Things To Do
in Thailand
Thailand is a country of sun-drenched beaches, bustling markets, and shimmering temples in Southeast Asia. Its capital Bangkok hums with street food, neon nightlife, and grand palaces, while the southern islands offer turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. The north invites cooler air, lush mountains, and rich Lanna culture, creating a diverse travel experience.
Throughout Thailand, hospitality, delicious cuisine, and vibrant traditions welcome visitors with warmth.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. As the sun rises, the intricate architecture glimmers, presenting an ideal photo opportunity. Stroll through the lush gardens, immersing yourself in the history and beauty of Thailand's past.
After lunch at a local eatery, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to explore the city's vibrant markets. The bustling atmosphere will stimulate your senses, with aromas of street food and sounds of vendors negotiating their wares. End your afternoon with a visit to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, where the sunset casts a golden hue on the temple.
As night falls, explore the lively Khao San Road, known for its vibrant nightlife and array of street food. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at an outdoor restaurant while watching the bustling crowds. Cap off the night with a traditional Thai massage to relax after a long day.
Take an early train to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, where you'll begin your day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander among the impressive ruins of temples and palaces, soaking in the history that resonates through the broken statues and crumbling brick structures. Engage a local guide to deepen your understanding of the rich heritage that flourished here.
Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant offering authentic Thai dishes. In the afternoon, rent a bicycle to explore the expansive grounds of Ayutthaya Historical Park at your own pace, taking in sights like Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. The cool breeze and serene setting will make your excursion enjoyable.
As the sun sets, embark on a river cruise to witness the temples illuminated against the night sky. Savor a delicious dinner on board, featuring local specialties and drinks. This serene experience will allow you to reflect on the day while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-90 |
| 🚲Scooter rental (per day) | $7-15 |
| 🚆Public transit (one-way ticket) | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- World-class food at every budget
- Stunning beaches and diverse landscapes
- Vibrant cities with rich culture
- Humid climate and strong sun
- Crowded tourist hotspots in peak season
- Traffic congestion in major cities
- Visa and entry requirements can be complex for some travelers
- "Sawasdee kha" - Hello (female speaker)
- "Sawasdee khrap" - Hello (male speaker)
- "Khop khun kha" - Thank you
- "Khor thot" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ao-rai tao-rai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Thailand
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic gold structures and intricate tile work offer stunning reflections and close-up details for architectural photography.
Colorful riverside spires and dramatic silhouettes at sunrise or sunset provide striking subject matter.
Scale and ornamentation offer great composition opportunities, especially with lantern light and quiet angles.
Ancient temples and crumbling prangs create atmospheric ruins with a historical backdrop.
Limestone cliffs, emerald water, and dramatic beach scenes perfect for landscape and travel photography.
Food in Thailand
Thailand Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stir-fried noodles with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and a tangy tamarind sauce; commonly found from street carts to sit-down eateries.
Must-Try!
A hot and sour shrimp soup infused with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies.
Fragrant coconut curry with green chilies, Thai basil, and vegetables or meat, typically served with rice.
Spicy, sour, and crunchy shredded green papaya with lime, chilies, peanuts, and tomatoes.
Sweet ripe mango served with coconut-creamy sticky rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Massive market in Bangkok offering street food, clothing, crafts, and souvenirs—great for tasting a variety of dishes in one place.
A food lover’s paradise with endless stalls offering noodles, seafood, dim sum, and Thai-Chinese specialties.
A lively area with affordable eats, snacks, and bars, popular with travelers for casual bites and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The wai (hands pressed together with a slight bow) is the common greeting; defer to elders or people of higher status by offering a wai higher and longer.
Dress modestly when visiting temples—shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
Avoid touching anyone’s head—it's considered the most sacred part of the body. Do not point with your feet or place feet on tables; sit with feet on the floor.
Show respect for the monarchy in public; discussions about the royal family should be approached with caution and sensitivity.
Safety
Tipping in Thailand
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected outside tourist-heavy areas. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 10–15% for good service is common in nicer places; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated but not obligatory. Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and street stalls, while larger establishments in urban areas may accept cards or mobile payments. When in doubt, ask if a receipt includes service charges.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May is hot and humid with peak temperatures in many regions; outdoor activities are best done early morning or late afternoon. Expect brief, sudden showers in some areas and strong sun; stay hydrated and seek shade.
June–October brings monsoon rain on the western coast and varying rainfall across the country. Waterfalls are swollen, landscapes are lush, and some roads may be slippery; plan flexible outdoor plans and carry a lightweight rain jacket.
November–February offers cooler, more comfortable conditions with dry air, especially in the north. Ideal for temple visits and hiking, but mornings can be chilly in the mountains—pack layers.
Thailand at Night
Hiking in Thailand
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail to Thailand’s highest peak with cloud forest, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
Forest trails around the temple-mountain complex near Chiang Mai, varying in difficulty.
Dense jungle, limestone karsts, and river valleys with overnight lake adventures.
Waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic overlooks within a few hours of Bangkok; suitable for day hikes or multi-day treks.
Airports
How to reach Thailand by plane.
Bangkok's main international hub, excellent connections to domestic and international destinations.
Secondary Bangkok airport serving many low-cost carriers and regional flights.
Gateway to Phuket and the Andaman coast; good access to southern Thailand.
Northern hub close to Chiang Mai city, with domestic and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with diverse regional cultures and languages.
Large communities in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and tourist resorts; many language schools and coworking spaces.
Year-round visitors with peak season in November–February; wide range of accommodations.
Numerous communities in the north with distinct cultures and traditional crafts; many areas require respectful engagement.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; watch live bouts or train at renowned boxing camps across Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
Several high-quality courses scattered around Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and resort areas.
Popular pastime; enjoy local leagues, parks, and informal pick-up games in many towns.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find plant-based Thai dishes by asking for no fish sauce or shrimp paste; look for stir-fries with tofu, vegetables, and egg, or order plain rice with a range of vegetable curries and salads. When in doubt, communicate clearly that you prefer no meat, no fish sauce, and no shrimp paste.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thailand.