ACTiV 7

Bangkok is worth visiting for its 

vibrant fusion of rich history, modern city life, and unique cultural experiences. From stunning temples and bustling markets to world-famous street food and energetic nightlife, the Thai capital offers something for every type of traveler. 

Culture and landmarks

• The Grand Palace: This is a magnificent complex of palace buildings that served as the official residence for Thai kings and now operates as a historical museum. Within its walls is the revered Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Renowned for its towering, ceramic-tiled spires, this ancient Buddhist temple offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise or sunset, from its spot on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
• Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha): This temple is famous for its colossal, 46-meter-long statue of a reclining Buddha draped in gold leaf. It is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
• Chao Phraya River cruises: Often called the “Venice of the East” for its network of canals (klongs), Bangkok offers memorable boat trips. You can take a scenic long-tail boat ride through Thonburi’s waterways to see a quieter side of the city or enjoy an evening dinner cruise past illuminated landmarks. 

Food and markets

• Street food paradise: Bangkok is famous for its affordable, delicious, and varied street food scene, which is influenced by Thai, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions.
  • Yaowarat (Chinatown): A foodie hotspot, especially at night, where you can sample mouthwatering Chinese-Thai dishes from a labyrinth of street food stalls.
  • Must-try dishes: Don’t miss classic dishes like Pad Thai, spicy Tom Yum Goong soup, and the sweet delight of Mango Sticky Rice.
• Unique markets:
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world’s largest open-air markets, this massive bazaar features thousands of stalls selling everything from clothing and home decor to pets.
  • Floating markets: Experience the unique sight of vendors selling goods from boats at lively floating markets. The Damnoen Saduak market is one of the most famous, while Taling Chan offers a more local experience.
  • Maeklong Railway Market: Watch the incredible sight of vendors swiftly pulling back their awnings to make way for a train passing directly through their market stalls. 

Shopping and nightlife

• Shopping for every budget: Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury designer brands at malls like Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM to budget-friendly finds at markets like MBK Center.
• Dynamic nightlife: The city comes alive after dark with vibrant options for every taste.
  • Rooftop bars: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from upscale rooftop bars, including the famous Sky Bar at Lebua.
  • Khao San Road: This iconic, high-energy area is a hub for backpackers and party-goers, with numerous bars, clubs, and street vendors.
• Thai massage: Indulge in a traditional Thai massage, which combines stretching and acupressure to rejuvenate the body and mind. You’ll find parlors ranging from upscale spas to humble street-side stalls. 

Travel and accessibility

• Well-connected hub: Bangkok is an ideal hub for exploring the rest of Thailand and Southeast Asia, with a wide range of domestic flights, trains, and buses to nearby provinces and neighboring countries.
• Affordability: Compared to many Western cities, Bangkok is a very affordable travel destination, with reasonably priced food, transportation, and accommodation options.
• Local transport: Navigate the city with ease using the extensive public transport network, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway. For a more adventurous experience, you can ride an iconic tuk-tuk for shorter distances. 

cities in thailand to visit

To choose the best cities in Thailand to visit, you can divide the country into three main regions: the bustling capital (Central Thailand), the mountainous north, and the tropical southern islands

. Each area offers a distinct experience, from cultural and historical sites to stunning beaches and natural parks. 

Central Thailand

Bangkok

The vibrant capital is a hub of culture, cuisine, and commerce, and is often the entry point for most travelers. 

• Highlights:
  • The Grand Palace: A stunning complex of buildings and the former residence of Thai kings.
  • Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): A distinctive spire overlooking the Chao Phraya River, especially beautiful at sunset.
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world’s largest street markets, with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to souvenirs.
  • Cuisine: The city is famous for its street food, from bustling vendors to rooftop bars. 

Ayutthaya

Just a short trip from Bangkok, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive ruins. 

Northern Thailand

• Highlights:
  • Ayutthaya Historical Park: Explore the remains of ancient temples and palaces, including the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat.
  • Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A well-preserved riverside temple with Khmer-style architecture. 

Chiang Mai

Known as the “cultural heart of Thailand,” this atmospheric city is set in the foothills of the north. 

• Highlights:
  • The Old City: Walk through ancient walls to see over 300 sacred pagodas and temples.
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: A sacred temple perched on a mountain with sweeping views of the city.
  • Elephant Sanctuaries: Ethical sanctuaries, such as Elephant Nature Park, allow for responsible interactions with rescued elephants.
  • Food Markets: The city offers a vibrant food scene, including the famous Khao Soi curry. 

Chiang Rai

A more relaxed and rural town than Chiang Mai, located closer to the 

Golden Triangle. 

• Highlights:
  • Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple): A stunning, unconventional, and privately owned art exhibit with intricate, sparkling details.
  • Baan Dam (The Black House): A complex of dark and eerie art and sculptures, showcasing the darker side of Thai and Buddhist culture.
  • Golden Triangle: Take a boat tour at the intersection of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos along the Mekong River. 

Southern Thailand

Phuket

As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is famous for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of activities. 

• Highlights:
  • Beaches: Choose from bustling Patong Beach for nightlife or quieter, more secluded options further north or south.
  • Phuket Old Town: Explore the colorful Sino-Portuguese heritage buildings.
  • The Big Buddha: A 45-meter-tall statue offering panoramic views of the island. 

Krabi

This province is renowned for its dramatic scenery, including towering limestone karsts and crystal-clear waters. 

• Highlights:
  • Railay Beach: A picturesque peninsula only accessible by boat, famous for its golden sands and rock climbing.
  • Island Hopping: Use Krabi as a base to explore nearby islands like the famous Phi Phi Islands.
  • Emerald Pool: A natural swimming hole fed by springs. 

Koh Samui

The second-largest island is known for its luxury resorts, spas, and beautiful beaches. 

• Highlights:
  • Beaches: Relax on sandy beaches like Chaweng or opt for the quieter bays of Mae Nam.
  • Ang Thong Marine Park: Take a day trip to this stunning archipelago for snorkeling, kayaking, and secluded lagoons.
  • Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple): Home to a 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue. 

Deciding where to go

Your ideal itinerary depends on your travel style:

• For first-timers: A classic route combining Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket offers a balanced taste of culture, mountains, and beaches.
• For nature lovers: Head to Krabi or Khao Sok National Park to experience stunning scenery, limestone cliffs, and lush jungles.
• For a relaxed vibe: Consider smaller islands like Koh Lanta or Koh Lipe in the south, or the laid-back town of Pai in the north.
• For history enthusiasts: Visit the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya or Sukhothai to learn about Thailand’s past