Let's find trips that move you!
Travelstride climate
"Two roads diverged in a wood and I - I took the one less traveled by."
Robert Frost
Traditional Thailand long boats waiting for passengers at the beach
Bright orange and pink sunset over Wat None Kum temple in Thailand

Best Things to Do in Thailand

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Thailand

Thailand has long been Southeast Asia's most popular destination. From its capital, Bangkok, with a Royal Palace, numerous wats (temples), and a series of klongs (canals), to the southern beach resorts and islands that have long attracted those seeking respite, there is something in Thailand for everyone.

Top Thailand Experiences

Experiencing the infamous Bangkok nightlife 

Enjoying a relaxing Thailand retreat and getting away from it all

Learning the history of Chiang Mai

Snorkeling in famous blue waters along Thailand’s coastline of idyllic beaches

Tasting authentic Thai cuisine on a food tour and visiting bustling street food markets

Hiking among beautiful landscapes in Chiang Mai

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together
Travel better together
  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
    ...and much more

Things to do in Thailand - Expert’s guide

Coronavirus Update

Thailand is reported to be opening to international travelers on August 3rd, 2020, with tourist attractions re-opening in July. 

Learn more and discover other countries that are opening for tourism

See all resources for travel and Covid-19


1. Thailand’s Idyllic Beaches

Beach in Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Anything you could want from a beach day is here: soft white sand, secluded nooks, beautiful and clear silky blue water. And if you’re not interested in just lounging, there’s plenty of activity to be had!

Snorkeling is a very popular activity especially because the water’s so clear. Or you could choose to head out on one of the colorful Thai Longboats, a feature in many a travelers instagram photos. Read more about the Best Beaches in Thailand

2. Phuket

Phuket longboats

Speaking of beaches, Phuket is probably the most popular island in Thailand - which also means it’s usually the most crowded. However popularity does mean you’ll find the most amenities, food, and shopping options on Phuket as opposed to the smaller Thailand beach destinations.

There are 30 beaches on Phuket to choose from, but the heavy hotel and tourist presence has begun to push many adventurous travelers to the smaller and more secluded beaches where the peace and quiet are preferred over the bustle and choices.

3. Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park Thailand

For some of Thailand’s most pristine nature, head to the protected conservation area of Erawan National Park, just north of Bangkok in Thailand’s western region. Known for Erawan falls, there are many beautiful sights to take in, including caves and lakes. Visit between September and January (winter) to avoid the Summer crowds, experience the coolest temperatures, and miss the rainy season.

4. Floating Markets

Floating Market in Thailand

There are a few floating markets in Thailand, the most well known being in Bangkok. And while it is fairly touristy - you won’t see many locals doing their shopping here - it’s still a classic Thailand attraction. Most Thailand tours will include a visit to the markets. Get ready for some amazing photographs! Depending on which market you visit, it could be more food focused or artisan craft goods.

5. Wat Arun

Wat Arun in Thailand

Located in Bangkok, Wat Arun is known as the “Temple of Dawn.” It has gone through many iterations of use, and stands as a symbol for Bangkok’s resilience through many centuries.

Covered in bright porcelain, and featuring many intricate symbolic representations of Buddhist and Hindu iconography, Wat Arun is worth taking your time to explore. It is a stand out feature along the Chao Phraya River and a very popular Thailand attraction.

6. Prasat Hin Phimai

A historic park featuring numerous Khmer temples, Prasat Hin Phimai is an attraction in Thailand well worth visiting. Perhaps not quite as famous as some other Thailand temple complexes, the tourist crowds here will be less intense, providing a fantastic opportunity for photographers.

7. Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s slower pace and centuries-old sights will feature prominently in your memories. Enjoy a Thai massage by locally-trained masseuses, or go biking along the Old Town’s square moat that still exists today. Dozens of Buddhist temples are here too, the perfect sightseeing opportunity. And when you’re exhausted from all that sightseeing, visit one of the bars along Nimmanhaemin, northwest of the Old Town.

Chiang Mai is also an adventure hub, featuring some of Thailand’s best hiking, ziplining, waterfalls, and rafting. Wildlife lovers can visit elephant sanctuaries for a truly life changing experience, meeting and helping care for rescued animals as they are rehabilitated before being released into the wild.

8. Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park Thailand

One of the most well known national parks in Thailand, this gorgeous 2000 square mile natural landscape attracts visitors from around the world by the thousands. Get out in nature on any one of the numerous hiking and biking trails which will lead to hidden waterfalls, and reveal beautiful jungle secrets. This is also the location where popular film “The Beach” was filmed - and it’s easy to see why - the scenery is truly intoxicating.

