Thailand may be best known for its picture-perfect southern beaches and wonderfully spicy food, but there are many other reasons why the country is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.
Many visitors find the friendliness of the smiley Thai people to be the highlight of their trip, no matter where in the country they spend their time, but it’s still worth putting in the effort to explore everything from the northern mountains to the lush padilos rice from the central heart to the sunny beaches in the south.
List of the 25 best places to visit in Thailand:
1. Phuket
As Thailand ‘s largest island , Phuket offers everything from luxurious beachfront spas and resorts to remote hiking trails through the jungle. The beaches here are as beautiful as you would expect them to be, and although many are often crowded, it is still possible to find a secluded stretch of sand away from the hustle and bustle.
There are also accommodation options to suit almost every taste; The party town of Patong is the largest and busiest city on the island, but visitors looking to experience art and culture should consider staying in the beautiful town of Phuket.
«Tailandia: ¡un paraíso de cultura, playas y vida nocturna! Sumérgete en la emoción y la serenidad que ofrece Tailandia. ¡Reserva hoy mismo el tour de tus sueños!»
Location: Sur de Tailandia, en el mar de Andamán.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Playa Patong, Big Buddha, Phuket Old Town.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto Internacional de Phuket.
Ideal Duration: 3-5 días.
Best Experiences: Deportes acuáticos, vida nocturna, mercados locales.
Nearby Attractions: Islas Phi Phi, Bahía de Phang Nga.
Lea también: Ruta Recomendada: De Chiang Mai a Krabi
2. Ao Phang Nga National Park
Best known for its gravity-defying limestone karst formations and crystal-clear waters, Ao Phang Nga National Park encompasses approximately 155 square miles of the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. There are more than 40 islands in the park, but the most famous is Khao Phing Kan, which appeared in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun.
Most visitors find the best way to explore the park is by canoe or kayak; Day tours are the most popular, but some companies also offer multi-day tours that include camping on the islands.
Location: Provincia de Phang Nga.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Kayak, explorar cuevas, visitar James Bond Island.
How to Reach: Desde Phuket o Krabi por carretera y luego en bote.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Navegar entre formaciones kársticas, explorar manglares.
Nearby Attractions: Phuket, Krabi.
3.Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand and one of the most visited cities in the world, is a cosmopolitan hub that truly offers something for everyone. Elaborate ancient temples sit alongside modern high-rise buildings, while shopping options range from luxurious high-end shopping malls to the bustling Chatuchak weekend market.
Of course, a visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without trying some of the delicious local cuisine or checking out the vibrant nightlife; Many tourists flock to Khao San Road and Sukhumvit, but excellent bars, clubs and restaurants can be found in almost every part of the city. Read more: 15 Best places to see in Bangkok
Location: Centro de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Gran Palacio, Templo del Buda Esmeralda, Mercado de Chatuchak.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto Internacional de Suvarnabhumi.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 días.
Best Experiences: Vida nocturna, compras, gastronomía callejera.
Nearby Attractions: Ayutthaya, Mercado Flotante de Damnoen Saduak.
Lea también: Top 10 lugares para explorar en Tailandia durante septiembre
4. Chiang Mai
Despite being Thailand’s second largest metropolis, Chiang Mai has little in common with the bustling southern capital of Bangkok. Tucked away among the forested foothills of the northern mountains, Chiang Mai is a great base for exploring the lush rainforests of the north and the city itself boasts a walled historic center full of cozy cafes and restaurants that are perfect for relaxing after a Busy day of exploring.
In fact, the entire city encourages you to relax; Thanks in part to the hundreds of beautiful Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city, a tranquil atmosphere prevails even in the busiest tourist destinations. Read more: 20 The Best Places in Chiang Mai
Location: Norte de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Templo Doi Suthep, Night Bazaar, Festival de Yi Peng.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto Internacional de Chiang Mai.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 días.
Best Experiences: Cultura y templos, montañismo, safaris de elefantes.
Nearby Attractions: Chiang Rai, Parque Nacional Doi Inthanon.
Lea también: Guía de Tailandia en agosto: Qué ver y cómo llegar
5. Chiang Rai
Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai province is home to the country’s most spectacular mountains and some of its most beautiful rainforests and rivers. It is also one of the most ethnically diverse areas in Thailand; There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to learn about the cultures of the indigenous hill tribes, particularly if they are willing to trek to remote mountain villages.
