Your one-stop Thailand travel guide: the best places to visit in Thailand popular among tourists
Nicknamed the “Land of the Free,” Thailand is one of the most popular countries for tourists in Southeast Asia. The country’s major attractions for a while have been its biodiversity, unique customs and hospitality as well as its over 1,400 islands.
In this article, travel connoisseur Kate Richardson spotlights the five best places to visit in Thailand, while also explaining why these locations are hotspots for tourists from around the world.
Bangkok
There’s hardly any curation of where to go in Thailand that does not include a trip or stay in the capital city of Bangkok. According to Euromonitor International, tourists made a massive 30.3 million international trips to Bangkok in 2025, making it the world’s most visited city for the year.
However, Bangkok is not famous for nothing. It boasts the perfect blend of rich culture and modern infrastructure, while affording many travellers unbelievable affordability. Bangkok is also a top choice for its food and street life, as tourists can explore night markets and unique experiences like Muay Thai. Other interactions include sites like the Grand Palace and Buddhist temples.
Chiang Mai
If you think the Buddhist temples in Bangkok are outstanding, then you should check out the Wats in the Old City of Chiang Mai. Given its cool but dry temperature between November and February, it is the perfect getaway spot for travellers looking to escape the harsh winter of the Northern Hemisphere.
Chiang Mai also offers distinct Northern Thai cuisine and a ton of outdoor activities, ranging from zip-lining to mountain climbing. Craving an experience of modern metropolitan culture in an affordable city? Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s best places to visit.
More recently, Chiang Mai has also become a significant gaming hub with the rise of top Asian casino brands. By visiting the review site MightyTips, you can unlock access to the most trusted casinos on the Asian continent, known for their swift transactions, generous bonuses and diverse payment methods.
Add this casino excitement to the thrill of your tourist destination, and you’re guaranteed the adventures of a lifetime on your trip to Chiang Mai.
Phuket
It was renowned British journalist, Tony Parsons, who said: “I’ve been visiting Thailand for more than 20 years but didn’t fall in love with it until I visited Phuket Town in Phuket. The northern part of Phuket is one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever been, and largely unspoilt and unknown.”
No other quote best exemplifies the beauty of Phuket than Parsons’ statement above. Beaches are some of the top places to visit in Thailand, and a vast majority of them are in the city of Phuket. From Nai Thon Beach to Nui Beach, you can always easily soak in the stunning tropical scenery. You can also enjoy island hopping across its iconic islands.
Like Bangkok, Phuket has a remarkable nightlife and makes for a good representation of the rich Thai culture. You could also use Phuket as a hub to travel to other islands in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Krabi
Next up on the list of best places in Thailand for tourists is Krabi. The city is very similar to Phuket in terms of the sprawl of beaches and islands. One of Krabi’s major attractions is its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Many tourists go island hopping to Phi Phi and Hong Island, while others engage in watersports like snorkelling and diving.
If you’re big on the cultural and religious exploration of the city, there’s the Tiger Cave Temple, a Buddhist temple with tiger paw prints and large Buddha statues. Otherwise, you can simply stay in the city centres and enjoy the laid-back tropical vibe on offer.
Chiang Rai
For years, Chiang Rai was the Lanna Kingdom’s capital until it was replaced by Chiang Mai. But notwithstanding, the city remains a major tourist hub in the Land of Smiles, famous for its proximity to the Golden Triangle and overall scenic mountainous range. It also ranks highly among the places to visit in Thailand for the spicy khao soi cuisine.
The experiences in Chiang Rai are authentic, and, for tourists, typically include a visit to the White Temple and Blue Temples. Visitors can also take river cruises to the iconic Golden Triangle, where Northern Laos and Northeastern Myanmar collide with Northern Thailand.
Final Remarks: Planning Your Next Thai Destination Adventure
Now that you know the best places to visit in Thailand and get a sense of the country, it’s time to stay ahead of the curve and plan your next Thai adventure. And if you fear you’ll be all alone in a big country, there’s no chance of that, as practically everyone is planning a visit, from presidents to business people and even superstar models like Izabel Goulart.
“I’ve never been to Thailand, and I’ve only heard good things about it. I really want to make my way there,” the Brazilian fashion model quipped about her desire to visit the country.
Be like Isabel, and when you travel, be sure to explore all five of our recommended Thailand places to visit.
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