Things to see and do in Thailand
Attractions in Thailand
Ayutthaya
Once the flourishing capital of the Siamese kingdom, Ayutthaya is now an evocative landscape of temple spires and weathered Buddha statues. The ruins, set on an island surrounded by rivers, hint at the wealth and power of the former royal court. Highlights include Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, both atmospheric at sunrise or sunset. It is an easy and rewarding day trip from Bangkok.
Bangkok
Thailand's capital is a city of striking contrasts. Along the Chao Phraya River stand glittering temples, royal palaces and old wooden shophouses, while just beyond them rise modern towers, vast shopping centres and lively night markets. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew form the ceremonial heart of the city, while Wat Arun and Wat Pho offer riverside tranquillity. Bangkok's blend of tradition and modern life gives it an energy that is both intense and unforgettable.
Chiang Mai
Set in the foothills of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has a gentler rhythm than the capital. Its Old City is ringed by ancient walls and dotted with temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Nearby mountains provide a scenic backdrop, with Doi Suthep overlooking the city from above. Crafts villages, lively markets and cooking schools make it a favourite base for travellers seeking culture and calm.
Chiang Rai
Northern and more remote than Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai offers a mix of contemporary art and traditional culture. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a striking modern creation, while the Blue Temple and Black House Museum showcase the region's rich artistic flair. Hill country, tea plantations and small villages extend beyond the city, creating a landscape that feels both tranquil and varied.
Hat Yai and Songkhla
Hat Yai is southern Thailand's busiest commercial city, known for its lively markets, street food and easy links to Malaysia. Nearby Songkhla offers a calmer atmosphere, with a historic old town and sandy beaches stretching along the Gulf of Thailand. Visitors often pair the two, enjoying Hat Yai's bustle and shopping before exploring Songkhla's temples, museums and relaxed seaside charm.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is known for its poignant wartime history and scenic riverside setting. The Bridge over the River Kwai and the Thailand–Burma Railway Museum tell the story of the railway built during the Second World War. Beyond the historical sites, the province is home to waterfalls, national parks and quiet stretches of the River Kwai ideal for peaceful retreats.
Krabi
Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, Krabi serves as a gateway to some of Thailand's most photogenic landscapes. Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, offers soaring cliffs and sheltered coves, while Ao Nang provides a lively base for island-hopping. Inland, the emerald pools, hot springs and forest trails reveal a different side of the region.
Lopburi
Lopburi is famous for its resident monkeys, especially around the Khmer-era Prang Sam Yot temple where macaques roam freely. The town has an intriguing mix of ancient ruins and later Thai architecture, offering a glimpse into centuries of shifting kingdoms. Its compact centre makes exploration simple, and the annual Monkey Festival adds a quirky note to this historic destination.
National Parks
Thailand has over 100 national parks, ranging from dense rainforests and limestone mountains to offshore marine reserves. Some of the most popular parks include Khao Yai, a UNESCO-listed site known for its waterfalls and wildlife; Erawan, famous for its emerald-blue tiered pools; Doi Inthanon, home to Thailand's highest peak and cool mountain air; and Khao Sok, renowned for its ancient rainforest and the scenic Cheow Lan Lake. Along the coast, marine parks such as Mu Ko Similan and Mu Ko Surin offer some of the best snorkelling and diving in the region.
Pai
Tucked into the hills of Mae Hong Son province, Pai is a small town with a relaxed, bohemian feel. Surrounded by rice fields, waterfalls and mountain viewpoints, it attracts those looking for a slower pace. The nightly walking street brings together food stalls, cafés and handmade crafts, creating a cosy, village-like atmosphere.
Phang Nga and Ao Phang Nga National Park
Ao Phang Nga National Park is known for its towering limestone cliffs, calm green waters and tucked-away lagoons. The standout sight is Khao Phing Kan, often called James Bond Island, which draws visitors for its dramatic rock formations. Beyond this famous spot, the bay offers quiet mangrove channels and small fishing communities such as Koh Panyee. Phang Nga town makes a peaceful base for exploring the bay by long-tail boat.
Phuket
The country's largest island offers far more than beaches. On the west coast are lively resorts and long sweeps of sand, while the interior has forested hills and small local communities. Phuket Old Town, with its colourful Sino-Portuguese buildings and restored shophouses, reveals the island's trading past. Offshore, clear waters and dramatic rock formations make it a popular base for diving and boat trips.
Sukhothai
Sukhothai's Historical Park preserves the remnants of Thailand's first capital, founded in the 13th century. Spread across a spacious, park-like setting, its temples, lotus ponds and seated Buddhas convey a sense of quiet dignity. Cycling between the ruins is the best way to appreciate the artistry and symmetry of the early Thai kingdom.
Trang
Trang is a quieter province on the Andaman coast, known for its laid-back towns, limestone hills and uncrowded beaches. From the mainland, boats connect to islands such as Koh Mook and Koh Kradan, where clear water and soft sand create an easy, unhurried escape. Trang town has a friendly local feel, with morning markets, coffee shops and Sino-Portuguese buildings that hint at its trading past.
koh Samui
A tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui balances resort comfort with natural beauty. Palm-fringed beaches circle the coastline, while the inland hills hide waterfalls and coconut plantations. The Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai stands as a recognisable landmark, and the island's night markets and seafood restaurants add to its easy-going charm.
