Thailand holidays have something for everyone; pristine white sand beaches, great food and the unrivalled hospitality of the locals. Factor in the nightlife, grandeur of the country's ancient temples and bargain shopping options and you have everything you need for a great holiday...
Why Thailand
Whether it's elephant trekking through rainforests, exploring Buddhist temples, shopping in colourful markets, or relaxing on white sands, here's why you should visit Thailand...
1. Bangkok:
As one of Asia's largest and liveliest cities, Bangkok is a colourful ,is a hub of exciting nightlife, fantastic shopping and delicious food ,congested, culture shock not to be missed. The city is renowned for its great cultural heritage, religious and traditional beliefs. Downtown Bangkok is a jarring mixture of modern skyscrapers, ancient holy temples, endless street stalls and a bombardment of ever changing sights, sounds and smells.Everything you need is within the city centre; don't miss the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.The city is also a modern metropolis and act as the country’s centre for commerce, politics, culture and religion. Bangkok is a great stopover city en route to Europe and Asia but it’s also a great base to explore the country.
The floating markets and the multi-storey shopping malls are a must for anyone wanting to hone their bartering skills and pick up a great bargain. Or head to the crowded streets of Koh San Road for a tailor made suit and a night of entertainment, finishing up with a seat in the Lumpini Stadium for a Thai boxing match. Excellent traditional Thai dishes are readily available from the many street stalls or upscale restaurants.
Bangkok Must Do’s
- Visit the incredible Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred religions figure.
- Take a Klongstour where you’ll board a long tail boat an explore how the locals live.
- Shop in Bangkok’s impressive malls such as Paragon Siam and MBK or visit the local and night markets, such as Patpong and Patrunam.
- Enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
- Visit the Catuchak Saturday market for amazing bargains.
- Explore the historical bridge over the River Kwai and the war museum.
- Rejuvenate by going for a traditional Thai massage
2. Pattaya:
Travelling south from Bangkok, head to the beach city of Pattaya. The city centre is a vibrant party town of loud and lively bars, restaurants and cabaret shows, all of which are welcoming to tourists.There is no denying that Pattaya is famous for its nightlife .The beaches to the south of Pattaya offer everything from family water sports and diving to extreme activities such as bungee jumping and paragliding.Probably the most famous area is Walking Street in South Pattaya, which is closed to vehicles from evening until early morning.
Boat rides to Koh Larn or Coral Island are well worth a look or if you feel like getting away from the hectic pace of the city centre, head up to Wat Khao Prayal, which offers great views from its hilltop complex. The areas of North Pattaya and Nakula are the best place to relax with a Thai massage in one of the high-end spa centres.
Pattaya Must Do’s
- Escape the crowds and visit nearby Jomtien, Naklua or Cliff Beaches.
- Check out some of the restaurants, bars and nightclubs with live bands.
- Visit the Elephant Kraal Show.
- Play a round of golf on one of the 22 courses in the area.
- Visit amusement parks, a modern aquarium and an open zoo for family fun.
3. Phuket:
Phuket Island is the most visited of all the islands in Thailand and as such is one of the most tourist friendly destinations where you can't help but have a good time. Phuket town is a hub of colonial buildings and noisy market stalls, while the extravagant nightlife has everything you could want from a major Thai city. The powder white sand beaches of Patong, Kata and Kamala are lined with sunbathing visitors but there are also some more secluded bays to be discovered along the coast.Grab a snorkel, paddle a kayak, swim or dive amongst 38 islands off Phuket. Indulge in luxury resort, dine in fine restaurant, explore local cuisines, visit lively bars or nightclubs or relax at your own pace.
If you want to venture off the island, catch a passenger ferry to Koh Lanta or a boat trip past Phang Nga Bay. One of the most popular excursions is still the James Bond Tour, a boat tour around some of the most recognisable filming locations from the movies. The tour takes in the nearby islands of Ko Tapu (now rechristened James Bond Island), Koh Panyee and Phang Nga Bay.
