Best Places to Visit in Thailand

Have you been considering the best places to visit in Thailand? Let’s explore this question further and see what we can find.

Thailand is a rich and varied nation, offering everything from big-city life in Bangkok to smaller, more quaint cities like Chiang Mai, to lush islands, such as Koh Samet and Koh Phi Phi.

There is no doubt that Thailand should be on your itinerary and that will become obvious when you see what this nation has to offer. Following is my recommended itinerary for the best places to visit in Thailand for your first trip to this charming country.

Your first stop will most likely be Bangkok, the capital and by far largest city in Thailand. This is where the main port of entry, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, is. From here, you can fly to many of the other best places to visit in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, the largest of the Thai islands.

Bangkok, Capital City and Cultural Hub of Thailand

But let’s start with the best things to do in Bangkok itself. I have always said that Bangkok can be anything that you want it to be. It’s so much more than just a giant sex show. Yes, there IS that! No doubt, and if that’s what you’re looking for, you will easily find it in Bangkok.

But there is so much more to this city and Bangkok has many other things to offer, such as some of the most beautiful temples, the most outstanding dining, and the best shopping anywhere in Asia.

Bangkok is one of the Best places to visit in Thailand, so let’s what what this awesome city has to do.

Visit the Grand Palace Bangkok

One thing not to be missed is the Grand Palace. Visiting this magnificent complex is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. This is the historical home of the royal family of Thailand. Today, however, it’s more of a museum than a residence.

It is still used for state functions as well as for the most opulent of ceremonies, such as the coronation of the current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, in May 2019.

Interestingly, the Royal Family has not lived in the palace complex since 1932, when the absolute monarchy of Thailand was abolished. Their official residence is currently Dusit Palace, located near the Victory Monument in Bangkok. The Grand Palace Bangkok is, however, still a working palace, and many royal offices are still housed there.

You will be amazed at the splendor of the buildings within the palace complex. Be sure to see the throne room, where royal coronations take place.

A true treasure within the complex is the Temple of the Jade Buddha. This Buddha statue is considered to be one of the most sacred religious objects within Thailand and it’s a true sight to behold. Admission to the palace, which is currently 500 baht, includes admission to the temple.

It’s fine to take photos in and around the temple, but be sure to do so in a quiet and respectful manner. Also, loud talking and laughing inside the temple is considered very rude by the Thai people.

Wat Pho Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Also, while at the palace, be sure to see the Temple of the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. It’s only a ten-minute walk from the palace. There is a separate fee (200 baht as of this writing) to enter the wat. But the Reclining Buddha is one of the most famous Buddha images in Thailand, so it’s definitely worth seeing.

Wat Pho has the distinction of being one of the oldest and largest temples in Thailand. Built in 1848, it is considered to be among the “highest grade of the first-class royal temples.” It was built even before Bangkok was Thailand’s capital.

In addition to serving as a major temple in Bangkok, there is also what is arguably Thailand’s most famous and respected school of Thai massage and traditional medicine.

It houses the largest Buddha statue in all of Thailand. The statue of the Reclining Buddha is 150 feet (46 meters) long and 45 feet (15 meters) high. It’s completely covered in gold leaf.

In addition to serving as a major temple in Bangkok, there is also what is arguably Thailand’s most famous and respected school of Thai massage and traditional medicine. You can get a great Thai massage there for 420 baht (US$13.75), not the cheapest place in town, but definitely one of the best!

If you are really feeling adventurous, you can even take a course in basic Thai massage for 12,000 baht (US$393).

Getting to the Grand Palace Bangkok and Wat Phra Kaew

The Skytrain and metro trains do not go anywhere near the Grand Palace Bangkok. You can take a taxi, but be cautious when taking a taxi in Bangkok. Insist that they run their meter, which they are supposed to do by law, and don’t go for the “set price.” It’s always always much more expensive than what a meters ride would cost.

If you would like to get around like the locals do, you’ll love going by combination Skytrain and Chao Phrya River Boat. It’s easy if you just do the following:

1. 1. Take the Silom Line (Skytrain) to the Saphan Taksin station
   2. Take the exit from the station which will lead you directly to the boat dock. There is an information stand inside the station where you can ask for directions
   3. Just take the riverboat to the Tha Chang stop.
   4. From here, it is only about a 10-minute walk to the Grand Palace Bangkok

A Note About Proper Dress When Visiting Palaces and Pagodas

A strict dress code is enforced for visitors to sacred or culturally important venues, as they are considered to be Thailand’s cultural treasures. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves with an appropriate length, no tank tops.

Women must be similarly appropriately dressed. See-through clothes, bare shoulders, short skirts, or shorts that are too revealing are not permitted.

Visitors who are not properly attired will be asked to place a deposit and borrow clothing to cover up properly. This applies to all government buildings and sacred places throughout Thailand and even Southeast Asia in general.

