Top 18 Incredible Things to Do in Thailand - Land of Smiles

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is a captivating country that beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of its modern cities to the tranquil shores of its pristine islands, Thailand offers an array of experiences that cater to every wanderer’s desires. As the land of smiles, Thailand promises a journey of discovery, adventure, and profound cultural encounters that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who tread upon its soil.

Are you excited for your trip right now!  Here, Hanoi voyages will take you around ThaiLand to discover anything.

What are the best things to do in Thailand and when? And where? Without further ado, let’s get started!

Come to the capital of Thailand, let’s discover things to do before having your perfect trip ! 

Taste the blend of centuries of culture, ancient palaces, and floating markets, where boats are stocked with fresh fruits, coconut juice, and Thai food. The three most well-known markets are Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Khlong Lat Mayom with Damnoen Saduak. Do not miss them as well as gardens, the Grand Palace, temples and many more!

• Explore the stunning Grand Palace complex and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which are iconic symbols of Thailand’s history and culture.
• Visit Wat Pho to see the majestic Reclining Buddha statue and experience traditional Thai massage at the traditional massage school within the temple grounds.
• Go around Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the largest markets in the world, offering a wide variety of goods, including clothing, handicrafts, and street food.
• China Town with the colorful lights and vibrant colors, the beautiful Chinese temples and the huge choice of street food.
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Climb the steep stairs of Wat Arun to get a fantastic view of the city and the Chao Phraya River.
• Embark on a street food tour to taste an array of delicious Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum (green papaya salad), Mango Sticky Rice, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and many more. 

To know more information about this beautiful city, let’s find out Top 20 best things absolutely to do in Bangkok !

Kanchanaburi is a town known for the  World War II Death Railway bridge across the River Kwai, as well as for its national parks, museums, historic buildings and natural wonders. If you are curious about it. Let’s find out! Many things to do are waiting for you!

• Visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai, a historical landmark and part of the Death Railway built during World War II.
• Death Railway Museum and Research Centre: Learn about the history of the Death Railway and the experiences of prisoners of war during its construction at this informative museum.
• Allied Military Cemetery where the graves of nearly 7,000 martyrs are located
• Jeath War Museum collects letters and personal items of prisoners
• World War II Museum and famous bridge view
• Explore Erawan National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and emerald green ponds. The seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall is the park’s main highlight.

You can find more information about Top things to do in Kanchanaburi to prepare for your trip!

On the UNESCO World Heritage list, it is packed with Buddhist temples, ancient statues, and monasteries. Head to Bang Pa-in Palace which is also known as the Summer Palace, enjoy one of the best-preserved compounds in Thailand and relax in one of the cafés. There are 6 main temples:

• Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest and most significant temple in Ayutthaya, known for its three iconic chedis (stupas) and impressive Buddha images.
• Discover Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head encased in tree roots—a popular photo spot for visitors.
• Explore Wat Ratchaburana, known for its impressive prang (Khmer-style tower) and ancient murals.
• Visit Wat Phra Ram, a serene temple with a beautiful lake nearby, providing picturesque views.
• Wat Maheyong is located outside the historical park, towards the floating market. Unfortunately, there isn’t much left of it, which perhaps explains why it is not flocked by tourists. If you have taken the Pass and you have a little time to spare, you can always go and have a look.
• Wat Chai Watthanaram’s construction began in the 17th century and lasted for almost 20 years. This Khmer-style temple located on the river banks features a large central prang, about 35 meters tall, surrounded by several smaller chedis.

If you want to discover much more about this beautiful place, let’s find out Top Things to Do in Ayutthaya.

Located in the northern region of the golden pagoda country. With more than 1,000 years of history, Lopburi is a historic and colorful city in Thailand. So what do we see in this history-rich city? It has more to offer than just cheeky monkeys!

