25 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

Those who fancy travelling usually keep Thailand as a major part of their bucket lists. This South Asian country is known for stunning beaches, magnificent architectural marvels and fun nightlife. If you are planning an international trip within budget, Thailand is an ideal place to visit.

Here is a list of the popular attractions to add to your itinerary if you are considering visiting the top tourist places in Thailand.

Currency in Thailand- The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht. 1 Thai Baht is equal to 2.36 Indian Rupee, as of 27th February 2023*.

*Currency rates change are subject to the market exchange rate.

The following section comprises the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand, which are worth visiting at least once. This list includes beaches, islands, architectural structures, national parks, rainforests and more.

Every year millions of people visit Thailand to experience this diverse country and its unique tourist destinations. Thailand proudly presents its natural gems, here is a list of some of those picturesque beaches and islands.

1. Phi Phi Islands, Phuket

Consisting of six islands together, Phi Phi Island has a lot to offer tourists. The island is known for its nightlife and crazy party atmosphere. If partying is not for you, then simply head to the island to soak in the sun and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

• Location: Krabi, Phuket
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: 868.04 THB

2. Krabi, Thailand

If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday to enjoy some quiet, head to the beautiful Krabi, one of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand. Known for its mesmerising views and glorious sunsets, here you can also shop and experience the nightlife of the place.

• Location: Southern Thailand
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

3. Coral Island, Pattaya

The coral island in Pattaya, popularly known by its local name, Koh Hae is only 3 km from southeast Phuket. This island has two famous beaches, Banana Beach and Long Beach. It is heaven for beach lovers. Here, you can enjoy water adventure sports like snorkelling, or simply rent lounge chairs and relax.

• Location: Bang Lamung District
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

4. Racha Yai Island, Phuket

The other name of the Racha Yai island is Ko Racha Yai. This place is around 12 km from Phuket and Bangkok, and is ideal for diving, snorkelling and fishing tours. Besides adventure sports and mesmerising sceneries, you also get delicious food from local restaurants. A small bay on the west coast here is famous for fishing.

• Location: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

5. Similan Islands, Phuket

Similan Islands are located 84 km from Phuket. This place is gradually becoming one of the favourite spots for divers. You can visit 2-3 islands here, and take photographs in the sandy beaches and huge boulders. However, there is a lack of regular boat services to this island, so make sure to check the availability before planning to visit it.

• Location: Phang Nga, Phuket
• Timing: 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 439.88 THB

6. Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui’s popular beaches, Lamai and Chewang, are known for their nightlife but can get quite crowded during the peak season. The secluded Silver Beach, which lies close to Chaweng and Lamai, is another popular tourist attraction that you can explore.

• Location: Surat Thani Province
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

7. Jomtien Beach, Thailand

If you are planning to spend a day at a quiet and secluded beach, Jomtien Beach is ideal for you. It is a 6 km long beachfront, known for being clean and family-friendly. You can enjoy the stunning views around the beach, or go sunbathing. There are several restaurants along the beach, where you can go to grab delicious snacks.

• Location: Chonburi Province, Thailand
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

8. Railay Beach, Thailand

This is also one of the secluded beaches in Thailand. The main attractions of this beach include the caves, limestone cliffs, lagoons and viewpoints. Moreover, you can enjoy various activities here, including kayaking, hiking, snorkelling, swimming and rock climbing. This place is perfect for a laid-back day to relax and unwind.

• Location: Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

9. Freedom Beach, Phuket

With a 300 m long belt of white sandy beach, Freedom beach is one of the best-hidden gems of Phuket. As it is a secluded beach and not yet crowded with tourists, you can expect to spend a calm and peaceful time on the beach. You can also go snorkelling, or play beach volleyball or soccer.

• Location:  Pa Tong, Kathu District
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: 120 THB-200 THB

10. Patong Beach, Phuket

Patong is popular among tourists for hosting frequent fun parties on the beach. Besides partying, you can also visit different restaurants, bars, massage parlours, cabarets or nightclubs. In addition, you can also try different water sports to try adventure sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, etc.

• Location: West coast, Phuket Island
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: No entry fees

Some may have a misconception that people visit Thailand only for beaches. However, there are several temples and architectural structures which are worth exploring.

11. Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya

One of the most iconic structures in Pattaya, the Sanctuary of Truth is locally known as Prasat Sut Ja-Tum. This magnificent temple is completely made of teak wood. Despite being an incomplete structure, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Pattaya. Here, you can see a brilliant architectural work combining philosophy, mythology and craftsmanship.

• Location: Pattaya-Naklua, Bang Lamung District
• Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 500 THB

12. Ayutthaya, Thailand

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya is like an open-air museum. The structures found here date back centuries. The place is known for its rich architecture. It’s a great place to learn about the glorious past of the country.

• Location:  Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District
• Timing:  8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fees: 50 THB

13. White Temple, Chiang Rai

The white temple in Chiang Rai, locally known as the Wat Rong Khun, is evidence of culture and architectural excellence. There are multiple metaphorical details included in the design. One of the highlights of this temple is the ordination hall, which is a stunning white building with fragments of reflective glass.