Phuket’s centre of island life is Patong, a beautiful curved beach with sparkling waters and streets filled with great shopping, restaurant, bars as well as a wide range of hotels and resorts. For a luxury getaway, head to Karon and Kata beach. This part of Phuket has a string of five star resorts hidden among palm trees. The area more laid-back without the bustle of Patong and is famous for its aqua sea, golden sand and water sports.
Regional Phuket is perfect for the perfect retreats for family, couples or mates. The Laguna area north of Patong is a palm tree fringed paradise with some of the island’s most luxurious resorts, golf courses and spas. Nearby Bang Tao Beach, Surin Beach and Kamala Beach offer an even more relaxing atmosphere and a range of water activities. Further to the north, you’ll find Nai Thon and Mai Khao offering wonderful stretches of sand ideal for a quiet retreat Nai Yang is only a 5 minute drive from Phuket International Airport and features world class resorts, picnic areas and plenty of shade perfect for honeymooners and family.
Phuket Must Do's
- Cruise or canoe along the spectacular Lime Hare Cliffs and tidal Lagoons of Phang Nga Bay.
- Go for a Thai cooking class at the Phuket Thai Cookery School.
- Take a day trip to Phi Phi Island, one of Asia’s most beautiful island destination.
- Explore the colourful night markets of old Phuket Town.
- Enjoy trekking with the majestic elephants through jungle and hills.
- Visit the Phuket Fantasea, a cultural theme park perfect for a night out with the family.
Around Phuket
Phuket’s surrounding islands offer a unique escape and perfect for day trips or extended stays. There are also an extensive range of accommodation and activities available. Explore untamed wilderness, picture-postcard beaches, towering cliffs, coral cities, shipwrecks, caves, island culture and more. The islands offer a quiet alternative and adventures not to be missed. Major islands include the following:
- Koh Phi Phi Island: Check out the towering cliffs, topped with lush forest rising from the surrounding emerald waters beyond the sandy shoreline is an awesome sight to behold.
- Koh Yao Noi: Explore the largely untouched tropical wilderness of pretty and peaceful island, part of two sister islands in the middle of Phang Nga Bay.
- Koh Racha Yai: Experience the simple pleasures of Thai life, a long stone’s throw south of Phuket. Take a walk along postcard-perfect beaches, enjoy a meal beside the sea or hang out with the local fishermen and farmers.
- Koh Kradan: Full of stunning white sand beaches, emerald waters and lively coral reefs, the island is the most magnificent of all off the coast of Trang.
Phuket outlying islands Must Do’s
- Walk the path up the the lookout point at the top of Phi Phi Island.
- Island hopping - hire a long tail boat with your own driver.
- Snorkel and dive in crystal clear waters. Keen divers can get certified in 3 days.
- Visit Lanta old town to see the historical Gypsy House and enjoy spectacular seafood.
- Discover your own secluded beach.
4. Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao:
Holidays to Koh Samui are a great option for the whole family, like most of Thailand's islands it has excellent beaches for all day sunbathing or if you prefer you can take an elephant ride into the jungle, visit coconut plantations or party into the night at one of the many beach parties.
The third largest island in Thailand has a relaxing laid-back atmosphere but also has a party vibe. Enjoy colourful markets, wild water sports, open-air bars, lively restaurants, temples and more.
Visit Koh Phangan for secluded beaches and the infamous Full Moon beach parties or head down to Koh Tao and explore the amazing underwater world beyond the shore. Koh Tao is renowned for some of the best snorkelling and diving in the country. It has a number of dive shops catering for beginner as well as advanced levels.
Koh Samui Must Do’s
- Discover the 40 islands of Ang Thong Marine Park.
- Go to the Temple of the Big Buddha at sunset, ideal for meditation in one of the surrounding huts.
- Catch a monkey and snake show.
Climb to the top of Koh Samui Island to see the amazing three tiered Na Muang Falls.
