Thinking about a vacation in Thailand and don’t know exactly where to go? In this guide “Thailand: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday” I’ll share the top spots to help you plan your trip. It’s no surprise! The Land of Smiles offers an incredible diversity of places and experiences – from bustling metropolises to sacred temples and pristine beaches with white sand and turquoise sea. Nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and those seeking relaxation will all find something to enjoy here.
Let’s explore together 20 of the most beautiful places you definitely shouldn’t miss on your trip to Thailand.
How many Days to Spend in Thailand
Thailand is diverse, and it depends on what you want to experience. For a first visit, two to three weeks are ideal – enough time to discover bustling Bangkok, relax on the beaches, and take nature trips.
If you’re planning just a quick taste of Thailand, 10 days are enough for a combination of city and sea. On the other hand, adventure lovers, divers, or digital nomads can stay here for months and still not get enough of Thailand.
💡You might be interested: How to ride a scooter in Asia
Where to Stay in Thailand
Thailand offers a wide range of accommodation for different types of travelers – from luxury resorts to stylish boutique hotels and cheap hostels for backpackers. The choice of accommodation depends on your destination and travel style.
While in Bangkok, hotels with panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River (for example Hotel Shangri-La) are appealing, on the islands you can enjoy beachfront bungalows. In the north of the country, for example in Chiang Mai, traditional wooden houses in nature like Khum Phaya Resort & Spa are popular.
When to Go to Thailand
The best time to travel is November to March, when it’s dry and temperatures are pleasant, around 30 °C. April and May are hot months, with temperatures climbing above 35 °C. From June to October comes the rainy season, which means fewer tourists and cheaper prices, but also the risk of showers and storms.
💡TIP: For booking transport in Southeast Asia, use 12GoAsia
Thailand: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday
We have compiled a list for you of 20 tips for the most beautiful places that Thailand offers.
Bangkok
The capital of Thailand is a fascinating mix of old and new, which will immediately captivate you with its energy and contrasts. On one side, you’ll find locals sitting on plastic stools at street food stalls for a few baht, while a few steps away, luxury skyscrapers and five-star hotels rise.
Don’t miss visiting the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew temple with the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho temple with the giant reclining Buddha statue, or heading to the floating markets. In the evening, enjoy the unique atmosphere on the lively Khao San Road or take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and watch the city bathed in lights.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Shangri-La Bangkok
Koh Samui
Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Samui, is a tropical paradise that attracts over 2.5 million tourists annually. No wonder – the island offers a perfect combination of beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, lush nature, and entertainment.
The most popular beach is Chaweng Beach with fine white sand, but Lamai or Maenam beaches offer a quieter atmosphere. Nature lovers should not miss a trip to Ang Thong Marine National Park, an archipelago of 42 islands with beautiful lagoons and coral reefs. The cultural heart of the island is the Big Buddha temple (Wat Phra Yai) and the colorful Wat Plai Laem temple with several statues in Chinese-Thai style.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Melati Beach Resort & Spa
Phuket
Thailand’s largest island offers dozens of beaches, from bustling tourist centers to quiet, almost deserted coves. Patong Beach is the epicenter of nightlife and entertainment, while Kata, Karon, or the picturesque Freedom Beach, considered one of the most beautiful on the island, offer a quieter atmosphere.
Besides lounging, you can climb to the Big Buddha statue with panoramic views of the entire island, visit Wat Chalong temple, or stroll through the ancient streets of Phuket Town. Phuket is also an ideal starting point for boat trips to the surrounding area, such as Phang Nga Bay National Park with its iconic limestone cliffs, or the Phi Phi or Similan Islands archipelagos, which are a paradise for divers.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Arco Phuket Town
Krabi
Krabi province on the southwest coast of Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire country. The area is known for its limestone cliffs majestically rising from the turquoise sea, beautiful beaches, and lush jungle.
Ao Nang is the main tourist center with a number of hotels and restaurants. From there, you can take a boat to the famous Railay Beach, accessible only by sea and popular among climbers, or to Phra Nang Beach with fine white sand. Adventure lovers can visit Huay Toh waterfalls, Emerald Pool and Hot Springs, or climb 1200 steps to Tiger Cave Temple for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Krabi SeaBass Hotel
Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom (1350-1767), is today a breathtaking archaeological park and one of the most important historical sites in Thailand. The city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world before it was destroyed by the Burmese army.
The most famous landmark is Wat Mahathat temple with the Buddha head overgrown in tree roots. Other significant landmarks include Wat Phra Si Sanphet with three large stupas, Wat Chaiwatthanaram inspired by the Cambodian Angkor Wat temple, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon with a large reclining Buddha statue. For the best experience, rent a bike or hire a boat and circumnavigate the island by river.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Centara Ayutthaya
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta offers a quieter alternative to busier Thai destinations. With more than 25 km of coastline full of beautiful beaches, lush jungle, and a friendly atmosphere, it is an ideal place for those looking for relaxation without tourist crowds.
