Best Cities to Visit in Thailand: Anyone who is travelling to Thailand for the first time might be confused about where to go. Fortunately, Thailand has many popular cities to visit. Some are famous for temples, while others are known for markets, beaches, and nightlife. Overall, Thailand is a dream destination for travellers from all around the world. It is very well known for its diverse landscape, scenic beauty, and crystal-clear beaches that will steal your heart away.
In this article, we listed down the 30 best tourist cities in Thailand. Popular cities in Thailand includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya City, Krabi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Mueang Chiang Rai, Koh Samui Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, Surat Thani, Pai, and more. These cities are suitable for solo, couples, families, and backpackers.
1. Bangkok
Bangkok has become one of the top cities visited by tourists every year in Thailand. It is not only famous for its historical temples and vibrant market but also being one of the places with the most number of parks, museums and palaces. What adds to the beauty of the place is the nearby islands which have beautiful beaches, attractive views and greenery all around. Some of the popular tourist attractions are Golden Palace, Lumphini Park, Museum Siam, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Chatuchak Market and the Safari World. The best time to visit Bangkok would be from November – February. During this time, the climate would be pleasant. To travel within the city you can use tuk tuk, taxi and local buses.
2. Pattaya
Pattaya is another popular destination in the east coast of Thailand. It’s one of the most-visited tourist places in Thailand which you can add in your Thailand tour package. It is quite known for its vibrant nightlife and lip-smacking food. But apart from being the party hub it is also popular for the cultural experience and the water activities. It attracts people from all around the world for its tourist places like the Walking Street, Sanctuary of Truth, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, Pattaya Floating Market, Elephant Village, Thepprasit Night Market, Frost Magical Ice of Siam, Mini Siam, Pattaya beach and Jomtien Beach.
3. Chiang Mai
One of the popular cities in the Northern part of Thailand is Chiang Mai. You will fall in love with this beautiful place because it is populated with the historic temples, stunning landscapes, breathtaking views and a lot of activity to participate in. It is perfect for solo travellers who want some time away from the crowd and want to enjoy the cool weather. Some of the top tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Old City, Doi Inthanon National Park and Sunday Night Market. The best time to visit this place would be from November – February. During this time, the climate is cool and easy.
4. Mueang Chiang Rai
Mueang Chiang Rai is located in the northern part of Thailand and is renowned for its diverse dense mountain range and extensive Lanna culture. Originally, it was discovered by King Mangrai in 1296. Today, people in Chiang Rai live a slow-paced life in the laid-back atmosphere.
Some of the major attractions in Chiang Rai are iconic temples like Wat Rong Khun, The White Temple, Wat Phra Singh, Doi Mae Salong, Phu Chi Fah, Wat Huai Pla Kung, The Golden Triangle, Boon Rawd’s Singha Park, and Mae Fah Luang Art And Culture Park. To travel within the city you can use the local bus, hire taxi or use a private car that will be much more comfortable and convenient if you are travelling for long distance.
5. Lampang
Lampang is also known as Nakhon Lampang. It was one of the prime cities in the Lanna kingdom. However in the late 17th – 18th centuries Lanna came under the rule of Burmese. One of the Lampang locals assassinated the local Burmese leader. His heir known as Chao Ched Ton now rules Lanna. Some of the popular attractions to visit are Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Ban Sao Nak, Wat Chedi Sao Lang, Rassadaphisek Bridge, Kao Fu Waterfall and Chae Son National Park. The best time to visit Lampang would be from November – February. During this time, the climate is pleasant and skies are all clear. You can travel within the city using tuk tuk or by hiring a taxi.
6. Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani means “royal lotus city”. It was discovered by Thao Kham Phong, an heir of Phra Wo and Phra Ta. In 1792, Ubon Ratchathani was positioned as a province and was the administrative center. Some of the major tourist places to visit are Wat Phra That Nong Bua, Wat Nong Pah Pong, Wat Thung Sri Muang ,Ubon Ratchathani National Museum and the Ubon Ratchathani Zoo. The best time to visit Ubon Ratchathani would be the month from November – February. During this time, the climate is favourable and most of the places will be open. To travel within the city you can use tuk-tuks, buses, motorcycle taxis, or Sam Lor (three-wheeled vehicles).
