Best Places to Visit in Thailand 2026
Dreaming of turquoise waters, golden temples, jungle adventures, and unforgettable street food? Thailand is calling. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, a backpacking adventure, or a luxury retreat, this Southeast Asian gem offers something for every traveler. In this complete Thailand travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Thailand, top attractions, hotel recommendations, and essential travel tips to help you plan the perfect trip
Ready to book your stay? Discover the best hotel deals on Expedia and start planning your Thailand adventure today:
Cheap Flights to East Coast Thailand from CA $417
5 Stars Hotels in Bangkok, Thailand from CA $46
From the buzzing streets of Bangkok to the peaceful mountains of Chiang Mai and the postcard-perfect beaches of Phuket, Thailand blends culture, history, nature, and modern comfort in one unforgettable destination. Let’s dive into the 10 best places to visit in Thailand and everything you need to know before you go.
10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand
1. Bangkok
Thailand’s capital is a vibrant mix of tradition and modern energy. Bangkok is famous for its glittering temples, rooftop bars, floating markets, and world-class shopping malls. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew showcase Thailand’s royal heritage, while the Chao Phraya River adds a scenic touch to the city skyline. At night, Bangkok transforms into a culinary paradise with street food stalls and lively night markets. It’s one of the best places to visit in Thailand for first-time travelers who want culture, food, and nightlife in one destination.
Things to Do in Bangkok
✅ Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
✅ Explore Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
✅ Take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River
✅ Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
✅ Experience Bangkok’s rooftop bars
Best Hotels in Bangkok (Expedia)
Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – A riverside icon perfect for couples seeking elegance and world-class service.
Budget: Ibis Bangkok Riverside – Comfortable, affordable rooms with river views.
Search Bangkok hotels on Expedia From CA$31:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Supanniga Eating Room
✅ Thip Samai Pad Thai
✅ The Never Ending Summer
2. Chiang Mai
Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its ancient temples, mountain scenery, and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by lush countryside, it offers a peaceful contrast to Bangkok. The Old City is filled with historic temples and charming cafés, while nearby mountains provide trekking and cultural experiences with hill tribes. Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Things to Do in Chiang Mai
✅ Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
✅ Explore the Old City temples
✅ Take a Thai cooking class
✅ Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
✅ Shop at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Best Hotels in Chiang Mai (Expedia)
Luxury: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai – A serene countryside retreat ideal for couples and luxury travelers.
Budget: BED Phrasingh Hotel – Stylish and affordable near the Old City.
Search Chiang Mai hotels with free breakfast on Expedia CA $91:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Dash! Restaurant and Bar
✅ Khao Soi Khun Yai
✅ Rustic & Blue
3. Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a beach lover’s paradise. Known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, it’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Patong Beach offers lively entertainment, while Kata and Karon beaches provide a quieter atmosphere. Phuket is also a gateway to nearby islands and marine parks.
Things to Do in Phuket
✅ Relax on Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach
✅ Take a boat tour to Phi Phi Islands
✅ Visit Big Buddha
✅ Explore Old Phuket Town
✅ Go snorkeling or diving
Best Hotels in Phuket (Expedia)
Luxury: The Shore at Katathani – Private pool villas ideal for romantic getaways.
Budget: Lub d Phuket Patong – Modern, affordable, and social.
Search Phuket hotels on Expedia from CA $40:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Raya Restaurant
✅ Blue Elephant Phuket
✅ No.6 Restaurant
4. Krabi
Krabi is famous for dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Railay Beach is especially popular for rock climbing and scenic beauty. With access to stunning islands like Koh Hong and the Phi Phi Islands, Krabi is perfect for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
Things to Do in Krabi
✅ Visit Railay Beach
✅ Explore the Emerald Pool
✅ Climb Tiger Cave Temple
✅ Island-hop by longtail boat
✅ Go kayaking in Ao Thalane
Best Hotels in Krabi (Expedia)
Luxury: Rayavadee – Surrounded by nature and accessible only by boat.
Budget: Krabi SeaBass Hotel – Comfortable and affordable.
Search Krabi hotels on Expedia from CA $34:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Lae Lay Grill
✅ Kodam Kitchen
✅ Chalita Café
5. Koh Samui
Koh Samui blends luxury resorts with laid-back beach vibes. Known for palm-fringed beaches and luxury spa resorts, it’s ideal for honeymooners and families. The island also offers waterfalls and temples for cultural exploration.
Things to Do in Koh Samui
✅ Relax on Chaweng Beach
✅ Visit Big Buddha Temple
✅ Explore Na Muang Waterfalls
✅ Enjoy a sunset cruise
✅ Snorkel at Ang Thong Marine Park
Best Hotels in Koh Samui (Expedia)
Luxury: Banyan Tree Samui – Cliffside villas with private pools.
Budget: Ark Bar Beach Resort – Fun and affordable beachfront stay.