• The Prang Sam Yot, better known as the Monkey Temple, is probably the most famous attraction in Lopburi. Visit Phra Prang Sam Yot, also known as the Monkey Temple, a Khmer-style temple overrun by monkeys. You can observe the playful monkeys and feed them.
• Explore the Phra Kan Shrine, another site inhabited by a large number of monkeys, and witness locals paying respects to the monkey god Hanuman.
• Learn about the region’s history and art at the Lopburi National Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and exhibits.
• Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat: Visit this beautiful temple known for its towering chedi (stupa) and intricate architectural details.
• Explore Prang Khaek, a Khmer-style Hindu shrine located in the historical park area of Lopburi.
• Discover the ruins of King Narai’s Palace, the former royal residence of King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya.
• If you visit during November, you may be able to witness the annual Monkey Banquet Festival, where the locals offer a lavish feast to the monkeys as a way to show gratitude and respect.
• Sunflower Fields (seasonal): If you visit during December and January, you can see vast fields of blooming sunflowers in the countryside surrounding Lopburi.

Sukhothai, located in northern Thailand, is an ancient city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, considered the first kingdom of Thailand. Today, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to explore Thailand’s past. Here are some of the best things to do in Sukhothai:

• Explore the Sukhothai Historical Park, a vast complex of ruins and temples from the ancient kingdom. Rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk to explore the park, which is divided into various zones.
• Visit Wat Mahathat, the most important temple in Sukhothai, known for its large central stupa and beautiful Buddha images.
• Discover Wat Si Sawai, an ancient Hindu temple with three prongs (towers) and unique architecture influenced by Khmer and Mon styles.
• Enjoy the peaceful setting of Wat Sa Si, a temple situated on an island in a large lotus pond, accessible via a bridge.
• Ramkhamhaeng National Museum: Learn about Sukhothai’s history and view a collection of artifacts and historical items at this museum.
• Sukhothai Night Market: Experience the local atmosphere and try Sukhothai’s specialties at the night market, where you can sample various traditional dishes.
• Take a day trip to Si Satchanalai Historical Park, a second ancient city of the Sukhothai Kingdom, located about an hour away from Sukhothai. It features impressive ruins and a quieter atmosphere.
• Sukhothai Loy Krathong Festival: If you visit during the Loi Krathong festival (usually in November), you can experience the traditional celebrations where locals float decorated lotus-shaped baskets on waterways.
• Visit Wat Tra Phang Ngoen, known for its unique lotus-bud-shaped chedi and serene surroundings.
• Explore Sukhothai Organic Farm and learn about sustainable agricultural practices and Thai farming traditions.

Even if it is a dynamic, modern city, with a huge industrious handicraft scene, you will find 120 magnificent temples that are spread around the city, where monks are to be seen, and you can even get a little chat with them. Here are the best things to do in Chiang Mai you must do during your trip: 

• Chiang Mai Old Town:  visit most of the main temples,  street markets and museums. There are also several bars and restaurants 
• Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Hike or drive up Doi Suthep Mountain to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and enjoy panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
• Wander around the historic Old City area, with its ancient city walls and moat, and discover hidden temples and charming cafes.
• Elephant Sanctuaries: Choose an ethical elephant sanctuary that promotes responsible tourism and offers a chance to interact with elephants in a cruelty-free environment.Elephant Nature Park was one of the first parks ever created to protect elephants.
• Zip-line adventure: the zip-line runs through the jungle, combine nature and adventure.
• Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: Take a trip to the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, known for their limestone formations that allow you to walk up the falls with ease.

Ever visited a temple with Michael Jackson, Superman, and even the Despicable Me minions decor? Wat Rong Khun is your place, then. Another must-see when visiting Chiang Rai is the Blue Temple (Rong Suea Ten) and the Black Temple (Baan Dam).

Hilltop settings and tea plantations of Doi Mae Salong are quite unlike anywhere else. Let’s enjoy the beautiful landscape.