7. Chanthaburi
Chanthaburi is the treasure of the east and was taken over by the French till the 18th Century. Therefore if you have a close look at most of the architecture in Chanthaburi, you will find French influence particularly in the Catholic cathedral in Thailand. Some of the major tourist attractions in Chanthaburi are Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception,Wat Phai Lom, Namtok Phlio National Park, Wat Khao Sukim, Chanthaboon Waterfront and Khao Khitchakut National Park. You can travel within the city using tuk tuk or the local bus.
8. Khao Lak
The name Khao Lak means ‘Main Mountain’. It is one of the hottest destinations for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The atmosphere is quite gentle in Khao Lak which makes it one of the best cities in Thailand. Whether you are looking for the perfect sunset spot or looking for the perfect relaxation Gateway -khao lak will surely not disappoint you. Some of the major attractions in the Khao Lak are Memories Beach, Had Nang Thong (Black Sand Beach), The Khao Lak Lighthouse, Kuek Kak Beach, Pak Weep Beach, Bang Sak Beach. The best time to visit this place would be from November – February. During this time, the climate is quite pleasant. To travel within Khao Lak you can use taxis, motorbikes, or songthaews.
9. Udon Thani
Udon Thani is just 560 km away from Bangkok and is a major official and commercial hub in northern Isan, Thailand. Originally, it was discovered in the year 1890 by Prince Prajak Silapakom. Today, the city is the fourth largest in the country with a population of around 230,000. Additionally, Udon Thani is known for its extensive rice fields, hills, and forests. Popular tourist attractions include the stunning Red Lotus Lake, Wat Pa Phu Kon, Phu Phra Bat Historical Park,Phu Phra Bat Historical Park, Baan Khiri Wong Kot and Naga Fireball Festival. The best time to visit Udon Thani is from November – February. During this time, the climate is pleasant and most of the places are operational.
10. Mae Sot
Mae Sot is quite popular among visitors for being a trade centre and for its large Burmese population. Originally, Mae Sot was a small local area in 1937, led by a village chief, with about 12,000 people. Later, it became a municipality in 1939, covering 27 villages, and was upgraded to a city in 2010.
Some of the major tourist attractions in Mae Sot are Wat Thai Wattanaram, Hilltribe Market, Taksin Maharat National Park, Thai Unity Temple, Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, Hot Springs Maekasa, Chao Por Phawo Shrine, and Wat Mani Phraison.
The best time to travel would be during the dry and cool weather, which is from November to February. To travel within the city, you can use buses, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis.
11. Nong Khai
Nong Khai lies in the northeastern part of Thailand. Additionally, it is located on the bank of the Mekong River and spans across to the Laos side. It is quite famous among travellers for its pink sunsets and scenic beauty. Every year, people from all around the world come here in October to witness the fireballs that rise from the Mekong River. Some of the major tourist attractions near the Nong Khai are Sala Keoku, the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge, Luang Pho Phra Sai at Wat Pho Chai, Tha Sadet Market, and Phrathat Bang Phuan. The best time to travel to Nong Khai would be in the month November – February when the weather is all cool and dry.
12. Khon Kaen
Khon kaen is in the northeastern region of Thailand and is the fourth largest city in the entire Thailand. It has been appointed as the export hub for trade with the Indo-China Region. It is the fastest developing country compared to other cities. Renowned for the production of the high quality silk, it plays an important role in Thailand’s economic condition. Some of the major tourist attractions are Phrathat Kham Kaen, Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon,King Cobra Village,Phu Pha Man National Park and Ubolratana Dam. The best time to visit Khon kaen would be from November to February. During this time, the weather is favourable and there is less rainfall.
13. Pattani
Pattani is located in the southern part of Thailand, just close to the border of Malaysia. Specifically, it lies at the mouth of the Pattani River and runs along a vast coastline of about 170 kilometers. It is home to two main beaches — Tani and Sai Buri. Additionally, the region is mainly populated by Muslims who contribute to the rich cultural heritage of the city.
Some of the major tourist attractions are Pattani Central Mosque, Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park, Krue Sae Mosque, Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Shrine, and Pattani Adventure Park. The best time to visit the place would be from November to February. During this time, there is less rainfall and most of the places are open.
