Best Things To Do In Thailand
Looking for the best things to do in Thailand? You’re in the right place. And the good news is, you’ve got lots of options my friend. Lots. So on this page, we’ll take you through our pick of the best things to do in Thailand – plenty to stick on your Bucket List.
Thailand is known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ and there’s a good reason for that – it’s really hard not to grin ear to ear when you’re enjoying stunning landscapes, delicious food, vibrant culture and a rich history.
From bustling cities to serene islands, this gorgeous country has something for every traveller and it’s worth exploring some of the best things you can do in Thailand…
Welcome To Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is a stunning metropolis where modernity meets tradition.
Like any big city, you get that wonderful blend of the culture of the country mixed with business and in Bangkok, it’s more impressive than most.
We actually begin our Best of Thailand trip (more about that one here) in Bangkok, where we explore the Grand Palace, which is a magnificent complex that housed Thai royalty once upon a time.
After that, there’s also time to explore the nearby Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which displays some of the famous Thai architecture you might have seen or read about. It also houses Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, so it’s worth the trip for that alone!
Bangkok is paradise for any food lover. From Pad Thai to mango sticky rice (and a whole lot more weird and wonderful flavours, if you’re into that), you can enjoy pretty much everything when it comes to street food.
The capital city also boasts floating markets, where vendors sell fresh produce and local delicacies from traditional wooden boats – it’s worth a look even if you’re not buying.
Chiang Mai and Jungle Trekking
Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Bangkok, while still brimming with culture and history.
One of the highlights of visiting Chiang Mai is the chance to interact with elephants in a responsible and ethical manner. As we arrive in Chiang Mai on day 4, we’ll spend the afternoon at a sanctuary where we can observe one of nature’s most majestic creatures in a natural setting, learning all about their story and the conservation efforts to maintain their habitats.
It’s also a spectacular setting for trekking – if an adventure through lush rainforests sounds like a bit of you, then you’re in the right place!
Spending time visiting a local hill-tribe community is a great way to learn about their cultures and traditions and it’s a unique experience that’s pretty hard to come by otherwise.
Find out more about our adventures in Chiang Mai in our Best of Thailand itinerary here.
Bamboo Rafting and Khao Sok National Park
For those seeking a blend of adventure and natural beauty, the Khao Sok area offers so many unforgettable experiences…
Like bamboo rafting. Yep, gliding along serene rivers on a traditional bamboo raft isn’t just for Huckleberry Finn – it’s one of the most spectacular ways to enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty.
As you raft through limestone cliffs and a lush jungle, you can get familiar with one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
Khao Sok National Park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various species of monkey, and it’s an excellent hiking destination too.
Oh, and we even pop out on a spooky night safari to see the jungle come alive at night – more about that on our Best of Thailand trip page here.
Exploring Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, offers what we’d describe as the perfect mix of beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
Phuket is famous all over the world for its glorious beaches, including Patong, Kata and Karon. Each beach has its own unique character, from the more bustling tourist areas to the secluded areas of the beaches.
Exploring Phuket Old Town is a great way to experience, its Sino-Portuguese architecture, colourful street art, and quaint cafes. It’s one of the best ways to get a glimpse into the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.
We embark on what we’ve lovingly christened our FAT guided tour… which actually stands for Food, Art, Town – and that’s what we’ll be doing as we enjoy the vibrant island of Phuket.
After that, it’s all about enjoying a laid-back experience as we head to the largest island in Thailand…
Koh Lanta – Thailand’s Largest Island
Those places where the pace feels like it suits you down to the ground are always the best to visit. Koh Lanta always feels like that – it’s a laid-back experience and offers long stretches of white, sandy beaches, crystal clear seas, and a completely authentic experience of Thailand.
What’s not to love.
It’s a paradise for diving and snorkelling and you even have the option during our 3-day stay in Koh Lanta to sign up for a 3-day Open water qualification course.
If you’re already qualified, then it’s a great opportunity to get a few fun dives in within the Koh Lanta National Park area… or if diving’s not your thing, the beaches are spectacular, and so’s the food!
Koh Lanta is famous for its traditional fishing villages, lush mangrove forests, and a unique blend of Thai, Chinese and Muslim cultures that creates an experience like few others.
Whether you’re seeking thrills, adventure, exploration, new experiences or great food… Thailand has it all. The warm welcome, the rich culture, and the stunning landscapes make this a bucket list worthy trip, without a doubt.
So, shall we get going?
You can find out everything you need to know about our Best of Thailand adventure here.