• White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): The White Temple is one of Chiang Rai’s most iconic landmarks. This contemporary Buddhist temple is entirely white and adorned with intricate, mirror-like details, making it a truly mesmerizing sight.
• Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Also known as the Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten is another stunning temple with its vibrant blue color and intricate golden detailing.
• Black House (Baan Dam Museum): Baan Dam Museum, created by the late artist Thawan Duchanee, is a unique collection of buildings showcasing his eclectic art pieces and collections inspired by death and darkness.
• Visit the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. It’s a historically significant area known for its opium trade past and scenic views of the Mekong River.
• Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park: This park displays traditional Thai and Lanna artifacts, sculptures, and artworks in a serene garden setting.
• Explore the Doi Tung Royal Villa, the former residence of the Princess Mother, and the beautifully landscaped gardens nearby.
• Head to Mae Sai, the northernmost town of Thailand, where you can cross the border into Myanmar at the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge.
• Enjoy the vast Singha Park, a picturesque agricultural park with lovely flower gardens, tea plantations, and various outdoor activities.
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, clothing, and sample delicious street food.
• Wat Phra Kaew Chiang Rai (Emerald Buddha Temple): Visit the original location of the Emerald Buddha before it was moved to Bangkok. The temple is a revered site for locals.
• Wat Huay Pla Kang: Marvel at the giant white statue of the Guan Yin Bodhisattva at Wat Huay Pla Kang, which also offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Explore Wat Phra Singh, an ancient temple known for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture and historical significance.

Phuket,Thailand’s largest island, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in experiencing Thai culture and entertainment. Here are some of the best things to do in Phuket:

• Relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Patong Beach, one of Phuket’s most famous and vibrant beaches.
• Visit the iconic Big Buddha, a large marble statue situated on top of Nakkerd Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the island.
• Explore the scenic Phang Nga Bay, known for its limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and famous James Bond Island (Koh Tapu).
• Discover Wat Chalong, one of Phuket’s most important Buddhist temples, with its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
•  Explore the historic Old Phuket Town, known for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and street art.
• Karon Viewpoint (Kata Viewpoint): Enjoy breathtaking views of Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches from this popular viewpoint.
• Bangla Road: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phuket at Bangla Road in Patong, filled with bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues.
• Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands, famous for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Visit Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay, the filming location of the movie “The Beach,” and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Watch the impressive cultural show at Phuket FantaSea, a theme park showcasing Thai culture and traditions.
• Elephant Sanctuaries: Choose an ethical elephant sanctuary that promotes responsible tourism and offers a chance to interact with elephants in a cruelty-free environment.
• Try various water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, jet-skiing, parasailing, and kayaking at Phuket’s beaches.
• Explore the local night markets like Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) and Chillva Market, offering a wide range of food, clothing, and souvenirs.
• Have fun with optical illusions and 3D artworks at the Phuket Trickeye Museum.

Krabi, located in southern Thailand, is a province known for its stunning limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and beach enthusiasts. You can curve along the coast like a giant limestone fortress of adventure, or rising out of the islands and hanging over idyllic white-sand beaches.

• Visit Railay Beach, a stunning beach accessible only by boat, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s a paradise for rock climbing and offers beautiful viewpoints.
• Take a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands, a group of islands known for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking scenery.
• Climb the 1,237 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) to witness panoramic views of Krabi and its surrounding countryside.
• Visit the Emerald Poo (Sa Morakot), a natural hot spring surrounded by lush forest, perfect for a relaxing dip.
• Enjoy a soak in the natural hot springs at Klong Thom, believed to have therapeutic properties.
• Have a day trip to Koh Hong, an island with pristine beaches and emerald waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

Ao Nang is a bustling beach town that serves as a central hub for tourists visiting the Krabi region. It offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and nightlife options. In the many side streets there are numerous shops, excursion agencies, massage parlors, bars, restaurants and supermarkets. Due to its central location, Ao Nang is ideal to start trips to Krabi’s island world or to explore real dream beaches nearby.

• Relax on Ao Nang Beach, a beautiful and busy stretch of sandy coastline with numerous water sports and activities available.
• Take boat tours from Ao Nang to explore nearby islands like the Phi Phi Islands, Hong Islands, and James Bond Island.
• Ao Nang is a popular destination for rock climbing, with various climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
• Visit Nopparat Thara Beach, a quieter and less crowded beach located just a short distance from Ao Nang.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ao Nang, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to choose from.

