Best Places to See in Thailand

Bangkok

Temples, street food and lively atmosphere

Thailand’s capital is a natural starting point for your holiday, and it’s worth allowing for at least a couple of nights to stay here. Spend a morning exploring temples such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. Then, see a different side of Bangkok by taking a wander through the markets and food stalls of the city’s older neighbourhoods, and cruise along the Chao Phraya River in a long-tail boat.

There is plenty of history here, but Bangkok is also a modern, energetic city of rooftop bars, excellent restaurants and busy shopping districts. A few days gives you time to experience the contrast rather than simply ticking off the main sights, and Bangkok’s central position makes it easy to combine with destinations across the rest of Thailand.

And for a unique cultural experience, head slightly out of the city to Damnoen Saduk Floating Market, where you can drift along its canals as vendors sell local food, fresh produce and souvenirs from their boats.

Chiang Mai

Food, elephants and northern Thai culture

Surrounded by mountains in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai combines the character of an old Lanna city with an exciting food scene. The old city is home to a collection of historic temples and Doi Suthep is one of the area’s best-known sights,

But it’s worth allowing time to explore beyond the city itself. Head into the surrounding countryside for cooking experiences, markets, village visits and walks through the hills. Doi Inthanon National Park is home to Thailand’s highest peak and offers cooler temperatures, walking trails and waterfalls. And if you want a taste of local life, you we could arrange a stay with a local hill tribe.

The region is also known to ethical elephant conservation with a focus on rescue and long term care. Visit Elephant Nature Park to observe elephants living naturally, without riding or performances.

Chiang Mai is perfect for a slower-paced few days, as its walkable scale encourages unplanned discovery, and allows time for you to wander at your own pace.

Krabi

Limestone cliffs, islands and the Andaman Sea

Krabi is one of Thailand’s most visually distinctive beach destinations, thanks to the limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the Andaman Sea.

Rather than spending all your time on one beach, use Krabi as a base for exploring the coastline and nearby islands, with boat trips, snorkelling and kayaking all possible. Railay, accessible only by boat, is particularly striking, while the surrounding islands offer opportunities to spend a day on the water.

Krabi can be as active or as relaxed as you like. It is also a useful starting point for exploring nearby Koh Lanta if you want to swap the dramatic scenery for a quieter island stay.

Ayutthaya

Ancient temples and history

Just north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya makes an easy addition to a Thailand holiday for anyone interested in the country’s history. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the city is now home to the atmospheric ruins of ancient temples and palaces spread across the historic park.

You could explore by bicycle, tuk-tuk or with a private guide, stopping at some of the best-known temples before continuing your journey north. Rather than needing several nights, Ayutthaya can work particularly well as part of a longer route from Bangkok, giving you a chance to see another side of Thailand’s history without adding too much travel time to your itinerary.