TRENDING DESTINATIONS
Last updated on: 31 Dec, 2025
Thailand is a land that has something to offer to every kind of tourist, with the most versatile mix of culture, landscapes, and experiences to enjoy. Right from the hustle-bustle of the city to the temples of the past, the beautiful beaches to the natural parks, and everything else that the world has to explore, Thailand has it all to make every tourist feel special with the most amazing places to visit that are ideal according to the tourist’s budget and choices.
This guide provides an insight into the best places to visit in Thailand, chosen based on popularity and ease of accessibility. We do not put you through a list of numerous destinations that may not be as impressive as they sound.
| Region | Travel Category | Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Central Thailand | First-Timers | Bangkok |
| Cultural & Historical | Ayutthaya | |
| Family-Friendly | Hua Hin | |
| Northern Thailand | First-Timers | Chiang Mai |
| Cultural & Historical | Chiang Rai | |
| Adventure & Nature | Mae Hong Son Loop | |
| Southern Thailand | Beaches & Islands | Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Islands, Koh Samui |
| Couples & Honeymooners | Koh Lipe, Phuket (Luxury Side) | |
| Family-Friendly | Khao Lak |
This overview is especially useful for those planning their first trip, as it highlights the best places to visit in Thailand for first timers based on ease of travel and attractions.
This country is broadly divided into regions, each with a different kind of travel experience. Knowing these will help you pick the right destination to fit your interest and time.
The region comprises Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and other historic cities with cultural landmarks, royal palaces, and vibrant city life.
Features mountains, temples, and culture. A slower pace and beauty found in cities like Chiang Mai.
World famous beaches and island destinations like Phuket, Krabi, or Ko Samui, perfect for sun, sand, and water sports.
Each region offers unique experiences, making it easier to choose the places to visit in Thailand that match your interests and travel style.
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is, for most travelers, the perfect starting point. Ancient temples stand here, consistently juxtaposed with modern malls, street food culture, and buzzing nightlife.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cooler, dry weather)
Approximate Cost: $40-$70 per day (mid-range)
Pro Tip: Visit temples early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, famous for its temples, mountains, and laid-back lifestyle. This makes it perfect for travelers looking to experience culture, nature, and a more relaxed pace.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Approximate Cost: $30-$60 per day
Pro Tip: Avoid March-April due to the burning season affecting air quality.
Ayutthaya is a UNESCO historical site and definitely one of the places that history enthusiasts must visit. These ancient ruins give an insight into Thailand's royal history.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Approximate Cost: $25-$50 per day
Pro Tip: Rent a bicycle for an easy and flexible way to explore the ruins.
Chiang Rai is less noisy compared to Chiang Mai, while its merit lies in peculiar artistic temples. It's perfect for travelers in need of cultural depth without crowds.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Approximate Cost: $30-$60 per day
Pro Tip: Hire a local guide to understand the symbolism behind the temples.
Phuket is the most visited holiday destination by tourists in Thailand, with its beautiful beaches, nightlife, historical sites, and excursions to other nearby islands. Phuket is ideal for first timers, couples, and family vacations.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Approximate Cost: $50-$80 per day
Pro Tip: You should stay in Kata or Kamala if you want to experience something quieter and more relaxed.
It is renowned for its spectacular limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, giving it immense popularity among nature admirers and thrill-seekers.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Approximate Cost: $40-$70 per day
Pro Tip: Ao Nang can be a great base to use to get to other nearby islands.
The Phi Phi Islands have an impressive natural setting with abundant marine life. They act as the best destinations for a stayover visit or an island-hopping trip.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Approximate Cost: $60-$90 per day (including tours)
Pro Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Koh Samui has resorts, beaches, and attractions. It is ideal for couples and family vacations, as it offers comfort and beauty.
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Approximate Cost: $50-$85 per day
Pro Tip: Combine Koh Samui with nearby islands for a richer itinerary.