Koh Phi Phi – a group of islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the western coast of Thailand. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. If you want to find things to do, these activities will not make you disappointed…

• Take a boat tour to Phi Phi Leh, the smaller and uninhabited sister island of Phi Phi Don. It is famous for Maya Bay, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed, and for its beautiful lagoons and snorkeling spots.
• Visit Long Beach (Hat Yao), a more secluded and quiet beach on Phi Phi Don, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Explore the underwater world surrounding Phi Phi Islands through snorkeling or diving. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life.
• Visit Monkey Beach, a small bay on Phi Phi Don where you can observe and interact with playful wild monkeys.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phi Phi at Loh Dalum Bay, where you’ll find numerous bars, restaurants, and beach parties.
• Join the fun at Phi Phi Reggae Bar for a unique experience of Thai boxing matches held in a ring on the beach, followed by a beach party.
• Take a boat tour around Viking Cave, where you can see the bird’s nest harvesting activities and admire the ancient cave paintings.
• Explore the small main village on Phi Phi Don, where you can find shops, restaurants, and places to rent equipment for water sports.
• Stroll along Tonsai Bay, the main pier area, where boats arrive and depart from the island.

Koh Lanta is another beautiful island destination located in the Andaman Sea, off the western coast of Thailand. Koh Lanta offers pristine beaches, lush jungle-covered hills, and a wide range of activities for travelers seeking a more tranquil and less crowded island experience. 

• Explore the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, which covers several of the islands in the Koh Lanta group. Visit the beautiful Tanod Beach and trek to the park’s viewpoint for panoramic views.
• Discover the charming and quaint Koh Lanta Old Town on the eastern side of the island, known for its traditional wooden houses, seafood restaurants, and a peaceful ambiance.
• Hike up to the Koh Lanta Viewpoint to witness breathtaking views of the island and surrounding sea.
• Visit Koh Lanta Animal Welfare, a sanctuary for stray animals where you can interact with dogs and cats, and support their welfare efforts.
• Explore the underwater world around Koh Lanta through snorkeling or diving. The island is surrounded by excellent dive sites and abundant marine life.
• Go kayaking through the mangroves or along the coastline to discover hidden coves and caves.
•  Take a refreshing dip at Khlong Chak Waterfall, a small but picturesque waterfall in the jungle.

Koh Yao Noi is a small and tranquil island located in the Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, in southern Thailand. Known for its unspoiled beauty and laid-back atmosphere, Koh Yao Noi offers a more authentic and less crowded experience compared to some of the more popular tourist destinations. 

• Enjoy the peaceful and pristine beaches of Koh Yao Noi, such as Loh Paret Beach, Pasai Beach, and Klong Jark Beach. The island’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and lounging.
• Explore the calm waters and mangrove forests around the island by going kayaking or canoeing.
• Rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the island at your own pace and discover its rural charm and scenic landscapes.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the traditional fishing villages on the island. Interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
• Hike up to Tha Khao Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay and the surrounding islands.

Koh Yao Yai (South Island) is the bigger sister of Koh Yao Noi (North Island), located in the middle of the spectacular Phang Nga Bay in the Andaman Sea, between Krabi and Phuket. It’s much less developed than touristy Phuket, which makes it an ideal place to experience a more real and rural Thai island atmosphere. So let me suggest some places and activities that are worth visiting!

• Explore  the island’s rural landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning viewpoints by motorbike or bicycle
• Fishing Villages: Visit the traditional local fishing villages on the island to experience the traditional way of life of the islanders.
• Take longtail boat tours to explore nearby islands, hidden coves, and snorkeling spots.
• Paddle through the calm waters and mangrove forests by going kayaking around the island.
• Visit the organic farms on Koh Yao Yai and learn about sustainable farming practices and local produce.
• Thai Cooking Classes: Enroll in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes using fresh local ingredients.
• Island-Hopping: Take boat trips to nearby islands like Koh Yao Noi or explore the iconic James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay.

Top 10 tourist islands are most popular with international tourists- Koh Samui. There are three main beaches, from the hustle and bustle of Chaweng Beach to the lively yet relaxed atmosphere of Lamai Beach and the timeless feel of Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village.There’s nothing to stop you from having a blast on Samui.

