Thailand offers golden temples, lush countryside, and island-fringed coastlines, alongside cities that blend historic neighbourhoods with modern skylines.
Discover Thailand
Discover Thailand
Why visit Thailand?
What to expect
From the energy of Bangkok to the beaches of Phuket and the northern hills around Chiang Mai, you can expect buzzing markets, calm temples, and welcoming hospitality.
Plan your trip
Thailand is ideal for first-time and repeat visitors alike, with good connections to neighbouring countries, making it a convenient base for exploring Southeast Asia.
Top experiences in Thailand
Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace and old town
Wander the Grand Palace, intricate temples, and riverside lanes of Rattanakosin Island to see Bangkok’s royal and historic heart.
Cruise the Chao Phraya River
Take an evening cruise along the Chao Phraya River for views of illuminated temples, lively riverfront districts, and the Bangkok skyline.
Relax on Phuket’s beaches
Spend slow days on Phuket’s sandy bays, from lively Patong to quieter Kata, Karon, and the island’s hidden coves.
Discover Phuket Old Town
Stroll through Phuket Old Town’s colourful shophouses, street art, and Sino-Portuguese architecture, stopping at cosy cafés along the way.
Visit floating and night markets
Browse canalside stalls at floating markets near Bangkok, or sample street-side snacks and crafts at night markets across the country.
Island-hop in the Andaman Sea
Use Phuket as a base to join boat trips to nearby islands, limestone cliffs, and marine parks with clear turquoise waters.
Discover Thai massage and wellness
Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage or spa ritual at specialist studios, beach resorts, or city day spas.
Take a Thai cooking class
Learn to prepare classic Thai dishes in a hands-on cooking class, often combined with a visit to a local market.
Experience Thailand’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link major hubs such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, while buses, trains, and ferries connect regional towns and islands. Within cities, you can combine skytrains, metros, taxis, and local transport such as songthaews or tuk-tuks.
Local life & culture
Daily life moves between bustling markets, neighbourhood shrines, and lively community events, with a strong emphasis on warmth and courtesy. Regional cultures add distinct languages, festivals, and artistic traditions from the north to the southern coasts.
Where to unwind
Calm down on tropical beaches, in hillside retreats, or in city parks such as Bangkok’s Lumpini Park. Across the country, you will find spas, wellness resorts, and quiet coastal villages ideal for slow, restorative days.
A taste of Thailand
National dishes & specialties
You will find dishes such as pad Thai, green and red curries, fragrant tom yum soup, and spicy salads, with central, northern, northeastern, and southern regions each adding their own flavours and ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
From Bangkok’s street-side vendors and food courts to Phuket’s casual seafood eateries, you can enjoy quick bites, cafés, and contemporary restaurants that combine Thai recipes with international influences.
Signature & scenic dining
Dine in rooftop restaurants overlooking Bangkok’s skyline, beachfront venues in Phuket, or elegant townhouses turned into intimate dining rooms for memorable evenings.
Retail therapy in Thailand
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Bangkok’s major malls offer international brands, local designers, and extensive dining, while Phuket features modern shopping centres and lifestyle complexes close to popular beaches.
Markets & local crafts
Look for handmade textiles, ceramics, and accessories at markets and craft shops in cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, where you can find both traditional and modern Thai designs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, night markets and walking streets come alive with food, souvenirs, and live music, particularly in Bangkok’s central districts and resort towns across the country.
Best time to visit Thailand
Cool and dry season (peak season): From November to February, much of Thailand experiences lower humidity, cooler evenings, and daytime temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F), ideal for city sightseeing and beach holidays. Hot season (shoulder season): From March to May, daytime temperatures often rise to 30–36°C (86–97°F), especially in central and northern regions, with hazier skies inland but warm seas for coastal breaks. Rainy season (low season): From June to October, monsoon rains bring short, heavy showers and lush landscapes, with average temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F); showers vary by region, and you can still enjoy sunny spells between downpours.