12 Things To Do In Thailand That Would Become The Highlights Of Your Trip

Ask anyone of their most preferred tourist destination in Southeast Asia or a Southeast Asian country on their bucket list, & there are more chances than not that the reply would be Thailand! More popular than ever, Thailand is lined with attractions like the Wat Pho, Jim Thompson House, Wat Arun, Chatuchak Weekend Market & Wat Phra Kaew. But like any country, there are things to do in Thailand that your vacation is incomplete without. We are presenting a list of such diverse activities, for tourists with a variety of interests, so that no matter what you like, be it wildlife or shopping, you are covered!

12 Things To Do In Thailand That Your Vacation Is Incomplete Without

Considering that Thailand is known for a whole range of places (some of which are aforementioned), from ornate Buddhist temples to tropical beaches, there are many amazing activities that you can enjoy in the “Land of the Smiles” (Nickname for Thailand). With many of these things featured in movies, they have gained traction over the past couple of decades. Covering must-see Thai attractions as well as recommended experiences, this is the ultimate list of the best things to do in Thailand.

1. Take A Tour Of The Grand Palace, Bangkok
2. Enjoy A Ferry Ride To The “James Bond Island” (Khao Phing Kan), Phuket
3. Head For The Horizon & Go Island Hopping, Thailand
4. Treat Your Taste Buds At A Floating Market, Bangkok
5. Hike To The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, Krabi
6. Make A Prayer At Doi Sutep Temple, Chiang Mai
7. Rock Climb At Railay/Rai Le Beach, Krabi
8. Get A Sak Yant Tattoo, Ayutthaya
9. Undertake A Scenic Coral Island Tour, Pattaya
10. Pamper Yourself At Banyan Tree Spa, Phuket
11. Experience The Intriguing Sky Dining At Baiyoke, Bangkok
12. Explore The Vibrant Night Market Of Chiang Rai

1. Take A Tour Of The Grand Palace, Bangkok

With two of seven Thailand’s international airports located in Bangkok/Greater Bangkok, the most famous attraction of Bangkok, located in the ‘Phra Nakhon’ district can be your first stop. (Bangkok is divided into fifty districts.) Synonymous with the Thai capital, this complex of buildings, with its spectacular golden temples, exudes royalty. After all, it is the residence of the Thai kings! You are guaranteed to be dazzled by the architecture of the palace, having been home to Thai royalty for 150 years now! Built in 1782, it has also served as the seat of the government as well as the coastal country’s court. Of all the activities in Thailand, this one is suggested for everyone—we believe that your trip to Thailand is incomplete until you have experienced the grandeur of the Grand Palace.

Famous For: Having been the home of the Thai emperors for one-and-a-half centuries!

Location: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

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2. Enjoy A Ferry Ride To The “James Bond Island” (Khao Phing Kan), Phuket

You may have guessed it! The James Bond Island is called so because it was popularized by a movie of the secret agent series—The Man with the Golden Gun. The location of the 1974-classic is the ‘Phang Nga Bay’ in ‘Phuket’. (As you must have heard, Phuket is an island. Interestingly, it is a city & a province too!) While the bay occupies the area between mainland Thailand & Phuket island, Khao Phing Kan (The correct name for the James Bond Island) is in its north-west. The island has a distinctive, 20-meter-tall limestone tower landmark, some 40 meters away from its shore. It also presents good opportunities for swimmers. An absolute must-visit if you are a James Bond fan, cruises to the island mean sailing through the mentioned bay, overlooking rocky cliffs emerging from emerald-green waters.

Famous For: Being the only place in the world (apart from Halong Bay) with limestone karst towers!

Location: Phang Nga Bay, northeast of Phuket

3. Head For The Horizon & Go Island Hopping, Thailand

Of our favorite things to do in Thailand is going island hopping! In case you didn’t know, the Kingdom of Thailand (That is its official name!) encompasses (Hold your breath!) around 1430 islands! While it goes without saying that a large proportion of this number is uninhabited, over time, several of these islands have been developed for tourism. Approximately 300 of these islands may be visited & their beaches cherished, activities like scuba diving enjoyed & lives of locals observed/experienced! Think beyond mainland ‘Siam’ (The former name of Thailand) & you will realize that there are plenty more activities in Thailand that you can indulge in. Don’t get overwhelmed, run a research & zero down on an island you really want to visit. Then, go island hopping starting from the famous Koh Phi Phi, moving to other amazing destinations via ferries or buses.

