Is Thailand worth Visiting in 2024? Best Things To Do & Places To See

Cover image for Is Thailand Worth Visiting article showing couple sitting on a beach with long boats and mountains in the background
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Is Thailand Worth Visiting In 2024 On Your Southeast Asian Adventure?

I spent several months backpacking through Thailand many years ago and have been back many times since! It’s one of my favourite places to visit and I’ve taken all that I’ve learned and experienced to tell the many reasons why you should visit.

I’ll talk about why it’s such an awesome destination no matter what style of traveller you are. I’ll go over the reasons why it’s such a popular country to visit, including some of the best things to do, where to stay and other things of interest.

So why is Thailand worth visiting? Well, it’s the perfect destination for first-time travellers for a rich cultural experience or a beach vacation and I’ll go through them in this post. You can go island hopping, and explore ancient cities and Buddhist temples. Thailand has this and so much more!

At the end of this post, I’ll go through some FAQs so you’ll know for sure if Thailand is worth a visit or not.

Is Thailand Worth Visiting In 2024?

Yes, Thailand is absolutely worth visiting in 2024! Rich in culture and history, Thailand blends tradition with the contemporary making it a cultural feast for every type of traveller.

Gold spire at the Grand Palace in Thailand

With its pristine beaches, Buddhist temples, bustling markets, and the warmth of its people, Thailand is a destination that will amaze you time and time again.

There is a diverse range of experiences for every traveller and every budget. Often known as a backpackers’ paradise due to its ease of travel and budget-friendly prices, Thailand can also offer luxury visits as well as family vacations and more.

Beach lovers can enjoy island hopping in the south while those looking for history and culture can find ancient cities close to the cosmopolitan capital of Bangkok.

You’ll find adventure, relaxation, and some of the most delicious (and spicy) cuisine you’ve tasted. Head north and you’ll be among the mountains in a completely new landscape.

It’s no wonder Thailand is one of the most popular and visited destinations in Asia!


What Is Thailand Famous For?

Thailand is famous for many things and its rich culture and heritage are one of them. Buddhism is the dominant religion and many visitors will experience this way of life for the first time in Thailand.

Image of the head and shoulders of the golden reclining buddha at Wat Pho, Bangkok

Buddhist traditions have shaped much of Thai culture and visitors can see this in the many beautiful temples across the country. Wat Arun in Bangkok is a stunning example of the extravagance and significance these temples have in Thai cultural heritage.

One thing Thailand is famous for is the smiling local people. They are some of the most welcoming and friendly, leading to Thailand being nicknamed the Land of Smiles. You just need a few days in the country to see why.

Thailand is also known for its incredible beaches such as the ones on Koh Lipe or Railay. With a sunny warm climate for most of the year, visitors can always find an island to top up their tan.

The cuisine in Thailand is also world-famous. Thai food is often a combination of spicy, salty, sweet, sour and bitter often served with chillis to add even more heat. Visitors can many of the best Thai dishes at street stalls and night markets


Best Things To Do In Thailand

Thailand isn’t particularly small or big but there are differences in the type of attractions and activities you can see and do between northern Thailand and the south.

There are many things to see and places to visit in Thailand as well as cultural experiences and adventure tours. Below are some of the best things to do that make Thailand worth a visit:

1. Experience Bangkok

Image of Khao San Road with tuk tuk in the foreground
Khao San Road

A lot of people will try and tell you to get out of the capital city as soon as you can but I enjoy spending a few days in chaotic and energetic Bangkok. It’s an awesome introduction to Southeast Asia!

You cannot go to Thailand without experiencing what Bangkok has to offer. Many of Thailand’s best attractions are located in or around the capital. The Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Jim Thompson’s House are all within a tuk-tuk ride away.

There’s also the famous backpacker street of Khao San Road, scenic rooftop bars, huge night markets and even floating markets. It’s also the perfect place to try the delicious Thai street food.

➡️ Check Out This Bangkok By Night Tuk-Tuk Tour Here!