Klong Dao Beach in the northwest is one of the most popular, with fine sand and shallow water suitable for families with children. Long Beach offers a 4 km long stretch of sand with a number of restaurants and bars. The island is also home to Mu Ko Lanta National Park, which provides refuge for many animal species, and offers easy access to great diving spots like Koh Rok or Koh Ha.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Long Beach Chalet – SHA Extra Plus
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northernmost province, offers a unique combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history. The city is significantly smaller and quieter than its more famous neighbor Chiang Mai, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the authentic north of Thailand without tourist crowds.
The most famous attraction is Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – more an artwork than a traditional temple, entirely in white and decorated with glass fragments. Other unique landmarks include Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) and Baan Dam Museum (Black House). Chiang Rai is also a gateway to the Golden Triangle, an area where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and a starting point for visiting mountain tribe villages like Akha, Karen, or Lahu.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Riva Vista Riverfront Resort Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, is a city surrounded by mountains that enchants visitors with its unique atmosphere, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a place where old meets new – centuries-old temples stand next to modern cafes and stylish galleries.
The Old City, surrounded by walls, is home to more than 300 temples, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. For an unforgettable experience, climb to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple on the hill overlooking the city. Visit traditional craft villages, Saturday and Sunday night markets, or head to Doi Inthanon National Park with Thailand’s highest peak. For an ethical elephant experience, visit Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts
Pai
Pai is a small, quiet town hidden in the mountains of northern Thailand, which has gained popularity among travelers seeking an escape from bustling tourist centers. The road from Chiang Mai leads through 762 curves – that’s an experience in itself!
The main attractions are Pai Canyon with panoramic views, hot springs, waterfalls like Pam Bok and Mae Yen, Santichon Chinese Village, and the World War II bridge. Evenings come alive at the Walking Street night market with local and international dishes and live music.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Pai Village Boutique Resort
Koh Chang
Koh Chang, Thailand’s second largest island, is located in the Gulf of Thailand near the border with Cambodia and offers a unique combination of untouched nature, beautiful beaches, and authentic Thai culture. More than 70% of the island is covered by dense tropical jungle.
The west coast is lined with beautiful white sand beaches, from the bustling White Sand Beach to the quieter Klong Prao Beach and Lonely Beach, popular among younger travelers. The east coast is less developed with traditional fishing villages. The island offers great snorkeling, diving, boat trips, and trekking to waterfalls like Klong Plu. Don’t forget to watch out for monkeys, which are ubiquitous and can be very cheeky.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Klong Prao Resort
Phu Ruea
Phu Ruea in Loei province in northeastern Thailand is a lesser-known but charming destination far from the usual tourist routes. The name means “Ship Mountain”, because the highest point resembles an overturned ship.
Phu Ruea National Park offers magnificent sights with its highest point at 1365 meters above sea level, from where breathtaking views of the sea of mist open up at sunrise. The park is crisscrossed by hiking trails of varying difficulty leading through dense forests and past waterfalls. Thanks to its higher altitude, the area has a pleasant climate all year round. In addition to natural beauties, you can visit local villages with traditional crafts, tea plantations, or the Huai Krathing Reservoir public park.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Phuruakeeree Resort
Khao Sok
Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests, older than the Amazon rainforest. It covers an area of over 739 km² and is full of green nature and wildlife.
The heart of the park is the artificial Cheow Lan (Rajjaprabha) Lake with turquoise blue water surrounded by limestone cliffs. You can stay directly on the lake in floating bungalows and explore the surroundings by kayak or traditional longtail boat. The park is home to elephants, tigers, gibbons, Malayan sun bears, and hundreds of bird species. It also offers jungle trekking, wildlife observation, and visits to local villages.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Khao Sok River & Jungle Resort
Phanom Rung
Phanom Rung is an impressive Khmer temple complex on an extinct volcanic hill in Buriram province in northeastern Thailand. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries as a Hindu sanctuary dedicated to the god Shiva, it is one of the best-preserved Khmer monuments in Thailand.
The complex boasts breathtaking architecture similar to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, with elaborate reliefs and statues. Four times a year (during equinoxes and solstices), a magical moment occurs when the rising sun shines through all 15 doorframes of the temple. Nearby lies another Khmer monument, Prasat Muang Tam, with interesting water reservoirs and stone inscriptions.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Hotel de l’amour SHA PLUS
Koh Phi Phi
The Phi Phi archipelago, consisting of six islands, is one of the most photographed places in Thailand. Its main island, Phi Phi Don, offers a combination of stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and limestone cliffs.
The most famous is Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh, which became famous from the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. After years of closure for ecosystem protection, it is now open again with a limited number of visitors. The archipelago is great for snorkeling and diving thanks to its rich underwater life. Tonsai Village on Phi Phi Don offers accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife, while beaches like Long Beach provide a quieter alternative.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Phi Phi Villa Resort
Bridge over the River Kwai
The Bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi province is a significant historical monument associated with World War II. It was built by prisoners of war and Asian laborers as part of the Japanese “Death Railway” project, which was intended to connect Thailand and Burma.
Today you can walk across the bridge, take a ride on a historical train, or visit museums dedicated to this tragic history, such as the JEATH War Museum and the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. Nearby Kanchanaburi also houses the Don-Rak Allied War Cemetery. Annually in November and December, a light and sound show is held here, commemorating the bridge’s history.