However, the province is perhaps most famous for being the location of Wat Rong Khun (known in English as the White Temple), a stunning Buddhist temple with an intricate white exterior.
«Tailandia: ¡un paraíso de cultura, playas y vida nocturna! Sumérgete en la emoción y la serenidad que ofrece Tailandia. ¡Reserva hoy mismo el tour de tus sueños!»
Location: Norte de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Templo Blanco, Casa Negra, Triángulo de Oro.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto Internacional de Chiang Rai.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Arte y cultura, visitas a tribus locales, exploración histórica.
Nearby Attractions: Chiang Mai, Parque Nacional Doi Tung.
Lea también: Explora Tailandia y sus Maravillas
6. Doi Inthanon National Park
Sometimes called «the roof of Thailand», Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most impressive gems of the country’s northern region. The biggest attraction in the park is Doi Inthanon; At 8,415 feet, the mountain is the highest in Thailand.
However, visitors can also enjoy a small network of hiking trails, several beautiful waterfalls, and a limestone cave with two chambers. The park also has bungalows and a campsite for anyone who wants to spend the night; Tents, sleeping bags and other camping equipment can be rented at the campsite entrance.
Location: Provincia de Chiang Mai.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Trekking, cascadas, ver la pagoda gemela.
How to Reach: Desde Chiang Mai por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Senderismo, observación de aves, vistas panorámicas.
Nearby Attractions: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai.
leer también: Explora Vietnam: Lugares recomendados para septiembre
7. Erawan National Park
Founded in 1975, Erawan National Park in western Thailand encompasses 212 square miles of deciduous forest and limestone hills dotted with fascinating caves. The highlight of the park is Erawan Falls, a 7-tiered waterfall whose emerald green pools are teeming with tiny fish.
Six of the levels can be accessed by a series of paths and bridges, but reaching the seventh level requires climbing several cliffs. Amenities at the waterfall include a visitor center, a variety of shops, bungalows, campsites and restaurants, but visitors should be aware that food is not permitted beyond the second level of the waterfall.
ocation: Provincia de Kanchanaburi.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Cascada de Erawan, senderismo, natación.
How to Reach: Desde Kanchanaburi por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Nadar en piscinas naturales, explorar cuevas, picnic.
Nearby Attractions: Puente sobre el río Kwai, Hellfire Pass.
8. Hat Yai
Not far from the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is the urban center of southern Thailand. The city is very popular with Malaysian tourists, but remains off the beaten path for those from the West. As one of the most important business centers in southern Thailand, the city offers excellent shopping in the form of Western-style shopping malls and busy local markets.
A visit to the city is also not complete without taking a ride on the cable car in Nakhon Hat Yai Park, sampling delicious Cantonese and Thai street food, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.
Location: Provincia de Songkhla, sur de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Mercado flotante Khlong Hae, Templo Phra Maha Chedi.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto de Hat Yai.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Compras, comida callejera, templos.
Nearby Attractions: Songkhla, Parque Nacional Ton Nga Chang.
Lea también: Guía turística de Nagarkot: Principales atracciones
9. Hua Hin
Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s original beach resort towns, but it’s a much more cosmopolitan destination than some of the remote southern islands. It’s also easily accessible from Bangkok, making it a great option for anyone who wants a quick beach getaway, but doesn’t have enough time to travel all the way south.
The main draw for tourists is the beautiful beach that runs from one side of the city to the other, but visitors should also make time to visit the water parks, stroll through the lively night markets, and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, al suroeste de Bangkok.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Playa de Hua Hin, Mercado de Cicada, Palacio de Klai Kangwon.
How to Reach: Desde Bangkok por carretera o tren.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Relax en la playa, golf, mercados nocturnos.
Nearby Attractions: Parque Nacional de Khao Sam Roi Yot, Cha-Am.
10. Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the largest protected wildlife area in mainland Southeast Asia. The sanctuary is honored to be home to the largest tiger population in Thailand, and also provides refuge for many rare and endangered species.