2. Go On An Island Hopping Adventure

Image of many long-tail boats parked on the beach in Thailand

Thailand has so many beautiful islands, and each one has its own personality. Many of these are found in the south and island hopping is usually at the top of most traveller’s priorities.

On the East Coast, backpackers will usually flock to Koh Pha Ngan, with its laid-back vibe and full moon parties whereas Koh Samui is better suited for families. Over on the west, you’ll find Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, and the largest island, Phuket.

Whether you want to relax on pristine beaches, party till sunrise or find your inner DiCaprio, no Thailand trip is complete without a visit to at least one Thai island.

➡️ Check Out This Tour Of Phang Nga Bay From Phuket!


3. Visit The Ancient Capital Of Ayutthaya

Image of three pagodas in the city f Ayutthaya in Thailand

The ancient capital of Siam (Thailand’s former name) is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. It’s a relatively short trip from Bangkok making it an excellent day trip option.

Sukhothai was officially the first Siamese capital until 1378 when Ayutthaya flourished as the thriving capital for around 400 years. Both are worth visiting but Ayuttaya has the advantage of being slightly closer to Bangkok.

The UNESCO Heritage Site is filled with incredible ancient ruins and is a must-see for any first-timers to Thailand interested in history and beautiful temples.

➡️ Check Out This Tour Of Ayutthaya From Bangkok!


4. Get Lost In The Markets & Night Bazaars

Image of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market near Bangkok. Vendors are in boats selling wares along the canal

When it comes to shopping, Thailand’s famous markets are the place to be. You’ll find everything from clothes to souvenirs at the atmospheric markets and it’s a great place to eat as much food as you can.

Some of the most famous markets are the Chatuchak Weekend Market and Train Night Market in Bangkok, the Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street Market in Chiang Mai and the Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets.

Check the times and days the markets run as you don’t want to turn up on the wrong day. Also, expect to haggle for your souvenirs/clothing. It’s all part of the fun!

➡️ Check Out This Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour!


5. Explore Northern Thailand

A girl from the Karen Longneck Hill tribe in Thailand sits and knits

Thailand’s north is rugged and mountainous and is the perfect place for travellers to experience a completely different side of this diverse country.

Chiang Mai is the perfect place to start. Although a lot smaller than Bangkok, there is plenty to see and do here. Like the 300-odd temples in and around the city. Chiang Mai’s location also makes it a great base for exploring other areas in the north such as Chiang Rai and Pai.

Hill Tribe Villages | The Karen people, along with other hill-tribe villages, fled Myanmar due to political turmoil and now reside in northern Thailand as well as Vietnam. This is where you’ll have your opportunity to see the famous Karen Long Neck women although you’ll have to decide for yourself whether this is ethical or not.

➡️ Check Out This Best Selling Day Tour From Chiang Mai!


5. Take A Thai Cooking Class

man is collecting ingredients for food from various pots

Thai cuisine is some of the tastiest you’ll sample on your travels. Forget those ready-made Thai green curry packs from your local supermarket, real Thai food from Thailand is on another level!

From spicy soups to sweet rice desserts, Thai cuisine is varied and delicious and one of the best things you can do is have a go at making it yourself! Not only is this a fun activity but you’ll learn some new skills to impress your friends when you get home.

You’ll be taught how to make curry paste from scratch and how each of the ingredients adds flavour to the recipes. Many tours will even take you to gather your ingredients while you experience a local, bustling food market.

➡️ Check Out This Thai Cooking Class In Bangkok


6. Take A Muay Thai Class Or Lesson

several pairs of Thai boxing gloves are hanging from the wall

The national sport of Thailand, Muay Thai (or Thai Boxing) is a brutal, but spiritual, close-combat martial art. Often referred to as The Art of Eight Limbs, Muay Thai is popular with locals and tourists and there are many stadiums around the country that show regular fights.

The two best venues in the country to catch a fight are in Bangkok. Rajadamnern Stadium is only a 20-minute walk from Khao San Road and was the first Muay Thai stadium to be built in Thailand! The Lumpinee Stadium is the other legendary venue but has moved to a new venue making it less accessible. Both venues will often have big-name fights and tickets will cost 1500 THB – 2000 THB.

