Thailand is a quintessential travel destination in Southeast Asia. With its offer of breathtaking bays, limestone seaside cliffs, and rich mangrove forests, Thailand’s nature transports its visitors to a world of untouched beauty. Whether you intend to explore this country’s hidden gems or dive into the urban culture of its tourist hotspots.
Here are the top 10 destinations to visit in Thailand in 2024
1. Bangkok
One of the places you cannot miss in Thailand is Bangkok. A carefree atmosphere awaits in Thailand’s capital, a bustling megacity known for its vibrant nightlife and historic temples. A visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, also known as ‘The temple of the Reclining Buddha’, is a must for anyone who wants to see the largest collection of Buddhist art together with a giant gilded Buddha statue. Stroll along the banks of the Chao Phraya River to try out Bangkok’s famous floating markets — you will find an abundance of items from fresh produce to hand-made street food.
Bangkok is the perfect starting point for a journey in Thailand. With two international airports serving the Bangkok region, getting to the capital is a breeze. The city offers luxury and affordable accommodation for all travellers, so you can explore its historic core and its modern bars and restaurants.
2. Chiang Mai
Culture and tradition meet lush jungles and hilltops in Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’, Chiang Mai. The 700-year old city is brimming with Buddhist temples, street markets, and lush nature. Just a short drive away, you will find the Queen Sirikit Botanical garden — a conservation centre with a stunning skywalk offering views of the surrounding rainforests. Chiang Mai is the ultimate destination for trekking enthusiasts who want to climb Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand. Backpacking in Thailand will show you around stunning waterfalls, terraced rice fields, and hill tribe villages.
There is nothing better than savouring Chiang Mai’s urban charm when you are done exploring the Thai countryside. Get treats and handicrafts from the Chiang Mai night bazaar or go for a traditional northern speciality such as Khao Soy and Tom Sam salad. Open-air and live music venues are quite popular, especially on the banks of the Ping River.
3. Koh Samui
When you think of places to visit in Thailand, you’ll probably first think of its gorgeous beaches. Koh Samui is what we think of when we hear ‘luxury retreat’ — turquoise beaches fringed by palm groves, world-class massages, and hideaway jungle spots. With endless possibilities, you can go for a day trip to Angthong Marine Park, light a lantern in the evenings, or sip some locally made Magic Alambic rum by the pool. There is no better place to experience the variety of Thai cuisine, from coconut Pad Tai to freshly caught sea delicacies. Get an adrenaline fix with some scuba diving, surfing, or a jet ski ride, as there are plenty of affordable water sports providers on the island.
4. Phuket
With its unique history and colourful architecture, Phuket is well worth a visit. The mountainous island is a favourite destination for hiking and nature observation. It’s a hotspot for egg-laying turtles, especially on Nai Yang Beach. Leisure and nightlife can be found on Patong beach, which is one of the most popular tourist spots. History and architecture buffs will love Old Phuket town, where you can marvel at the Sino-Portuguese-style of the buildings. Other fun activities include going for a day trip to the Phi Phi islands or paying a visit to the Thalang National Museum.
Read Also: Best time to visit Phuket
5. Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is a paradise of culture and history nestled in the North of Thailand. Taking a walk around the Old City will take your breath away. There are dozens of spectacular temples to see. We recommend the White and Blue temples as well as Wat Huai Pla Kang, which is home to a large white Buddha statue. Head up Doi Tung mountain to see the numerous flower species at Mae Fah Luang Garden and get a chance to fly with a hot air balloon. Late night shopping is a must when you are in Chiang Rai. Thanks to the Night Bazaar, you will be able to eat Thai food while watching performances by local dancers.
6. Hua Hin
A lesser known place to visit in Thailand, Hua Hin is one of the better places to relax. Just two hours away from Bangkok, Hua Hin has historically been a favourite holiday spot of the Thai royal family. Klai Kangwon means “far from worry” and is the name of the royal summer palace built by King Rama IX. Dinning at one of Hua Hin’s stilted seafood restaurants is just as essential as watching the sunrise from the 4km long white sandy beach. You can also journey through rolling hills and pineapple plantations to see the scenic Pa La-u Waterfall, which has 16 tiers.
7. Koh Phi Phi Islands
The Koh Phi Phi islands are famous for their turquoise water bays and limestone cliffs. They are the perfect destination for snorkelling and diving, thanks to the abundance of hidden lagoons and coral gardens that can be reached by boat. Here, you can lounge on the beautiful Monkey Beach, go rock climbing, or take a hike to Phi Phi viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Andaman Sea. Another fun day trip idea is to go to Bamboo Island, home to Hin Klang — a beautiful coral garden popular among divers.
8. Krabi
Read Also: Best time to visit Krabi
Krabi’s landscape seems to be straight out of a fantasy novel — overhanging limestone cliffs guard azure bays framed by white sandy beaches. Touring the nearby islands on a wooden long-tail boat is a must. We recommend paying a visit to the secluded Hong Islands, where you can swim in limestone water caves and spot several species of birds and white-faced gibbons. Krabi is also famous for its Tiger Cave Temple sat atop a staircase with 1237 steps. The Golden Buddha statue and the intricate architecture of the temple are well worth the hike. Don’t forget to stop by Railay Beach to marvel at the karst rocks emerging from the emerald sea.
9. Khao Lak
Escape from the tourist hotspots and immerse yourself in a truly local atmosphere. Khao Lak is a favourite among holiday-goers who want a laid-back experience. Snorkelling and diving are popular here, thanks to the close proximity of the Surin Islands and the Similan Islands. There, you might spot several marine life species such as hawksbill turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks. Khao Lak is also close to Khao Sok National Park, which houses ancient rainforests and elephant sanctuaries.
10. Pattaya
Pattaya is home to some of Thailand’s best entertainment, thanks to its famous cabaret venues, gogo bars, massage parlours, and annual festivals. A night of fun is best followed by a day basking in the sun at Pattaya beach. If you prefer going for a day trip in nature, we recommend you visit Nong Nooch Tropical Garden — a botanical conservation project with a special focus on Cycad species. To finish off, head to Phra Tamnak hill to see the 59ft. tall golden Buddha statue in the Wat Phra Yai temple or take a breather at one of the numerous viewpoints overlooking Pattaya city and its bay.
There are so many places to visit in Thailand that a single holiday is simply not enough. With tasty local cuisine at affordable prices and many fun activities such as hiking, diving, and kayaking, you are bound to have a good time wherever you go.
Read Also:
ATOL certificate
🕊🌼🕊