HomeAsiaSoutheast AsiaThailand 20 Places to Visit in Thailand + Things To Do for First-Timers By Marcos Detourista. Updated on January 2, 2019. Where to go in Thailand? Achieve your travel goals with this list of beautiful destinations, things to do, best places to visit, Thailand tourist spots, attractions & more. Growing up in a place heavily influenced by Western culture, the exotic appeal of Thailand was irresistible when I embarked on my first solo trip abroad. With so many places catered to budget travelers, it’s easy to travel cheaply and still be able to enjoy fascinating places around the country. Of course, all the while enjoying the bliss that is Thai food. Thailand’s best & must-see sights include stunning islands, temples, and highlands. Go south, to the Andaman coast and the Gulf of Thailand to visit the best beaches. Go north, for amazing temples, mountain scenery, and waterfalls. If you only have a short trip, you can find a lot of top tourist spots in Bangkok and Central Thailand that are easy to visit. Inspire your adventure with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers. Follow me on Instagram 1. Koh Lipe Koh Lipe view from Koh Adang, Thailand My search for Thailand’s most beautiful beaches led me to Koh Lipe, located near the Thailand-Malaysia border. Getting there takes more effort than most places featured on this list, but it’s going to be worth the trip if you’re seeking the best islands and underwater views, especially if you’re set on a cross-country trip to/from Malaysia. Also check out nearby Tarutao National Parkbefore you leave. The nearest airports to Koh Lipe is Hat Yai and Trang. See more 8 Places To Visit in Koh Lipe 2. Bangkok Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), at dusk along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand River ferry along Chao Phraya in Bangkok, Thailand Marcos at Jim Thompson House, in Bangkok, Thailand Siam Paragon Mall in Bangkok, Thailand Golden Gate Bridge Replica at Terminal 21, in Bangkok, Thailand Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple) in Bangkok, Thailand Wat Traimit (temple) in Bangkok, Thailand Bangkok should be on everyone’s bucketlist in Thailand, and for good reason! Start with a trip to the Grand Palace for a quick peek at the famed Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Then, go on a tour of the city’s most sacred Buddhist temples including Wat Pho (Temple of Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple), and Wat Traimit (Temple of Golden Buddha). Shop ’til you drop at CentralWorld, Terminal 21, Siam Paragon, MBK, Platinum Mall or Chatuchak Weekend Market. For yummy local eats, head to Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown). Take a break from the busy city life at Jim Thompson House, Lumphini Park or go on a scenic cruise/ferry ride along the Chao Phraya River. Cap off your night at Khaosan Road or Bangkok’s best rooftop bars. If that’s not enough, take a day trip to floating markets nearby like Amphawa & Damnoen Saduak. How to go — Touchdown at any of these two airports that serve Bangkok — Bangkok-Suvarbahumi International Airport (main airport located about an hour east of the city center) or Don Meuang International Airport (de facto low-cost airline hub located 45-minutes north of the city). Major airlines include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Jetstar, Nok Air, AirAsia & Lion Air. From the Philippines, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia and Thai Airways serve direct flights from Manila. Travel time is around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Damnoen Saduak Floating Market by Oriental Holiday 37% OFF Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise 25% OFF Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers See more 12 Places To Visit in Bangkok Bangkok Travel Guide 3. Chiang Mai Night market in front of Wat Phan Tao, in Chiang Mai, Thailand Mae Ya Waterfall found at the foot of Mount Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai, Thailand The central chedi of Wat Doi Suthep surrounded by other temple structures built in Lanna (Northern Thai) style, in Chiang Mai, Thailand Buddhist monk at Chedi Luang (temple), in Chiang Mai, Thailand Monks during a prayer ritual at Wat Phra Singh, one of the most important temples within the Walled City of Chiang Mai. The best way to enjoy Thai culture is by indulging in delicious Thai food. Chiang Mai is undoubtedly the best foodie destination in Northern Thailand. Not to mention, it’s also one of the cheapest places to travel in Southeast Asia! For local eats, visit the Sunday Walking Street near Tha Pae gate, Saturday Night Walking Street on Wua Lai Road, the