14. Phuket
Phuket is a top tourist destination and one of the beach cities in Thailand which has a lot to offer to the people. From the beautiful palm filled white beaches, turquoise water, hidden caves, its vibrant nightlife to the warm climate, it has it all. It is perfect for people who want a combination of relaxation, adventure and exploration. Some of the famous tourist destinations are Big Buddha, Patong beach, Phi Phi Island, James Bond Island, Old Phuket town and Wat Chalong. The best time to visit the place would be from November – February. During this time, the climate is pleasant and most places in Phuket are operational. You can travel within Phuket by hiring taxi, taking tuk tuk and using the local bus.
15. Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a hidden gem in the gulf of Thailand where people flock every year from all parts of the world. It has beautiful and gorgeous beaches, diverse culture and has many different activities in which visitors can engage. Apart from the beautiful beaches and the vibrant nightlife, the city also has wonderful waterfalls, dense mountainous rainforest and historical temples.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Koh Samui are Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, Ang Thong National Marine Park, Wat Plai Laem, Secret Buddha Garden, Fisherman’S Village, Na Muang Waterfall, Chaweng Beach and Paradise Park Farm. The best time to visit the place would be from the month of November to February. During this time, the weather is favourable and sky is all clear and nature is all lush green.
16. Krabi
It is famous for its scenic beauty, crystal clear water, coral reef and idyllic islands. It is also an ideal tourist destination because it remains warm throughout the year. Famous for snorkelling and diving it provides other plethora of activities that one can do. Since it is relatively cheap, you can indulge in diverse experiences and create unforgettable memories. Some of the major tourist attractions in Krabi are Thung Teao Forest Natural Park,Railay Beach, Klong Thom Hot Springs, Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald pool and Phra Nang Beach. The best time to travel to Krabi would be from November – February. During this time, the weather is cool and dry and most of the places would be operational.
17. Pai
Pai is in the Northern part of Thailand in the Mae Hong Son Province and is the perfect gateway for holiday. Today it is one of most visited places by tourists and the economy of the place depends on tourism. You will observe that the place is mostly inhabited by the hippies, Thai rastas, and muslims. The best part is that the city has something for every kind of toursts. Some of the major attractions in Pai are Pam Bok Waterfall, Mor Paeng Waterfall, WW2 Memorial Bridge, Pai Hot Spring, Sai Ngam Hot Spring, and Wat Phra That Mae Yen. The best time to visit would be from November – February. During this time the climate remains pleasant and skies are all clear.
18. Lamphun
Lamphun is a great historical place located in the Northern part of Thailand. It is 30km away from Chiang Mai and is more of a peaceful place today with many sites to visit. If you plan to spend one day in Thailand, then Lamphun will make the perfect destination. Once the capital of the ancient Haripunchai Kingdom, the city was originally ruled by the Mon Princess Chamadevi.
Some of the popular tourist destinations in Lamphun are Haripunchai National Museum, Lamphun Community Museum. Popular temples includes Wat Phra That Haripunchai, Phra Nang Chamathewi Monument, Wat Mahawan Woramahawihan, Old Wat Chammathewi and Wat Phra Yuen. The best time to visit Lamphun would be from November – February. During this time, the climate would be clear and pleasant.
19. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is also called the Ayutthaya which is a historic city 1.5 hours away from Bangkok. It means Sacred City of the Good and Invincible One. It is quite popular among the travellers for its temples and palaces but what is not so known about the place is that it is a major food destination. You will get delicious seafood with mouth watering desserts.
Some of the popular tourist attractions are the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Mahathat (with the famous Buddha head in tree roots) and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. If you want to immerse into the history and culture of the city, then you must definitely visit this place.
20. Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi served as the military base which was created by King Rama I to help protect Thailand from possible Burmese invasions. It is a city situated at the confluence of the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai rivers. Some of the notable tourist attractions are Bridge on the River Kwai, a historic part of the World War II – era Death Railway, Jeath War Museum and Erawan National Park. Most tourist spots are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and typically do not charge an entry fee.
The easiest way to get there from Bangkok is by bus or train, with travel times ranging from 2 to 3 hours. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, Kanchanaburi is sure to captivate you.
21. Hua Hin
Hua Hin is the perfect gateway for a relaxing seaside escape. It is located just 3 hours away from Bangkok. This is an ideal spot for families and couples who want to spend some quality time with their loved ones. Some of the major tourist spots are Hua Hin Railway Station, Cicada Night Market, elegant Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, and the fun-filled Vana Nava Water Jungle.
