiing, banana boating and parasailing are some of the popular activities which you can relish on the beach. You can indulge in the regional cuisines and fresh seafood while relaxing by the beach.
If you want to shop in a unique way, you can do it in Pattaya’s floating market. With over 100 vendors and stalls, the floating market offers a completely distinctive shopping experience.
Sanctuary of Truth is an amazing place which is definitely worth a visit while in Thailand. This beautiful wooden museum is completely hand-carved out of wood with such perfection.
If you are traveling with kids, Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park is the best place to take your kids. With many thrilling and enjoyable rides, your kids will surely love it. Pattaya is a very lively and happening place, especially during the night. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife on the walking street and party hard at the nightclubs.
Top Attractions: Walking Street, Buddha Mountain, Koh Larn, Nong Nooch Village, & The Floating Market.
Thailand is one such destination which you should definitely add to your bucket list. And now you have read everything about Thailand’s iconic places, it’s time to experience them for real. Book your tickets at the best price with us. We help you organize your trip perfectly, making your travel dreams come true. At Athidhys, we prepare itineraries and packages according to your interest and within your budget. Embark on a memorable trip with us and relish Thailand’s idyllic beauty and experience its unique culture.
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