daily Warorot Market or Night Bazaaron Chang Klan Road. While you’re eating your way through the city, drop by Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples. Don’t miss Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Singh. There are over a hundred more temples in Chiang Mai if you want to go on a crazy temple run. For stunning views overlooking Chiang Mai, venture outside the Old Walled City gates and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. For gorgeous views of nature, head to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the highest mountain in Thailand and the massive Mae Ya Waterfall. How to go — Chiang Mai is around 1 hour north of Bangkok by plane. Chiang Mai International Airport is well connected with other major airports in Thailand and serves direct international flights from many airports in East Asia and a few in Southeast Asia. Land travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 10 hours by bus or around 12 to 15 hours by train. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts 30% OFF Chiang Mai Airport Transfers (CNX) for Chiang Mai City & more (northern Thailand) Chiang Mai Car Charter – One Day or Multiple Days Surrounding Areas 7% OFF Doi Inthanon National Park See more 9 Places To Visit in Chiang Mai 4. Krabi Koh Poda (island) near Krabi, Thailand Railay (Rai Leh) Beach in Krabi, Thailand Ao Nang (beach) in Krabi, Thailand Riverside Park in Krabi, Thailand Kayak tour at Ao Tha Lane, in Krabi, Thailand Go south to visit Thailand’s World-famous beaches. Krabi is home to the country’s most spectacular seascapes with picture-perfect beaches surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Ao Nang, formally Ao Phra Nang (“Princess Bay”), is the main tourist beach. It’s the perfect base to maximize your tour of Krabi. Hop on a boat and go rock climbing in Railay (Rai Reh) or go island hopping to Ko Poda, Koh Kai (Chicken Island), Phi Phi Islands and Hong Island in Phang Nga Bay. Krabi is also popular for its easy ferry connections to Phuket & Koh Lanta. During the high season, you can go even farther to Koh Lipe & the Trang Islands. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Krabi Airport Shuttle – Shared Transfers for Ao Nang, Krabi Town & more Krabi Car Charter – Half Day And Full Day Private Car/Shuttle Private Phuket International Airport (HKT) Transfers for Phuket and Nearby Areas by TTD See more 12 Places To Visit in Krabi 5. Phi Phi Islands “The Beach” on Ko Phi Phi Leh (small island) in Maya Bay, Krabi, Thailand Colorful long tail boats docked in Ko Phi Phi Don (big island), Krabi, Thailand A boat trip from Krabi or Phuket takes you to the Phi Phi Islands. The most popular attraction here is Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi Leh. This paradise is the famous setting of “The Beach,” the iconic backpacking movie starred by Leonardo DiCaprio and based on the novel written by Alex Garland. In case you find yourself in Koh Phi Phi Don, the main tourist island, don’t miss the trek to Phi Phi Viewpoint, Monkey Beach & Long Beach. Top discounts 12% OFF Hong Kong Disneyland Admission Ticket 16% OFF Ocean Park Hong Kong Admission Ticket 13% OFF Peak Tram + Sky Terrace Skip-the-line Combo Ticket See more 7 Places To Visit in Phi Phi Islands 6. Phang Nga & Koh Hong Phang Nga Bay Islands near Phuket and Krabi, Thailand James Bond Island near Koh Hong, in Phra Nga National Park The day cruise to Phang Nga is one of the best island hopping tours that you can book from Krabi or Phuket. This beautiful bay is known for mass limestone formations that jut out from the emerald green waters. The most famous spot is James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), which appeared in the 1974 James Bond movie — The Man with the Golden Gun. If you’re traveling from Krabi, make sure your itinerary includes Ko Hong, which features a stunning lagoon with crystal clear waters. 7. Phuket Patong Beach in Phuket, Thailand Night Market in Phuket Town, Thailand Seafood at Banzaan Market, in Patong, Phuket, Thailand Phuket’s beaches may not be as impressive as the other places featured here but there’s one compelling reason to go — the superb resort experience. Phuket is a paradise for travelers who want to enjoy a 4 or 5-star hotel splurge at amazing value for money. Another reason why Phuket is so popular is the easy accessibility thanks to well-connected Phuket Airport. While you’re here, visit Patong (the main tourist spot) for a beautiful sunset view along the beach, delicious seafood dinner or outlet mall shopping. Nearby Hat Karon, offers a more quiet vibe, Meanwhile, go to Phuket Town for a more local experience. From Phuket, you can easily set off to other island destinations in the Andaman Coast like Phi Phi, Krabi, Phang Nga Bay (Koh Hong/Koh Yao), Raya Island & more. