No results found
Things to do in Thailand: discover all it has to offer
Read all about what to do during your trip to Thailand, and find all the information about the activities and places you can visit!
July 24, 2023
+1M
Unlimited data
Limitless data plans in more than 170 destinations
Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees
Plans that may interest you
Thailand is such an amazing country, full of delicious food, fantastic landscapes and beautiful culture. If you are planning to visit this destination, you have your suitcase ready, and you don’t know what to do during your trip, don’t worry! In this article, we are going to tell you about the places you cannot miss, the adventures that await you, and the hidden wonders that only the locals know about.
Did you know you can get Internet on your trip with an eSIM for Thailand?
What to see and do in Thailand?
The beauty of Thailand is that there is always something to do and see, no matter what season you decide to visit. During the summer, you can cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the beaches of Krabi or Phuket, sunbathing on their white sand. When autumn arrives, the streets of Chiang Mai are filled with vibrant colors and festivals, celebrating the end of the rainy season.
Winter is the perfect time to explore bustling Bangkok, with its floating markets and imposing golden temples. On the other hand, spring opens the door to nature in all its splendor in the northern mountains, especially in Pai, where the hills are covered in dazzling green.
No matter the place or the time you choose, you will always need to be connected to the internet. When you get an internet connection, it’s your gateway to keep in touch with your loved ones, share pictures, and look for information. That’s the reason why we recommend the Holafly eSIM for Thailand. They will let you remain connected during your trip, and avoid the expensive cost of international roaming services.
1. Best beaches in Thailand
The beaches in Thailand are something to truly admire. Here, we show you the hidden gems that you must visit.
Railay Beach, Krabi
Only accessible by boat, Railay is a dream getaway located in Krabi. Its imposing limestone cliffs that surround the beach make it an ideal place for rock climbing. However, if you prefer a more relaxed activity, you can simply lie on the white sand and enjoy the views. Near the beach, you’ll find several restaurants and bungalow-style accommodations for the night.
Maya Bay Beach, Koh Phi Phi
If you’re looking for a bit of Hollywood magic, head to Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi. This beach became famous after being the setting for the movie The Beach. Although the beach has been closed for a few years for conservation, there are boat tours that will take you around so you can enjoy its beauty from the water.
Sunrise Beach, Koh Lipe
On Koh Lipe, you will find Sunrise Beach, a wonder to behold and a perfect place for diving enthusiasts, thanks to its rich coral reefs full of marine life. The beach is renowned for its stunning sunrises and soft sand. At night, the area comes alive with bars and restaurants where you can enjoy the local gastronomy.
Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan
Haad Rin on Koh Phangan is famous for being the location of the iconic Full Moon Party. But beyond the parties, it offers a beautiful white sand beach and clear waters perfect for swimming. If you visit the island when it is not the holiday season, you will find an oasis of tranquility and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Thailand in all its splendor.
2. Museums to visit in Thailand
If you are an art, history, and culture lover, Thailand has plenty of fascinating museums that you should add to your list.
Bangkok National Museum
The National Museum of Bangkok, located on Na Phra That Street, is the largest in Southeast Asia and a must-see for any history lover. It houses a large number of artifacts spanning the history of |Thailand, from prehistoric times to the present. The museum is particularly well-known for its collection of Buddhist art.
- Prices: General – 5.80 USD
- Schedule: Wednesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. Until 4pm.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
This museum in Bangkok offers a look at contemporary Thai art. MOCA, located in the Chatuchak district, exhibits works by Thailand’s most influential artists. In addition to the art exhibits, the building itself is a work of modern art.
- Prices: General – $7.25 USD
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday – 10 am to 6 pm
Chiangmai Museum
Located in the old town of Chiang Mai, this museum gives you the opportunity to discover the history of the northern region of Thailand. You’ll find archaeological artifacts, historical photographs, and exhibits detailing the various ethnicities and cultures of the North.