There are plenty of gyms/camps that offer Muay Thai training too. Many offer weekly and monthly packages that include training, food, and accommodation. If you still haven’t had enough, the gyms often offer a discount for stadium fights too.

➡️ Why Not Try This Private Muay Thai In Bangkok?


7. Take A History Lesson At Kanchanaburi

train track next to the river in Kanchanaburi

Want to see the Bridge over the River Kwai? Then travel a couple of hours west of Bangkok to the historic town of Kanchanaburi.

The iconic bridge is a moving reminder of the World War II era when, under Japanese control, half the POWs working on the bridge died due to a variety of reasons.

But don’t think that it’s all sad war sites at Kanchanaburi. One of the biggest national parks – Erawan NP is also located here and boasts the stunning Erawan Falls. There’s also a variety of animals to look for including several monkey species, elephants and even tigers!

➡️ Check Out This Private Tour Of Erawan National Park


8. Take In A Ladyboy Cabaret Show

a ladyboy - a transgender man, at a cabaret show

Thailand is also one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in Southeast Asia (and maybe the world.) There are many LGBT-friendly bars and clubs in Bangkok and everyone is welcome.

Those looking for something glamorous to do can see a cabaret show with a difference. Ladyboys, or kathoeys, are a big draw for many tourists. Whether you want a night of singing and dancing, or something a little more interesting, a night with the ladyboys is one you won’t forget in a hurry.

➡️ Check Out The Best Ladyboy Show In Bangkok Here!


9. Relax With A Traditional Thai Massage

am woman is giving a massage to a client with a Buddha statue on the floor

You can’t visit Thailand without getting a famous Thai massage! The traditional massage dates back thousands of years and may be different from what you’re used to at home. There’s more stretching and pulling and is classed as a healing practice.

From a simple head rub to a complete all-body package, a Thai massage is relatively inexpensive and can lower stress, boost energy and stimulate blood circulation. It’s even been given UNESCO Heritage status.


10. Get Soaked During The Songkran Festival

Local children splash a man on a scooter with water in a village in Thailand

Every year on the 13th of April the whole country celebrates Thai New Year or Songkran. Many offices, banks, and local shops close as residents travel home to be with their families. For the next few days, everyone celebrates, what has now become, the biggest water fight in the world!

The throwing of water symbolizes the washing away of one’s misfortunes of the previous year. City streets are packed with locals and tourists alike carrying buckets and water pistols. There are also street processions and performances in places like Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

You’ll find more spiritual celebrations at the temples with the washing of bathing of Buddha images. You may also witness Rot Nam Dam Hua, the tradition of pouring scented water over the hands of respected elders such as parents or teachers.

Make sure you book your accommodation well ahead of time if you visit during Songkran and be prepared to get soaked!


11. Take An Elephant For A Walk

Jeff feeds an elephant in Thailand

Your first trip to Thailand may be your first real opportunity to get up close and personal with an elephant. These beautiful creatures have been part of Thailand’s history for centuries and play an important role in Thai culture.

You’ll often see the elephant trainers (mahouts) offer rides in certain regions such as Ayutthaya or Chiang Mai but before ticking this activity off your bucket list, you should know one thing about these domesticated animals.

Any kind of sanctuary that offers rides or any kind of ‘show’ most likely involves elephants who have had their spirit broken as a calf. This technique is called the Phajaan, or crushing, and involves removing the calf from its mother before being beaten and jabbed with bullhooks until it understands the basic commands.

So instead of riding an elephant, why not go on a walk with them instead? You’ll still enjoy an unforgettable experience and have a chance to touch, feed and even wash your new jumbo friend!


12. Enjoy The View From A Rooftop Bar

Image of the Lebua Skybar at night with bar staff serving customers

Ever since a certain bar was featured in the Hangover Part II, rooftop bars have become one the must-dos for anyone visiting Thailand, first time or not!

Many rooftop bars offer spectacular views of the city and they are the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail, or a meal, as the sun sets and the city starts to light up. There is usually a smart casual dress code, so no flip-flops or Chang Beer tops, please!

