Top 15 Things to see in Thailand

Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the most fascinating cities I have ever visited. I highly recommend taking a few days to explore its chaos, bustling streets, and rich history.

Must-see places include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is one of my favorite islands. It's the perfect size—not too big and not too small—and you can find everything you need there.

The island is also famous for the Full Moon Party, which takes place every month on Haad Rin Beach. This world-renowned event attracts thousands of visitors for an all-night celebration under the full moon.

If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to book everything in advance.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is the smallest island of the three, and it boasts some of the clearest water beaches.

If you want to learn how to dive, this is the best choice for you.

Koh Samui

It is a beautiful island in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its stunning beaches. It is the most touristy of the three islands, as it has an airport.

The most popular areas to stay are Chaweng Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, and Lamai Beach, which offers a more laid-back experience. Personally, I did not enjoy this island as much and preferred Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is a stunning destination in southern Thailand, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

I highly recommend booking a 2-day trip to fully experience the park. It’s challenging to visit without a tour, and spending a night in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake is an unforgettable experience.

The park, with its picturesque lakes, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush rainforests, feels like a dream.

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of its most popular tourist destinations. Located in the Andaman Sea, it offers a wealth of attractions to explore.

However, I was somewhat disappointed with the beaches, as the water wasn’t as clear as I had hoped.  You can take day trips to explore nearby island like the Similan Islands and James Bond Island.

On the other hand, visiting the Big Buddha—a massive 45-meter-tall statue—was one of the highlights of the island.

Krabi

Krabi is a province on Thailand’s southern Andaman Coast. If you’re planning a visit, I would recommend basing yourself in Ao Nang.

This area offers a lot to explore and provides access to numerous amazing tours to nearby islands.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a serene island located in southern Thailand, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning beaches.

If you’re planning a visit, I recommend staying on the west coast where you’ll find beautiful, uncrowded beaches and a variety of accommodations.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe feels like paradise on earth.

Although it's a bit challenging to reach, it's one of the most beautiful islands you can visit. While prices might be higher due to its distance from the mainland, the experience is definitely worth the extra cost and effort.

Additionally, if you’re heading to Malaysia, you can easily reach Langkawi from here.

Koh Phi Phi

I highly recommend spending a few nights on this beautiful island. While many visitors opt for a one-day tour, staying overnight allows you to fully experience its charm.

From Koh Phi Phi, you can easily take a day trip to visit the famous Maya Bay.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a captivating city in northern Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning temples.

Chiang Rai

Many people visit this small village primarily for the White Temple and the Blue Temple. While there may not be much else to see, these two temples are truly stunning and worth the trip. 

Pai

Pai is a small, peaceful town in northern Thailand, surrounded by beautiful mountains.

It’s known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and relaxed vibe, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.

Koh Chang

Located on the eastern side of Thailand, Koh Chang is a bit challenging to reach, as it requires a lengthy journey from Bangkok, often involving a 10-hour bus ride and multiple transfers.

However, the island's beautiful blue waters and lush forests make the trip well worth the effort.

Koh Kood

Koh Kood is located just south of Koh Chang and shares many of the same natural charms.