- Prices: General– Free
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Erawan Museum, Samut Prakan
Outside of Bangkok, the Erawan Museum is famed for its giant statue of a three-headed elephant. Inside the elephant, you’ll find a series of exhibits detailing Buddhist cosmology, while the surrounding gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Prices: General– 11.60 USD
- Schedule: Every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
We recommend you explore Travel Apps that will help you find museums and cultural plans to enjoy on your trip to Thailand.
3. Places to visit in Thailand
From golden temples to vibrant markets and stunning natural landscapes, there are a wide variety of places in Thailand that should be on your list.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok
Located in the Grand Palace in Bangkok, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is one of the holiest religious sites in Thailand. Inside, you’ll find a Buddha statue meticulously carved from a single block of jade. Admission to the Grand Palace, which includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, costs around $15 USD (500 THB).
Ayutthaya
At the North of Bangkok, you’ll find the ruins of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a fascinating insight into Thai history. You can explore them on your own or hire a tour guide. Many of the ruins are free, though some have an entrance fee of around $1.50 USD (50 THB).
Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands, located in the Krabi province, are a true paradise. The two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, are famous for their turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life, making them a perfect place for diving and snorkeling. Boat tours from Krabi or Phuket usually cost around $35-$45 USD, depending on the itinerary.
4. Activities to do in Thailand
Thailand has something for everyone. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the relaxing Buddhist temples and pristine beaches, there’s something for all tastes.
Take a Thai Cooking Class
Such a great way to learn and understand the culinary culture of Thailand. Whether in the metropolis of Bangkok or historic Chiang Mai, you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes, select fresh ingredients, and balance the unique flavors of Thai cuisine. Classes usually include a visit to the local market and end with tasting your own dishes. Prices vary depending on the length and location of the class, but usually, they are around $25-30 USD.
Visit an Elephant Sanctuary
Elephants are an important part of Thai culture. At the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, you can get up close and personal with these wonderful animals in an ethical and sustainable environment. The park is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, and your visit will contribute to their mission. Here, the elephants are not ridden or forced to perform tricks, they are simply allowed to be elephants. A full-day visit, which includes transportation from Chiang Mai, food, and the opportunity to feed and bathe the elephants, costs around $75 USD.
Participate in a Lantern Throwing Ceremony
Lantern-throwing ceremonies are a magical part of Thai culture. During the Loy Krathong Festival, held on the November full moon, the skies of Chiang Mai and Sukhothai are lit up with thousands of lanterns. This festival is an opportunity to release worries and make a wish for the future. Remember that the exact dates of the festival change every year, so it is important to check this information before your trip.
Tour the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
An hour from Bangkok, in Damnoen Saduak, you will find a beautiful floating market. Here, you can surf the canals, enjoying the variety of colors, sounds, and smells. From fresh fruits and vegetables to freshly prepared noodle dishes, there is something for everyone. To have a better experience, we recommend you try to arrive early in the morning when the market is at its busiest and not yet overrun with tourist crowds. Market tours typically include transportation from Bangkok and a canal boat ride, around $10-15 USD.
Tips to enjoy your trip to Thailand
Thailand is a fascinating country with a great culture and a wide variety of experiences to offer. Thus, we have listed below some tips to fully enjoy your trip:
- Respect the local culture: Thailand is a Buddhist country and showing reverence at holy sites is essential. Please dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering the temples. Also, the king and royal family are deeply respected in Thailand, and any disrespect towards them can bring about legal consequences.
- Internet connection: Stay connected during your trip. No matter the reason why you are going to use the internet, it is very important to have it as your ally. The Holafly Thailand eSIM or the eSIM to travel southeast Asia is a great option that will let you be online from the moment you land, without worrying about roaming costs.
- Beware of the sun: The Thai sun can be strong, especially on the beaches. Don’t forget to pack great sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Local Currency: Although credit cards are accepted in many places in Thailand, it is useful to carry some cash for the markets and smaller shops. You can withdraw Thai baht from local ATMs or exchange money at exchange houses.
