Thailand is known for its lush landscapes, opulent royal palaces, delicious cuisine, and bustling nightlife. You will be amazed by its captivating beauty and all it has to offer. It also helps that the people are exceedingly friendly and will help you feel right at home. Whether you prefer off-the-beaten path areas or popular landmarks, here’s my list of the best places to visit in Thailand.
1. The Grand Palace
You can’t leave Thailand without visiting the iconic Grand Palace. Tourists from all over the world come to experience a piece of Thai history. From its construction in 1782 until 1925, it served as the king’s residence. It consists of royal halls, government offices, and the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Please note that a strict dress code is enforced here so please dress appropriately or you won’t be allowed entry. The park is open daily from 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM. It’s free of charge for Thai citizens and 500 baht for foreigners. Click here to learn more about the Grand Palace.
2. Wat Pho: Temple of the Reclining Buddha
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is located behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha at the Grand Palace. Wat Pho was one of the first public universities in Thailand, where locals came to study Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage. The structure is 15 meters tall and 46 meters long. Remember to dress in modest clothing and to remove shoes before entering. Other attractions at the complex include chapels, murals, and a courtyard. After a long day of walking, you can even book a relaxing Thai massage. Wat Pho is open every day from 8 AM – 6:30 PM. Admission is 200 Baht per person and free for small children.
3. Wat Saket: Temple of the Golden Mount
Wat Saket, or The Temple of the Golden Mount, is another one of Thailand’s most well-known temples. It dates back to the Ayutthaya era, and was renovated during the reign of King Rama I. The main structure is the 80-meter high man-made mountain, and at the top sits a golden 5.8-meter chedi. There are over 300 steps that spiral around the hill, and as you make the climb to the top there are plenty of lookout points, mini waterfalls, gardens, and interesting statues to marvel at. (Remember to have your water with you because it will be hot). You can also ring the prayer bells for good luck.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by beautiful panoramic views of Bangkok. A week-long festival is hosted annually in November during Loy Krathong, ‘The Festival of Light’. The temple is open daily from 8 AM – 5 PM. Admission to the temple is free, and admission to the chedi is 10 Baht.
4. Night markets and floating markets
One of the most exciting things about Thailand is the plethora of markets. Visiting Thailand’s markets is a must because you’ll be able to find everything from food to electronics to accessories. Shopping at Thailand’s markets is a dynamic shopping experience, something like a carnival or amusement park. (Tip: bartering is a must! Brush up on your negotiating skills or bring a friend that can).
Jatujak Weekend Market
Home decor/artwork for sale at Jatujak Market 
Jatujak (Chatuchak) Weekend Market is the largest market in Asia, and possibly the most popular market in Thailand. It has become one of the most popular tourist spots, and welcomes over 200,000 visitors every weekend. There are 27 sections with over 15,000 booths selling antique pieces like wood carvings, ceramic wares, miscellaneous crafts, and souvenirs from all over Thailand. It is open from 9 AM – 6 PM on Saturday and Sunday. The Plants & Flowers section is open on Wednesday and Thursday from 6AM – 6PM. For more detailed information about the market click here.
Asiatique: The Riverfront
Asiatique: The Riverfront is a large open air market in Bangkok. It is a hybrid of a shopping complex and a traditional market. The market is massive and includes shops, restaurants, events and activities. One distinct feature is the Asiatique Sky ferris wheel, where you can see stunning views of the city. The market is open every day from 4 PM – 12 AM.
Food markets
Things are fairly cheap in Thailand so stock up on your favorite produce at one of the many open food markets in Bangkok.
Tips for visiting markets:
- Watch your belongings and beware of pickpockets
- Wear light, comfortable clothing and shoes
- Wear your backpack/purse to the front, rather than the back
- Put on sunscreen/hat/sunglasses to protect your skin
- Bring bottled water
- Have enough cash on you, most vendors won’t accept cards
- Be ready to bargain/bring a friend that can
- Go early in the morning, if possible, to avoid crowds
- Need more safety and planning tips for Thailand? Click here.
5. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep is located in the beautiful mountainside of Chiang Mai. The views from the top will make the climb worthwhile. At the bottom of the steps there are food places and markets where you can buy souvenirs.
6. Lotus farm sightseeing tour and boat ride
Klong Mahasawat Agriculture Farm
This is one of the more “off the beaten path” places to visit in Bangkok, and a fantastic day trip idea. Step away from the city for a day and experience the sights and sounds of nature in a whole new way. This community-based tourist area will give you a taste of Thailand’s rural culture. It includes a scenic boat ride down the canal, a tour of the lotus farm, a tractor ride into the orchid garden, and traditional Thai lunch. If you want to sample some more Thai treats, there are also several snack shops along the way. Lastly, you can also learn how to process rice and make your own fruit juice. Interested in booking a trip? Check out this link.
7. Maetang Elephant Park
If you’re a nature lover, you can get an up-close elephant experience at Maetang Elephant Park, which is located 50 kilometers north of Chiang Mai City. Fun activities at the park include The Mahout Elephant Experience, Bamboo Rafting, Ox Cart Rides, a buffet lunch, an introduction to rural Thai life, and more. For more information, check out their website.
8. Visit Phuket’s islands
Head to the southern province of Phuket and enjoy one of its many popular beaches like the Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay. The island is home to many luxury spas, resorts, and restaurants.
9. Visit the Long Neck Village Hill Tribe
Recently, this has been viewed as a controversial attraction, but is very interesting nonetheless. I was a bit concerned that it would feel like a human zoo, but the people were very nice and welcoming and it ended up being a pleasant experience. The Karen tribe originally came from Myanmar to escape war and violence. They are known for their gold rings they wear around their necks, that they begin wearing from childhood. The village is set up like a flea market, where the women sell handmade crafts to help sustain the community. The cost to visit is about 300 Baht per person for a tour group. When visiting, be respectful, kind, and don’t gawk or react inappropriately when passing through the village.
Have you visited any of these attractions in Thailand? Do you prefer Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket? Let’s discuss in the comments below.
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