Search Koh Samui hotels on Expedia from CA $16:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ The Jungle Club
✅ Dining on the Rocks
✅ Krua Bophut
6. Pattaya
Pattaya is a lively beach city known for nightlife and family attractions. Beyond entertainment, it offers cultural sites and water parks, making it suitable for diverse travelers.
Things to Do in Pattaya
✅ Visit Sanctuary of Truth
✅ Relax at Jomtien Beach
✅ Explore Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
✅ Visit Coral Island
✅ Enjoy water sports
Best Hotels in Pattaya (Expedia)
Luxury: Hilton Pattaya – Modern luxury overlooking the ocean.
Budget: Holiday Inn Express Pattaya Central – Reliable and affordable.
Search Pattaya hotels on Expedia from CA $35:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Café des Amis
✅ The Glass House
✅ Mantra Restaurant
7. Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, a former capital, is a UNESCO-listed historic city filled with ancient ruins. Just a short trip from Bangkok, it’s perfect for a cultural day trip.
Things to Do in Ayutthaya
✅ Visit Wat Mahathat
✅ Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park
✅ Take a river cruise
✅ Cycle around the ruins
✅ Visit Bang Pa-In Palace
Best Hotels in Ayutthaya (Expedia)
Luxury: Sala Ayutthaya – Boutique riverside elegance. Budget: Baan Are Gong Riverside Homestay – Cozy and affordable.
Luxury: Sala Ayutthaya – Boutique riverside elegance.
Budget: Baan Are Gong Riverside Homestay – Cozy and affordable.
Search Ayutthaya hotels on Expedia CA $15:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Malakor Kitchen
✅ The Seven Seas
✅ Coffee Old City
8. Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is famous for the stunning White Temple and peaceful mountain landscapes. It’s less crowded and offers authentic northern Thai experiences.
Things to Do in Chiang Rai
✅ Visit White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
✅ Explore Blue Temple
✅ Visit Golden Triangle
✅ Explore night markets
✅ Trek in nearby mountains
Best Hotels in Chiang Rai (Expedia)
Luxury: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort – Unique jungle luxury.
Budget: B2 Chiang Rai Boutique – Simple and affordable.
Search Chiang Rai hotels on Expedia from CA $23:
9. Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is known for stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs. It’s ideal for snorkeling, diving, and social beach vibes.
Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi
✅ Visit Maya Bay
✅ Snorkel in clear waters
✅ Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint
✅ Enjoy beach parties
✅ Take boat tours,
Best Hotels in Koh Phi Phi (Expedia)
Luxury: Zeavola Resort – Eco-luxury beachfront retreat.
Budget: Phi Phi Villa Resort – Affordable beachfront option.
Search Koh Phi Phi hotels on Expedia from CA $27:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Anna’s Restaurant
✅ Garlic 1992
✅ ACQUA Restaurant
10. Hua Hin
Hua Hin is a relaxed seaside town popular with families and couples. It offers beaches, golf courses, and royal history.
Things to Do in Hua Hin
Relax at Hua Hin Beach
✅ Visit Cicada Market
✅ Explore Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
✅ Visit Hua Hin Railway Station
✅ Play golf at world-class courses
Best Hotels in Hua Hin (Expedia)
Luxury: InterContinental Hua Hin Resort – Beachfront elegance.
Budget: Baan Nilrath Hotel – Central and affordable.
Search Hua Hin hotels on Expedia from CA $43:
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Oceanside Beach Club
✅ Let’s Sea Hua Hin
✅ The Chocolate Factory
Best Time to Visit Thailand
Thailand has three main seasons:
Cool Season (November–February): Best time to visit Thailand with pleasant weather and peak tourist season.
Hot Season (March–May): Very warm, ideal for beach lovers.
Rainy Season (June–October): Fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush landscapes.
For the best weather and festivals, November to February is ideal, but budget travelers can save money during the rainy season.
Budget vs Luxury Travel in Thailand
Budget Travel:
Hostels and guesthouses from $10–$30 per night
Street food meals under $5
Affordable public transport
Luxury Travel:
✅ Private villas and 5-star resorts
✅ Fine dining and spa experiences
✅ Private island tours and yacht charters
Thailand is affordable compared to many global destinations, making it ideal for both backpackers and luxury travelers.
Travel Tips for Visiting Thailand
✅ Dress modestly when visiting temples
✅ Use Grab app for transport in cities
✅ Carry cash for markets and small shops
✅ Stay hydrated in hot weather
✅ Respect local customs and traditions
How to Get Around Thailand
Domestic flights connect major cities quickly. Trains and buses are affordable for longer distances. In cities, taxis, Grab, tuk-tuks, and BTS Skytrain (Bangkok) are convenient. Renting a scooter is common on islands, but always prioritize safety.
From cultural temples and historic ruins to tropical beaches and luxury resorts, Thailand truly offers some of the best places to visit in the world. Whether you’re searching for adventure, romance, family fun, or relaxation, this Thailand travel guide shows why it remains one of Asia’s top destinations.
Start planning your dream vacation today and explore the best hotels in Thailand on Expedia. Your unforgettable journey begins now with TravelTheGreat.
