From the temples and street food to the pristine beaches and luxury hotels, holiday destinations in Thailand are some of the best in the world.
Below are some popular destinations, but also some that are more off the beaten track and around the North.
Don't forget to check the Planes, Trains and Automobiles page to first out the best way to travel around Thailand.
Mixed in with the religious landmarks, Bangkok is one of the world’s most hectic capitals. Bangkok is a strobe-like city, where motorways have 12 lanes, markets have upward of 15,000 stalls, and restaurants are so concentrated, you’ll never be more than 50 metres away from one.
Phuket province is located in southern Thailand. It is the biggest Island in Thailand and sits on the Andaman sea. Being a big Island, Phuket has many magnificent Beaches such as Rawai, Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata Yai, Kata Noi, and Mai Khao. Laem Phromthep viewpoint is said to feature the most beautiful sunsets in Thailand. It isn’t all just Beaches though, there is also fantastic classical architecture, a very welcoming atmosphere and the famous Phuket NIGHTLIFE.
The Gulf of Thailand is home to hundreds of beautiful islands, there is just so much choice, with each island having different highlights and a different vibe. Here are a few examples:
Koh Samui: Big Island with luxury hotels and cheaper accommodation. Loads of beautiful beaches.
Koh Phan Ngan: Known for the full moon party, Koh Phan Ngan is so much more, spectacularly beautiful.
Koh Samet: Only 3 hours from Bangkok, this island has some of the best beaches and clearest water in Thailand.
Koh Tao: Known for diving, this small island is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.
Koh Chang: The biggest island in the gulf of Thailand, it is less touristy as it is more difficult to get to and is close to Koh Mak and Koh Kood, 2 of the most spectacular islands in Thailand.
A visit to Pattaya is a wonderful way to explore the beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. Relaxed and family-friendly Jomtien Beach is a hot spot for watersports and seaside massages. The giant Buddha of Wat Khao Phra Bat keeps watch over the city, and the wooden Wang Boran Sanctuary of Truth pays homage to Buddhist and Hindu art and architecture. At night, tons of bars and strip clubs attract an adults-only crowd. Pattaya has all the things to do like a big city (Great Golf Courses, Shopping Centres, Restaurants), but it is by the beach.
A favorite getaway for Bangkok residents, Hua Hin is a pretty beachside town. Family friendly and relaxed, it lacks the all-night partying and seedier aspects that make other nearby beach resorts a haven for unsavory characters. Once a small fishing village, it was transformed into a royal resort, and it’s these close links with Thai royalty that ensure Hua Hin won’t become overdeveloped or lose its small-town vibe.
A short trip from Phuket you have:
Phang Nga Bay can be found in the Strait of Malacca. This Thailand paradise is located between Malay Peninsula’s mainland and Phuket. Beautiful views surround the area, and it beckons visitors to come explore further. Here you will discover native wildlife, unspoiled rivers, and some of the most intriguing caves around.
Krabi: Krabi is famous for its scenic views and breathtaking Beaches and Islands. With attractions including hot springs, a wildlife sanctuary, sea caves, flourishing coral reefs and exotic marine life, limestone cliffs that draw rock climbing enthusiasts from around the world, and national parks that include the Island paradises of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
Khao Lak: Just 80 kilometers north of Phuket, Khao Lak was essentially erased by the 2004 tsunami. But the town, and the tourist industry it relies on, has rebounded. It remains quieter than other coastal destinations, offering secluded beaches, tranquil nights and family-oriented activities.
Some less touristy, more unspoilt places to visit. Shhh! Don't tell anyone: We have not included any information, you'll have to find out for yourself!
Koh Yao Noi
Koh Lipe
Koh Phayam
Koh Kradan
Kanchanaburi
Similan Islands
Mae Hong Son
Chiang Dao