If you’re heading to Thailand, get ready for an adventure filled with delicious food, incredible beaches, stunning temples, and lively night markets with this travel guide.
I spent two months in Thailand, driving my way through the northern mountains and hopping between the islands. The country dramatically varies from north to south, but Thailand is a beautiful (and safe) country to explore. Through my time, I have collected and pinned my favorite spots for food, activities to do, things to see, where to stay, and random tips along the way.
Google Maps Shared Pin List: https://maps.app.goo.gl/c2bFmRnVLQdAUv3A8
Iβve put together my top recommendations based on my trip, including some must-visit spots, hidden gems, and extra tips for getting the most out of your time in the Land of Smiles.
Bangkok β The Bustling Capital
Bangkok is wild. Itβs chaotic, vibrant, and full of energy, but honestly, it wasnβt my favorite spot (it’s a very big and crowded city). That being said, it is the most popular spot to fly into. Being a hot spot for travel and connection flights, the city is huge and still filled with some must-do things while youβre there:
Visit Khao San Road
This is a famous backpacker street with cheap souvenirs, street food, and crazy nightlife. A lot of the party hostels are on or around this road, so itβs a great place to meet people as well.
If you aren’t looking for a hostel vibe, this is still a great place to check out and get a sense of the crazy busy life in Bangkok. Plus, if youβre feeling adventurous, you can try some fried insects!
Go to the Temples & The Grand Palace
Bangkok is packed with stunning temples. Visit Wat Arun, Wat Pho (home of the giant reclining Buddha), and the Grand Palace. These temples have a small entrance fee but they are beautiful sanctuaries in the middle of the city! Remember to bring clothes to cover your shoulders and knees though!
Stroll the Night Market in Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the best places to buy street food. It’s best known for its night markets that stretch so far! Try dim sum, grilled seafood, and mango sticky rice.
Explore the Floating Markets
Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa are the most famous floating markets. They hold some traditional housing and beautiful sights along the river. You can even do a small boat tour along the river to get a different view of the markets. Get there early to beat the crowds.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you love shopping, this market is massive and has everything from clothes to souvenirs and local food.
Chao Phraya River Boat Tour
The River Boat Tour Rides are easy hop-on and off tours through the city. They are a fun and cheap way to explore the cityβs temples and skyline. Many boat tours bring you through the center of the city, showing off the impressive architecture, and lights.
Bangkok Cycling Tour
Iβve heard great things about bike tours through the old parts of Bangkok! There are many tours that bring you through the main parts of the city, the back streets, or all the best local food stops! You can choose your favorite.
Northern Thailand β Nature, Elephants & Hippie Vibes
Northern Thailand is a world away from the southern islands. Instead of beaches and party towns, youβll find mountains, misty valleys, and a slower, more relaxed pace of life. This region is perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and those looking to experience Thailandβs rich traditions.
Chiang Mai and Pai are the main hubs, offering everything from elephant sanctuaries and scenic hikes to bohemian cafΓ©s and lively night markets. Itβs also the best place to dive into Thai culture through cooking classes, temple visits, and interactions with local hill tribes.
Chiang Mai (4-5 Nights)
Chiang Mai is a dream destination for foodies, nature lovers, and digital nomads. It was one of my favorite stops in the North and I’m not a fan of cities.
It is a big city that has everything you may want, without feeling overcrowded. Itβs full of never-ending markets, waterfalls, and elephant sanctuaries.
I spent about 2 weeks in Chiang Mai alone and the active nomadic lives of those I met were inspiring. Chiang Mai has a supportive community of locals, travelers, and nomads that really encourage enjoying the sun, trying new things and markets!
Cooking Class (Smile Organic Farm)
You can learn to make classic Thai dishes from scratch with a cooking class! This cooking class brings you through local markets and shows you how to make traditional food from the food you pick out in their garden.
