Discover Thailand’s Spectacular Attractions : A Tourist’s Guide to 20 Must-Visit Destinations (2024)
Thailand, aka the Kingdom of Thailand, is a Southeast Asian Country. Being an extremely touristy country, Thailand hosts millions of tourists annually (over 40 million in 2019). It is in fact one of the most approachable (visa on arrival) and easy to explore country in Asia. From tropical beaches to ancient ruins, ornate temples, and royal palaces, Thailand is home to a luxurious spread of tourist attractions.
Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand
Join us in this article as we walk you through the 20 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Thailand. The best part about planning a trip to Thailand is that this country is extremely affordable and is suitable for tourists of all budget levels. However, since Thailand has so much to offer, remember a trip here can be time-consuming, but absolutely worth it.
1. Grand Palace, Bangkok
Address: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Admission Fee: Free for Thai People 500 Baht for Foreigners
About the Place: Since 1782, the Grand Palace in Bangkok has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam and Thailand. With over 8 million annual visitors, this royal palace complex is a marvel of intricate temples. Built in 1782, it now serves as a museum, inviting guests to explore its rich history and architectural wonders.
2. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, Bangkok
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission Fee: Foreigner Adult – 100 Baht
About the Place: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, or Wat Arun, is a majestic Buddhist temple located in Bangkok Yai, Thailand. Positioned on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, it is renowned for its 79-meter-high central spire, surrounded by four smaller spires. The temple’s name is inspired by the Hindu god Aruṇa. Capture the beauty of this iconic site often featured in Thailand’s images and tourist brochures.
3. Wat Pho, Bangkok
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Admission Fee: Foreigner Adult – 200.00
About the Place: Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Thailand, is a Buddhist temple complex on Rattanakosin Island. Boasting over a thousand paintings and sculptures of Buddha, it is home to one of the world’s largest Reclining Buddhas. Explore the rich history and artistry of this spiritual haven during your visit.
4. Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya
Address: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission Fee: Free
About the Place: Ayutthaya Historical Park, situated in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand, is an archaeological site showcasing the remnants of the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Once one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas, the city draws its name from Ayodhya, the legendary home of Rama from the Hindu epic Ramayana. Explore the 14th-century remains of the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam at this historically rich park.
5. Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai
Address: หมู่ที่ 3 498/12 Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai District
Opening Hours: Friday to Saturday: 6:30 AM – 9 PM Monday to Thursday: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Admission Fee:
100 Baht (2.60 USD) for each zone
350 Baht (9.09 USD) for a pass to all five zones
About the Place: Sukhothai Historical Park, located in Mueang Sukhothai District, preserves the ruins of Sukhothai, one of Thailand’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the remains of the 13th- to 14th-century royal capital city, adorned with palaces and temples. Ideal for witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, this park offers a glimpse into the historical grandeur of Sukhothai.
6. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
Address: Huai Kaeo Road, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai
Opening Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
Admission Fee: Foreigner Adult – 30.00
About the Place: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on the top of Doi Suthep mountain, is one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. Steeped in legend, its founding has diverse versions. Visitors can ascend 309 steps or take a tram from the temple’s base to explore pagodas, statues, bells, a museum, and shrines within the site. This stunning temple offers a spiritual journey amidst breathtaking surroundings.
7. Chiang Mai Old City, Chiang Mai
Location: On the Ping River, near the center of a fertile intermontane basin
About the Place: Chiang Mai Old City, founded in 1296, stands as the cultural heart of Chiang Mai. Nestled on the Ping River, it boasts centuries-old temple compounds and is renowned for its rich history, cafes, restaurants, and historic sights. With over 300 temples, Chiang Mai’s Old Town, over 700 years old, invites you to explore its ancient charm and vibrant cultural heritage.
8. Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), Krabi
Address: 35, Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Opening Hours: 5 AM to 4 PM
Admission Fee: Free
About the Place: Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) in Krabi is a spiritual haven, renowned for its distinctive tiger paw prints in the cave. Situated atop a mountain, this temple is accessible to those with excellent fitness levels, offering a challenging ascent with 1,237 steps. The temple complex, nestled in lush jungle surroundings, unveils a massive, gilded Buddha statue, creating a serene and awe-inspiring experience for visitors.
9. Phi Phi Islands, Krabi
Location: Krabi Province, 40 km from Krabi and Phuket, approximately 1.5 hours by ferry
About the Place: Phi Phi Islands, a small archipelago featuring Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Koh Phai (Bamboo Island), and Koh Young (Mosquito Island), are among the most attractive island groups in Southeast Asia. Known for their beautiful beaches, island hopping, and water recreation, Phi Phi Islands offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation in a stunning tropical paradise.
10. Railay Beach, Krabi
Location: Between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang, accessible only by boats due to high limestone cliffs.
About the Place: Railay Beach, though not a true island, is an immensely popular tourist attraction in Thailand. With mainland access cut off by towering limestone cliffs, the beach offers a serene escape reachable only by boats. Known for ocean rafting, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, Railay Beach is famous for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Accommodations range from bungalows and medium-priced resorts on the east to a collection of luxury resorts on the west of the beach, providing options for a relaxing stay.
11. Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi
Address: 94GV+5HW, Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Admission Fee:
Thai Adult: 100 THB
Thai Child: 50 THB
Foreigner Adult: 300 THB
Foreigner Child: 200 THB
About the Place: Erawan National Park, located northwest of Bangkok near the Myanmar (Burma) border, is home to the famous Erawan Waterfall, a seven-tiered cascade deep inside the park. Established in 1975 and covering 550 km², the park features limestone hills, plains, and numerous streams. With wildlife-watching opportunities, Erawan National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, recognized with multiple awards for its natural beauty and biodiversity.
12. Floating Market, Damnoen Saduak
Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 4 PM
Admission Fee: Free
About the Place: The Floating Market in Damnoen Saduak is a renowned tourist attraction, drawing visitors from both domestic and foreign locations. Recognized as the most famous floating market in Southeast Asia, vendors on boats offer a variety of local foods and unique items, including kitchenware and clothing. Beyond the shopping experience, it provides excellent photo opportunities and offers insight into a bygone way of life, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking cultural immersion and vibrant market scenes.
13. Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
Address: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Wednesday and Thursday: 7 AM to 6 PM
Friday: 6 PM to 12 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
About the Place: The Chatuchak Weekend Market, Thailand’s largest market, is a must-visit on Kamphaeng Phet. Boasting 27 sections, 15,000 stalls, and 11,505 vendors, it stands as the world’s largest and most diverse weekend market, attracting over 200,000 visitors every weekend. This bustling market offers a wide range of products and is divided into various sections. However, it’s important to note that it has also been identified as a center for illegal wildlife trade, drawing attention to conservation concerns.
14. Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
Address: 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee:
Adult: 200 Baht
Visitors under 22 years (ID required): 100 Baht
Free for kids under 10
About the Place: Operating since 1959, the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok showcases the artwork of American businessman and architect Jim Thompson. The house features an excellent Asian art collection and serves as a splendid example of traditional Thai architecture, furniture, and art. The canal-side home, composed of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, is surrounded by a lush garden, creating a serene and culturally rich atmosphere for visitors to explore.
15. Pattaya Floating Market, Pattaya
Address: Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, Pattaya
About the Place: Operating since 2008, the Pattaya Floating Market is a riverside attraction that provides a glimpse into the beautiful ancient Thai riverside living community and authentic ways of life. This vibrant market showcases a variety of goods, crafts, and traditional Thai cuisine, creating a lively and culturally rich experience for visitors. Explore the floating stalls, enjoy local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere of this unique Pattaya destination.
16. Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya
Address: 206, 2 Soi Na Kluea 12, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM (Until 8:30 PM on Friday and Saturday)
Admission Fee:
Adults: 500 Baht
Children: 250 Baht
About the Place: The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a remarkable 105-meter-tall wooden temple and an unfinished museum. Constructed entirely of wood, it features intricate wood-carved idols and sculptures. Ongoing since 1981 and estimated to finish by 2025, this iconic site includes a rooftop statue of the four-faced Hindu creator god Brahma. The interior halls showcase astronomical themes, including representations of the sun, moon, and planets in the southern hall, while the western hall depicts the classical elements (earth, water, wind, and fire) and the Hindu trinity of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Explore the captivating blend of art, spirituality, and craftsmanship in this unique Pattaya attraction.
17. Phang Nga Bay, Phang Nga
Location: Between the island of Phuket and the mainland of the Kra Isthmus in southern Thailand.
About the Place: Phang Nga Bay is a stunning location known for its picturesque beauty, situated between Phuket and the mainland. Ideal for sea kayak expeditions due to its sheltered bay, it’s also an excellent destination for boating. The bay features limestone cliffs that create a breathtaking backdrop, making it a paradise for photographers. Home to about 40 small islands, Phang Nga Bay stands as one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Thailand, offering a captivating blend of natural wonders and serene waters.
18. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Chiang Rai
Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee:
Free for Thai locals
50 Baht for foreign visitors
About the Place: Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai that captivates both Thai and foreign visitors. This masterpiece is the creation of Chalermchai Kositpipat, a Thai national, and is constructed with a basic concrete frame and a wooden roof. The temple’s distinctiveness lies in its white color and the use of glass in the plaster, creating a sparkling effect in the sunlight. While best visited during sunny hours, it’s advisable to avoid hot summer days for a more comfortable experience.
19. Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai
Address: Chiang Saen,
Opening Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
About the Place: The Golden Triangle, located at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers in Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai, is where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Once infamous for being a major source of drug trafficking, the area is now well under control and is ideal for family visits. Enjoy a boat trip, marvel at the gigantic golden Buddha, visit Wat Phra That Doi Pu Khao, explore the Hall of Opium and House of Opium, and discover many more attractions in this historically rich and picturesque region.
20. Hua Hin Beach, Hua Hin
Hua Hin Beach, located in Hua Hin, is a pristine and less crowded destination known for its clear waters, making it popular for swimming. Visitors can rent lounge chairs and enjoy various water sports and amenities. Spanning a length of 13 km, the beach area stretches from the Hua Hin Tunnel to Khao Takiab Mountain. With its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and a range of activities, Hua Hin Beach is an ideal place for a relaxing day out with friends and family.
