If you’re looking for a city break, there’s nowhere better than Thailand. This sunny Asian country has plenty of cities to choose from, with bustling street markets, impressive rooftop bars, and a mix of cultural sites. Whether you fancy shopping or swimming, there’s a city for everyone! Here are 6 of the best cities to visit in Thailand, as well as the top things to do and areas to stay in.
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Table of Contents
1. Bangkok: The Bustling Capital
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a true metropolis blending the old with the new. Known for its glittering temples, busy markets, and lively nightlife, this city is always buzzing with energy. It’s a fantastic place to begin your trip if you’ve never been to Thailand before, filled with culture and delicious food.
Top Things to Do in Bangkok
- Bangkok’s Famous Temples: Start at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) – two of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Consider booking a half-day tour of the palace to get the most out of the experience. Then, make your way to Wat Pho to see the iconic Reclining Buddha, followed by Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, which offers a spectacular riverside view. Explore three of Bangkok’s most famous temples with a 3 Temple Tour.
- Shopping & Markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must for shopaholics, offering everything from delicious Thai street food to souvenirs. For a high-end shopping experience, Siam Paragon has luxury brands and restaurants.
- Food & Nightlife: Bangkok’s street food scene is world-famous. Make sure to sample dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice from the street vendors. For nightlife, Khao San Road is popular among backpackers, while Thonglor has upscale bars and clubs for a more refined night out. You can also find a mix of rooftop bars across the city – perfect for a sunset drink.
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Where to Stay
For travellers who enjoy the bustling city vibe and easy access to tourist sites, Sukhumvit and Silom are great choices, with a mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Those looking for a quieter area near the river might prefer Riverside, which offers scenic views and a calmer atmosphere. The Old City (Rattanakosin) is ideal for history lovers, with close proximity to major temples and cultural sites.
2. Chiang Mai: The Cultural Heart
Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, has a rich cultural heritage. This city, surrounded by mountains and dotted with historic temples, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of Bangkok, making it one of the best towns in Thailand for cultural exploration.
Top Things to Do in Chiang Mai
- Temple Exploration: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located on a mountain with views over the city, is Chiang Mai’s most famous temple. Don’t miss Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh for more stunning architecture. A guided temple tour is a great way to travel between each temple and learn more about them.
- Night Markets: Chiang Mai’s night markets are some of the best in Thailand, offering unique handicrafts, clothes, and delicious street food. The Sunday Walking Street is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local shopping, while the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is also a popular spot.
- Outdoor Adventures: Chiang Mai is a gateway to trekking, zip-lining, and elephant sanctuaries. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary to learn about these incredible animals in a responsible way.
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Where to Stay
The Old City is a perfect area for those who want to be close to temples and cultural sites, with many guesthouses and boutique hotels to choose from. Nimmanhaemin, or “Nimman” for short, is popular for its trendy cafés, shops, and a younger, artsy vibe. Riverside is another great option, offering a more tranquil experience with beautiful views over the Ping River.
3. Phuket: Beach Lover’s Paradise
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a top destination for beach lovers. With its turquoise waters, bustling markets, and lively beach clubs, Phuket has everything for a fun-filled beach holiday.
Top Things to Do in Phuket
- Beach Hopping: Patong Beach is popular for its lively atmosphere and water activities, while Kata and Karon beaches offer a quieter experience. Freedom Beach is a hidden gem for those looking to escape the crowds. Discover Phuket’s best beaches.
- Island Tours: Take a day trip to nearby islands like Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island. These tours showcase some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches and clear waters.
- Nightlife & Dining: Patong’s Bangla Road is famous for nightlife, with bars, clubs, and street performances. For a more relaxed evening, try the beachside restaurants along Rawai and Kamala beaches.
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Where to Stay
Patong is the go-to area for those who want a lively scene, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. Kata and Karon beaches are quieter alternatives, perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed beach atmosphere. For a more luxurious and secluded experience, consider staying in the Nai Harn or Mai Khao Beach areas, which offer peace and beautiful views.
4. Pattaya: The City of Fun and Entertainment
Pattaya, located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast, is known for its entertainment scene. Once famous for nightlife alone, Pattaya now offers family-friendly activities and beautiful beaches, making it a versatile city for any traveller.
Top Things to Do in Pattaya
- Beach Relaxation: Pattaya Beach is lively, but for a quieter experience, head to Jomtien Beach. Both offer water sports and plenty of beachside cafés.
- Cultural Sites: The Sanctuary of Truth is a breathtaking all-wood temple filled with intricate carvings, while Wat Phra Yai, or Big Buddha Hill, offers great views over Pattaya. If you’d like to explore these temples with a knowledgeable guide, consider booking a half-day city and temple tour.
- Family Activities: Pattaya has family-friendly attractions like Ramayana Water Park, Underwater World Pattaya, and the Four Regions Floating Market, making it an ideal choice for those travelling with kids.