Night Markets
The North and South Gate night markets have the best local eats. They are open every night in Chiang Mai’s old town and are filled with the best food vendors. (They also have some of the cheapest food)
Elephant Sanctuary
Hanging out with the elephants is a bucket list item, they truly are amazing animals. However, choose an ethical one where you can feed the elephants (NO riding!). Do lots of research before you go, the elephants are peaceful giants with huge personalities.
Buatong Waterfall-Chet Si Fountain National Park (The Sticky Waterfalls)
These are natural waterfalls where you can literally walk up the rocks. Go with a tour, or rent a scooter and drive yourself before the crowds come.
Monks Trail to Wat Pha Lat
This is a peaceful hike to a jungle temple. It is an ancient monk’s tail that gives you a good workout and some really nice views at the top.
Baan Bakery
Hands down, the BEST pastries in Chiang Mai. I stumbled upon this place by accident and went back for breakfast every day afterward. This bakery has the freshest and best sweet or salty pastries I have ever tasted. Get the cinnamon roll!
Saturday & Sunday Night Markets
These are the biggest and best markets for souvenirs and street food. They are busy but filled with amazing talent and super interesting finds spanned out over multiple kilometers!
Woodworking Village
A cool place to see Thai craftsmanship in action.
Grand Canyon Waterpark
If you need a break from temples and hiking, this is a fun way to cool off. This is a huge waterpark filled with any floatation device you can find. Go with a group of friends or a few strangers. Either way, it is worth it.
Pai (3 Nights)
Pai is a small mountain town with a hippie vibe, stunning sunsets, and relaxed energy. It’s easy to get caught in the “Pai hole” considering this small community is quick to fall in love with.
Pai Walking Street & Night Market
This is the main street through Pai, and is a great place to eat, shop, book a tour, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
Pai Canyon
This is a real-life adult jungle gym. Itβs a risky hiking trail not far from downtown Pai, but with a super unique landscape compared to the rest of the North. The canyon is also the best at sunset for jaw-dropping views.
Two Hunts Lookout
Another fantastic sunset spot, set up for communal watching with a cute bar, seats, and sometimes music!
Joyβs Place
This is the best and cheapest Thai food in town! Just off the main walking street, Joy’s place has the best authentic atmosphere – outside, small tables, no wifi, and great food.
The Bamboo Bridges
Overlooking endless rice fields, these bamboo bridges offer a nice walk over green fields and many kilometers of bridges made entirely of bamboo. The place has some great cafes and offers a lot of good photo opportunities.
Chinese Lookout
The Chinese Lookout is located in a small Chinese village close to Pai. It is an amazing 360 view of the surrounding village, mountains, and gardens. The lookout is especially beautiful at sunrise.
Banh Banh Pun Pai
This is a MUST-GO for dinner! This is a Vietnamese Banh Mi spot with a twist. They offer some of the biggest sandwiches I have ever seen and I still dream of them to this day. They have meat and veggie options for all.
Mama Noi Food & Drink
This restaurant is another local gem, a little off the main touristy street of Pai. This is a cute spot for a homemade meal and super sweet locals, and a quieter part of town to enjoy the meal.
Tipsy Tubing
Tipsy Tubing is a hot activity in Pai. It’s a fun and wild day of floating down the river with drinks, stopping at local bars for more drinks and getting lots of sun. This is a Pai specialty activity, with travelers coming from all over to participate in it. There are usually hundreds of people each week of tipsy tubing so you will find many friends! This activity is easy to book, with opportunities to book all over town to sign up.
Chiang Rai (Day Trip or 1-2 Nights)
Chiang Rai is known for its stunning temples and cultural heritage. It offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to Chiang Mai, with a deep connection to Thai culture and history.
Singha Park
This is a scenic park with great tea plantations laid out like a huge garden. It’s great for cycling trails and outdoor activities or just to enjoy the sun and views.
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
The white temple is one of the most unique temples in Thailand. With an exterior of all white, the intricate detailing is mesmerizing. The history and architecture of the while temple are just as interesting. This is a tourist hotspot so go early to avoid crowds!
Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
A beautifully painted blue temple. The blue temple is a good complement to the white temple with the dramatic contrast of color. Using blue and gold, the details catch the light in a truly beautiful way.
Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
The Black House is a unique and somewhat eerie art collection in black-themed buildings filled with dark, artistic exhibits. The house displays beautiful Thai-style architecture different from the temples.
The Night Bazaar
This is yet another amazing night market! Explore the local night bazaar which is a lively market filled with delicious food, handicrafts, and live music to enjoy.
Doi Inthanon (Day Trip)
Doi Inthanon is located about an hour outside of Chiang Mai. It is a national park with Thailandβs highest peak and stunning waterfalls. You can often find day tours out from Chiang Mai that include a full tour of the following activities to do there:
Visit Thailandβs Highest Peak
Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s highest mountain. The top of the mountain is filled with multiple hikes, and the drive-up gives you a beautiful view of the surrounding peaks and towns.
The Twin Pagodas
The twin pagodas were built in honor of the King and Queen high up in the mountains. These structures are a beautiful complement to each other high above the clouds.
Visit the Karen Tribe
The Karen tribe is also known as the long-neck tribe due to the multiple gold rings women wear around their necks.
Ban Rak Thai (1 Day)
Ban Rak Thai is a beautiful Chinese-influenced village near the Burmese border with incredible tea plantations and traditional housing. The drive to this village is just as amazing as the views once you get there.
Scenic Drive from Pai
Absolutely breathtaking views on the way to this village! The drive from Pai to Ban Rak Thai takes you through amazing twists and turns, through amazing lookouts and authentic Thai villages.
Visit Traditional Tea Houses
A must-visit for tea lovers. This village is covered with traditional housing for tourists to stay in and enjoy the peace.
Walk around the serene lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This village is a beautiful and scenic spot from sun up to sun down.
Tips for the North
- Try the Khao Soi and Pad Thai
- If you only have a few days in Northern Thailand focus on exploring Chiang Mai and Pai.
- If you rent a scooter, always wear a hamlet (police will charge tourists for not wearing them) and drive safe!
Southern Thailand β Beaches, Parties & Snorkeling
Southern Thailand is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lively nightlife. Unlike the north, which is more mountainous and culturally rich, the south is all about island-hopping, water activities, and beach parties. From the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan to world-class diving spots in Koh Tao, the south is a haven for beach lovers, partiers, and thrill-seekers.
Krabi (Ao Nang) (1 Day)
Krabi has some of Thailandβs most beautiful beaches and is known for its nightlife. Ao Nang is the more touristy part of Krabi with many travelers, hostels, hotels, and clubs.
Enjoy the Nightlife
This is a lively beach with bars and restaurants to hop between the day. If youβre up for a party, Krabi has some fun bars and beach clubs along the beach, along with many good restaurants and shops. Take a stroll down the busy streets and explore!
Island Boat Ride
Krabi is on the coast and faces some beautiful and odd-shaped islands. You can take a longtail boat to explore the nearby islands for the day, along with some swimming.
Railay Beach (1 Day)
If you can, skip Krabi and head straight to Railay! It is a beautiful beach just a boat ride away from Ao Nang. It has amazing climbing, a beautiful beach. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline activities.
Rock Climbing
Railay is world-famous for its limestone cliffs, making it an amazing spot for rock climbers of all levels. If you are looking for a guided climb or an experienced climber ready to tackle challenging overhangs, this beach has a natural wall for you. Railayβs cliffs have breathtaking views (from all angles) and unforgettable experiences. Tonsai Beach and Phra Nang Cave Beach are among the top climbing spots.
Rent a kayak
You can actually rent a kayak on the beach or through your hotel to explore the coastline and stretch a little farther past the beaches.