Animal sightings are not guaranteed, but visitors on day trips can usually expect to see long-tailed macaques, Asian palm civets, wild boar, and several different species of deer. The park has a good network of well-maintained hiking trails, but some are only open to visitors if accompanied by a ranger.
Location: Provincias de Uthai Thani y Tak.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Observación de vida silvestre, trekking, safaris.
How to Reach: Desde Uthai Thani por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Avistamiento de animales, senderismo en la jungla.
Nearby Attractions: Parque Nacional de Mae Wong, Kamphaeng Phet.
11. Karon
One of the longest beaches on Phuket Island, Karon features clean white sand and clear blue water. The beach is not as busy as some of the others in Phuket, but the area still offers a wide range of accommodation and restaurant options for visitors to enjoy.
Although the beach itself is undeveloped, plenty of resorts and hotels are located just across the street. Excellent snorkeling can be found on the coral reef at the southern end of the beach, while the northern side features a beautiful beachside park with a well-maintained jogging path.
Location: Costa oeste de Phuket.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Playa de Karon, deportes acuáticos, Mercado de Karon.
How to Reach: Desde el Aeropuerto Internacional de Phuket en taxi o bus.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Relax en la playa, snorkel, vida nocturna.
Nearby Attractions: Patong Beach, Kata Beach
12. Khao Sok National Park
Spanning 285 square miles in Surat Thani province, Khao Sok is the most popular national park in southern Thailand. The main attraction is Cheow Lan Lake, but there are also several beautiful waterfalls and caves. The park’s trail system is typically difficult enough for visitors to navigate on their own, but guides can be hired through one of the agencies near the park’s visitor center.
There are also a number of guest houses in this area for those who want to explore the park on a day trip, but some tour companies offer multi-day guided tours with overnight accommodation in the jungle.
Location: Provincia de Surat Thani.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Safari en el lago Cheow Lan, trekking, kayak.
How to Reach: Desde Surat Thani por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Paseos en bote, explorar cuevas, observar vida silvestre.
Nearby Attractions: Surat Thani, Phuket.
13. Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park is located just 3 km from Bangkok and consists of rainforests, evergreen forests and open grasslands. Wildlife sightings are rare, but visitors can enjoy the bat cave and the many beautiful waterfalls.
Some of the park’s hiking trails can only be accessed in the company of a guide, but more than 30 miles of trails are open to visitors with or without guides. There are several bungalows within the park, but these must be booked well in advance and most guests stay in one of the hotels or hostels located just outside the park.
Location: Provincia de Nakhon Ratchasima.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Senderismo, cascadas, avistamiento de vida silvestre.
How to Reach: Desde Bangkok por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Caminatas en la selva, ver elefantes salvajes, acampar.
Nearby Attractions: Pak Chong, Saraburi.ocation: Provincia de Nakhon Ratchasima.
14. Ko Pha Ngan
For one week every month, Ko Pha Ngan is the site of a giant, world-famous full moon party that typically attracts around 30,000 visitors. However, parts of the island are great family destinations, even while the full moon celebration is happening.
The seemingly endless selection of idyllic beaches feature soft white sand and clear blue waters, and the island is surrounded by plenty of wonderful snorkelling and diving spots. Most of the other popular activities here revolve around water, but there are also plenty of beautiful temples, waterfalls, and caves for visitors to enjoy.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, cerca de Ko Samui.
Best Time to Visit: Febrero a abril.
Things to Do: Fiesta de la Luna Llena, snorkel, yoga.
How to Reach: Bote desde Ko Samui o Surat Thani.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Fiestas en la playa, buceo, relajación.
Nearby Attractions: Ko Samui, Ko Tao.
15. Ko Samet
Ko Samet’s silky white sands and aquatic waters seem like something out of a calendar, and its proximity to Bangkok makes it a great option for a quick weekend getaway. Despite its relatively small size, the island offers more than 15 beaches; those on the north side regularly host large barbecues, fire performances, and other events, while the southern beaches are much quieter.
There are guesthouses, hotels and resorts to suit almost every budget, but some visitors prefer to rent a tent and camp on one of the beaches that allow overnight stays.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, provincia de Rayong.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Playa de Sai Kaew, deportes acuáticos, vida nocturna.
