Thailand is an amazing and fascinating country with something for everyone. From the astonishing skyscrapers of the chaotic capital Bangkok to the stunning temples of Chiang Mai and Incredible historical of Nong Khai, combined with year-round great weather, delicious food and friendly locals, you can’t fail to have the trip of a lifetime.
While some of the best cities in Thailand are worth visiting in their own right, others act as gateways to astounding natural sights with beautiful beaches, idyllic islands and magnificent scenery lying nearby.
1.Bangkok
One of the most popular places to visit in the whole of Southeast Asia, Thailand´s capital is a remarkable city with so much to see and do. With skyscrapers dominating the skyline, expansive markets spreading through the streets and a plethora of glimmering shrines and temples dotted about; it’s easy to see why so many people head here.
The Grand Palace is a must-see in this thriving city as is the impressive temple of Wat Pho with its giant Reclining Buddha. On top of all this Bangkok has a bustling nightlife and sumptuous Thai cuisine which helps attract travelers; many of whom who head to Khao San Road which is the center of the tourist area.
2. Chiang Mai
With over 300 temples in the city; there are loads of cool places to discover! Chiang Mai is called Thailand’s “Rose of the North” , and is a second-largest city in Thailand. It has slower pace of life, beautiful scenery and temples, as well as bustling night markets as old and new seamlessly mix together.
The main draw here is its quaint old town in the center of the city with peaceful narrow lanes to wander and explore. The most famous temple Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep lies just outside the city on a hilltop overlooking Chiang Mai – head here for a fantastic view.
3. Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is located in the far north of the country and is most famous for the jaw-droppingly beautiful White Temple that shines so brightly in the midday sun. Incredible to behold, the temple really needs to be seen to be believed with its unique features and dazzling architecture.
The best thing to see Chiang Rai is the Hall of Opium which is a great museum that explains the role of the drug in the area´s local history and the world in general. Afterwards, head to the lovely Khun Korn waterfall to refresh and revitalise yourself for the rest of your trip!
4. Ayutthaya
Not far from Bangkok lies the historic Ayutthaya; once the largest city in the world back in 1700! Although much of the city was destroyed, the incredible remains and ruins hint at Autthaya´s glorious past.
Exploring the ancient sites such as the stunning Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the awe-inspiring Wat Phu Khao Thong is a mesmerising experience and, after having had your fill of the plethora of historical sites; head to the floating market in the city. Here you can take in the delights of the market by boat, floating around peacefully.
5. Kanchanaburi
Located on the banks of the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai rivers, the city is primarily known for the Bridge over the River Kwai – the Death Railway that horrifically transported so many people to their deaths in World War Two.
The city offers a range of delightful diversions, whether bamboo rafting journeys along the River Kwae, Khmer temple ruins tour, or a day out shopping at the gemstone village. The scenic riverside area sets the stage for a leisurely stroll but can also become loud at night due to music from karaoke bars and discos.
6. Pattaya
Pattaya is always switched on and fun. Pattaya’s beaches are constantly brimming with life, as water sports lovers and sun worshippers take to the waters. After dark, the action shifts to the streets, as revellers explore its electrified nightlife scene, where drinking and partying continue until dawn.
Despite its reputation, local authorities have attempted to clean up its image and there are now a wide range of watersports, shopping centers and entertainment facilities on offer. Remarkably this has seemed to work quite well and a different type of tourist is now visiting Pattaya although the sex scene is still the primary draw – for now.
7. Nakhon Ratchasima
Commonly referred to as Korat, this large and lively city has expansive markets and street stalls to wander around yet little in the way of actual tourist attractions. Consequently, many visitors to the city use it as a base from which to explore sights such as the nearby Khao Yai National Park.
Home to Asian elephants, monitor lizards, gibbons and more, the stunning scenery and extensive hiking trails are delightful and this alone makes Korat worth a visit. The nearby Phimai ruins (reminiscent of Angkor Wat) are also magnificent and in the city itself the beautiful Wat Phra Narai Maharat is one of the more popular places to visit.
8. Sukhothai
Formerly the capital of Siam, Sukhothai has a wealth of historical sites lying on its doorstep just waiting to be explored. While the city itself does not have much to see or do, it´s a laidback place from which to explore the incredible ruins and archaeological sites that you can find in the nearby Sukhothai Historical Park.
