Thailand, or the Kingdom of Thailand, is an amazing country in Southeast Asia. It combines a rich culture, historical heritage, beautiful natural attractions, and friendly people. Thailand always attracts tourists from all over the world. In 2019 alone, the country welcomed over 39 million foreign visitors. In this article, you will learn about the best cities in the kingdom for travel, what to see, and how to make the most of your vacation.
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. It is a very dynamic city in Southeast Asia. It serves as the center of politics, economy, culture, and tourism. People come to Bangkok to see magnificent temples, such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or the Temple of Dawn, visit museums, and try authentic Asian cuisine in local establishments. Bangkok offers a diverse nightlife with bars, restaurants, and clubs where you can listen to music and dance all night. At Damnoen Saduak Market, you can buy unique souvenirs.
Chiang Mai is considered the cultural capital of northern Thailand. The city attracts spiritual retreat seekers who engage in spiritual practices in monasteries and practice yoga in specialized centers. Chiang Mai is home to beautiful temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh. People come here to experience the charm of an Asian market and enjoy nature. The city also has silk factories and workshops specializing in wood carving and silverware, making it a popular destination for excursions and shopping for beautiful crafts.
Moving to the south of Thailand, let’s talk about Phuket, a large island in the Andaman Sea. Tourists come here for the beaches, stunning nature, and crystal-clear waters. This city also attracts visitors with its entertainment options and vibrant nightlife, especially in the tourist center of Patong. In the capital of the eponymous province, the city of Phuket, you can find old houses with shops on the ground floor and bustling markets. Phuket showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Thailand.
Staying in the south of the country, let’s now talk about Krabi. This beautiful place is known for its famous attraction, the symbol of the city – the cliffs in Phang Nga Bay. Located 20 km from the city, Ao Nang Resort offers a beach that is perfect for relaxation. If you want to get there, we recommend using car rental in Thailand. You can also visit island tours or explore the national parks of Ko Lanta and Ao Nang. In the city of Krabi itself, you can try local delicacies. This city is simply made for relaxation and leisure.
Another resort city, this time in the southeast of Thailand, is Pattaya. Here, you can find the Sanctuary of Truth and Wat Yansangwararam Temple, which showcase traditional Thai architecture and religious customs. The city boasts its beaches, such as Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach, as well as various entertainment options and nightlife. You can try jet-skiing, parasailing, and diving, visit the local zoo, water park, or botanical garden. The Walking Street area is home to restaurants, nightclubs, and bars that operate late into the night.
Ayutthaya is a historical and ancient city located in the central part of Thailand. It was once the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the predecessor of Siam. It is a paradise for lovers of ancient temples, monuments, and ruins. The city is even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Among the most popular places are Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and Wat Phra Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree. You will also see the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, located in the city center on the banks of the Lopburi River. It was the residence of the royal family in the 13th century.
Each city, like a person, has its own unique character. Therefore, each of them offers significant places tailored to your interests. Don’t stay in one place. If you have already arrived in Thailand, be sure to explore the cities and attractions of the country. You will enjoy incredible views and get a glimpse of the country’s way of life.
Landmarks of Thailand
If you are going on vacation in Thailand, there are certain iconic places that are a must-visit. The country’s landmarks can tell the intriguing history of this part of the world, showcase its exotic charm, and provide a glimpse into the modern way of life. Here is a list of places we recommend you to visit:
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple is the most famous and visited sanctuary in Thailand. Its history dates back to the 14th century. The temple is located on a mountain, 15 kilometers away from Chiang Mai. To reach it, one must climb 309 steps, but there is also a cable car for people with limited physical abilities. Buddhist pilgrims always include this temple in their journey. It is a symbol of spirituality and Thai Buddhism.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang Temple is a historical site in Lampang Province, northern Thailand. It was founded in the 13th century and is still considered a sacred place for pilgrims and the local population. Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is built in the style typical of northern Thailand, but it resembles a fortress with its brick walls. Inside the temple, you will find the second-largest Buddha statue in the country, and the temple itself is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Ancient City of Sukhothai is considered an architectural park. Founded in 1238, it was once the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, one of the country’s earliest kingdoms. If you love history and want to experience the atmosphere of stepping back in time, then Sukhothai is perfect for you. There are ruins of temples, monasteries, and pagodas scattered throughout the park, making it convenient to explore them by bicycle. It’s a wonderful place in Thailand that you will definitely enjoy.
In the capital city of Thailand, you’ll find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The uniqueness of this temple lies in the fact that it houses a Buddha statue made of green jadeite stone, also known as an emerald. It is a highly revered relic in Buddhism and a national treasure of the country. As a result, every season, members of the royal family dress the Buddha statue in various garments. Tourists from all over the world come to see it. Remember that only those with covered shoulders and legs are allowed to enter the temple.
