Things To Do
in Songkhla
Songkhla is a charming coastal city located in southern Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town with its traditional wooden houses, temples, and museums showcasing the city's rich heritage. The city is also famous for its delicious seafood and bustling night markets offering a variety of local dishes and crafts.
With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, Songkhla is a great destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural experiences.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim or stroll along the beautiful Songkhla Beach. Enjoy the vibrant morning atmosphere with local vendors setting up for the day.
Visit the Songkhla Old Town to dive into the rich history and unique architecture. Savor a delicious lunch at a local café while enjoying the charming street views.
Head to Khao Seng Hill for stunning sunset views over the bay. End the day with a seafood feast at a coastal restaurant.
Begin with a visit to the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum for an educational experience. Explore the fascinating exhibits about the region's ecology and biodiversity.
Wander through the quaint streets of Songkhla, stopping at local art galleries and shops. Enjoy some traditional Thai snacks from street vendors.
Join a cultural show at Songkhla's Cultural Center to learn about local traditions. Finish your evening with a stroll along the waterfront.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, such as Hat Yai and Songkhla Lake.
- Rich cultural heritage with various festivals and local traditions.
- Delicious local cuisine and street food options.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Access to outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports.
- Hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months.
- Infrastructure in some areas may be lacking or underdeveloped.
- Limited access to international amenities compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue in urban areas like Hat Yai.
Best Activities in Songkhla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the beautiful beaches of Samae San Island.
Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Tinsulanonda Bridge with picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Explore the charming fishing village and indulge in fresh seafood on Koh Yo Island.
Hike up Khao Kao Seng to enjoy panoramic views of Songkhla and the surrounding area.
Places to Visit in Songkhla
Visit one of these nice places.
Khao Kao Seng offers panoramic views of Songkhla city and the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Tang Kuan Hill provides a stunning view of Songkhla Lake and the city. The hilltop is ideal for capturing scenic landscapes and sunsets.
Hat Yai Municipal Park features viewpoints that overlook the city of Hat Yai and its surroundings, showcasing the urban landscape and natural beauty.
Food in Songkhla
Songkhla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish of fresh rice noodles served with a variety of curries and fresh vegetables. Try it at the local markets or food stalls.
Must-Try!
A spicy and sour seafood soup infused with fragrant herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants for the freshest catch.
A colorful rice dish topped with herbs, pickles, and fried fish, often served with a zesty sauce. Look for it at traditional Malay eateries in the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market along the canal where vendors sell a variety of Thai and Malay dishes, fruits, and snacks from boats. Don't miss the grilled seafood and mango sticky rice.
An authentic local market offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat dishes. Sample the savory Khanom Buang (crispy pancakes) and Kanom La (pandan sweets).
A lively evening market with an array of street food options, from satay to stir-fried noodles. Look out for the iconic southern Thai desserts like Kalamare and Tacolod.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Songkhla, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures, such as the wai, a traditional Thai greeting.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the premises.
When dining, it is customary to wait for the host to initiate eating, and to take small portions of food to avoid waste.
Safety
Tipping in Songkhla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Songkhla, Thailand. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small gratuity is appreciated but not obligatory.
In Songkhla, Thailand, cash is the preferred method of payment, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. However, major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger hotels and restaurants. It's always advisable to carry cash for making purchases in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Songkhla is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
During the hot season, Songkhla experiences higher temperatures and humidity. Visitors can expect warm weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Songkhla, making outdoor activities less favorable. However, this time can be a unique experience for those interested in witnessing the lush green landscapes and cultural events that take place during this period.
Songkhla at Night
Hiking in Songkhla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park offering various hiking trails with lush rainforest and stunning views.
Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and exploring.
A popular spot with an accessible trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the city and coastline.
A scenic trail along the shores of Songkhla Lake, suitable for casual hikes and nature walks.
Offers various walking paths and trails in a landscaped park setting with views of the area.
Aiports
How to reach Songkhla by plane.
The nearest major airport to Songkhla, located approximately 34 kilometers to the north, Hat Yai International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located about 200 kilometers from Songkhla, Krabi International Airport serves as a hub for international travelers heading to the islands and beaches of Southern Thailand.
Approximately 270 kilometers from Songkhla, this airport is a gateway for tourists heading to the nearby islands and is served by several domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group of Thailand, comprising a significant portion of the population in Songkhla.
A prominent ethnic group in Songkhla, involved significantly in trade and business.
An ethnic group primarily found in the southern provinces of Thailand, including Songkhla, often associated with Islamic culture.
People of mixed Thai and Chinese descent, playing a vital role in the local economy.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and communities living in Songkhla, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art from Thailand, Muay Thai is very popular in Songkhla, known for its use of striking and stand-up fighting techniques.
Football is a widely loved sport in Songkhla, with many local teams and a strong following among the community.
A native sport to Southeast Asia, Sepak Takraw is similar to volleyball but uses a rattan ball and players hit the ball over the net using their feet, head, knees, and chest.
Volleyball is very popular in schools and local communities in Songkhla, often played at recreational and competitive levels.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Songkhla, particularly among the youth, with various parks and schools having courts for play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Songkhla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes are seafood or meat-based, several restaurants and markets in Songkhla offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives like tofu-based curries and stir-fried vegetables.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like fresh seafood, salads, and rice-based meals, but should communicate their needs clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.