Koh Lipe is a small island known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil beaches. Therefore, it is always excellent for romantic and laid-back trips. Because of its peaceful vibe and scenic sunsets, Koh Lipe is often listed among the top places to visit in Thailand for couples.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Approximate Cost: $60-$100 per day
Pro Tip: If you're visiting during peak season, it’s a good idea to book your lodging in advance because there are limited options.
Hua Hin is a quiet coastal town and is good for family holidays. The beaches are less crowded than in other popular islands. With calm beaches and kid-friendly attractions, Hua Hin is among the most preferred places to visit in Thailand with family. Families traveling with children may benefit from choosing a Thailand Family Tour Package that includes family-friendly resorts and guided sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Approximate Cost: $50-$80 per day
Pro Tip: It is advisable that you pick beachfront hotels
Khao Lak is characterized by nature, beaches, and national parks. Indeed, it is one of the best places to get away from crowds of island resorts.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Approximate Cost: $60-$90 per day
Pro Tip: Ideal for travelers searching for relaxation and nature-based activities.
Scenic road trips through the mountains and countryside of Northern Thailand, a loop through Mae Hong Son is a great adventure destination.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Approximate Cost: $30-$60 per day
Pro Tip: Only attempt the loop if you’re comfortable with mountain driving.
Travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience can also opt for a well-planned Thailand Tour Package that is offered by Fliptripholidays and covers accommodation, transfers, and key attractions.
Organizing travel plans for Thailand isn’t a big issue once you have knowledge about it. Ranging from the climate, visa requirements, places to stay, and other essentials, here is everything that you need for your trip.
Note: Gulf of Thailand islands like Koh Samui can have relatively good weather in parts of June-September compared with the Andaman side, making them a good alternative in the mid-year months.
Visa-free entry (Indian nationals): From 2025, Indian nationals are allowed visa-free stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 60 days, with the aim of visiting or conducting business, with the compulsory Thailand Digital Arrival Card submitted online 72 hours prior to arrival.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Indian passport holders can also apply for Visa on Arrival, which is valid for stays of up to 15 days at a cost of 2,000 Baht, together with citizens from another 31 eligible countries.
E-Visa: For a longer stay or specific visa types, Indians can apply to the official embassy channels for a Thailand e-visa, which generally takes about 1–2 weeks to process, depending on the type of visa.
Note: Visa regulations are frequently updated. It is always best to verify visa requirements from the Thai Embassy/Consulate or the Embassy of India in Bangkok before embarking on your journey.
Highly advisable when traveling overseas. All medical emergencies, delays, and even accidents can be covered.
Official language: Thai
English: Common in tourist areas such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
Thailand has very well-developed transport facilities that suit all kinds of travelers. Be it fast-flight travel, train tourism, or local travel in tuk-tuks, there is something to suit every kind of plan and pocket in Thailand.
Traveling by flight is the fastest means of transportation between metropolitan centers and islands. There are several budget airlines that operate in Thailand offering relatively low-priced tickets.
Popular Routes: Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bangkok to Phuket, Bangkok to Krabi
Approximate Cost: $20–$80 per flight (budget airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air)
Travel Time: 1 – 2 hours between main cities, 1 hour from Bangkok for islands
Pro Tip: You can find the best airfare deals by booking your ticket 2 to 4 weeks in advance. Make sure to check the luggage allowance of budget airlines.
Train travel is a scenic experience, and it is even more cultural in Northern Thailand. Overnight sleeper trains are used for long routes.
Popular Routes: Bangkok to/from Chiang Mai, Bangkok to/from Hua Hin
Approximate Cost: $10–$50 depending on class (2nd class fan/sleeper, 1st class AC)
Travel Time: Bangkok to Chiang Mai, 12-14 hours, Bangkok to Hua Hin, 4-5 hours
Pro Tip: Take an overnight sleeper train to avoid the cost of accommodation and learn how the locals commute.
