Thailand Sightseeing - 12 great highlights and tips

Thailand is one of those countries you simply have to experience – whether as your first destination in Southeast Asia or as a stopover on a world tour. Thailand boasts impressive temples, dense rainforest, beautiful beaches, lively cities, and many islands that are ideal for exploration.

The list of exciting places is long – and that’s precisely why it’s not so easy to narrow it down. In this article, we show you a selection of the most beautiful sights in Thailand. Be inspired and find out which highlights you shouldn’t miss on your trip.

What else you should know

What else you should know
Thailand Sights
1. Start in Bangkok
2. Temple City of Chiang Mai
3. Khao Sok National Park
4. Doi Inthanon Mountain & Temple
5. Amphawa Floating Market
6. Royal City of Ayutthaya
7. Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall
8. Phang Nga Bay
9. Ang Thong National Park
10. Tiger Cave in Krabi
11. Mae Klong Railway Market
12. Islands in Thailand
Thailand FAQ

Thailand Sights

Sights in Thailand? Where should we even begin? Thailand has numerous sights and highlights. You could certainly travel through Thailand for a whole year and still not have seen everything. But that’s the way it is in many countries, isn’t it?

On the map, you can see the most popular travel destinations in the country, whether national parks, jungles, islands, or bustling Asian metropolises. If I’ve forgotten anything, let me know in the comments.

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1. Start in Bangkok

Most people start their Thailand trips in Bangkok, as this is where the best flight connections from Germany are. A loud, vibrant metropolis awaits you with impressive temples, colorful street life, and plenty of contrasts. The most important sights include the Wat Arun temple right on the river, the reclining Buddha in Wat Pho, and the magnificent Grand Palace.

Many temples and sights are best reached by boat taxi – a relaxing and inexpensive way to explore the city from the water. In the evening, a detour to the famous Khao San Road is worthwhile. The neighboring Soi Rambuttri is a little quieter – perfect for a nightcap and live music.

For a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Lumphini or Benjakitti Park are ideal. If you want to end the evening with a view, you’ll find the perfect spot in one of the many sky bars. More about this here: Bangkok in 48 Hours: Our Highlights & Insider tips or Sights in Bangkok – Our top 13 highlights in the metropolis.

Popular tours in Bangkok

From Bangkok: Day tour to Ayutthaya Temple and Floating Market*
2-hour White Orchid river cruise with dinner*
King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk: Reduced entrance ticket*
Floating market in Damnoen Saduak & Maeklong Train Market*

Thailand Sights Wat Arun Bangkok Temple

2. Temple City of Chiang Mai

Along with Pai and Chiang Rai, we consider Chiang Mai to be one of the most beautiful cities in northern Thailand. The best way to reach the city from Bangkok is by night train – a comfortable and inexpensive way to arrive in a relaxed manner. Chiang Mai is much quieter than Bangkok. The old town is cozy, the small alleys invite you to stroll, and there are plenty of cafés and small shops.

The city is full of temples. Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man are particularly well known. Our personal favorite, however, is the wooden temple Wat Phan Tao – small, simple, but with a very special atmosphere. Around Chiang Mai, you’ll quickly find yourself in the countryside. Whether rice fields or waterfalls – the surrounding area is perfect for day trips or a short break. More about it here: Our top highlights in and around Chiang Mai.

Pai and Chiang Rai are also worth a visit if you want to explore a little more of northern Thailand – both places are relaxed, scenically beautiful, and perfect for a few quiet days away from the big cities. Chiang Rai is also an ideal starting point for a tour of the Golden Triangle – where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

Popular Tours in Chiang Mai

Doi Inthanon National Park: Small Group Day Tour*
Chiang Mai: Jungle Flight, Zipline, and Roller Coaster*
Authentic Thai Cooking Class and Farm Visit*
Ticket for the Grand Canyon Water Park*

3. Khao Sok National Park

We consider Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand to be one of the country’s most impressive natural destinations. It is located about two hours from Surat Thani and about one hour from Khao Lak. Dense rainforests, towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and plenty of opportunities for exploration await us here.

Lake Chiao Lan is particularly impressive – a turquoise-green reservoir surrounded by jungle and rocks. Whether we travel by longtail boat, stay overnight in one of the floating bungalows, or hike through the national park on foot – the landscape is simply spectacular. If you’re looking for nature and tranquility, this is the place for you. Khao Sok National Park is ideal for a few days off the beaten track.

Popular Tours in Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok: Private Longtail Boat Tour on Cheow Lan Lake*
Private Half-Day Waterfalls and Wildlife Tour*
From Khao Lak/Khao Sok: Cheow Lan Lake and Emerald Pool Tour*

4. Doi Inthanon Mountain & Temples

At 2,565 meters, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and is located in the national park of the same name in the north of the country. The park offers dense jungle, impressive waterfalls, and vast mountain landscapes. A special highlight are the two royal pagodas, which lie at around 2,100 meters. From here you have a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains.

If the weather is good, it’s worth staying until sunset – the atmosphere at the top of the mountain is particularly impressive. Doi Inthanon is also a popular destination for locals, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for nature, fresh mountain air, and beautiful views, this is the place for you.

Popular Tours in the Park

Doi Inthanon National Park: Small Group Day Tour*
Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon & Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail Trek*

5. Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market is one of the largest floating markets in Thailand and is a great day trip from Bangkok. Located about 90 minutes southwest of the capital, the market is open Friday to Sunday between 12 and 8 p.m.

Food stalls, small shops, and cafés line the canals. The aroma of freshly grilled food, spices, and sweets fills the air – ideal for sampling the variety. The best way to explore the market is by longtail boat. The trip takes you past stilt houses, food stalls, and through small side canals.