How to Reach: Bote desde Ban Phe, Rayong.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Relax en la playa, snorkel, fiestas en la playa.
Nearby Attractions: Rayong, Pattaya.
16. Ko Samui
Koh Samui, the third largest of the Thai islands, is known for both its spectacular natural beauty and its many luxury resorts. Most of the beaches here are fairly well developed, but anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle can head to the beaches on the west side of the island.
The beaches are the main reason Koh Samui is so popular, but the island also offers several easily accessible waterfalls. Approximately 90% of the island’s population is Buddhist; There are many impressive Buddhist temples to explore, but the most famous is Wat Phra Yai, which features a 50-foot statue of the Buddha.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, provincia de Surat Thani.
Best Time to Visit: Diciembre a abril.
Things to Do: Playa de Chaweng, Gran Buda, cascadas de Na Muang.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto de Ko Samui.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 días.
Best Experiences: Relax en la playa, snorkel, vida nocturna.
Nearby Attractions: Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao.
17. Ko Tao
Part of the Chumphon Archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Tao is made up of two islands: Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. The two islands are only 1,600 feet apart, and the surrounding waters are filled with colorful corals making the area a world-class SCUBA diving paradise.
There are plenty of diving schools on the island, and many of the resorts cater specifically to divers. However, even people who are not interested in spending time on the water will enjoy a visit to Ko Tao; The lush jungles are filled with hiking trails, and the nightlife regularly continues until dawn.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, cerca de Ko Samui.
Best Time to Visit: Febrero a abril.
Things to Do: Buceo, snorkel, senderismo.
How to Reach: Bote desde Ko Samui o Surat Thani.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Buceo, relajación, exploración submarina.
Nearby Attractions: Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui.
18. Koh Chang
Known in English as Elephant Island, Koh Chang only became a well-known tourist destination in the early 2000s. The waters around the island offer excellent diving and snorkelling, and visitors can also enjoy other water sports. such as fishing, sea kayaking and sailing.
Several businesses on the island offer massage courses and cooking classes, while many different tour companies offer jungle walks through the lush rainforests of the island’s interior. Most accommodation and other tourist services are located on the west side of the island, but beautiful beaches can be found along the coast.
Location: Golfo de Tailandia, provincia de Trat.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Playa de White Sand, Parque Nacional Mu Ko Chang, buceo.
How to Reach: Bote desde Trat.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 días.
Best Experiences: Relax en la playa, exploración de la jungla, snorkel.
Nearby Attractions: Trat, Koh Mak.
19. Krabi
Not only is Krabi province incredibly well-equipped for tourists, it also boasts a seemingly endless supply of natural attractions. Angular limestone karst formations jut out from verdant mangrove forests, while brilliant white sand beaches fringed with palm trees invite visitors to spend all day paddling in the water or relaxing in the sun.
The area is also home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, making it a great destination for divers. Other popular activities include island hopping, rock climbing, visiting the natural hot springs, and shopping at the busy night markets.
Location: Costa de Andamán, sur de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a abril.
Things to Do: Railay Beach, islas Phi Phi, templo de la cueva del tigre.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto Internacional de Krabi.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 días.
Best Experiences: Escalada, playas, excursiones en bote.
Nearby Attractions: Phuket, Ao Nang.
20. Lampang
With its many horse carts and Lanna-style temples, Lampang is the quintessential northern Thai city. Elephants have been used in the logging industry here for generations, but today visitors can learn about the creatures at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center.
The other famous sight here is the Wat Phra Que Lampang Luang; Situated on a walled hill, the temple features beautiful murals, a bronze Buddha statue and a collection of ancient wooden utensils. Although the city doesn’t see as many tourists as some other parts of Thailand, Lampang still has plenty of restaurants and hotels, as well as some excellent museums.
Location: Norte de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Templo Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Elephant Conservation Center.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto de Lampang.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Cultura local, templos, elefantes.
Nearby Attractions: Chiang Mai, Sukhothai.
21. Mae Hong Son
Also known as the City of 3 Mists, Mae Hong Son is a charming city surrounded by rugged and forested mountains. It is an important stop on the famous Mae Hong Son Loop between Chiang Mai and Pai, but it does not receive nearly as many tourists as these two cities.
