Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with a group, Thailand is every adventurer’s dream. The people are friendly, the islands rival even those in French Polynesia, and there are centuries of historical landmarks and ornate temples to explore. With so much diverse appeal, it can be hard to map out the perfect Thailand itinerary. Here are some of our favorite destinations for Thailand travel, organized by what’s most important to you! 

Travel tip: Thailand’s dry season (and therefore peak time for tourism) is November to April. However, travel is more affordable during the wet season, and is typically still pleasant as rain tends to fall off and on through the day.

Often referred to as simply “Ubon,” this city is known for its many beautiful temples. In July, Ubon holds the popular Candle Festival, marking the beginning of the rainy season and beginning of Buddhist Lent, in which monks retreat to temples for three months of meditation. During this ceremony and celebration, incredible handmade candles are paraded through town along with two days of food, dance, theater and more local fun.

Sukhothai was the country’s very first capital back when Thailand was known as Siam. Many regard this city as a time capsule for the golden ages of Thai civilization. History buffs will enjoy archaeological sites and museums from the 13th and 14th centuries. A true marker of Thai origins, Sukhothai means “the dawn of happiness.”

Kanchanaburi is a popular day trip from Bangkok as it’s only a two-hour drive from the city, or a great stopover on your way to destinations in northern Thailand. A popular resort town, here you’ll find lots of lovely hiking, waterfalls, and riverside restaurants. Kanchanaburi is also rich with World War II history, serving as the site of the historic Bridge Over the River Kwai as well as many war museums and cemeteries.

In the 1700’s, Ayutthaya was considered the largest city in the world having served as the capital of Thailand (then known as Siam) from about 1350 to 1767. Located near Bangkok, Ayutthaya is rich with historical ruins now, making it a perfect place to get a feel for Thai culture of the past and present. Don’t forget to visit the floating market while you’re in town.

Travel tip: Pack modest clothing that covers your elbows and knees if you want to go inside temples. 

The beating heart of Thailand, you’ll find soaring skyscrapers and diverse people always on the move in bustling Bangkok. Sleep in a state-of-the-art luxury lodging, enjoy incredible Thai (and global) cuisine, shop at many local markets, and stay out all night on Khao San Road.

Though efforts have been made in recent years to clean up the beach and offer family-friendly resorts, Pattaya is known around the world for its wild nightlife scene. Think 24-hour clubs, cabaret shows, and some of the best bars in Thailand. If partying all night isn’t your thing, there are some rooftop cocktail bars and quieter nightlife neighborhoods in the city, too. A two-hour drive from Bangkok, Pattaya is a weekend destination for tourists and locals alike.

As the largest and most prosperous province, Phuket is a popular Thailand travel destination for super fun nightlife, great resorts, lots of history and beautiful sites. If you need a break from city life, we recommend taking a day trip to Surin Islands, the group of islands that make up Mu Ko Surin National Park where you can rent a boat, snorkel, or visit the local village inhabited by the Moken peoples, known as the people of the sea.

Chiang Mai is a laid back city that was made for wanderers. After a few days of exploring Thailand with a packed itinerary, come to Chiang Mai to relax with Thai massages, local street food, and over 300 beautiful temples. Chiang Mai also has tiger and elephant sanctuaries for you to enjoy the wildlife of Thailand in a respectful way.

Travel tip: It’s okay to be a tourist! Guided tours are a great way to learn about local food, art, history, and culture.

Surat Thani, often called Surat, is the gateway to some of Thailand’s most popular islands. Surat has fantastic night markets and restaurants for you to visit before you head over to a neighboring island. Enjoy a luxury spa treatment on Koh Samui, attend the legendary monthly Full Moon Party on Koh Pha-Nngan, and snorkel over stunning coral reefs in Koh Tao.

Thailand’s first beach resort was resurrected in Hua Hin after royals began visiting in 1920. Hua Hin is careful not to overdevelop and remains a calm respite from the hustle and bustle from nearby Bangkok. Come to Hua Hin to enjoy your own stretch of beach, beautiful golf courses, and great seafood restaurants.

Ko Kradan has no roads, no cars, and no villages. Here, you’ll only find blissful beach resorts and the Hat Chao Mai National Park that helps to limit development. Day-trippers visit the island during the day, but if you choose to stay overnight you’ll be spoiled by having one of the most beautiful beaches in the world all to yourself.

Ko Phayam is equally as relatively underdeveloped as Ko Kradan with just 500 residents, though there are a few more dining options. This island offers activities like surfing, yoga, biking, and hiking. Only a 45-minute boat ride from Bangkok, Ko Phayam is well worth the day trip to explore yet another fantastic Thailand travel paradise.

Travel tip: There are all kinds of ways to get from island to island in Thailand—let us help you book reputable travel.