Things to do in Thailand: 17 must-see attractions

Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis of eight million people where centuries-old gold temples sit against futuristic skyscrapers. The scent of street food, which costs around 70 THB (about $2), fills the humid air as saffron-robed monks navigate past busy office workers. From the shimmering Grand Palace and the forty-six-meter Reclining Buddha to the smoky alleys of Chinatown and the high-rise rooftops of Silom, the city never stops. It is a capital where tradition and modernity collide twenty-four hours a day.

Set in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, this former capital of the Lanna Kingdom blends thousand-year-old gilded temples with the modern coffee shops favored by digital nomads. Over 300 Buddhist sanctuaries anchor a daily routine defined by monk processions and the scent of street food. Whether you are trekking to hidden waterfalls, visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries, or taking a local cooking class, the city offers a relaxed pace of life that hits different.

As the largest island in southern Thailand, Ko Phuket or simply Phuket refers to the wider tropical archipelago surrounding it. You can unwind under the coconut palms before heading out to high-energy beach parties, take advantage of modern amenities with great value, and unwind in the many spas. Excursion options range from long-tail boat rides to mangrove kayaking and jungle trekking. The lush pearl of the Andaman Sea holds plenty of hidden corners. It is also your chance to experience Thai culture, local food, and everyday traditions.

The climate is tropical with 2 distinct seasons, and temperatures stay warm year-round. The rainy season runs from June to October, bringing daily showers that typically last between 1h and 3h.

Postcard-Ready Beaches

The busiest stretches of sand are found at Patong, Karon, and Kata. These areas offer parasailing, jet skiing, shopping, and street food at spots like Malin Plazza Patong. When night falls, visitors head to the bars along Bangla Road, catch a ladyboy show at the Phuket Simon Cabaret, or take in a Muay Thai boxing match.

For a quieter atmosphere, head to the more secluded beaches of Sai Kaew beach, Mai Khao beach, Nai Yang beach, Layan beach, Bang Tao beach, and Surin beach. Keep an eye on the water conditions, as strong currents can make swimming risky.

At the southern end of Patong, Cristal Beach is a quiet cove featuring a small beach known as Paradise Bath. You can reach it by walking 2.5 km past the Merlin Beach resort.

Travelers seeking complete quiet can take a trip to Ko Kho Kaho, known for 15 km of untouched coastline at Nok Nah beach. Another solid option is Paradise Island near Ko Rang, reached by departing from Ko Yao and passing near Ko Hong, a rugged spot reminiscent of a pirate island.

Lush Landscapes and Sunset Views

Catch a 360-degree panorama over Nai Harn bay at the southwestern tip of the island. Phrom Thep Cape translates to the cape of divine purity in Thai.

Take a motorized long-tail boat out to explore Phang Nga, where the dramatic limestone karst formations create a scene reminiscent of an adventure movie (about 600 THB for 3h).

Kho Phi Phi, Phi Phi Ley, Coral Islands, and Ko Tao are famous for white sand and clear water. Coral reefs in these areas have suffered from heavy snorkeling traffic, prompting local conservation measures at spots like Maya Bay, so check current access rules online before you go.

Vibrant Local Culture

With its Sino-Portuguese shophouses and pedestrian lanes, Phuket Town hosts 3 major annual events: the Vegetarian Festival in October, Chinese Pimai in February, and the Thai New Year celebration of Songkran in April. On weekend evenings, the Naka Market fills up with food vendors and local handicrafts.

Local families often spend Sundays having picnics or walks. The casuarina tree forest at Sirinat National Park provides an ideal setting for this, with an entrance located off Thepkrasattri Road.

Perched on a green hilltop, the 45-meter tall white marble Big Buddha of Chalong is a recent project built to create a major Buddhist landmark. The views from the top stretch for miles.

The Thalang National museum covers the history of southern Thailand, local migrations, and the region's tin mining era. Exhibits also touch on the 2004 tsunami and the subsequent rebuilding efforts.

When to go

The ideal window for visiting Phuket runs from December to March, when temperatures are comfortable and the weather is mostly clear.

How to get there

Air France and Thai Airways International operate nonstop flights from Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle to Bangkok with a flight time of 12 to 13 hours. From Bangkok, connecting flights to Phuket take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to get around

The Phuket Town tourist office hands out schedules for local buses and minivans. The Phuket bus terminal 1 connects to main points of interest over short distances, and state-run bus line 999 is a reliable choice. Renting a scooter is another popular option, running around 300 THB per day. Road conditions are generally good, but you should obtain an International Driving Permit before leaving home. Police checkpoints are common, and riding without proper paperwork results in on-the-spot fines around 1000 THB (about $35*).

Lampang moves at a slower pace than Thailand's major tourist hubs. You will find a distinct mix of Lanna temples and Burmese architectural influences here. Horse-drawn carriages still share the streets with local traffic, providing a unique way to navigate the historic center and its markets. Just outside the city, the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang stands as one of the most impressive temple complexes in Northern Thailand, making this an ideal stop for travelers seeking a more authentic experience.

Located in northern Phuket, Mai Khao offers a quiet escape from the island's crowded nightlife. Its sand stretches along the Sirinat National Park, providing a perfect spot for long walks or watching planes descend toward the nearby airport. You can spend the day at the Splash Jungle Water Park or explore the local history at the Baan Ar-Jor House Museum. It is the right choice if you prefer a low-key atmosphere and natural surroundings over the typical resort scene.