Buses link many of the towns and the islands together. The minivans are faster on short distances but tend to be very congested.
Popular Routes: Phuket to Krabi, Chiang Mai to Pai
Approximate Cost: $5–$20 depending on distance and type
Travel Time: Varies; From Phuket to Krabi: 3 hours; From Chiang Mai to Pai: 4 hours
Pro Tip: You should buy the bus ticket from either reliable bus services or the hotel you'll be staying in, as it is not advisable for safety.
Islands in Southern Thailand require ferry and speedboat transport. Their timetables are dependent on seasons; they operate regularly when it is dry.
Popular Routes: Phuket to/from Phi Phi Islands, Koh Samui to/from Koh Phangan
Approximate Cost: $10–$30 per person for standard ferries
Travel Time: 1-2 Hours via Speed Boats, 2-3 Hours via Ordinary Ferry Boats
Pro Tip: It’s best to get there 30-45 minutes ahead of time so that you can determine the weather so that the boat may not get delayed due to bad weather
Local transport for short distances is an exciting way to explore cities and towns.
Tuk-Tuks: Brightly colored three-wheelers, perfect for short trips within cities.
Songthaews: Passengers share the use of pickup trucks that travel local routes. It’s very common in Chiang Mai and Pai.
Grab: Ride-sharing service in the form of an application like Uber, which is super convenient.
Approximate Cost: Tuk-tuks: $1-$5 per ride, Grab: Varies by distance
Pro Tip: Tuk-tuk prices should always be settled before the ride. If available, always use Grab rides, as they have fixed prices and an added sense of safety.
Mix transportation services to make it efficient: airplanes for long-distance travel between remote cities, train or bus for a scenic route, tuk-tuks, and Grab for short distances within the city.
For Indian passport holders as of 2025, it is possible to enter Thailand without visas for up to 60 days after using the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). There is visa on arrival that allows stay up to 15 days, while other e-visas for other durations can be acquired depending on the purpose of stay.
Months of November to February have the finest climate with cooler climatic conditions and less rainfall. It's hot during March to April, and monsoon rains and low rates are experienced during May to October.
Thailand is a safe destination, with many visiting the country annually. However, some forms of precautions like not to find yourself alone in Thailand after dark. It is important to safeguard your valuables and also while traveling. One should always observe travel advisories.
Thailand's cost of living fits different budgets. Expenses include budget stays ranging from $30-$50, mid-range from $50-$80 and luxury can be $150+.
The language of Thailand is Thai. English is commonly used in areas frequented by tourists, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and main islands.
In Thailand, you would be able to enjoy street food, night markets, as well as international cuisine. Some of the food you should not forget to try in Thailand are Pad Thai, Tom Yam, Green Curry, and fresh tropical fruits.
Yes. The travel insurance will cover medical emergencies, flight delays, and/or lost luggage, giving you peace of mind when traveling to Thailand.
In the country, there are domestic flights, trains, buses, ferry rides, tuk-tuks, as well as transportation services that one can book using the Grab application.
Many Thai beaches are safe for swimming in calm weather, but strong rip currents can occur during monsoon season. Follow local advice, respect red flags, and avoid swimming without lifeguards or in rough waves.
When temple visits are part of your travels, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Shorts, T-shirts, and beachwear are okay to wear while in the city or at resorts.
Thailand is a destination that has something for everyone: action and excitement in its cities; a richness and depth of culture; beaches and mountains; and natural landscapes filled with endless opportunities for fun and adventure in the great outdoors. Solo travel, travel with a family, travel with a partner, these destinations will impress in every situation.
To make the most of your trip:
Whether your passions lie in history, adventure, or relaxation, exploring the top places to visit in Thailand will create memories that last a lifetime. So, early starts, hotels booked well in advance, and prepare to experience the rich and diverse offering that this country has to offer. With expert planning and local knowledge, Flip Trip Holidays helps travelers explore Thailand with carefully curated itineraries suited to every travel style.
