The Best Places to Visit in Thailand
Thailand is one of, if not THE most popular destination for young backpackers all across the world. It gained it’s popularity thanks to the raw experiences, low costs compared to Europe, and the draw of the amazing hostels and culture there. Thailand is always filled with so much energy and fun and it is really easy to make friends for life. There is some absolutely incredible places in the country, and this guide will start with the best places in the North, then go down and talk about how to experience the beauty of the Thai islands in the south.
Capital: Bangkok
Currency: Thai Baht
Language: Thai
When to visit: November to February
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1) Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand’s capital city, and it’s definitely not up to everyone’s taste. It’s incredibly busy and the streets are always packed, but in my opinion that adds to the culture and shows how full of life the city is. Bangkok is very social for backpackers and travelers, and it’s a great introduction into Thailand and likely where you’ll fly into.
Things to do:
Bangkok is a massive city with a load of different areas, so let’s start around the river where you can find The Grand Palace (and The Temple of the Emerald Buddha), an incredible palace complex/museum. Right next to it is the Wat Pho Temple, home to the enormous Reclining Buddha and one of the best temple complexes in Bangkok. It’s also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. On the other side of the river you’ll also be able to find the Wat Arun Temple, also known as Temple of the Dawn. Then, you can head further north and find Khao San road. It is a chaotic backpacker centered place, packed with bars, hostels, street food, music, and nightlife and it is quite touristy but still a must see. As you walk around Bangkok, you have to check out all the markets and try all the street food as it’s all part of the experience. One of the most famous markets is the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is the worlds largest open air market. I also suggest trying a river cruise, or even heading to more modern districts like Siam and Sukhumvit for shopping.
How to get there:
You can fly into either BKK or DMK airports which are connected all over the world.
You can also take buses from most tourist spots in Thailand, as well as Cambodia too. Trains also connect the North and the South.
2) Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is basically the cultural heart of northern Thailand, known for temples, mountains, cafés, markets, and a much slower atmosphere compared to Bangkok. The food here is really incredible and probably the highlight, but there is a lot to see in terms of attractions and the backpacker energy is still vibrant here.
Things to do:
Here in Chiang Mai you can find one of the most famous hillside temples in Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is accessible by a massive staircase with crazy views. Back in the actual city you need to explore the historic center, which has endless things to see. Walk through one of the old gates and check out all the temples and alleys inside. Chiang Mai is also famous for markets like the Sunday Walking Street market and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, so stay long enough to visit these as well. Chang Mia is pretty relaxed especially if you’re coming from Bangkok, but if you want to escape the city then consider a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park, which has a bunch of waterfalls, jungle trails, cloud forests, and Thailand’s highest mountain.
How to get there:
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is a decent airport with regional flights.
The overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the classic Thailand travel experiences, and my personal pick.
3) Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is a smaller, quieter city in the far north of Thailand which is mainly known for one of it’s stunning iconic temples inside the city. However the whole city is actually filled with beautiful religious structures and surrounded by lovely green mountains. It’s one of the classic stops on any backpackers northern Thailand itinerary.
Things to do:
The famous temple in which I’m talking about is the Wat Rong Khun temple, the massive white mirrored glass temple which sits outside the main city area. It’s simply incredible to see, and I’d visit Chiang Rai just for this. Note that it does get pretty touristy no doubt. Inside the city you should also visit Wat Rong Suea Ten, AKA the Blue Temple which is another stunning and unique temple which feels completely different from the White Temple. Another cool little side quest is to head up to The Golden Triangle, which is the point where Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand meet.
How to get there:
Chang Ria has an available airport (Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)), which serves domestic flights.
Otherwise you can take an easy bus from Chiang Mai or long distance from Bangkok.
4) Pai
Pai is this incredible mountain town in northern Thailand which most people just tend to fall in love with and stay for ages, in fact the name for this is called the ‘Pai Hole.’ It’s a serene little town with the surrounding area being filled with all kinds of natural beauty and little establishments. It’s a slower, more hippie and alternative destination with elite vibes especially for backpackers.
Things to do:
You’ll probably spend a lot of time in Pai just relaxing, drinking tea, wandering the countryside and chilling by the river, so definitely enjoy that. In terms of actual attractions, you have to visit the Pai Canyon, which is a beautiful place to wander and lights up at sunset. You can also chill at the Tha Pai Hot Springs, and visit Pam Bok Waterfall and Mo Paeng Waterfall for great swimming opportunities. I suggest getting a bike in Pai, and don’t forget to stop at the Kho Ku So Bamboo Bridge as you explore. Honestly, you could probably spend forever in Pai just hanging with people in the hostel and going out to do fun stuff at night.