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Krabi Airport Shuttle – Shared Transfers for Ao Nang, Krabi Town & more Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Tour in Phuket Phuket Half Day, Full Day & multiple days private car charter See more 8 Places To Visit in Phuket 8. Koh Samui Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park Islands near Koh Samui, Thailand Wat Plai Laem (temple) in Koh Samui, Thailand Choeng Mon Beach, in Koh Samui, Thailand Want to see the beautiful east coast of Thailand? Start with Koh Samui, an upscale rival to Phuket, but with nicer beaches, fewer crowds and a more chill nightlife. Koh Samui is the 2nd largest island in Thailand and the largest in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s also a good base to explore Mu Koh Ang Thong National Park and a convenient jump-off point to Koh Tao, Ko Pha-ngan/Koh Pha Ngan (infamous for epic full moon parties at Haad Rin), and other Surat Thani islands. How to go — Samui is around one hour south of Bangkok by plane. Samui Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok and direct international flights from Singapore, Hong kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. Daily ferries are available from Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. Travel time by high-speed boat takes 20 minutes and 2 hours, respectively. A cheaper alternative is to arrive at Surat Thani Airport or Chumphon Airport found on the mainland and then continuing the journey by land+ferry connections to your island destination. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Samui Airport Transfers (USM) for Koh Samui and More Koh Samui Island Day Tour by SUV Ang Thong Day Tour from Koh Samui by Big Boat See more 8 Places To Visit in Koh Samui 9. Koh Tao Koh Tao, Thailand Koh Nang Yuan (island) near Koh Tao, Thailand Koh Tao is widely known as one of the cheapest places in the World to get a SCUBA diving license. Located in the northernmost part of the Chumphon Archipelago/Surat Thani Islands, Koh Tao is home incredible marine life. There are a lot of travel-worthy “overwater” views here as well. Koh Nang Yuan and several hilltop viewpoints on the main island offer lovely views overlooking white sand beaches and the sparkling sea. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Koh Tao Diving Experience by Nava PADI Scuba Diving Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Tour Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Day Tour from Koh Phangan by Speedboat See more 9 Places To Visit in Ko Tao 10. Hua Hin Hua Hin Beach, Thailand Park at FN Shopping Outlet, in Hua Hin, Thailand Hua Hin Santorini Park, Thailand If you’re planning to visit a beach near Bangkok, you can either go to Hua Hin or Pattaya. Hua Hinoffers a more relaxed seaside vibe and a wider variety of things to do. Land travel time only takes one additional hour! The main attractions here include the expansive Hua Hin Beach, scenic overlooks, and theme parks like Santorini Park, Vana Nava Waterpark & The Venezia. You can also explore the Phraya Nakhon Cave at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, indulge in affordable Thai seafood at the night markets, explore heritage sites & enjoy wine-tasting at Hua Hin Hills Vineyard. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts 25% OFF Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers Private City Transfers between Hua Hin and Bangkok Hua Hin Private Car Charter from Bangkok (8, 10, or 12 Hours) See more 18 Places To Visit in Hua Hin 11. Ayutthaya Buddha head covered by roots at Wat Maha That in Ayutthaya, Thailand Wat Chaiwatthanaram (temple) in Ayutthaya, Thailand Giant sitting Buddha at Wat Phanan Choeng (temple) in Ayutthaya, Thailand Ayutthaya is filled with massive ancient temples ruins, easily reached on a day trip from Bangkok. The Historic City of Ayutthaya, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the second capital of Thailand. Its strategic location between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago made Ayutthaya the trading capital of Asia. It once held the title as the largest city in the World. This place is where you can find the iconic sight of the head of Buddha covered by roots, in Wat Mahathat (temple). Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts 25% OFF Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers 22% OFF Ayutthaya Day Trip with Sunset Boat Ride from Bangkok Ayutthaya Private Car Charter from Bangkok See more 20 Places To Visit in Ayutthaya 12. Sukhothai Temple ruins in Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand Temple ruins in Kamphaeng Phet Hisotrical Park, Thailand Visit Sukhothai to see some of the oldest temples ruins in Thailand. The ancient city was the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Sukhothai Historical Park/Sukhothai Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the partially restored 13th to 14th-century palaces and temples. For off-the-beaten-path ancient sites, don’t miss nearby Kamphaeng Phet and Si Satchanalai. How to go — Sukhothai is one hour and 15 minutes north of Bangkok by plane. Most travelers arrive by land from either Chiang Mai, which is 4 hours away by bus, or Bangkok, approximately 7 hours away by bus or train. Where to stayTours + discounts Top discounts Sukhothai Biking Tour – Half Day and Whole Day Tours Sukhothai One Day Tour Sukhothai Highlights Half Day Tour See more 6 Places To Visit in Sukhothai 13. Chiang Rai Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), in Chiang Rai, Thailand Inside an exhibit hall, at the Chiang Rai Black Houses, in Chiang Rai, Thailand Chiang Rai, found farther north of Chiang Mai, is home to artistic architectural masterpieces that are worth the detour. Here, you can see the bizarre White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Black Houses (Baan Dam). Chiang Rai is also a must-visit stopover if you plan to cross the North Thailand-Laos border, on your way to Luang Prabang. How to go — Chiang Rai is around 1.5 hours north of Bangkok by plane. Its airport mostly serves flights from Bangkok. Most tourists arrive from Chiang Mai, which is approximately 3 hours away by land. 14. Umphang Thee Lor Su Waterfall in Umphang, Tak, Thailand Raft cruise on the way to Thee Lor Su Waterfall, in Umphang, Tak, Thailand Do you love visiting massive waterfalls? Umphang is home to Thi Lo Su/Thi Lor Su, the country’s grandest cascade! Getting there is a remarkable journey in itself as it requires a scenic river cruise & trekking through a pristine rainforest. How to go — The main gateway to Umphang is Mae Sot in Tak Province. Mae Sot is approximately one hour north of Bangkok by plane. From Mae Sot, continue the journey by land to Umphang. Travel time takes around 4 to 5 hours by jeep or private car. Where to stay On my bucketlist 15. Similan Islands Similan Islands, Thailand The Similan Islands should be one of your travel goals in Thailand if you’re set to see the most beautiful islands in the country. These remote islands in Mu Ko Similan National Parkare popularly reached by boat from Tab Lamu Port near Khao Lak. Phuket is the nearest major gateway. If you’re looking for more off-the-grid adventures, also check out the Surin Islands. 16. Koh Lanta Koh Lanta, Thailand Koh Lanta is popular with tourists seeking a holiday away from wild party crowds of more popular beaches/islands in South Thailand. Composed of Koh Lanta Yai, Koh Lanta Noi, and 50 more islands, Mu Ko Lanta National Park features white sandy beaches, tropical jungles, and plenty of underwater life. Koh Lanta can be reached easily from Krabi or Trang. 17. Koh Chang Koh Chang, Thailand Koh Chang (Elephant Island) features jungle-clad peaks and fine sandy beaches. This island in Trat, Thailand’s easternmost province, maintains its remote and rugged spirit despite the growing tourist arrivals. Koh Chang is a fine destination to add to your bucketlist if you want to follower the coastal route between Cambodia & Thailand. 18. Pattaya Pattaya, Thailand Pattaya Wood Temple, Thailand Pattaya is the most popular beach destination in Bangkok. Travel time from the city to Jomtien Beach, the tourist center, takes 2 to 3 hours. Or less, if you’re coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Pattaya’s top sights include island tours to Ko Lan, the massive Sanctuary of Truth wooden temple, spectacular cabaret shows & cool water parks. Top discounts 25% OFF Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Bangkok/Pattaya Private Transfers Private City Transfers between Bangkok and Pattaya, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin & More 19. Pai Pai, Thailand Located in a picturesque valley north of Chiang Mai, Pai is a popular highland destination for backpackers and travelers seeking a relaxed atmosphere close to nature. There are many beautiful treks and waterfalls in the area. If you go, don’t miss the Pai Canyon, narrow red ridges with steep-sided valleys often described as a smaller likeness of the Grand Canyon. 