Thailand is a country of contrasts: gilded temples alongside neon night markets, tranquil rice fields beside buzzing cities, and romantic beaches stretched along turquoise seas. Similar in size to France or Spain, each region feels like its own world — from the mountain temples of Chiang Mai to the energy of Bangkok, from Phuket’s nightlife to Koh Samui’s laid-back sands.

Consider this your inspiration board for the ultimate Thailand adventure.

Need to Know

✨ Currency: Thai Baht (THB). Carry cash for markets and smaller towns. Bargaining is common; tipping isn’t expected.

✨ Airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), Chiang Mai (CNX), Phuket (HKT), Koh Samui (USM).

✨ Transportation: Trains and buses connect most of the country. Tuk-Tuks, Grab, and taxis make city travel easy. Ferries and longtail boats are essential for islands.

✨ Best Time to Visit: November–February (cool season) is best for cultural sightseeing; March–June (hot season) suits beaches and festivals. July–October (monsoon) brings fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

✨ Ideal Stay: 10–14 days for a greatest-hits tour (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, plus an island). Less time? Focus on one region.

✨ Signature Dishes: Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Green Curry, Som Tam, Massaman Curry, Laab, Mango Sticky Rice.

✨ Dress Code: Lightweight attire for the heat; modest dress for temples (shoulders and knees covered).

Phuket: Beaches & Nightlife

What to Do in Phuket

Island-hopping is a must: take a boat to the Phi Phi Islands or sail across Phang Nga Bay to see James Bond Island. Divers should explore the Similan Islands, while culture seekers can wander Old Phuket Town for colorful architecture and markets. Don’t miss the Big Buddha, then relax with a Thai massage before diving into Phuket’s buzzing nightlife along Bangla Road.

Where to Eat in Phuket

PRU offers Michelin-starred dining, while Acqua leans contemporary and international. Mom Tri’s Kitchen is perfect for a romantic seafood dinner overlooking the water. For traditional flavors, try Blue Elephant Cooking School, or pair live music with comfort food at The Siam Supper Club.

Where to Stay in Phuket

The Surin Phuket: Iconic beachfront retreat.

Rosewood Phuket: Modern luxury meets tropical setting.

COMO Point Yamu: Minimalist, ocean-view haven.

Trisara: Private villas with infinity pools.

Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Secluded and sophisticated.

Six Senses Yao Noi: Cliffside villas with epic sea views.

Chiang Mai: Culture & Mountains

Where to Eat in Chiang Mai

Anchan Vegetarian and Pun Pun Organic offer wholesome, sustainable fare. For a special night, Cuisine de Garden and Le Crystal elevate Thai and French flavors. Rustic & Blue is a casual favorite, while The House by Ginger brings contemporary flair to local dishes.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Raya Heritage Chiang Mai: Boutique with jungle views.

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai: Rice field setting with wellness focus.

137 Pillars House: Historic, intimate, lushly landscaped.

Akyra Manor Chiang Mai: Trendy with rooftop pool.

What to Do in Chiang Mai

Visit Wat Prathat Doi Suthep for sweeping views and history, explore Wat Chedi Luang, or stroll Nimmanhaemin Road for cafés and nightlife. Nature lovers head to Doi Inthanon National Park or Doi Ang Khang. For elephants, ethical sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park are a must. Add artisan visits (Thai silk, pottery) and, for the bold, a traditional Sak Yant tattoo.

Koh Samui: Laid-Back Luxury

What to Do in Koh Samui

Relax on Chaweng Beach, or venture into the jungle at Na Muang Waterfall. A day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park rewards hikers with panoramic views. Visit the Secret Buddha Garden for a quirky cultural stop, or explore Fisherman’s Village Walking Street for shopping and street food.

Where to Eat in Koh Samui

For romance, Dining on the Rocks at Six Senses and Tree Tops (private canopy tables) are unbeatable. Casual beach dining awaits at Krua Chao Baan and Jun Hom, while The Club by Zazen combines stylish décor with nightlife vibes.

Where to Stay in Koh Samui

Soneva Kiri: Luxe villas and treepod dining.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui: Hillside retreat overlooking the Gulf.

Napasai, A Belmond Hotel: Breezy villas with private pools.

Six Senses Samui: Villas with open-air designs and sea views.

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui: Beachfront with a massive infinity pool.

Bangkok: City of Energy

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: Timeless riverside elegance.

The Siam: Boutique, artistic, lush.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River: Riverfront modern luxury.

Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok: Sleek and stylish with rooftop pool.

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok: Contemporary design with spa and pool.

The Peninsula Bangkok: Towering with river views.

The Standard Bangkok: Vibrant décor and rooftop bars.

What to Do in Bangkok

Explore the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and cross the river to Wat Arun. Shop the massive Chatuchak Weekend Market, or head to ICONSIAM for luxury brands. Balance the pace with Lumphini Park, or take a longtail boat down the khlongs. For city views, head to the MahaNakhon Skywalk.

Where to Eat in Bangkok

Fine dining standouts include Gaggan, Sorn, and POTONG. Quince offers Mediterranean, Nusara reinvents Thai classics, and Sühring surprises with German fare. Street food is legendary here — find it in Yaowarat (Chinatown), along Sukhumvit Soi 38, and at Chatuchak Market.

Cultural Celebrations & Events

✨ Bangkok: Songkran (April, Thai New Year water festival) and Loy Krathong (November, Festival of Lights).

✨ Chiang Mai: Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November) and the Flower Festival (February).

✨ Phuket: Vegetarian Festival (October) and King’s Cup Regatta (December).

✨ Koh Samui: Samui Regatta (June), Songkran (April) and Samui Triathlon (May).

Final Thoughts

Thailand is a feast for the senses: street markets alive with sizzling woks, golden temples glowing at sunset, turquoise waters dotted with longtail boats. Whether you’re temple-hopping in Chiang Mai, sailing through Phang Nga Bay, or savoring mango sticky rice at a night market, each region offers its own slice of magic.

This is a destination where you’ll want to slow down, stretch your stay, and let each region reveal its rhythm.