What to do in Thailand? The 20 most beautiful places to visit in 2025

1) Bangkok

Welcome to the country's vibrant capital! Bangkok is the beating heart of Thailand: tuk-tuks, floating markets, golden temples, and rooftops as far as the eye can see. Don't miss Wat Pho and its reclining Buddha, or the Grand Palace, symbol of the kingdom. And to get a taste of the local spirit, lose yourself in the alleys of Chinatown or along the Chao Phraya River.

And the best part? Many activities are free! We've put together a list of 7 free things to do in Bangkok!

Wat Pho and Grand Palace

If you want to experience all the energy of Bangkok, head to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Wat Pho is the temple of the giant reclining Buddha, with its spiritual atmosphere. The Grand Palace is its complement: a dazzling architectural ensemble. These two sites alone symbolize the sacred and royal soul of Thailand.

2) Chiang Mai

Located in the north of the country, Chiang Mai is Thailand's spiritual center. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it is home to many Buddhist temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a hilltop. You can also take a cooking class, stroll through the night markets, or visit an ethical elephant sanctuary.

If you're looking for a more intimate experience, hike up to Doi Suthep, a hidden temple at the summit: misty atmosphere, golden bells, and dense nature... a real favorite.

3) Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai's little sister, is famous for Wat Rong Khun, the "White Temple," a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. Take the opportunity to also discover the Blue Temple and the Black House, two fascinating places that blend modern art and Buddhist symbolism.

Don't miss the White Temple, symbol of the city, and the cobbled streets where you can still hear the echoes of ancient monks. An experience that perfectly sums up Chiang Rai's artistic heritage: serene and timeless.

4) Ayutthaya

The former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is a veritable open-air museum. Its ruined temples and Buddha heads entwined in tree roots create a mystical atmosphere. Accessible by train from Bangkok, it is a perfect day trip for immersing yourself in the country's history.

But Ayutthaya is best known for its historic park, one of the most impressive sights in the country. It has a calm and solemn atmosphere, perfect for a break after the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

5) Sukhothai

Before Ayutthaya, there was Sukhothai, the cradle of the first Thai kingdom. The historic park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to dozens of Buddhist temples and statues surrounded by lotus flowers and ponds. The best way to visit is by bike at sunrise to enjoy the golden light and absolute calm.

The bonus: the region also offers superb hiking trails and natural hot springs, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life without going too far.

6) Pai

Nestled in the northern mountains, Pai is a small bohemian town beloved by travelers. With waterfalls, hot springs, canyons, and a zen atmosphere, it's the perfect place to slow down. The sunset from Pai Canyon is a magical moment you'll never forget.

But Pai is also home to its iconic canyon, which has been rebuilt identically, and the hot springs district, known for its natural baths and street food stalls. It offers a good balance between tradition and modernity, without the crowds of Chiang Mai.

7) Phuket

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of its best known. Here you'll find beautiful beaches, spectacular viewpoints such as Promthep Cape, and a lively nightlife in Patong. But beyond tourism, Phuket still has peaceful corners such as Kata Noi and Nai Harn Bay.

Phuket offers a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere. You can stroll along the beaches or admire the sun's reflection on the sea from the hills. It's an ideal place to discover authentic Thailand, far from the big cities.

8) Koh Phi Phi

It is impossible to talk about Thailand without mentioning Koh Phi Phi. Famous for its karst cliffs and turquoise waters, the island is a real picture-postcard setting. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach, is a must-see at least once, preferably early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

And if you dream of seeing the snow-covered cliffs, be careful: they can only be seen during the dry seasons! The best time to go is early in the morning, before the clouds roll in. It is said that Koh Phi Phi is shy... and it's true.

9) Krabi

Krabi is the raw beauty of southern Thailand. The beaches of Railay, accessible only by boat, are among the most spectacular in the country. It is also a perfect spot for rock climbing, kayaking in the mangroves, and watching the sun set over the Andaman Sea.

This is one of the few places where you can experience Thailand as it once was, with karsts and travelers from the Siam era. Perfect for those who want to hike for a few hours in a picture-postcard setting, surrounded by forests, rivers, and limestone cliffs.

10) Koh Lanta

Much quieter than Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Its long golden sandy beaches, sunsets, and family-friendly atmosphere make it the perfect destination to unwind. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the smaller islands nearby.

And if you want to discover the island in a different way, we've put together a video for you: 5 things they don't tell you about Koh Lanta. It's the perfect destination for a first trip to Thailand: easy to get to, steeped in history and with an atmosphere that is both zen and lively.