Phi Phi Island is a tourist destination in Thailand. It is an archipelago consisting of six islands with white sandy beaches. The most popular among them are the islands of Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh. By the way, the first island became popular after the filming of the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. On the Phi Phi archipelago, you can not only sunbathe on the beaches and swim in the water but also relax in nightclubs and bars. The atmosphere of the islands is incredible and attracts travelers.
Khao Yai National Park was established in 1962. It became the first national park in Thailand and is currently highly popular. Khao Yai covers an area of 2,168 square kilometers. Here, you can find everything: high mountains, waterfalls, forests, rivers, and swamps. It is home to diverse flora and fauna. Besides enjoying nature, you can go fishing, have a picnic, or go camping. However, remember to protect the environment by picking up after yourself, not damaging the pristine nature, and not disturbing the local animals.
In Bangkok, you can visit the Temple of Wat Arun. It is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Its tall tower adorned with Chinese ceramics and glass is a symbol of the city. Despite being built in the 13th century and undergoing numerous reconstructions, it still looks quite significant. This is all thanks to the ceramic tiles and glass beads that decorate its facade. When visiting here, tourists can also take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River to admire the grandeur of the temple from the water.
An unusual landmark in Thailand is the River Kwai Bridge, also known as the Death Railway Bridge. It earned this name during World War II when the occupying authorities used the labor of military personnel and civilians to build it. Approximately 100,000 people died here from harsh treatment, overwork, hunger, or diseases. Despite its tragic history, the bridge attracts tourists today. It is an important military memorial in Thailand that reminds us of the bravery and endurance of humanity.
Thailand has everything to make your vacation unforgettable. Here, you can reconnect with nature, learn more about the country’s history, admire the scenery, or become part of a pilgrimage. Choose what resonates with you and enjoy your holiday in the Kingdom of Thailand.
How to find the time to see all the cities in Thailand
In Thailand, every city, every landmark has its own atmosphere. From the first moments of your stay here, you will dispel the main myths about Asia. If you want to visit all the places listed above, you need to plan your route properly. We have prepared some essential tips to make your vacation feel like a relaxing getaway rather than a race to see as many attractions as possible.
Plan your route
This is the first step of any journey. First, make a list of cities in Thailand and arrange them in such an order that they follow one another. We advise allocating specific time for each of the cities. The amount of time to allocate depends on the number of attractions. There are considerable distances between the cities in Thailand. For example, the distance from Bangkok to Pattaya is 149 km. So, take into account the mileage to avoid spending a lot of time on transfers.
Rent a car
The key to a successful visit to all planned locations is fast movement between them. And this is where renting a car would be appropriate. You will not only be able to save time that would be spent on finding travel companions but also comfortably explore the scenery along the way. Cars in Thailand can be rented on the website of LocalCarRent. And it’s very convenient. You choose the desired car, make the payment, and travel at your own leisure.
Find accommodation
In the cities of Thailand, you can stay in a hotel, hostel, or even choose a villa. It all depends on your budget. Select accommodation in such a way that the journey to the main attractions doesn’t take much time. Early booking will help you avoid inconvenience during check-in. This is especially true for tourist spots that attract a large number of tourists regardless of the season.
Plan your time
Seeing all the cities and iconic places of Thailand is challenging, but entirely possible if you plan your time correctly. The country has several regions with unique attractions. Therefore, allocate time for each region to cover more places. For example, start by spending a few days in the south of the country, then in Bangkok, and finally head to northern Thailand. And if you have no idea where to go at all, our article is specifically for you.
Learn the culture and traditions
The Kingdom of Thailand is very rich in culture and traditions. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with them before you start exploring the city. This way, you will be able to immerse yourself more in this atmosphere. For example, you can read about the holidays and mandatory festivals, study the history and peculiarities of Thai dance, and pay attention to the country’s architecture.
Plan your vacation
Yes, planning everything can be very challenging. However, since there are many interesting places in Thailand, you have plenty to choose from. Each city offers attractions for people with different interests. And, one way or another, everyone will be able to find their own atmosphere of relaxation, enjoyment, and discovery. And don’t forget to make pit stops for your body – eat, rest, and relax. It’s essential before you set out to explore new places in Thailand.
To be able to visit all the cities in Thailand, it is necessary to plan your trip well. Don’t stay too long in one city, but gradually explore the local culture and traditions in each of them. By following our advice, you will be able to plan your leisure time correctly and get the most out of this trip.