Sunset Boat Tour
Railay Beach is a perfect launching point for island-hopping tours, including trips to the famous Four Islands (Poda Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach). Many companies offer boat tours that take you out on the water to watch the sunset around the mountains and the islands.
Koh Phi Phi (2 Days)
Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island with clear water, snorkeling, and crazy parties. It is a small island mostly catered to tourists though. The streets off the port are a maze of food, cool shops, and tour companies that I found quite fun to explore. Donβt shy away, because the tours offered here are absolutely amazing! And, this island is home to one of the coolest bars in the country.
7 Islands Snorkeling Tour
I did the 7 islands full day which includes several snorkeling spots, lunch, and the bioluminescent tour. It is AMAZING but very long and you will be exhausted by the end of it. They also offer half-day tours that are really good!
I would recommend booking most tours on the island rather than through any app because it is often cheaper.
Lookout 1, 2 & 3
These are three different lookouts along the same path. These are little hikes with lots of stairs but they are pretty lookouts that view the whole island. Hike up for an incredible view of the island and ocean for sunset.
Reggae Fight Bar
This is one of the coolest bars I have ever been to, with drunk strangers volunteering to box each other for a bucket of alcohol and bragging rights. The Reggae Fight Bar is all fun and has an amazing atmosphere.
Koh Lanta (3 days)
Unlike Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta has a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy the islandβs natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of city.
Visit the Beaches
Klong Nin Beach and Bamboo Bay beaches are a must in Koh Lanta. They have some of Thailandβs most picturesque shorelines. The island is also a paradise for food lovers, with fresh seafood, rich curries, and delicious street food found in small beachside eateries and local markets.
Best for a quiet and relaxing island getaway
If youβre looking for a peaceful island retreat, Koh Lanta is the place to be. With its slow pace, friendly locals, and unspoiled nature, the island is a haven for those who want to unwind. Whether you prefer watching breathtaking sunsets, getting a Thai massage by the sea, or simply enjoying the sound of waves from your hammock, Koh Lanta offers the ultimate setting for relaxation.
Snorkeling and Diving
Thailand is known for its amazing snorkeling and diving, and Koh Lanta is no exception. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, the island has some amazing underwater activities.
Popular sites like Koh Haa, Koh Rok, and Hin Daeng are the best places to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
Mu Ko Lanta National Park
Mu Ko Lanta National Park is good for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This park is at the southern tip of the island, and has rugged cliffs, lush jungle trails, and scenic coastal views.
The highlight is the iconic lighthouse perched on a hill, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. You can also explore hidden beaches, spot wildlife, or hike through the forest.
Lanta Old Town
Once a thriving fishing village and trade port, Lanta Old Town is a charming area that displays the islandβs rich cultural heritage. Here you can find wooden stilt houses, local shops, and authentic Thai restaurants with stunning waterfront views.
I would recommend you rent a scooter and explore the islandβs remote beaches and surrounding areas.
Koh Samui (1-2 Days)
Koh Samui is a more developed island with a mix of beaches and nightlife. There are two main spots on the island, one is a fun nightlife hot spot, and the other is more relaxed and quiet.
Fishermanβs Village Night Market
This is another great market and one of the best in the Southern parts of Thailand! There are multiple streets of food and clothes for you to try and explore.
Visit Big Buddha Temple
One of Koh Samuiβs most iconic landmarks, the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) stands 12 meters tall and offers stunning views of the island. Early mornings are the best time to visit, when monks perform daily rituals, and the atmosphere is especially serene.
Chaweng or Lamai Beach
These two beaches are among Koh Samuiβs most famous. Chaweng Beach is the islandβs liveliest, with a long stretch of white sand, clear waters, and plenty of beachside restaurants and bars.
Lamai Beach, on the other hand, is slightly quieter but still offers a beautiful coastline with a more relaxed vibe, perfect for those seeking a balance between activity and tranquility.