- Play 18 holes at Santiburi Golf Course, one of the most beautiful courses in Thailand.
5. Krabi:
One of the least commercialised of the resorts, the pace on Krabi is unhurried and low key. Its azure waters and beautiful powder sand beaches are framed by incredible limestone cliffs.Krabi is located on the west coast of Thailand and sits on the stunning Phang Nga National Park, famous for its limestone karsts and emerald green waters.
Holidays in Krabi can be as laid back or as adventure filled as you wish, with scuba diving, trekking, fishing and rock climbing all popular activities.Shop, sleep and eat along Ao Nang Beach before exploring offshore.
South of Bangkok, the resort of Cha Am boasts Thailand's longest beach and six of the country's best golf courses. Accommodation varies from small guest houses to five star luxury resorts.
Krabi Must Do’s
- Explore the incredible beaches around Krabi including Railay.
- Visit the Tiger Cave Temple and the nearby mountain top for an amazing view.
- Go island hopping off the coast.
- Discover hidden hot springs and waterfalls in the rainforest.
- Rock-climbing – there are over 450 routes up towering cliffs.
6. Chiang Mai:
Those seeking a taste of traditional Thailand will want to head to the unspoilt northern regions of the country. The cultural capital of Chiang Mai has all the shopping and nightlife options of a major city, set near some of the country's most attractive rainforest. From here you can take an elephant ride into the northern jungles, soar through the trees on a jungle swing adventure or visit the hidden hilltop villages, experiencing a way of life virtually untouched by the modern world. Journeying further north will bring you to Chiang Rai, a chance to visit the popular Night Bazaar and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.There are more than 300 temples and it’s a mix of old, with moats and stone walls and the new, with trendy boutique hotels, bars and restaurants. Surrounded by hills and forests, there area is picturesque with lots to explore.
Chiang Mai Must Do’s
- Explore the inner Old City surrounded by a moat and walls border.
- Visit Prathat Doi Suthep, the most venerated temple in the city.
- Visit the animals at Chiang Mai Zoo, Thailand’s largest zoo for a great day out with the family.
- Dine by the Mae Ping River for great scenery and atmosphere.
- Spend an evening at the nigh bazaar for bargain finds.
- South of Bangkok, the resort of Cha Am boasts Thailand's longest beach and six of the country's best golf courses. Accommodation varies from small guest houses to five star luxury resorts.
7. Khao Lak:
Khao Lak is about 80 km north of Phuket. This beautiful slice of mainland Thailand is an amazing destination with jungle-covered mountains, sandy beaches and plenty of water activities including diving, kayaking, wildlife viewing and more.
Khao Lak Must Do’s
- Trek Khao Lak Mountain and visit the Chinese temple shrine.
- Canoe or kayak to explore hidden caves.
- Ride an elephant through the dense forest in the area.
- Visit the Similan Islands, one of the best dive sites in the world.
- Enjoy a picnic on the beach, the setting is amazing.
8. Hua Hin:
Hua Hin is a favourite holiday spot for the Thai Royal Family since 1922, and the tropical paradise is also a favourite among celebrities and businessmen. You’ll find the area packed with luxury resorts and spas, beautiful beaches, golf courses, great seafood and shopping.
Hua Hin Must Do’s
- Pamper yourself in Chiva-Som International, a health retreat fit for movie stars.
- Visit the local markets in town during the day and dine in the many restaurants at night.
- Explore Tham Phraya Nakoh, a massive cave with lush vegetation.
- Explore the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, just south of Hua Hin.
- Play a round at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club, the oldest in the kingdom.
9. Koh Chang:
Nature lovers will love the lush tropical jungle covering Koh Chang. Thailand’s second largest island is a popular spot for elephant trekking through wild landscape and water activities.
Koh Chang’s Must Do’s
- Find a private island or secluded beach. Beyond Koh Chang there’s Koh Loaya, Koh Mak and Koh Wai ideal for island hopping adventures.