9. Bangkok

Bangkok Street scene

Bangkok provides a great introduction to Thai culture. Regional art museums, theater, history, and a local food scene make this the perfect start to a Thailand vacation. And once you’ve had your fill of culture, you can enjoy a meal of street food before taking in the city's infamous nightlife.

There is plenty to see and do in Bangkok even if you’re not interested in the bar scene. Hidden markets and shops down entrancing allies, food choices like you wouldn't believe, and tons of historical and cultural sights. Head to Rattanakosin Island in Phra Nakhon District to escape the crowds and explore the Grand Palace as well as multiple other historical landmarks, including several Buddhist temples.

10. Sukhothai's Old City

Sukhothai Old City

Cambodia may have Angkor Wat, but Thailand has it’s fair share of mysterious and old wats as well. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a favorite among photographers - when you get there in the early morning, as the sun filters through the fog, the wats create wonderful shapes and the ancientness is palpable.

How well do you know the world?
Play the game
Compare your travel trivia knowledge with friends. How many can you get right in 1 minute?

Top Thailand Tours See all

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Travel better together
Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:
  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Thailand Tours Reviews & Ratings

Write a review
Excellent
1,217
Great
225
Average
36
Disappointing
16
Terrible
21
Roisin Mcnulty
·
2024-03-05
Written on
Ultimate South East Asia
The Contiki was one of the best experiences of my life. The included activities were super fun and all the additional activities were well worth the price. Although jam packed, we got to see so many different places and definitely have a great taste of SE Asia. In terms of partying, there was an option to go out most nights but you definitely did not have to join each night! Our trip manager *Personal Information removed by Feefo * was absolutely incredible, he was great fun but also very trustworthy and reliable. We were super lucky to have had such an experienced and awesome trip manager. Honestly couldn’t recommend this trip and *Personal Information removed by Feefo * more highly!
Show more
Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-05
Written on
Asian Adventure by Contiki
Asian Adventure
I loved it! My tour guide manger *personal info removed by Feefo* was beyond amazing! He definitely made the trip more fun and overall a great person to be around.
Show more
Simone
·
2024-03-04
Written on
Best of Northern Thailand
So much to see and experience in such a short time, from food, culture, beautiful temples, and nature to history. This was a great holiday, and we were really fortunate to have Pok as our tour guide, he really looked after us and is credit to his country. This was my first trip to Thailand, and it’s on my travel list to come back again and explore other parts of the country.
Show more
Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-03
Written on
Thai Island Hopper East
Contiki exceeded all of my expectations. From walking in to the welcome meeting where I regretted booking the trip to having the abolsuge best week of my life I cannot believe how Ty much of a good time I had. Highly, highly recommend Contiki, the most welcoming bunch of people making me feel so included. I’ve made friends for life and company wait to book my next one!
Show more
Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-03
Written on
Thai Island Hopper East
There is room for improvement
Trusted Customer
·
2024-02-29
Written on
Ultimate South East Asia
My tour manager was an amazing local resource and a good friend to everyone on the trip. The trip itself was a phenomenal experience, a great blend of culturally enriching experiences and fun activities.
Show more

Travelstride featured in

The Newyork Times
AFAR
Chicago Tribune
Travel Pulse
Los Angeles Times
Frommers

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip
A vast selection of trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from hundreds of trusted travel companies.
Save time
Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics -- travel providers plan for you.
Save money
Book directly with the operator. Find inclusive packages for the best value and get access to amazing deals.
Travel confidently
Read unbiased user reviews, pick the company that fits your style, and connect with them directly. No worries, just memories.
×
×
×
Sign in to Save Trips
Welcome back! We're so happy to see you. ? Forgot Password?
Don't have an account? Join
  • Bookmark trips you like
  • Share with your travel companions
  • Track price changes
  • Access private discounts on trips you save
×
Sign in to see your results

TripFinder is a member-only feature. Don’t worry, it’s free!

With a membership you:

  • Save up to $700 per person!*
  • Access private deals and offers
  • See personalized trip recommendations
  • Save favorite trips
*See Member Savings Program details
×
Activate your free Travelstride membership

Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.

? Forgot Password?

With your free membership you:

  • Save up to $700 per person!*
  • Access private deals and offers
  • See personalized trip recommendations
  • Save favorite trips
*See Member Savings Program details
×
To Follow, sign in or sign up (it's free) ? Forgot Password?
Don't have an account? Join
member benefits

By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

First name is required!
Last name is required!
First name is not valid!
Last name is not valid!
This is not an email address!
Email address is required!
This email is already registered!
Please enter valid email address
Password is required!
Enter a valid password!
Please enter 6 or more characters!
Please enter 32 or less characters!
Passwords are not the same!
Terms and Conditions are required!
Email or Password is wrong!
Please select the captcha checkbox!
Please select the valid captcha!
Something went wrong! Try again later!