20. Kanchanaburi Erawan Falls in Kanchanaburi, Thailand Thai-Burma Railway Death Railway in Kanchanaburi, Thailand For most travelers, the main reason to visit is the Bridge on the River Kwai, the most famous section of the Thai-Burma Railway Death Railway. Extend your trip to Kanchanaburi by exploring easily accessible national parks and waterfalls like the Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park. See more sights in Thailand Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Nayok Phanom Rung Historical Park, Buri Ram Phimai Historical Park, Nakhon Ratchasima Places to visit in Thailand 1. Koh Lipe 2. Bangkok 3. Chiang Mai 4. Krabi 5. Phi Phi Islands 6. Phang Nga & Koh Hong 7. Phuket 8. Koh Samui 9. Koh Tao 10. Hua Hin 11. Ayutthaya 12. Sukhothai 13. Chiang Rai 14. Umphang On my bucketlist 15. Similan Islands 16. Koh Lanta 17. Koh Chang 18. Pattaya 19. Pai 20. Kanchanaburi Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank. Don’t Stop Here Click below for more travel inspiration: 12 Places To Visit in Krabi 9 Places To Visit in Chiang Mai Bangkok Travel Guide 16 Beautiful Countries in Asia Indochina Itinerary 12 Places To Visit in Bangkok Share your travel goals with #detourista Just keep swimming 🌊 Summer is coming! I didn't Weekend swim & stretch with diving paddlers @iloil One with nature 🌊 First freediving adventure in Do Your Best Today. It Might Not A Difference Imme Let's roll with the waves 🌊 Exploring Antique Province underwater and over the Follow on Instagram Pin on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/detourista/best-of-detourista/ Don’t leave yet. There’s more! 32 Places to Visit in The Philippines + Things To Do…19 Places to Visit in Hong Kong + Things To Do for…13 Places to Visit in Cambodia + Things To Do for…20 Places to Visit in Malaysia + Things To Do for… Discover more blogs and travel tips in: BangkokChiang RaiAyutthayaChiang MaiKo Phi PhiSukhothaiKrabiUmphangPhuketPhraeHua HinKo LipeKo SamuiKo Tao Southeast AsiaAsia See all places Find more posts about:Best TravelBest PlacesBest Things To Do Leave a Reply Cancel replyYour email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *Comment Name * Email * Website This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.Comments Cristiana says December 4, 2018 at 9:03 am Great guidance on places but I’m still in doubt about the best base to enjoy a few relaxing days in a nice beach and taking trips to other islands. Any suggestion? Would Ao Nang be a nice base? Or would Lanta be a better one?? Super thanks! Reply Marcos Detourista says December 19, 2018 at 11:46 pm For convenience as a jump-off point, I’d go for Ao Nang! Reply Rihana says May 6, 2019 at 11:55 am Waoo, Thailand is really awesome. I wish to visit there. Thanks for sharing such amazing images and information about Thailand. I appreciate your blog post. Reply Scholar says August 13, 2019 at 7:08 pm These are really exceptional places to visit in Thailand. Thanks for sharing Reply Jud says February 25, 2020 at 9:50 am Great article!! I am planning to visit Thailand but I dont know where exactly I want to go since there’s a lot of best places you mentioned above :D I’m coming from Singapore and want to go there for 4-5 days and I want the beach with pristine water, good view and hiking. What’s the best you can recommend for a first time solo travel in Thailand? Thanks :D Reply Marcos Detourista says March 6, 2020 at 4:23 pm You should check these three areas in South Thailand: 1. Ko Lipe – A bit of an effort to reach but more pristine and less crowded. 2. Ko Samui, Ko Phangan & Ko Tao 3. Phuket & Krabi Reply
Cristiana says December 4, 2018 at 9:03 am Great guidance on places but I’m still in doubt about the best base to enjoy a few relaxing days in a nice beach and taking trips to other islands. Any suggestion? Would Ao Nang be a nice base? Or would Lanta be a better one?? Super thanks! Reply
Marcos Detourista says December 19, 2018 at 11:46 pm For convenience as a jump-off point, I’d go for Ao Nang! Reply
Rihana says May 6, 2019 at 11:55 am Waoo, Thailand is really awesome. I wish to visit there. Thanks for sharing such amazing images and information about Thailand. I appreciate your blog post. Reply
Scholar says August 13, 2019 at 7:08 pm These are really exceptional places to visit in Thailand. Thanks for sharing Reply
Jud says February 25, 2020 at 9:50 am Great article!! I am planning to visit Thailand but I dont know where exactly I want to go since there’s a lot of best places you mentioned above :D I’m coming from Singapore and want to go there for 4-5 days and I want the beach with pristine water, good view and hiking. What’s the best you can recommend for a first time solo travel in Thailand? Thanks :D Reply
Marcos Detourista says March 6, 2020 at 4:23 pm You should check these three areas in South Thailand: 1. Ko Lipe – A bit of an effort to reach but more pristine and less crowded. 2. Ko Samui, Ko Phangan & Ko Tao 3. Phuket & Krabi Reply