- Take a trek leading up to a beautiful four-storey high waterfall.
- Go diving off the coast and explore a French shipwreck from 1941 or visit the small island of Koh Rang, south-west of Koh Chang, a nesting ground for turtles.
- Take part in the morning program to bathe and feed the elephants at the Klong Son Elephant Camp.
10. Koh Samet
Koh Samet is laid-back and filled with unspoilt beaches. You can relax in calm ocean waters or snooze on a bed of silken sand. The island is classified as a national park with unique plants and wildlife.
Koh Samet’s Must Do’s
- Enjoy a Thai Massage on the beach or in your own bungalow.
- Rent a motorbike and discover the natural unspoilt beaches.
- Eat at a roadside restaurant by the beach.
- Watch a perfect sunset on the west side of the island.
- Hire a boat to reach the west coast or the reefs of the south, perfect for snorkelling.
11. Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle
Chiang Rai is the gateway to the infamous Golden Triangle and is more laid-back than Chiang Mai. From the night market to the different attractions in the area, you can feel a relaxing vibe.
Chiang Rai Must Do’s
- Don’t miss the unique Wat Rong Khun Temple characterised by the bright white architecture just outise the city.
- Introduce yourself to the famous Longneck tribes in the region.
- Take a boat ride along the Mekong River to the Loas border.
- Visit the ancient ruins and temples of Chiang Saen.
- Spend a leisurely day exploring the local markets or visit the temple complex of Wat Phra Kaew.
Best Time to Visit:
The weather in Thailand is tropical and humid for the majority of the country during most of the year. Find out the best time to visit for you...
Thailand is a great winter sun destination with the period between November and February being the best time to visit. From July to October is Monsoon season, when most of Thailand's annual rainfall is accumulated and humidity levels are high in this period with average temperatures in Bangkok around 29°C.
What's on?
Thailand hosts a number of exciting events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of our top suggestions...
- Koh Tao Festival; March; Koh Tao Island: Held over two nights in March, the Koh Tao festival has live performances from bands and djs playing foreign Reggae, Ska and World music, with dancing lasting until sunrise. The festival has plenty of drink, dance displays, and great food.
- Pattaya International Music Festival; Late March to early April;Pattaya: A series of free concerts by a wide selection of local and international musicians, playing rock, pop and jazz.
- Phuket Vegetarian Festival; October: During this this 10-day festival, local residents observe a strict vegetarian and vegan diet, as well as perform rituals such as walking over hot coals. A number of events take place in temples, and there is also a colourful parade.
- Full and half-moon parties; Monthly; Koh Phangan: The area of Haad Rin is host to the islands monthly Full Moon Parties, a combination of dance, reggae and fire displays that goes on into the night until sunrise. For a more low-key event, head into the jungle for one of the half-moon parties.
Activites to be done:
Whatever type of holiday you're looking for, Thailand has it all. Here's some inspiration, whatever your situation:
- Kids and teens: An absolute must for families while in Thailand is a visit to the FantaSea Theme Park on Phuket. Enjoy its colourful and exotic Las Vegas themed show, experience its magical carnival village, and if you're getting a bit peckish, its 4,000-seat restaurant serves up tempting Thai and international dishes.
- Relaxing: You will have your pick of paradise beaches in Thailand. Laze among coconut and pine trees on Long Beach at Koh Lanta, swim in the turquoise waters of Lamai Beach or walk along the white sands on the breathtakingly beautiful Kata Beach.
- Active types: Using Chiang Mai as your base, take part in a trek over the Doi Chiang Dao Mountain range where you will encounter jungles, waterfalls, wild rivers and hill tribe villages.
- Free and cheap: A low-cost but high-impact experience while sightseeing in Thailand is visiting the Golden Buddha. Housed in the Wat Traimit Temple in Bangkok, it is the world's largest solid gold statue.
