Where to go in Thailand
Thailand splits into four regions: Bangkok and the central plains, the cooler north around Chiang Mai, the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi) and the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Tao). Most first trips pair Bangkok with one beach region.
Central · Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Pattaya
- Bangkok: Grand Palace, river temples, markets and malls (2–4 nights)
- Ayutthaya: Temple ruins of the old Siamese capital (Day trip or 1 night)
- Kanchanaburi: River Kwai history, waterfalls and river rafts (2–3 nights)
- Pattaya: Beach resort town, Coral Island and evening shows (2–3 nights)
North · Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai
- Chiang Rai: White Temple, Blue Temple and the Golden Triangle (1–2 nights)
- Chiang Mai: Lanna temples, mountains and night markets (2–4 nights)
- Pai: Mountain valley town, canyon sunsets and hot springs (2–4 nights)
Andaman coast · Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi
- Krabi: Limestone cliffs, Railay and island hopping (2–4 nights)
- Phi Phi: Car-free islands, Maya Bay and viewpoint sunsets (2–3 nights)
- Phuket: Thailand's largest island: beaches, boat trips and nightlife (3–5 nights)