• Relax on Chaweng Beach, the island’s most famous and busiest beach, known for its soft white sand and a wide range of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars.
• Visit Lamai Beach, the second-largest and one of the more laid-back beaches on the island, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Explore the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, a charming area with narrow streets, boutique shops, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
• Enjoy at Ang Thong National Marine Park which covers more than 100 sq km of land and sea. Snorkeling, hiking, sea kayaking, diving, and simply relaxing are the main activities.
•  Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks): Witness the unique rock formations resembling male and female genitalia on Lamai Beach.
• Take a picture with Na Muang Waterfalls with two cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle.
• Watch or participate in a Muay Thai boxing match, a traditional Thai martial art.

Koh Phangan is Thailand’s 5th biggest island and one of the most beautiful and wild.The island is renowned for its lush tropical jungle interior, many idyllic, long, white-sand beaches and over 20 nearby dive sites. While the Full Moon Party attracts many young party-goers, the island offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for all types of travelers.

• Experience the famous Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach, where thousands of revelers come together to dance, drink, and celebrate under the full moon.
• Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Haad Yao, Thong Nai Pan, and Bottle Beach, each offering its unique charm and atmosphere.
• Enjoy various water activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the clear waters surrounding the island.
• Visit Than Sadet Waterfall, a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Hike up to Wat Phu Khao Noi, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Ko Pha Ngan and the surrounding islands.
• Ko Pha Ngan is also known as a wellness destination, offering various yoga retreats, wellness centers, and spa treatments.
• Explore the night markets, such as Thong Sala Night Market and Srithanu Night Market, to sample delicious Thai street food and shop for souvenirs.
• Visit Wat Khao Tham, a meditation center and temple perched on a hill, offering a tranquil and serene environment.
• Hike to Phaeng Waterfall, a multi-tiered waterfall with picturesque pools for swimming and relaxation.
• Discover some of the lesser-known and more secluded beaches on the island, like Haad Yuan and Haad Thian.

Ko Pha Ngan offers a blend of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure, partying, or a peaceful escape, the island has something to cater to all preferences.

From sunrise to sunset, Pattaya’s beaches are constantly brimming with watersports lovers and sun-worshippers enjoying the surrounding waters. This is one of Thailand’s better scuba diving destinations. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of entertainment options. What makes it more attractive, let’s find out!

• Relax on the main beach of Pattaya, known for its soft sand and various water sports activities.
• Experience the bustling nightlife of Walking Street, a famous street filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Visit the Sanctuary of Truth, a unique and intricate wooden temple with stunning architecture and carvings.
• Explore the Nong Nooch Garden, a beautiful botanical garden featuring various themed gardens, cultural shows, and elephant performances.
• Take a day trip to Coral Island, a nearby island known for its clear waters, snorkeling, and water sports.
• Visit the Floating Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, try local dishes, and explore the market by boat.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Pattaya Bay from the Pattaya Viewpoint.
• Explore Mini Siam, a miniature park featuring replicas of famous landmarks from Thailand and around the world.
• Have fun at Art in Paradise, an interactive 3D art museum where you can become part of the artwork through photography.
• Visit the Pattaya Floating Market, where you can shop for local products and enjoy boat rides along the market’s canals.
•  Enjoy a day at one of Pattaya’s water parks, such as Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park or Ramayana Water Park

A charming and quiet town off the beaten track, surrounded by mountains and forest. The city is an unknown but very productive farming community.  Here you can experience the local lifestyle and see the people selling everything from fruits to insects or enjoy a stunning view of the town, river valley and countryside.

• Climb Up The Wat Chom Thong Viewpoint to see the town from three different angles.
• Admire The View Across The Yuam River At Wat Phra That Chom Mon which offers another great viewpoint of Mae Sariang from across the river.
• Embark on the scenic Mae Hong Son Loop, a popular motorcycle route that takes you through some of northern Thailand’s most beautiful landscapes.
• Visit a Karen Hill Tribe village to learn about their unique culture and traditional way of life.
• Explore the charming village of Mae Sam Laep, known for its traditional stilted wooden houses and serene river setting.
• Stroll through the Mae Sariang Riverside Market, where you can find local goods, fresh produce, and tasty street food.
• Take a day trip to Salawin National Park, which offers scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.