Take in the Sights Along Silom Road

If you don’t feel you have gotten enough walking in at the Grand Palace, head over to the Silom Road area and take in the near-constant buzz of activity that goes on there day and night. The best way to get there is to take the Skytrain Silom line to the Sala Dang station. You will be right in the thick of the action when you exit the station.

You can entertain yourself for hours just by walking along the road and seeing the daily life that unfolds there. There is no shortage great places to eat, shop, or have a traditional Thai massage or a relaxing foot massage, all for a reasonable price.

The Silom area is among the best in the city for sampling the excellent Thai street food that even the most demanding foodies often rave about. In fact, one of my favorites is is on Surawong Road, which parallels Silom Road, not far off Rama IV, just down from the Jim Thompson silk shop.

If you’re looking for higher end dining, well, the Silom area offers that too. You can dine in any of the restaurants near the Sala Daeng Skytrain station or at the Mango Tree, down an active alleyway known as Soi Than Tawan off Surawong Road.

The Silom area is among the best in the city for sampling the excellent Thai street food that even the most demanding foodies often rave about.

Silom Road is home to the (in)famous Patpong Night Market, which does sell all sorts of gifts and souvenirs, but is right in the middle of Bangkok’s most well-known red-light district.

Finally, if you are into shopping, Bangkok will offer you unlimited choices for both bargain items as well as the highest end luxury products.

Visit Bangkok’s Chinatown

If you’re looking for a vibrant and colorful cultural experience, you can’t miss visiting Chinatown in Bangkok, Thailand. Also known as Yaowarat, this bustling neighborhood is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the world.

As you walk down the main street, you’ll be surrounded by traditional Chinese architecture, street vendors selling exotic fruits and snacks, and the enticing aroma of freshly cooked seafood.

Be sure to try some of the famous street food like crispy pork belly or steaming hot dumplings. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sample some exotic dishes like deep-fried insects.

Chinatown is also home to several Chinese temples, including the Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, which is known for its elaborate decorations and colorful dragons. You can join locals in burning incense and offering prayers to the gods.

Be sure to try some of the famous street food like crispy pork belly or steaming hot dumplings. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sample some exotic dishes like deep-fried insects.

At night, the neighborhood comes alive with neon lights and bustling night markets. You can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and electronics at bargain prices.

Chinatown is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique culture and cuisine of Bangkok. Don’t forget to bring your appetite and your bargaining skills!

Head North to Charming Chiang Mai

In my opinion, the second of all the best places to visit in Thailand would be Chiang Mai, located in the northern part of Thailand. Chiang Mai is a smaller, more traditional, and more charming city, where you can just wonder the streets, visit some unique temples, and experience the famous Night Bazaar.

One of my favorite places to visit in Chiang Mai is Wat Chedi Luang, a unique and interesting ancient temple right within the city. It’s amazing that such a structure exists here. In fact, it’s within walking distance of many parts of the city. There is no admission fee to enter the temple. This truly is a national treasure of Thailand.

There is, however, another pagoda I highly recommend, though it is a bit of a ride to get to. But it’s worth the effort. It’s the magnificent Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which sits on top of a hill. From the top, you can get a stunning view of the valleys below.

I would recommend that you book a tour through your hotel or through a travel agent in the city. We booked a private driver and it was well worth the cost.

If you have a bit more time, you can visit a traditional Karen tribal village. It’s a fascinating place to see and will be a memorable cultural experience for you.

Breathe Free in Doi Inthanon National Park

If you’re a nature lover and are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you must visit Doi Inthanon Park in Thailand. Located in Chiang Mai province, this national park is home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon, which stands at 2,565 meters above sea level.

As you enter the park, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the mountain range. The park is home to several hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that will take you through the forest and up to the summit of Doi Inthanon.

Don’t forget to visit the nearby pagodas, which are dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand, and learn about the local culture and history.

Along the way, you’ll encounter exotic flora and fauna, including the rare bird species that can only be found in this region.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and a cool breeze that will refresh your senses. Don’t forget to visit the nearby pagodas, which are dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand, and learn about the local culture and history.

Doi Inthanon Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Thailand’s mountainous regions. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual nature lover, you’ll find something to love about this park.

Shop at the Famed Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Finally, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a must-see. It is located at the intersection of Chang Khlan Road and Loi Khro Road but expands out for blocks in either direction. The market offers a wide array of local handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

As you enter the market, the bright lights and lively atmosphere will immediately grab your attention. You’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of vendors selling their wares, bargaining with customers, and cooking up delicious street food.

As you wander through the stalls, you’ll find yourself drawn to the unique handicrafts and traditional Thai clothing. From intricately woven scarves and bags to hand-carved wooden statues, there’s something for everyone at the Night Bazaar.