Getting around the city is easy with options like tuk-tuks, rented scooters, or local taxis. Most of the places here have free entry and are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
22. Surat Thani
Surat Thani is located in the southern part of Thailand near the end of the Tapi River on the gulf of Thailand. It is renowned for the production of rubber and coconut. Serves as a home to the 3 main islands in Thailand which are – Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Surat Thani is a must visit place for the visitors. Whether you are looking for a perfect stop for a relaxing gateway or want to delve deeper into Thai culture, Surat Thani provides a unique experience that will leave you wanting for more. Some of the activities that you can do in Surat Thani are visit Rajjaprabha Dam, Khao Na NiLuang Dhamma Park, Ko Raet and Luang phu Thuat Wat Don Sak.
23. Rayong
Rayong is located in the eastern part of Thailand. It is not so popular among the tourists which makes it a perfect stop for visitors who want some quiet space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Known for its seafood, it is ideal for people who want a blend of natural beauty, cultural experience and want a slower pace of life. Some places to visit in Rayong are Ban Phe Market, Rayong Aquarium, Royal Thai Navy Warship, Phra Chedi Klang Nam, Khao Laem Ya and Ban Phe Pier.
24. Ao Nang
Ao Nang is the home to 83 islands and some well known beaches in Thailand. It is 30 kms away from Krabi and is located in the southern part of Thailand. It is a scenic beauty that no pictures can justify, you just need to behold in your eyes. Some of the well known beaches are Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave Beach, and Noppharat Thara Beach. The easiest and fastest way to reach the beach would be to take a car or grab whichever is easier. Alternatively you can also take a bus or walk on foot to reach the beach.
25. Sukhothai
Once Sukhothai was the capital of Thailand. If you are a history buff or spiritual, then you will definitely fall in love with this historical place. The place is populated with an endless number of temples and statues which are 700 years old. Some of the notable attractions in Sukhothai are Sukhothai Old City, Wat Mahathat, Wat Traphang Ngoen, Wat Sa Si, Wat Sorasak, and Wat Si Chum. Most of the places in Sukhothai are open from 8:00 am – 9:00 pm. To travel within the city you can use tuk tuk or rent the shared taxi songthaews to visit the places.
26. Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is located in the north of Thailand. It is a lesser known place and is more suitable for solo travellers and busy people who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It was a part of the Mawkmai State, a Shan State founded in 1767. But after the Anglo-Siamese Boundary Commission of 1892–93, Mae Hong Son became a part of Thailand. This peaceful town offers nature treks, hot springs, and a deep cultural experience which will be etched in your memory for a lifetime.It is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The best time to visit the temple is during sunrise and sunset.
27. Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is located off the coast of Krabi. It is well known for its natural scenic beauty and houses a number of famous beaches. Each beach in the coastline has its own unique charm and story. The two most famous beaches are Klong Dao Beach and Long Beach. It is visited by tourists all around the year but the best time would be from October – April. But the peak season to visit would be from December to March due to the ideal weather conditions. To travel within the island you can rent a scooty which will cost around 20 baht. There is no entry fee to enter the island.
28. Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima is also known as Korat. It is located in the eastern part of Thailand. If you want a sneak peek into Thai culture and tradition, then visiting this place is a must as it has its own folk song named Pleng Korat. This place is vast with 32 districts in its province. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or beach lover, this place will be the perfect stop for you. Some of the major tourist attractions would be Maha Viravong National Museum, Wat Phra Narai Maharat, Rafting at Lam Takhong and Night Ban Koh. Most of the places are open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
29. Phi Phi Island
Located in the Andaman sea it is well known for its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. In 1940 the place was occupied by the fishermen. Today there are more than 2000 – 3000 people residing in Phi Phi island. It has more Buddhists than muslims. The island came to fame when the spot was used for filming the British film The Beach.It has the unique blend of the nightlife, party atmosphere, bars and restaurants and is the ultimate destination for adventure and relaxation seekers.
30. Saraburi
Saraburi is situated in central Thailand somewhere around 65 kilometers away from Ayutthaya and 108 kilometers away from North Bangkok. It has been a huge part of some of the wars that have taken place in Thailand. Some of the well known attractions in Saraburi are Crocodile Farm, Sunflower Fields, Wat Phra Phutthabat. You can also explore Namtok Sam Lan National Park, Chet Sao Noi Waterfall National Park and Big Tea Garden. If you ever plan a trip to Ayutthaya, also visit Saraburi as it is a nearby attraction.
