Top 10 Travel Destination in Thailand

Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

1. Bangkok

As Thailand’s bustling capital, Bangkok offers a dynamic mix of ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, vibrant street markets, and world-class shopping malls. Don’t miss the iconic Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), and the lively Chatuchak Weekend Market.

For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

2. Chiang Mai

Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic temples, and picturesque landscapes. It’s a hub for trekking, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and experiencing the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

3. Phuket

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. Popular beaches include Patong, Kata, and Karon, and nearby islands like the Phi Phi Islands offer incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities.

No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand’s largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

4. Krabi

Krabi is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and serene beaches like Railay Beach and Ao Nang. It’s also a gateway to explore the Phi Phi Islands and Koh Lanta, perfect for adventurers and beach lovers alike.

5. Ayutthaya

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ayutthaya is an ancient city filled with fascinating ruins and historical temples. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, it’s an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those wanting to explore Thailand’s past.

Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

6. Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene.

For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio’s character went in search of an island paradise in the film “The Beach,” which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

7. Pai

Pai, a small town in northern Thailand, offers a laid-back vibe with scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and hot springs. It’s a great destination for travelers looking for a peaceful escape amidst nature, surrounded by mountains and rice fields.

Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

8. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is known for its palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts, and lively beach clubs. Highlights include the Big Buddha, Chaweng Beach, and Ang Thong National Marine Park for kayaking and snorkeling.

Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

9. Sukhothai

Sukhothai is another UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient ruins and temples dating back to the 13th century. Sukhothai Historical Park is a must-visit for those interested in Thai history and architecture.

Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. “Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are,” said Ekelund. “We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don’t have a city built up around it.”

10. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. “I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is,” said Ekelund. “It’s a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It’s a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange.”

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