But it’s not just the shopping that makes the Night Bazaar such a great experience. You’ll also be treated to live music, street performers, and an overall vibrant atmosphere. Make sure to stop by one of the many food stalls and try some of the delicious local cuisine.

As you enter the market, the bright lights and lively atmosphere will immediately grab your attention. You’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of vendors selling their wares, bargaining with customers, and cooking up delicious street food.

If you’re looking for a fun and authentic Thai experience, the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai is the place to be. So grab your friends and get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful and lively culture of northern Thailand.

The market opens just around sunset (about 6:00 pm) and runs until about 10:30 pm, though some vendors remain open well after that time. There are so many products for sale that you can find a gift for yourself or for someone back home.

I explore in much more detail some of the top things to do in Chiang Mai in another post.

Don’t Miss the Beautiful Thai Islands

To round out your itinerary for the best places to visit in Thailand, be sure to include some of the beautiful islands in your itinerary. There are many to choose from and each has its own attractions.

Koh Samet

For example, if you just want a quick getaway to one of the closer islands, then Koh Samet would be a good choice. This small island is only about a 3.5-hour journey from Bangkok, mainly by bus from the station near the Ekkamai Skytrain station to the ferry / speedboat terminal on the coast.

From there, you can take either a ferry (about a 45-minute ride) or a speedboat (only 20 minutes) to the island. The island has some scenic, clean beaches and plenty of hotels to choose from. It’s a small island, so there is nothing approaching a city feel. But you can take a nice walk along the shore, stop off for a decent seafood meal, and enjoy the sunset.

For a little more action, you can also rent either a bicycle or a motorbike and give yourself a tour around the island. It’s very hard to get lost, as the main road on the island just goes around in a big circle.

It’s very scenic, so be sure to take your camera.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is among the largest of the Thai islands and there are daily flights from Bangkok to get you there. As this island is so spacious, I highly recommend that you decide which beach you would like to stay on before you arrive.

I chose Chaweng, which is arguably the most popular, as it is the one closest to the airport. If there were a “main part” of the island, Chaweng would have to be it.
Chaweng offers the most options for accommodation of anywhere on the island and is also the best venue if you enjoy the nightlife.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants catering to every taste as well as a good selection of pubs and cafes.

If you’re looking for quieter options, I would recommend Lamai Beach, which is similar to Chaweng in some ways, but is less crowded. Chaoeng Mon is also a good option, as it is close to Chaweng, but is much more laid back, with less traffic and no loud party scene.

Koh Phi Phi

Finally, Koh Phi Phi, though a little further to get to from Bangkok, is well worth the time and effort. It is one of the most scenic islands and has a great selection of the beautiful limestone cliffs that are icons of Thai islands.

The primary route of arrival for Koh Phi Phi is from Phuket, Thailand’s largest island. You can fly from Bangkok to Phuket by commercial jet and then take one of the many ferries that depart for Koh Phi Phi.

When planning a visit to Koh Phi Phi, it is important to carefully choose where you would like to stay. This is a small island, with no cars or motorbikes. Walking and boating are the only two ways to get around.

Also, some beaches are very loud and party-centered, even well past midnight, with thumping music piercing the air.

Your arrival on the island will be at Tonsai Bay, the main hub on the island. This is where all ferries from Phuket come and go, as well as from which tour and diving boats launch. If you like a lot of activity, and enjoy the boisterous party scene, then this area is for you. If not, I would avoid it at all costs.

Some beaches are only accessible by a long-tail boat from Tonsai Bay, but these are less touristy and definitely quieter.

For example, a much quieter option than Tonsai Bay is Phak Nam Bay, which is on the east coast of Phi Phi. It is a quaint beach that is home to a small fishing village. Whereas you can get here by foot, it’s a bit of a hike across a rocky hill. I would highly recommend taking a long-tail boat.

There is really only one resort on Phak Nam Bay, but if you are looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place for you!

Best Months to Visit Thailand

When planning your trip to Thailand, or just about anywhere really, it’s a good idea to try to visit during months when the weather will make for a more pleasant experience.

Thailand is certainly no exception. As in most countries, there are months in Thailand when the weather can be post-card perfect. Then there are some when you will get rained on every day.

My best recommendation as for the best months to visit Thailand are any time from October through March. By October, the hectic summer tourist season is over, so things slow down, and quiet down, a bit.

In addition, these are the driest months, so you won’t have to deal with the torrential downpours that Thailand experiences almost daily during the rainy season.

This is not to say that you would not enjoy a visit to Thailand during other months, but, if you have any control over when your visit will be, you are much more likely to enjoy Thailand’s weather during the best months to visit Thailand, from October through March.

I hope my recommendations for the best places to visit in Thailand will prove helpful to you. If you enjoyed this post and find the information beneficial, you may enjoy my book on Southeast Asia travel. It’s available on Amazon and the eBook is only $3.99.