- Nightlife: Dance until sunrise at party island Koh Phangan's famous full moon party. Experience a festival- like atmosphere with fire dancers, glow in the dark face paints, music, and plenty of Chang beer!
- Shopping: No Thai adventure would be complete without a trip to the vibrant Khao San Road in Bangkok. Backpackers from around the world gather here to soak up the atmosphere - so jump in a tuk tuk, treat yourself to some traditional Thai street food, and wander around the many stalls selling jewellery, clothes, street food and souvenirs.
Thailand Insiders' Travel Tips
- In Bangkok, try out the brand new upmarket outdoor Asiatique shopping and lifestyle complex on the Chao Phraya river, you’ll find everything from local Thai design boutiques, souvenirs to funky wine bars and restaurants.
- If you’re staying near Siam Square in Bangkok there is an above ground walkway between MBK and central world connecting all the main shopping centres, perfect for a full day shopping adventure.
- Bangkok BTS Skytrain is a cheap and easy way to get around.
- Sai Kaev Beach in Koh Samet is a great spot to see some of the locals fire juggling in the evenings. If you get tired of just relaxing on the beach rent a water boat with a driver and get around the island for some snorkelling. The trip usually costs around 500 baht.
- There is no shortage of beach chairs / lounges along Patong Beach in Phuket and is a hub of activity day and night. But if you want to find a quiet part in Patong then head to the northern part of the beach, Loma Park is great.
- Khao Samm Haad (the Kata Viewpoint) in Phuket offers incredible views over the region. There are a few snack outlets and some large pavilions so it’s a great place to sit and soak up the atmosphere.
- Take a bike and explore the area or sit and watch the sun go down on Bang Tao Beach in Phuket. Try a cold drink from one of the beach bars with some tantializingly good BBQ seafood.
- Phuket Fantasea near Kamala is more than just astage show. It has a range of restaurants, shopping outlets and activities and is over the top in every wonderful way. The Kamala Friday market is just across the road and is a fantastic place to soak up the local flavour, literally, offering great bargains and everything from fruit and vegetables to prepared food and all sorts of merchandise and handicrafts.
- Rock climbing is undoubtedly one of Krabi’s selling points but don’t forget hidden caverns such as Thom Phi Hue To; a colossal cave filled with grottos and prehistoric sketches of people and animals. Guided climbs and instruction are available around most of the resorts in Ao Nang and Raily East Beach
- Take a walk along the beach in Koh Lanta to one of the many beach bars – they’ll usually stay open as long as they’ve got customers. If you’re looking for a spot for that special dinner, the Baan Pimalai Resturant inside the Pimalai Resort is recommended. There are also some spectacular seafood restaurants by the pier.
- Khao Lak is perfect for divers. The Semilan and Surin islands are famous for snorkelling and diving and are both accessible from Khao Lak. The islands are best visited between November and March, when the seas are generally calm and the visibility is good.
- Koh Samui is a holistic haven if you want to spa, detox or enjoy your best ever massage, this is the place to do it. We recommend the Kamalaya Spa where you can spend your time recharging in an idyllic and peaceful setting.
- Hua Hin market village is the first large shopping centre complex in the area, on Petchkasem Road just south of Hua Hin town. It is a fresh alternative to traditional Hua Hin and the local markets, especially for those home comfort of you are staying for a while with a range of restaurants, supermarket and even a bowling alley.
- Koh Chang is known for its scenery and waterfalls. Klong Plu, waterfall on the west coast of Koh Chang is a popular spot is easily accessible and a pleasant walk through the forest to the cascades. You can also take a dip in the natural pool.
- On Koh Phi Phi, keen divers can get certified within 3 days with some incredible diving sites nearby. Maya Bay is perfect for the inexperienced diver with plenty of rock and fish formations to explore. Koh Bida Nok is suitable for all areas of diver with outstanding coral and marine life, with its sister island Bid Nai offering a labyrinth of submerged islands and large fallen rocks to explore.
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