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a small island in the southernmost part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, close to the border with Malaysia. Often called the “Maldives of Thailand” for its incredibly clear water and white sandy beaches, it is part of Tarutao National Park.
The island has three main beaches: Pattaya Beach (the main and busiest), Sunrise Beach (with breathtaking sunrises), and Sunset Beach (ideal for watching the sunset). Koh Lipe is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Castaway Resort Koh Lipe
Koh Tao
Koh Tao (Turtle Island) in the Gulf of Thailand is a world-renowned diving center and one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI diving certification. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and rich underwater life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
🏠Accommodation TIP: Haadtien Beach Resort
Pattaya
Pattaya, just two hours from Bangkok, is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Thailand. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, but also offers many attractions for families and all types of travelers.
Pattaya Beach, the main beach, is bustling and surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and shops, while the quieter Jomtien Beach offers cleaner water and fewer crowds. Visit the Sanctuary of Truth – a massive wooden structure filled with intricate carvings, or head to Koh Larn island with its beautiful beaches. Families will appreciate Pattaya Park, Underwater World, and the Art in Paradise 3D art museum. For culture, visit the Sanctuary of Truth or Nong Nooch Garden with its elephant shows and Thai dances.
🏠Accommodation Tip: The Bayview Hotel Pattaya
Hua Hin
Hua Hin, Thailand’s oldest seaside resort, is located about 200 km south of Bangkok. Favored by the Thai royal family, it retains an elegant, quieter atmosphere than other resorts and combines beach relaxation with cultural experiences.
The main beach stretches for several kilometers along the bay with fine sand and a gentle entry into the sea, ideal for families. Visit the Klai Kangwon Royal Palace from 1928, the wooden railway station from the 1920s, or the Cicada Market night market with art, crafts, and live music. Try seafood at the pier restaurants or play golf at one of the championship courses. Nearby lies Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with caves, wetlands, and beaches.
🏠Accommodation Tip: The Yana Villas Hua Hin
What to Try in Thailand
During your vacation in Thailand, don’t forget to try these local specialties:
- Pad Thai – iconic fried noodles with egg, tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
- Mango sticky rice – sweet rice with mango and coconut milk.
- Tom Yum – spicy soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and lime.
- Som Tam – refreshing papaya salad with spicy lime dressing.
- Massaman curry – mild, slightly sweet curry with potatoes and nuts.
- Thai street food specialties – skewers, fried bananas, coconut pancakes.
Thailand Attractions
Thailand offers these attractions worth seeing:
- Wat Rong Khun (White Temple, Chiang Rai) – A modern temple with a dazzling white facade and unique architecture, resembling a fairytale building.
- Floating Markets (e.g., Damnoen Saduak, Bangkok) – Traditional markets where fruits, vegetables, and Thai delicacies are sold directly from boats.
- Lopburi City (Monkey City) – A historic city full of monkeys, which are considered sacred here but often steal food and personal belongings from tourists.
- Maya Bay (Phi Phi Leh Island) – A beautiful bay famous for the movie The Beach, surrounded by limestone cliffs, accessible with ecological measures.
- Maeklong Railway Market – A unique market through which a train passes several times a day, requiring vendors to clear their goods from the tracks within seconds and then set them up again.
What not to Do in Thailand
In Thailand, you must not:
- Touch Thai monks, especially women should not touch them at all.
- Criticize the King and the Royal Family, which is punishable by law in Thailand.
- Point your feet at people or Buddha statues, as it is considered disrespectful.
- Pat someone on the head, because the head is sacred in Thai culture.
- Bring e-cigarettes into the country, as their possession is prohibited in Thailand and carries a fine or even imprisonment.
FAQ
When is the best time to travel to Thailand?
The best time to visit Thailand is from November to March, which is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and low humidity. The rainy season lasts from May to October, when you can expect regular but short showers, mostly in the afternoon or evening. The advantage of traveling during the rainy season is lower prices and fewer tourists.
How many days is ideal to spend in Thailand?
For a first visit to Thailand, we recommend at least 10-14 days to visit 2-3 different areas (e.g., Bangkok, Northern Thailand, and one of the islands). If you have more time, 3 weeks will allow you to explore the country in more detail and at a slower pace.
Which Thai islands are the most beautiful?
Each island has its charm. Phuket and Koh Samui offer developed infrastructure and many activities. Koh Phi Phi is known for its beautiful views. Koh Lipe and Koh Tao enchant with crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling. Koh Chang and Koh Lanta offer a quieter atmosphere with beautiful nature.
Is Thailand a safe country for tourists?
Thailand is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. As in any country, it is important to observe basic safety precautions – watch your belongings, avoid deserted places at night, and respect local customs and traditions. Extra caution is needed in tourist areas where petty theft may occur.
Do I need a visa for Thailand?
Citizens of the Czech Republic can travel to Thailand without a visa for a maximum of 30 days when entering the country by air. When entering by land, it is only 15 days. For longer stays, it is necessary to arrange a visa in advance at the Thai embassy. Remember that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the country.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