Many visitors base themselves here to explore the surrounding mountains and tribal villages, but the town is worth a visit in itself. A picturesque lake with a night market is located right in the center of the city, while a number of magnificent temples are scattered throughout the city.
Location: Norte de Tailandia, cerca de la frontera con Myanmar.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Templo Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, mercado nocturno, trekking.
How to Reach: Vuelo desde Chiang Mai.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Exploración de montañas, cultura local, senderismo.
Nearby Attractions: Pai, Parque Nacional Thong Pha Phum.
22. Pai
Located in the mountains of northern Thailand, Pai is a great place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the area’s abundant natural beauty. The surrounding region is full of easily accessible waterfalls, hiking trails, rice terraces, caves, and natural hot springs, some of which are even within walking distance of the city.
Despite its small size, the city has no shortage of restaurants, hotels, massage parlors and other tourist services. Visitors will find the atmosphere much more relaxed than in much of southern Thailand, but there is still a vibrant nightlife and an excellent night market.
Location: Norte de Tailandia, provincia de Mae Hong Son.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Cañón de Pai, cascadas, puente memorial de la Segunda Guerra Mundial.
How to Reach: Desde Chiang Mai por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Relax, naturaleza, aguas termales.
Nearby Attractions: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai.
23. Pattaya
Pattaya is one of Thailand’s biggest party destinations, and the city has no shortage of high-end beachside resorts, 24-hour nightclubs, and extravagant cabaret bars. Conveniently located just 90 minutes from Bangkok, the city has plenty to keep visitors entertained, including mega shopping malls, exciting water parks, and a large aquarium.
Most of the other activities here revolve around the beautiful beaches, but visitors can also enjoy golf, bungee jumping, go-karting, and horseback riding. The two main beaches here are Pattaya Beach, known for its raucous nightlife, and the more relaxed and family-friendly Jomtien Beach.
Location: Costa este de Tailandia, Golfo de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Playa de Pattaya, Walking Street, Templo de la Verdad.
How to Reach: Desde Bangkok por carretera o tren.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Vida nocturna, playas, deportes acuáticos.
Nearby Attractions: Koh Larn, Sriracha Tiger Zoo.
24. Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary
Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary, made up of just over 60 square miles of forests and sandstone mountains, is home to more than 400 different species of birds and 100 species of mammals. Several trails and a large area of grassland near the park headquarters are open to the public, but anyone wishing to explore the rest of the sanctuary must obtain written permission from DNP headquarters in Bangkok.
The park is especially popular with bird watchers, but large animals such as golden jackals, wild boars, elephants, and several species of deer can often be seen in the grassland area.
Location: Provincia de Chaiyaphum.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Observación de vida silvestre, trekking, birdwatching.
How to Reach: Desde Chaiyaphum por carretera.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 días.
Best Experiences: Avistamiento de fauna, exploración de la naturaleza.
Nearby Attractions: Parque Nacional Tat Ton, Chaiyaphum.
25. Udon Thani
Udon Thani was one of the largest US air bases during the Vietnam War, and is now home to one of Thailand’s largest expat populations. As such, the town offers plenty of Western amenities, but most of the area’s best attractions require a day trip to the surrounding countryside.
The Bronze Age excavations at Ban Chiang are the most visited site in the area, but there are also many other fascinating places, including the silk cloth village of Ban Nak Ha, a large orchid farm, and the mysterious rock formations of sandstone found in Phu Phrabat National Park.
Location: Noreste de Tailandia.
Best Time to Visit: Noviembre a febrero.
Things to Do: Mercado Nong Prajak, Templo Wat Phothisomphon, Lago de Loto Rojo.
How to Reach: Vuelo directo al Aeropuerto de Udon Thani.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 días.
Best Experiences: Cultura local, exploración de mercados, naturaleza.
Nearby Attractions: Parque Histórico de Phu Phra Bat, Nong Khai.
Find out more about Thailand:
- A Brief History of Thailand – Modern and Ancient
- Best time to visit Thailand
- Travel to Thailand in January 2025: best places to visit, climate
- Top tips for exploring Northern Thailand
- 11 Best Resorts in Thailand
- Luxury holidays to Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
- Hidden Gems of Thailand – 10 Provinces Must Visit
