Thailand is a top tourist spot in Southeast Asia, offering almost everything you could want: stunning beaches, lush jungles, delicious Thai cuisine, affordable beach bungalows, and luxurious hotels. The country caters to all tastes and budgets.
Known as the Land of Smiles, Thailand is a place where you can have unforgettable travel experiences. It’s a country that surely won’t let you down. Let’s explore the most popular attractions in Thailand!
Even if your main goal in Thailand is to relax on the beach, enjoy nature, ride elephants, and eat lots of traditional food, you should spend at least a day or two in Bangkok. The capital has plenty to offer, with the Grand Palace being a must-visit. This site, often referred to as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), is Thailand’s most important Buddhist temple. Its exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance make it an essential stop. Make sure to set aside a couple of hours to fully appreciate the Grand Palace.
Elephants hold a special place in Thai culture, and you’ll see their images and statues everywhere. Numerous camps and tour groups across the country offer day-long or extended visits where you can bathe elephants and trek through the jungle with them. For a more authentic experience, Khao Yai National Park is an excellent place to see elephants in their natural habitat, along with exotic birds, monkeys, and other tropical animals behaving naturally near waterfalls.
Floating markets near Bangkok, such as Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, are worth visiting. These markets are a fun way to shop and eat while watching local commerce in action. You’ll need to wake up early as vendors start the day at the crack of dawn, paddling their long wooden boats filled with fresh vegetables, fruits, and mouthwatering dishes.
Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Walking Street is a must-visit for those eager to try delicious, cheap food. You’ll find a variety of treats like crab cakes, pad Thai, samosas, chicken satay, fried bananas, and fresh fruit shakes—all usually costing less than $2 each. Besides food, there are hundreds of stalls selling unique goods. Expect crowds, as the market is busy every week, making it a quintessential part of the Thai experience.
The Old City of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Thailand’s rich history. Despite enduring centuries of conflict, the ruins remain impressive. It’s a fantastic spot for photographers and history buffs, offering countless photo opportunities.
Ayutthaya provides another glimpse into ancient Thailand. The ruins of this former capital are haunting yet romantic, showcasing old temples and palaces from Thailand’s golden age. You’ll also find remnants of foreign settlements, offering insights into historical international influences on Thailand.
Krabi province boasts some of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations, with Railay Beach being a standout. Here, you’ll find clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and a true sense of paradise. Railay also offers activities like rock climbing, white water rafting, snorkeling, elephant trekking, and kayaking. The Phi Phi Islands, located in Krabi, are another popular resort area. Phi Phi Don is inhabited, but you can take day trips to the surrounding islands. Monkey Beach on Koh Phi Phi is a fun spot where you can interact with monkeys, either by renting a kayak or hiring a guide with a small boat.
Thailand has a wealth of tours and activities, from food tours and elephant experiences to cooking classes and jungle adventures, ensuring every visitor finds something special to enjoy.