Popular Tours to the Market

From Bangkok: Amphawa Floating Market & Firefly Tour*
Amphawa Floating Market & Railway Market: Private Tour*

6. Royal City of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is located just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok and was formerly the capital of the Siamese kingdom. Today, the ruined city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular day trip destination. In the historical park, we can explore ancient temple walls, stupas, and Buddha statues.

Particularly famous is the Buddha head embedded in a fig tree at Wat Phra Mahathat – one of the most photographed motifs in the region. If you start early, you can easily explore most of the temples in one day. Bicycles or tuk-tuks are easy to rent locally and are a good way to explore the area at a relaxed pace.

Popular Tours in Ayutthaya

From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Guided Tour with Lunch*
Ayutthaya & Ayothaya Floating Market Day Tour from Bangkok*

7. Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall

In the province of Kanchanaburi lies the Erawan National Park – known for one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand. The Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall extends over seven levels and is surrounded by dense bamboo forest. A well-maintained path leads us about two kilometers through the forest to the top level of the waterfall.

Along the way, you will pass several viewpoints and can take short breaks by the water. The fourth level is particularly popular – here there are natural pools where you can take a refreshing dip. Ideal for taking a short breather and enjoying the surroundings after the climb.

Popular Excursions in the Park

Erawan National Park and Kanchanaburi: Small Group Tour*
Khwae Noi: 2-Day Tour Highlights & Floating Hotel*
Kanchanaburi and Erawan Waterfalls Day Tour from Bangkok*

8. Phang Nga Bay

Only about 45 minutes from Phuket lies Phang Nga Bay – one of the most famous bays in Thailand. It is part of a marine national park covering approximately 400 km² and boasts rugged limestone cliffs, small islands, and dense mangrove forests.

The bay became famous through the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The most striking photo motif is the narrow rocky spire that rises steeply from the water – surrounded by turquoise sea and lush green vegetation.

All around, tranquil lagoons, hidden caves, and secluded bays await you, best explored by kayak or longtail boat. If you start early in the morning, you can often avoid the crowds and enjoy the special atmosphere in peace.

Popular tours to Phang Nga Bay

From Phuket: James Bond Island tour by longtail boat*
Bioluminescent plankton and sea canoes in Phang Nga Bay*
Phang Nga Bay: Early bird tour James Bond and more*

9. Ang Thong National Park

An absolute highlight in Thailand is a day trip to Ang Thong National Park in the Gulf of Thailand. The park consists of 42 islands with green hills, hidden bays, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water. The best way to reach the national park is by boat from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.

There, you can hike, snorkel, kayak through caves and lagoons, or simply relax on one of the beaches. Those who start early have a good chance of experiencing the island world without large crowds, at least at the beginning.

Popular tours and activities in the national park

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park: Sunset boat trip*
1 day: Kayaking & snorkeling in Ang Thong National Park*
From Koh Samui: Ang Thong Islands – Luxury small group tour*
From Koh Phangan – Ang Thong day tour with kayaking, snorkeling and lunch*

10. Tiger Cave in Krabi

One of the most famous destinations in the Krabi region is the Wat Tham Sua temple – also known as the Tiger Cave Temple. To reach the golden Buddha at the summit, you have to climb 1,237 steps. The climb takes about 45 minutes, depending on your pace, and although strenuous, it is absolutely worth it.

Once you reach the top, you will not only be greeted by an impressive temple complex, but also by a sweeping view of Krabi, the rainforest, and the surrounding karst cliffs. For many locals, the temple is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the region – and for us, it is also a real highlight on every trip to Krabi and Ao Nang.

Popular Excursions in the Surrounding Area

Tour 1: Emerald Pool, Hot Springs & Krabi Town Day Tour*
Tour 2: Tiger Cave, Hot Springs, and Emerald Pool Jungle Tour*

11. Mae Klong Railway Market

The Mae Klong Railway Market is definitely not a market like any other. Several times a day, a train runs right through the narrow market alleys, passing by stalls and displays. The market wasn’t originally intended for tourists. Long before the railway line was built, locals bought their groceries here – and that has hardly changed to this day.

Shortly before the train arrives, a signal sounds. The vendors fold up their parasols and pull their wares aside – everything happens routinely. A few seconds after the train arrives, the market is in full swing again, as if nothing had happened. For us, it was an impressive spectacle that shows how flexible and pragmatic everyday life is here – for many Thais, this is completely normal.

Popular tours to the market

Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market*
Bangkok: Train market and floating market with boat ride*
Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Floating Market Day Tour*

12. Islands in Thailand

Thailand’s island world is vast and incredibly diverse. Whether in the Gulf of Thailand or on the Andaman Coast – there are hundreds of islands with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water. For us, a few days on the island are an essential part of every trip to Thailand. On Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, tropical beaches, jungle, excellent infrastructure, and plenty of cool activities await us.

If you prefer a quieter setting, you’ll find more relaxation and less hustle and bustle on Koh Yao Yai, Koh Phayam, Koh Chang, or Koh Lipe. On the west coast, Koh Lanta, Phuket, and the Phi Phi Islands (Maya Bay) are popular destinations, although quieter spots can still be found here.

Most of Thailand’s islands can be reached from the mainland by ferry or speedboat, and some can also be reached by plane (e.g., Phuket and Koh Samui). Depending on how much time you have, it’s worth combining several islands.

Travel reports on various islands

Thailand FAQ

Do I need a visa for Thailand? When is the best time to travel to Thailand? What is the currency called in Thailand? Is Thailand a cheap travel destination? How do I get to Thailand? Is Thailand a safe travel destination?

Thailand Sightseeing – 12 cool highlights in the Land of Smiles