Take a boat tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park
A must-do in Koh Samui, a boat tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park takes you to a breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands. With limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and hidden beaches, this protected area is a paradise for kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
Hike to Na Muang Waterfalls
Na Muang Waterfalls, known as the βPurple Waterfallsβ due to the color of the surrounding rocks. The first waterfall is easily accessible, while a short hike leads to the second, which is more secluded.
Check out the Secret Buddha Garden
The Secret Buddha Garden is a mystical collection of statues surrounded by dense jungle. This garden was created by a local fruit farmer, and shows off intricately carved figures of deities, animals, and monks.
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Chaweng
For those looking for excitement after dark, Chaweng Beach is the heart of Koh Samuiβs nightlife. From beach clubs with fire shows to lively bars and nightclubs. Enjoy live music, dance until sunrise while taking in the islandβs electric atmosphere.
Koh Tao (4 Days)
Koh Tao is known as a paradise for snorkeling and diving. Itβs a small island but its filled with so much! You should get a scooter though, there isn’t much transportation on the island.
Scuba Diving
This is one of the cheapest places to get certified! They offer numerous diving courses over a variety of days. Plus, the beaches are beautiful and the tropical clear waters are thriving with fish life.
99 Roasted Duck
The best duck noodle shop on the island. It is on the main strip away from the pier, and will most likely be filled with others waiting to eat. They offer other options than duck and it is all amazing.
Ao Tanote Beach
This is a great place to the watch the sunrise as the fishing boats come back for the day. It is also a great sport for free snorkeling and swimming throughout the day.
Secret Bar
This is a super nice sunset bar to watch the sun go down as you sit drinking a smoothie on the cliff.
High the Moon Koh Tao
This is another great place for sunset drinks and casual food!
Koh Phangan (3-4 Days)
This is my absolute favorite island in Thailand! It is originally famous for the Full Moon Party, but thereβs so much more to see. The island is filled with nomads and cheerful travelers. The beaches are all beautiful and often have night markets, beach campfires, and picnic areas set up to watch the sunrise or sunset. Or both!
Full Moon Party
If youβre going, book accommodation in advance. The Full Moon Party is a traditional party that goes big with fire shows, loud music, and mingling. Itβs a night to remember (or forget).
Explore the Island
Rent a scooter and ride through the mountains. This island has a lot of great wildlife (monkeys) and beautiful views lookouts to discover.
Zen Beach
Zan beach is a popular and beautiful (half-nudist) beach with an awesome sunset. The beach often has markets, drum circles, bond fires and happy vibes that are easy to enjoy.
Tips for the South
- Rent a scooter β Itβs the best way to explore the islands. It’s easy to find scooter lessons and learn if needed.
- Eat all the street food β Itβs cheap, delicious, and safe if you stick to busy stalls. Its good to try new things and be a little adventurous!
General Thailand Tips
Below are some things I like to keep in mind for travel prep to any country. I truly believe that when traveling, it is important to remember that we are guests in other people’s homes.
- Respect the culture β Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Look up traditional cultural expectations and educate for both in public and private areas. Thailand is filled with tourists but it is still important to learn and respect their customs.
- Stay flexible β Plans change, and youβll want to stay longer in places you fall in love with!
- Learn some Thai – Have some Thai words to exchange! It’s always a nice touch to use some Thai phrases when interacting with the locals.
Thailand Accommodation
Thailand is pretty toured toward tourists, so there are a variety of booking options for finding places to stay.
For those traveling on a budget, hostel world has a lot of amazing options of hostels to choose from. You can read all the reviews and determine what vibe is best for you.
For the mix of budget and casual travelers, I found booking.com had a great mix of shared places, private accommodations, hotels, and homes for rent at amazing prices.
Travelers looking for upper-scale spots should take a look at Agoda or Expedia to find good accommodations anywhere.
Conclusion
Thailand is an incredible country with something for everyone. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or non-stop partying, youβll find it here.
I have included a quick downloadable sheet with all my recommendations below. I hope this helps with your planning. Have an amazing trip!
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