Famous For: Each island has something unique for travelers, be it white-sand beaches or snorkeling!

Location: Between Phuket & Straits of Malacca coast, Thailand (Koh Phi Phi Island)

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4. Treat Your Taste Buds At A Floating Market, Bangkok

Here is yet another of the top things to do in Thailand, Bangkok, like the tour to the unmissable Grand Palace. Bangkok’s floating markets form the backbone of tourist experiences in Thailand. We are sure that you must have seen them featured in television reality shows or in travel guides. If you are in a relationship with food, these colorful floating markets, selling local cuisine, coconut water & fresh fruit are the place for you, as opposed to the ‘somewhat similar’ gondolas of Venice! These markets are spread throughout the touristy city of Bangkok, as well as its neighboring provinces. Make a point to visit if you want to catch a glimpse of the lives of the Thai people, with these floating markets being as popular with locals as they are with foreigners. Goes without saying, don’t eat before coming here!

Famous For: A taste of authentic Thai food, as well as souvenirs!

Location: DamnoenSaduak, DamnoenSaduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand

5. Hike To The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, Krabi

Foremost, also written as ‘Ko Phi Phi’ (The word ‘Koh’ or ‘Ko’ means ‘island’ in Thai language.), this is a chain of ‘Phi Phi Islands’ in the Krabi province, which we have mentioned earlier. A group of six islands, it is located between Phuket & the coast of the ‘Straits of Malacca’. Arguably the most beautiful part of Southeast Asia, the lovely archipelago (Chain of islands) is a heaven—turquoise waters, sandy beaches, natural caves, towering rock formations! With so much natural charm, it is unsurprising that one of these islands, ‘Ko Phi Phi Le’ was the location of the Leonardi DiCaprio-starrer, The Beach. While the islands are picturesque, no matter which nook or corner you go to, for the most enchanting view, hike up to the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, one of the most fun things to do in Thailand! We insist!

Famous For: Koh Phi Phi Le & ‘Koh Phi Phi Don’, the two largest islands of the chain!

Location: Between Phuket & Straits of Malacca coast, Thailand

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6. Make A Prayer At Doi Sutep Temple, Chiang Mai

First things first, Chiang Mai (Also written as one word) is a mountainous city in a province of the same name. Chiangmai is blessed by over 300 temples, with Doi Sutep (Also written as ‘Doi Suthep’) being the most significant one. So much so that it is a part of life in this northern Thai city. A local saying, translated, says that you have not been to Chiang Mai if you have not sampled khao suey (A noodle & coconut milk dish) or witnessed the view from Doi Sutep. (The temple is atop a mountain of the same name.) Indeed, it is among unmissable things to do in Thailand. The most-visited of all temples here, it is of tremendous importance to Buddhists. It is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the country.

Famous For: Impressive views of the countryside that will make for postcard-perfect clicks!

Location: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

7. Rock Climb At Railay/Rai Le Beach, Krabi

Another of top 8 things to do in Thailand, in Krabi involves the Railay Beaches & Caves. The name ‘Railay Beach’ is misleading though, since it is a peninsula, not a beach. In fact, it contains four beaches. With its exact location between Krabi & the resort town of ‘Ao Nanag’, the secluded Rai Le now features on more bucket lists than ever before. While rock climbing here is a must for those seeking adventure in Thailand, one can very well enjoy a lazy day here too, feasting their eyes upon the tranquil seashore & lying down on the white sands. Rock climbers from all over the world come to conquer the giant limestone formations here. Combined with stunning views of the sea & plenty of opportunities for ‘rope climbing’ as well as ‘bouldering’, there is little wonder that this place is a climber’s paradise!

Famous For: Being Thailand’s foremost rock-climbing destination! (Those who are not adventurists may want to hit other beaches in Thailand.)