11) Koh Samui

Koh Samui is the perfect compromise between nature, comfort, and a festive atmosphere. Temples, waterfalls, white sand beaches, and luxurious resorts... it has it all. The Big Buddha, perched on its own little island, is one of the symbols of the island.

Often referred to as the "little paradise of the Gulf," Koh Samui charms visitors with its elegant and unspoiled atmosphere. Less touristy than Phuket, the island is nevertheless home to some of the country's most beautiful natural treasures.

12) Koh Phangan

Known for its famous Full Moon Parties, Koh Phangan has much more to offer than just nightlife. In the north of the island, you'll find quiet beaches, yoga retreats, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect mix of partying and serenity, depending on what you're looking for.

Whether you visit during a full moon, surrounded by festivities, or in winter under the stars, the charm remains the same. In the evening, when the lights come on along the beaches, the atmosphere becomes magical. It is one of the most photogenic places in Thailand... and a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

13) Koh Tao

A small paradise island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is a real gem for diving enthusiasts. Its seabed is teeming with corals, tropical fish, and sometimes even whale sharks! And even if you don't dive, its beaches, such as Sairee Beach, are perfect for chilling out as you watch the sunset.

Located in the heart of the gulf, Koh Tao is a peaceful island known for its diving spot, one of the most accessible in the country. Nicknamed "Turtle Island" because of its marine wildlife, it offers magnificent views of the crystal-clear seabed.

14) Khao Sok National Park

One of the most beautiful natural parks in the country. Imagine an emerald lake surrounded by limestone cliffs and tropical jungle: welcome to Khao Sok. You can sleep in floating bungalows, go kayaking, or hike through the forest in search of gibbons.

Khao Sok is above all a park of memory and nature. Marked by its biodiversity, it has been reborn with incredible energy. Cheow Lan Lake, with its bungalows and iconic trails, is a deeply moving place to visit at least once in your lifetime.

15) Erawan National Park

Located near Kanchanaburi, Erawan Park is famous for its seven-tiered waterfalls with turquoise waters. It's an ideal place for a day of nature and swimming. Remember to bring walking shoes and your swimsuit: you'll be climbing, swimming, and marveling at the scenery.

Located half an hour from Kanchanaburi, Erawan is one of the most iconic places in the west. Its turquoise waterfalls, nestled in the jungle, are a mythical image. In high season, they seem to defy the forest, and in low season, you can walk right up to them.

16) Kanchanaburi

Famous for the "Bridge over the River Kwai," Kanchanaburi is a city steeped in history. You can visit the World War II museum, the military cemetery, and explore the surrounding nature parks. It's a place that combines history, nature, and serenity.

In the far west of the country, Kanchanaburi is a paradise for lovers of wilderness. The region is vast, bordered by mountains, lakes, and forests stretching as far as the eye can see. In winter, it becomes a realm of silence and reflection.

17) Hua Hin

A former royal seaside resort, Hua Hin is a popular destination for Thai people themselves. Beaches, night markets, golf, temples, and a relaxed atmosphere: it has everything you need for a peaceful stay without straying too far from Bangkok.

Much more discreet than Phuket, Hua Hin is a spiritual destination. It is here that the pilgrimage of the royal beaches takes place, a mythical trail that some people walk in search of serenity and introspection.

18) Lopburi

Looking for an unusual experience? Lopburi is the "city of monkeys": here, macaques live freely around the ruins of Phra Prang Sam Yot temple. Every year, a "Monkey Festival" is even dedicated to them, with giant fruit buffets!

Located in the center of the country, the temple of Lopburi is home to ruins, monkeys, and lush forests. It is an ideal playground for the curious and lovers of untamed nature. The interactions, ancient ruins, and animals offer incredible panoramas.

19) Koh Similan

The Similan Islands are a protected archipelago classified as a marine national park. Crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and exceptional marine life: it's a paradise for diving and snorkeling. Access is limited to preserve the ecosystem, so be sure to book in advance.

Welcome to the tropics! ☀️ More than 100 km off the coast of Phuket, Koh Similan almost makes you forget you're in Thailand. White sand, turquoise sea, relaxed atmosphere... everything here exudes the good life.

20) Koh Yao Noi

Between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi is a peaceful island still untouched by mass tourism. Here, there are no nightclubs or large hotels: just nature, rice fields, and smiling locals. It's the perfect place to end your trip on a gentle note, far from noise and stress.

Isolated in the Gulf of Thailand, more than 30 km from the coast, the island of Koh Yao Noi is often referred to as the "secret islands of Thailand." Accessible only by boat (a 1-hour crossing!), it is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.