A UNESCO World Heritage City, Sukhothai houses a vast number of historical sites and temple ruins. As the first capital of Siam, the Sukhothai Kingdom was the cradle of Thai civilisation – the birthplace of Thai art, architecture and language.
Due to its location, Sukhothai sees a smaller number of visitors than its more popular counterpart Ayutthaya. Sukhothai’s historical sites, however, are by no means less splendid. Most historically significant temple ruins are housed inside the Sukhothai Historical Park and nearby Si Satchanalai Historical Park. Apart from visiting the historical sites, Sukhothai itself is a quiet rural city where you can still relish the charms of Thailand’s rustic lifestyle.
9. Hua Hin
Hua Hin, Cha-Am, Pranburi and Khao Takiab are located only a short distance from Bangkok, and are ideal locations for a short respite from the rigours of the Thai capital or even a full-fledged holiday in the tropical sun. It’s been a fashionable weekend retreat for Royalty and high society since the 1920s, and the same appeal it had back then is still evident today.
Hua Hin is a relaxing place to spend some time and there are a number of nice waterfalls and caves nearby that are worth exploring. Not far away too is Khao Takiab hill which has a great view over the city as well as beautiful temples and shrines for visitors to revel in. Perfect to watch the sun go down.
10. Surat Thani
Lying on the coast facing the Gulf of Thailand, many visitors travel to Surat Thani to get to the beautiful islands that lie not far away. Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are the most popular places to head to while Ang Thong National Marine Park is another great destination.
While these places are the primary reason that people visit Surat Thani, its numerous bustling night markets and authentic feel make it a great place to stop off before venturing onwards to more touristic destinations.
11. Nong Khai
Due to its close proximity to Vientiane, most people stop off here before heading on to neighbouring Laos. Visitors are usually pleasantly surprised to discover however that Nong Khai is a nice city to visit in its own right. Set on the banks of the Mekong River and with welcoming locals, a wide array of interesting local festivals and its own cultural identity; it’s the perfect place to learn about another side of Thailand.
The most famous attraction is Sala Kaew Ku – an incredible sculpture park that has huge statues of Buddha, Vishnu and Shiva contained within its confines. With great views out over the river and the usual stunning temples to boot; Nong Khai is a picturesque and peaceful place to visit – apart from during the festivals!
12. Chanthaburi
The beautiful countryside and diverse landscapes surrounding Chanthaburi make this city a popular place to visit with nature lovers. From here it is possible to undertake treks to the lovely waterfalls and forests in its proximity and many people head to Namtokphlio National Park which has verdant fauna and flora and a mountainous topography. The city is also a gateway for travelers heading to the stunning island of Koh Chang – one of the most beautiful island in the whole of Thailand.
13. Surin
Despite its small stature, the city of Surin surely punches above its weight when it comes to things to see and do. Breathtaking Khmer ruins dot the region and Prasat Ta Meuan is the best of the lot with its stunning dilapidated ruins threatening to be overrun by the jungle around it.
The yearly Elephant Roundup is what it is primarily known for; here, elephants take to the streets and play football and act out battle reenactments among other things.
14. Ubon Ratchathani
Lying on the banks of the Mun River, Ubon has a number of nice temples that are worth a visit, with the distinctive Wat Nong Bua being a particular highlight. The best time of year to visit is during July when the city holds its mesmerising Candle Festival.
Monks retreat to their temples for the three months prior to this and at the end of the period there is a procession with giant candles to Thung Si Muang Park in the centre of Ubon. It’s really cool to see and in October there is another festival this time involving boats with many candles on them!
15. Krabi Town
Krabi is the perfect holiday destination for those looking for a relaxing area in southern Thailand. The province, located between Phang Nga and Trang, features stunning scenery both inland and at sea. With over 150 islands off its 150km-long coast line, a jungle-covered interior, towering limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls and exotic wildlife, Krabi a great selection of natural assets that offer its visitors a wide array of leisure activities for the whole family. Island-hopping, snorkelling, rock climbing, sea kayaking, jungle trekking and scuba diving, are among the most popular occupations that can be enjoyed while on holiday in Krabi.
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