Location: Between the city of Krabi & Ao Nang, Thailand

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8. Get A Sak Yant Tattoo, Ayutthaya

To begin on a simpler note, Ayutthaya, or ‘Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya’ is a city of historic importance in Thailand. It is located to the north of Bangkok, in a province of same name. Having discussed the location, a sak yant tattoo (Also written as ‘sak yuant’) is a traditional tattoo form comprising of sacred designs, done by a monk, & believed to carry magical powers for its bearer. Among the best things to do in Thailand is getting one of these—a souvenir that would stay with you for life! To elaborate on the design part, the tattoos consist of ancient geometrical shapes, blended with Buddhist prayers. Sak yuant tattoos are made using a metal rod, as opposed to a tattoo gun. While you can get one of these & be a part of a 2000-year-old practice at many places in Thailand, getting it at Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has its own charm!

Famous For: The monk decided what do you need protection from & determining an appropriate tattoo design!

Location: Northernmost part of Thailand

9. Undertake A Scenic Coral Island Tour, Pattaya

With a vast stretch of coastline, pristine white sand beaches, crystalline blues, and multitude of vibrant coral reefs, Coral Islands of Pattaya are one of the beautiful places to visit in Thailand for an islandic getaway. Plan a trip to Pattaya’s Coral Island to plunge into the biggest adventure that the destination holds for you to unfurl. Take a deep dive into the lucid blues and marvel at the exotic corals and marine life by undertaking snorkeling or scuba diving activities. Never forget to take a panoramic view of the majestic paradise by parasailing, making your visit worthwhile.

Famous For: Coral Reefs, Water sport activities like kayaking in glass boats, parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, diving, snorkeling

Location: Coral Islands are located near Pattaya and Koh Samui Island, Thailand.

10. Pamper Yourself At Banyan Tree Spa, Phuket

Treating your body, mind, and soul should be your top priority and Thailand is one of the best destinations to treat your bodily senses with awe and luxury. Banyan Tree Spa of Phuket is considered the pioneer in blending traditional health and modern beauty practices, giving it a refined form. You can look forward to a holistic change in yourself after being nourished with the indigenous ingredients and pampered by their art of touch. Visiting this sojourn should be included in your list of things to do in Thailand to get exposed to a myriad of signature spa treatments to regain your glow.

Famous For: Signature Spa therapies & massages

Location: 33, 33/27 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand

11. Experience The Intriguing Sky Dining At Baiyoke, Bangkok

If you are seeking a unique, jaw-dropping culinary experience in Thailand along with a captivating view, Baiyoke Hotel in Bangkok is the ideal destination to please your senses. Recognized as the tallest hotel in Bangkok to enjoy a panoramic view of the vibrant city, undertaking a gastronomic journey will let you explore its plethora of restaurants and bars such as Good Morning Breakfast & Bangkok, Crystal Grill, The Roof Top Bar, and many more, serving healthy breakfast bowls to fanciful buffet meals. Moreover, try out the authentic Thai flavors at Baiyoke Floating Market, one of the best restaurants in Bangkok.

Famous For: Sky High Dining Restaurant, Regional & International cuisine

Location: 222 Ratchaprarop Rd, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

12. Explore The Vibrant Night Market Of Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai’s Night Market is idyllic enough if you are on a shopping spree since you will get some amazing purchases. You will fall in love with the bustling lanes, brimmed with stores and stalls selling myriad of local products, artifacts, souvenirs, exquisite handicrafts, ethnic jewelry, and plenty of colorful beach accessories to make your islandic adventure a fun-filled one. Starting from savoring local Thai delights to watching the artists performing on the streets, you can prepare a list of things to do in Thailand to take deeper insights on their lively night culture.

Famous For: Souvenirs like local handicrafts, wood carvings, home decor, paintings, jewelry, clothing

Location: WR4M+5M2, Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand

Filled with classic beaches, decorated temples, opulent palaces & well-preserved ruins, Thailand offers endless opportunities to travelers to help them live their lives to the fullest. Start booking your Thailand tour packages with us for an immersive experience. Whether you decide to kickstart your trip by touring the Grand Palace in Bangkok, or by exploring the James Bond Island in Phuket, the Land of Smiles is lined with diverse hotels, suiting every pocket. If you have been to the country, don’t forget to share with us some of your favorite things to do in Thailand in the comments section at the bottom of this post!

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