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Where to Stay
Central Pattaya is ideal for those wanting to stay close to nightlife, shopping, and beach activities. Jomtien is a quieter area with a relaxed beach vibe, better suited for families and those seeking a calmer atmosphere. Naklua Bay, located just north of Pattaya Beach, offers upscale accommodation options with a more tranquil setting.
5. Ayutthaya: Ancient City of Temples
Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most historically significant cities. This ancient capital consists of archaeological ruins and stunning temples, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s past.
Top Things to Do in Ayutthaya
- Temple Ruins: Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to ruins like Wat Mahathat, where the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots is found. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is another must-see with its impressive chedi (stupas).
- River Cruises: See Ayutthaya from a different perspective with a river cruise, which offers views of the ancient ruins and temples along the Chao Phraya River. Departing from Bangkok, these river cruise tours are a great way to see Ayutthaya without leaving your base.
- Cycling Tours: Rent a bicycle to explore Ayutthaya at your own pace, as the city’s temples are conveniently clustered and easily accessible by bike. Alternatively, you can join a bike tour of Ayutthaya and explore the city with a knowledgeable guide.
Where to Stay
The Historic City Centre is the best place to stay if you want easy access to Ayutthaya’s temples and ancient ruins. The area around the river offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views, with plenty of accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to boutique stays. Ratanachai Road is a convenient location with dining options and easy access to the main historical sites.
6. Chiang Rai: Gateway to the Golden Triangle
Chiang Rai, located near the borders of Myanmar and Laos, is a quiet city known for its artistic temples and stunning mountain scenery. It’s the perfect destination for those wanting to explore the less-visited northern regions of Thailand.
Top Things to Do in Chiang Rai
- White Temple: Wat Rong Khun, or the White Temple, is one of Thailand’s most unique temples, featuring surreal, modern art-inspired architecture.
- Blue Temple and Black House: Explore Chiang Rai’s other famous temples, the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) and Baan Dam, also known as the Black House Museum. Get the most out of your experience by booking a city and temples tour.
- Golden Triangle: Visit the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. The area has historic significance and offers river cruises and scenic viewpoints.
Where to Stay
The City Centre is the most convenient area, with easy access to markets, temples, and transportation. The area around the Kok River is ideal for a quieter setting with scenic river views. For travellers looking to stay closer to the Golden Triangle, the Mae Sai area provides an escape with beautiful surroundings near the border regions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand’s Cities
What is the best time of year to visit Thailand’s cities?
The best time to visit most cities in Thailand is during the cool, dry season, from November to early April. This period offers pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, some destinations, like the southern islands, may still have sporadic rain during this time.
How can I travel between cities in Thailand?
Thailand has a well-developed transportation network, with domestic flights, trains, and buses connecting major cities. For convenience and speed, domestic flights are a popular option, especially for longer distances (e.g., Bangkok to Chiang Mai). For scenic routes, overnight trains or buses offer a cheap and comfortable way to travel between cities.
Are Thailand’s cities safe for tourists?
Thailand’s cities are generally safe for tourists, with most crime being petty theft. Taking basic precautions, such as securing your belongings and being mindful in crowded areas, helps ensure a safe trip. Exercise caution with your valuables in busy markets and public transport areas, and always check travel advisories before visiting.
Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Many nationalities can enter Thailand visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. For longer stays or specific purposes, such as work or study, a visa may be required. Be sure to check Thailand’s visa requirements and entry policies before your trip.
What is the best city in Thailand for families?
For family-friendly travel, cities like Chiang Mai and Pattaya are excellent options. Chiang Mai offers cultural sites, and outdoor activities that are great for kids, while Pattaya has beaches and family attractions like waterparks and gardens.
Can I get by with English in Thailand’s cities?
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, particularly in larger cities like Bangkok and Phuket. Learning a few basic Thai phrases, however, can enhance your experience and help you navigate less touristy areas more easily.
What city in Thailand has the best beaches?
Phuket is known for having some of Thailand’s best beaches, with options ranging from bustling Patong Beach to quieter spots like Kata and Karon. Other cities, such as Pattaya and Krabi (though technically a town), also offer beautiful beach areas, though Krabi is especially famous for its surrounding islands and limestone cliffs.
Is public transportation available in Thailand’s cities?
Thailand’s cities offer various forms of public transportation. Bangkok has an extensive network, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway, buses, and tuk-tuks. Other cities like Chiang Mai and Pattaya rely more on buses, tuk-tuks, and songthaews (shared pickup trucks). Apps like Grab (similar to Uber) are also popular in larger cities for convenient travel.
What is the dress code when visiting temples in Thailand’s cities?
When visiting temples, it’s essential to dress modestly out of respect for Thai culture. Generally, this means wearing clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Some temples may provide shawls or wraps for visitors who need additional coverage, but it’s best to dress appropriately from the start.
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