How to get there:
You need to take a minivan/bus from Chiang Mai through the windy, yet gorgeous roads.
5) Ko Tao
Ko Tao is a little tropical island off the coast of Thailand, and a very popular place for backpackers thanks to the amazing opportunities for water activities and scuba diving. There is beaches, bars and everything you need on the island, and while it is more expensive than mainland Thailand, it’s an incredible spot.
Things to do:
Obviously when you’re here, you have to try everything there is to do. Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Swimming, mainly just getting in the water. Do these experiences with companies or through your hostel. You should also take the uphill trail to John-Suwan Viewpoint, which definitely has the best views of the island. Hiking up there is a must-do. The islands main beach is called Sairee Beach, so spend some time here and it gets really popular (your hostel will probably be close to here). The best way to beach hop is by renting a scooter/bike and cruising around. My main tip would mainly be to make use of the events your hostel may have, and get out in the water!
How to get there:
The most common way is to take a ferry from another island, such as Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.
6) Koh Samui
Koh Samui is probably the most popular Thai island, and it’s also one of the largest. It’s very developed, and the backpacker scene is pretty big on the island. There’s lots of luxury resorts, but the range of hostels is also great. And of course, the beaches are absolutely stunning and you could spend ages on this island.
Things to do:
The two best beaches in my opinion are Chaweng Beach, which is the busiest and most famous, and Lamai Beach, which is slightly more chill but still lively. Both the beaches are really big and spacious which is good, so you should spend time at both. On Koh Samui you should also consider taking a boat trip which will take you across some of the islands best spots. But to explore it on your own, I’d say you’ve gotta rent a scooter. You can visit the best viewpoints this way, getting to places like the Lad Koh Viewpoint and the Na Muang waterfalls. You’re free to hang out all the clubs and get involved with the nightlife, cause it can get really good on Koh Samui at the right time.
How to get there:
Koh Samui is one of the main ferry hubs in the Gulf of Thailand so it’s easy to access from nearby islands.
You can also fly into Samui Airport (USM) thanks to the good regional connection.
7) Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and the most developed in terms of tourist infrastructure and all that kind of stuff. A lot of people don’t like it, which is fair since it is pretty crowded and can be seen as way too in your face. However the thing about Phuket is that each part of the island is very different so you can have whatever kind of experience you want.
Things to do:
It’s best to mention the different parts of Phuket. If you want to party and be out all the time, stay in Patong. Patong Beach is great but this whole part of the island is very busy and very ‘lads holiday,’ so if you want that definitely stay there. If you want a beach holiday with some more peaceful beaches, stay in either Kata or Karon, the markets there are good too. In my opinion you should also spend some time in Old Town Phuket, because although it’s not by the beach it’s still gorgeous with great shops and a good way to experience a different slice of the island. You can find beautiful beaches all around the island so it doesn’t matter where you go, but I think Nui beach is one of the best and most stunning.
How to get there:
Phuket International Airport (HKT) has direct flights from all over Asia and great domestic options too.
You can also take a long distance bus from Bangkok, or a ferry from nearby islands.
8) Krabi
Krabi is a whole province which is east of Phuket and sits on the coast of southern Thailand. It attracts people thanks to the natural beauty of the island, and also the fact that you can island hop around the little islands which sit off the coast. The landscapes here are genuinely stunning
Things to do:
The main base in Krabi is Ao Nang, which is the busiest area with restaurants, bars, and easy boat access to nearby islands. Although, a good alternative is Railay Beach, which is much more scenic and relaxed, surrounded by limestone cliffs and only accessible by boat. It feels more “escape-like” but has fewer facilities. The best thing to do here is get out on the water. Island-hopping trips to places like the Phi Phi Islands or Hong Islands are a must for clear water, snorkeling, beaches, and dramatic scenery. I cant really emphasise enough how beautiful the beaches are, so just make sure you make the most of your time. For exploring on land, renting a scooter is ideal. You can visit the Tiger Cave Temple for epic viewpoints after a steep climb, or head to the Emerald Pool for a jungle swim in bright green water.
How to get there:
Krabi International Airport (KBV) has domestic and regional flight connection from nearby countries.
Long-distance buses connect Krabi with most major Thai destinations like Bangkok or Phuket.
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