Thailand

Travel Guide
Ko Surin National Park featuring boating and general coastal views

Thailand Travel Guide Video

Known as the Land of Smiles, this Southeast Asian hot spot is famous for its exotic beaches, dramatic limestone karsts, deliciously spicy food and friendly locals.

Discover sights and smells that stimulate the senses around every corner in Thailand. Visit shining temples, marvel at ornate Buddha statues, shop at lively street markets and whizz through the streets in a tuk-tuk. While you are at it, make friends with the locals the Thai people are considered to be some of the most welcoming in the world.

Island-hop around the Thai peninsula and find beaches with gorgeous white sand, turquoise water and a dramatic backdrop of limestone karsts. In Bangkok, the charismatic capital of the country, marvel at the golden-peaked Grand Palace temple complex. Although no longer a royal residence, the palace is still used for ceremonial purposes and its stunning architecture makes it a must-see.

Equally as impressive and grand is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), also in Bangkok. View the famous Emerald Buddha, which is, contrary to its name, actually made from jade.

Hike, camp and spot wildlife at the Kbao Yai National Park, just 3 hours from Bangkok. A lush park filled with waterfalls, rainforest and mountains, Khao Yai offers a slice of nature and serenity in central Thailand.

On the coast of the city of Pattaya is another of Thailand’s other standout attractions: the Sanctuary of Truth, a remarkable temple constructed completely out of wood. At night, the wooden carvings are illuminated by spotlights.

Head to the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai in the north of the country, for a complete change of pace. Bathe and feed the elephants, all of whom have been rescued from captivity and rehabilitated.

Immerse yourself in the fun of Songkran, Thailand’s 3-day water festival held during April. Or head to Chiang Mai during February to witness the beautiful spectacle that is the Chiang Mai Flower Festival.

Fly into Bangkok’s main international airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, and take the scenic train to Chiang Mai or Surat Thani. Buses between towns are inexpensive and frequent. Alternatively, rent a motorcycle to explore the countryside for yourself.

Whether you crave the excitement of a city break or a relaxing beach escape, Thailand can deliver.

Popular cities in Thailand

Sukhumvit showing landscape views, central business district and night scenes
Bangkok
Known for Shopping, Castle and Temples
From the fury of a Muay Thai kickboxing bout, to the gentle pad of monk’s sandals at Wat Pho Temple, this “City of Angels” balances chaos and calm.

Reasons to visit

  • Erawan Shrine
  • Terminal 21 Shopping Mall
  • Lumphini Park
Koh Lan showing boating and general coastal views
Pattaya
Known for Beaches, Dining and Shopping
A kaleidoscope of neon and racy nightlife, Thailand’s second most-visited city has softened its image, drawing more couples and families to its beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Pattaya Beach
  • Pattaya Beach Road
  • Dongtan Beach
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Known for Shopping, Historical and Tours
Experience the temples, culture, and history in Chiang Mai!

Reasons to visit

  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
  • Tha Phae Gate
  • Chiang Mai University
Lamai Beach which includes a beach
Koh Samui
Known for Beaches, Dining and Relaxing
Romantic Koh Samui awaits: its beaches, island views, spas, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Chaweng Beach
  • Lamai Beach
  • Nathon Pier
Hua Hin featuring a coastal town, landscape views and general coastal views
Hua Hin
Known for Beaches, Relaxing and Swimming
Cosmopolitan city meets fashionable beachside retreat at Thailand‘s oldest and most traditional resort, long associated with the Thai royal family.

Reasons to visit

  • Khao Takiab Temple
  • Hua Hin Beach
  • Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Park
Krabi which includes a coastal town, boating and tropical scenes
Krabi
Known for Beaches, Relaxing and Boating
Trip time! Discover the beaches, island views, and forests in romantic Krabi.

Reasons to visit

  • Ao Nang Beach
  • West Railay Beach
  • Khlong Muang Beach

Popular places to visit

Thailand