Thailand’s buzzing capital, Bangkok, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Home to glistening golden temples, royal palaces and atmospheric canals, Bangkok offers world-class hotels, fantastic shopping and a seemingly endless assortment of dining and entertainment opportunities. There are so many ways to experience this exhilarating city; jump on a scenic boat along the Chao Phraya River, enjoy scenic views from one of Bangkok’s many iconic rooftop bars or try authentic delicacies on a local tuk-tuk tour.

Outside of Bangkok, you can find multiple fascinating experiences and destinations waiting to be explored.

Stay in a safari style tented camp amongst outstanding natural beauty in Kanchanaburi, home to the famous bridge on the River Kwai and interesting museums that provide insight into the area’s dark history. Siam’s former capital Ayutthaya is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best things to do in Thailand – it’s a highlight of any trip. Just north of Bangkok this peaceful town is filled with dilapidated ruins and restored temples.

Khao Yai is the second largest national park in Thailand and offers magnificent scenery and the chance to spot elusive creatures such as elephants or Asiatic black bears. It’s also renowned for its waterfalls as seen in the 2000 film The Beach.

Chiang Mai is a colourful and atmospheric city set in the foothills of the north and is one of the best places to visit in Thailand – it makes a great addition to any holiday. 

Chiang Mai is considered to be the cultural heart of Thailand, and this is evident in the 300+ sacred pagodas, temples and shrines you’ll find scattered across the city. The food scene in Chiang Mai is worth the visit alone; along with world-renowned restaurants, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of food markets and stalls, all serving rich and flavourful northern Thai cuisine, such as Khao Soi (a coconut-based curry with chicken, topped with crispy noodles).

The Golden Triangle is Thailand’s northernmost province where the borders of Burma, Thailand and Laos meet.

Bordered by lush, green jungle and with a rich cultural diversity this enchanting region will have you captivated. Along with mountainous surroundings and fascinating northern village culture this area also boasts lavish resorts that are also home to elephant conservation projects and offer you the chance to humanely interact with elephants and the mahouts that train them.

Nearby Chiang Rai is a sleepy town with a relaxed atmosphere and is home to one of the most unique temples in Thailand. Wat Rong Khun or ‘The White Temple’ has an dramatically elaborate all white exterior and tiny shards of glass that make it sparkle in the sun.

Thailand’s largest island Phuket is widely considered to be the best place to visit in Thailand for the beach, and for good reason. 

With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and lively towns, Phuket really does offer something for everyone. Discover bustling Karon or Patong where you’ll find great shopping, dining and nightlife, or for more seclusion, stay further north or on the south coast of Phuket where the beaches are quieter and the hotels more private with lovely stretches of pristine sand flanked by lush tropical vegetation.

Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Samui, offers the very best of Thai island life. 

Beautiful beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, and a plethora of dining options, Koh Samui offers something for everyone. Stay in a lively resort in buzzy Chaweng, or head to the quieter beaches of Mae Nam or Choeng Mon for a quieter experience and slower pace of life.

Just a short boat ride away from Koh Samui, the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are worlds away from their better known neighbour. 

Koh Phangan is best known for its full moon parties in the south of the island; a monthly extravaganza of music, fireworks, fire shows and dancing. Away from this area the rest of the island is tranquil and scenic, with soft sand beaches, colourful reefs, a verdant interior and amazing resorts.

To the north of Koh Phangan lies the smaller island of Koh Tao (meaning ‘Turtle Island’), which is a scuba divers paradise. With secluded bays and stunning white sand beaches, Koh Tao is considered one of Thailand’s true tropical island escapes.

Khao Lak, located just an hours drive north of Phuket, is made up of stunning bays, perfect beaches and quaint local villages. It offers a slower pace of life than Phuket, and visitors here are rewarded with three national parks nearby just waiting to be explored. 

Visit Khao Sok National Park which features an ancient evergreen rainforest and an array of wildlife or discover the untouched beaches and amazing coral reefs of the Similan Islands which can be accessed easily by boat.

Considered by many to be one of the best places to visit in Thailand, beautiful Krabi offers remarkable scenery, delicious food, and gorgeous beaches. The crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea beautifully contrast the iconic limestone karsts and guarantee an unforgettable, unique beach holiday.

Ao Nang, the busiest resort area in Krabi province, is an ideal base from which to discover the local area. It has a wide variety of shops and local restaurants where one can explore the delights of traditional Thai culture and cuisine. 

Klong Muang, set to the west of Ao Nang, has a more peaceful atmosphere and prides itself on its tranquil beaches with magnificent views over the sea. Railay, a picturesque peninsula south of Ao Nang, is only accessible by boat as vast hills separate it from the mainland. The most beautiful yet imposing limestone formations take pride of place in Railay while still offering a more secluded location and brilliantly scenic golden sands.

Hua Hin is the best place to visit in Thailand if you’re looking for a beach break close to Bangkok. Just a few hours drive away, Hua Hin offers a wide range of shops, bars and restaurants, along with a lovely long beach and excellent gold courses. 

Tracing its roots back to the 1920’s when Thai royalty built their summer residences here, Hua Hin is Thailand’s original beach destination and remains popular to this day. With a host of excellent accommodation and being only a short journey from Bangkok it is no surprise Hua Hin is the resort of choice for international and domestic tourists alike.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Thailand Holidays pages.