• Location: Phahonyothin Road, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District
• Timing: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 50 THB

14. The Grand Palace, Phra Nakhon

The grand palace is a magnificent monument. It is not just a tourist attraction spot but the home to the Thai king. This palace serves the royal court and is the administrative seat of the government. Furthermore, it represents the spiritual heart of the kingdom. Here you will find the emerald Buddha Statue, regionally called Wat Phra Kaew.

• Location: Na Phra Lan Road in the Phra Nakhon area
• Timing: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
• Entry Fees: 500 THB

15. Wat Arun, Bangkok

Wat Arun or the temple of the Dawn is another popular tourist attraction. This Buddhist temple is 260 ft high and located above the Chao Phraya River. It is a great location to witness beautiful sunrises or sunsets. A major highlight here is the prang (spire) by the Chao Phraya, a 70 m high spire with stunning decorations of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain.

• Location: Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Entry Fees: 100 THB

16. Wat Pho Temple, Bangkok

Thailand is also known to attract tourists from all over the world for its popular temples. Make a trip to the famous Wat Pho, known for traditional Thai healing and medicine. Also home to the popular reclining Buddha, a trip here will leave you very satisfied.

• Location: Phra Nakhon District
• Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 AM
• Entry Fees: 100 THB

Thailand has something to offer to everyone. So, if you prefer wildlife and natural landscapes, there are plenty of options to explore in Thailand.

17. Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Kanchanaburi has gained popularity for its picturesque waterfalls and national parks. Mon Bridge and Khao Laem Lake are two of its main tourist attractions. However, some prefer visiting this town for WWII War Museum. Ideally, you can spend three to four days in Kanchanaburi.

• Location: Mueang Kanchanaburi District
• Timing: No specific timing
• Entry Fees: No entry fee

18. Khao Yai National Park, Thailand

There are so many beautiful tourist places in Thailand, and Khao Yai National Park is one of the best among them. Some main attractions at the park are the pythons, asian elephants, bears, and gibbons. Here, you can enjoy camping and spend the whole night in the jungle.

• Location: Mu Si, Pak Chong District
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 20 THB for children. 40 THB for adults, Free for elders and disabled people

19. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

UNESCO has enlisted this national park as a heritage site in Thailand. This national park is set in a backdrop of lush forests and rugged mountains, attracting tourists with its beautiful waterfalls and exotic wildlife. Besides going on a jungle safari in this park, you may also check out Khao Yai Art Museum, which is located in the same region.

• Location: Khlong Sok, Phanom District
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 300 THB

20. Khao Laem National Park

Khao Laem National Park is among the ideal places to explore flora and fauna in Thailand. It is a nature lover's paradise. The most unique feature of this national park is that you can stay here on houseboats. Other nearby tourist attractions are Khao Laem lake, Koreng Kra Wia, and Kra Teng Jeng.

• Location: Prang Phe, Sangkhla Buri District
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 100 THB for children, 200 THB for adults

There are several ways to enjoy your stay in Thailand. Here are some non-traditional things to try for fun.

21. Floating Market, Phuket

The Pattaya floating market will give you a sneak peek into the daily life of the Thai people. Here, you will witness locals dressed in traditional clothes selling fresh produce in tiny boats. Fruits, flowers, herbs, and handicrafts are some items that are sold here.

• Location: Sukhumvit Road, Banglamung, Nongprue
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 169 THB

22. Chao Phraya River, Bangkok

To make your stay more memorable, go on a dinner cruise in the Chao Phraya River with your friends and family. On this two-hour cruise journey, you will be served several choices of international cuisine or authentic Thai cuisine. If you are looking for an exotic experience in Bangkok, this cruise should be on your bucket list. The cruise also offers various entertainment options, like live shows and more.

• Location: Asiatique The Riverfront; Warehouse No.7, Charoen Krung Rd, Wat Phraya Krai
• Timing: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
• Entry Fee: 50 THB to 350 THB

23. Safari World Zoo, Bangkok

Spread over an area of 170 acres, this zoological park is in Khlong Sam Wa. Divided into two sections, the first part houses various animals like giraffes, deer, birds, zebras, lions, and tigers. The Marine Park is the second section that hosts various shows like the popular dolphin show, orangutan show, and sea lion shows.

• Location: Thanon Panya Intra, Khwaeng Sam Wa Tawan Tok, Khet Khlong Sam Wa
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 750 THB -1300 THB

24. Dream World Amusement Park, Bangkok

Dream World Amusement Park is one of the most festive amusement parks in Bangkok.  Among others, the Space Mountain and Viking ships are popular rides that attract children. They can also meet popular characters like Cinderella and Snow White. On the other hand, the Sky Coaster and Super Splash are great rides for grown-ups who enjoy adventures.

• Location: Bueng Yitho, Thanyaburi District
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: 160 THB

25. Full Moon Party, Thailand

Looking to have some fun, head to Koh Pha Ngan to dance the night away. A popular tourist attraction in Thailand, it's a happening place to party with friends and other tourists from around the world. Here, you can also check out other famous parties like the Shiva Moon, Black Moon, and Half Moon.

• Location:  Hat Rin, Ko Pha-ngan
• Timing: 10:00 PM onwards
• Entry Fees: 100 THB