Thailand greets visitors with its white sand beaches, vibrant cities, and internationally recognized culinary traditions, all part of its distinctive and hospitable culture and centuries-long history. But you could be confused about where to go first—to South Africa—after seeing everything Thailand has to offer. To choose the top destinations in Thailand, News took into account factors including cuisine selections, seasonality, and attractions. Do you have a favorite? To help choose the list for next year, cast your vote below.
Chiang Mai
Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai is a pleasant escape from Bangkok’s bustle. Beautiful highland scenery and an Old City teeming with antique temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang await you here. For expansive views of the city below, venture outside to the Doi Suthep temple. Plan ahead for the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, one of Thailand’s oldest and most renowned night bazaars, since night markets are also a must-see in Chiang Mai. In any case, schedule time to visit Elephant Nature Park so you may unwind with Thailand’s kind giants.
Bangkok
The capital city of Thailand is an incredible place to visit. In addition to ancient monuments like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace, the city offers a healthy dose of big-city hustle and bustle and contemporary sights like the Jim Thompson House. When visiting places of worship, remember to bring modest attire; else, you won’t be allowed entry. Eat at some of Bangkok’s more than 300,000 street food vendors (some of which are Michelin starred) and visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the biggest street markets in the world, while you’re here. Explore the rooftop bar scene at night to enjoy the skyline.
Ko Samui
The island of Ko Samui, which is home to five-star resorts, a vibrant nightlife, and some of Thailand’s most stunning beaches, offers something for everyone. Enjoy a deluxe spa treatment, go to an elephant sanctuary, or see historic temples like Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai, also called the Big Buddha Temple, when you’re not relaxing on the white sand. Plan a day trip to the adjacent 42-island archipelago of Ang Thong Marine Park, which is reachable by speedboat. Visitors can scuba dive, kayak, and snorkel here.
Phuket
Visitors to Phuket, an island in southwest Thailand, are greeted by pristine white sands, azure waters, and limestone cliffs. This island is a little slice of heaven, surrounded by the Andaman Sea, and is only an hour’s flight from Bangkok. Everything about it, from lodging to spa services and boat cruises, is reasonably priced. In addition to its tropical charm, Phuket attracts tourists who wish to sample its rich culture, which is greatly influenced by Buddhism, the predominant religion there, and its delectable food (think lemongrass, lime leaves, and chillies).
Phang Nga
Despite the devastation caused by the 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean, Phang Nga has recovered and rebuilt. Tourists flock to the province to explore protected regions like Mu Ko Surin National Park, one of Thailand’s top diving destinations, during the cool (but still hot) dry season, which runs from November to February. Exploring and taking in the natural beauty of southern Thailand is also made possible by hiking and diving. Remember to allow time before departing for a visit to Ao Phang-Nga National Park, which is well-known for its emerald-green waterways, caves, and the charming James Bond Island.
Trang
Trang is becoming a popular tourism destination because of its beautiful islands and remote beaches. The beaches’ white sands and pristine seas create a stunning contrast to the surrounding scenery, which include thick jungles and limestone mountains. To see and experience everything that Trang has to offer, you may spend days island hopping. Snorkeling near Ko Kradan, swimming to a secret beach cave on Ko Muk, and exploring the Thung Khai Botanical Garden are some of the best things to do. Once you’ve had enough of the sun and sand, visit one of Trang’s ten districts to experience Thai culture firsthand.
Railay Beach
You may dip your toes onto four gorgeous stretches of sand at Railay Beach. Two of the most well-liked beaches on the peninsula are Railay West and Phra Nang Beach, which provide opulent resorts, fine sand, and breathtaking views of limestone cliffs. Tonsai Beach’s quieter, more remote setting makes it more relaxed and affordable. While it’s not a fantastic place to swim, Railay East is home to some of the top nightlife spots in the area. Whichever beaches you decide to visit, you’ll have access to a variety of walking trails, coral reefs, and some of Thailand’s top rock climbing spots.
Chiang Rai
There are many reasons to travel to Chiang Rai, which lies in northern Thailand. Among the city’s most visited cultural sites are Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) and Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), but visitors should also make time for the amazing Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai’s famous all-white temple. After discovering the architectural marvels of Chiang Rai, take a boat ride on the Mae Kok River, browse at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, or visit the Baan Dam Museum, which is a collection of structures designed by artist Thawan Duchanee.
Ko Phi Phi
Ko Phi Phi features some of Thailand’s most popular beaches. Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands, is known for its lively party scene, hidden coves and deep coral reefs and gardens that are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is where you’ll find verdant cliffs surrounding Maya Bay’s beautiful beaches, which you may recognize from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie “The Beach.” The best time to visit is between November and April, though be prepared for hordes of other visitors during this time.
Kanchanaburi Province
Travelers are enthralled by the natural beauty of Thailand’s third-largest region. Hiking and rafting are made possible by its varied terrain, which includes everything from seven-tiered waterfalls, rivers, and mountains to Neolithic caves and national parks. However, a visit to some of the region’s World War II attractions, such as the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, would not be complete. At the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive exhibit that narrates the terrible tale of the construction of the Thailand-Burma Railway, you can begin your history education. After that, visit the JEATH War Museum to view a model of a POW camp.