The most famous of all rooftop bars is the high-priced Sky Bar at the Lebua State Tower Hotel, and they know it! The prices are nearly as high as the bar itself (nearly £30/$40 for a signature cocktail!)


When Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand?

Many people think Thailand is hot all year round but, like most tropical countries, there’s a rainy season too. However, it’s difficult to clearly define the weather due to the length of the country.

The majority of Thailand experiences tropical, humid weather for most of the year so to help decide when the best time to visit Thailand is, I’ll explain the season by region.

North Thailand

Selfie of couple standing on Pai Canyon. Last image for Thailand Travel Guide

The best time to visit northern Thailand is from November to February. Although I have been in March to May too and had excellent weather.

The north is the coldest region in the country during the dry season from November to February, but ‘cool’ means a lovely 23°C to 30°C! It is still hot enough for everyone to walk around in shorts and flip-flops.

Temperatures have been known to drop to 15 °C during the night, especially in the mountainous areas so it’s always good to have a fleece or hoodie with you.

Southern Thailand

The best time to visit southern Thailand is from November/December to April for the Andaman Sea but if you are visiting the Gulf Of Thailand, the good decent weather can last until August.

This is a great time to hit the beach, snorkel and dive due to the calm and clear waters. The rains may start to hit the southern regions as early as May with the east coast seeing more rainfall later in the year compared to the west.


Where To Stay In Thailand

You can spend as little or as much as you want on accommodation in Thailand. It can be as budget-friendly or luxurious as you desire. This also means you get excellent value on mid-range hotels.

Here are just a few highly recommended hotels in Thailand. These options offer excellent comfort and facilities worthy of a luxury resort without the high price tag.

➡️ Tamni – This is one of the coolest places to stay in Bangkok. The term concrete jungle comes to mind in this stylish and moderately priced accommodation. Although advertised as a hostel, the facilities and private rooms are as good, if not better, than many other Bangkok hotels. Trust me, I’ve seen them!

👉 Check out the latest prices for Tamni here!
💰 Alternatively, this Bangkok hostel is an excellent budget option!

➡️ Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts – One of the coolest-looking hotels in Chiang Mai! The main feature of this hotel is the beautiful architecture as well as the wonderfully decorated rooms and pool area. Close to the centre of the city, the hotel has friendly staff and if you like any of the terracotta pieces you can ask to buy them!

👉 Check out the latest prices for Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts here!
💰 Alternatively, this Chiang Mai hostel is an excellent budget option!

➡️ Sinae Phuket – This 5* hotel is a little slice of luxury paradise in Phuket. Located away from the busy Phuket Town, the hotel has fantastic views of the ocean and easy beach access. The rooms are beautifully decorated and many of them have their own private pool.

👉 Check out the latest prices for Sinae Phuket here!
💰 Alternatively, this Phuket hostel is an excellent budget option!


FAQs: Visiting Thailand

Still want to know more about Thailand? Here are some of the most asked questions from those looking to visit.

Is Thailand safe?

Thailand is one of the safest countries to visit in SE Asia. However, just like most places in the world, that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down, especially when travelling alone.

A quick look at the travel safety websites will tell you that there are currently ethnic and racial conflicts occurring in Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces. These are areas to seriously avoid!

Generally speaking though, Thailand is super safe in the main tourist areas, the locals are friendly and it’s quite easy to avoid scams as long you keep your wits about you.


Is it expensive to visit Thailand?

No, but it’s not as cheap as it used to be and whether Thailand is expensive to visit or not really depends on your travel style and budget.

You have many options for both budget-conscious and luxury travellers. Ultimately, Thailand is known as an affordable country to travel. Hence the amount of backpackers.

There is plenty of affordable accommodation, delicious cheap street food, and local transportation making it cheap and easy to explore Thailand on a budget. Likelywise there are plenty of luxury hotels and fine dining options for those who can afford to splurge.


How many days In Thailand Is Enough?

The amount of days needed in Thailand really depends on you. For visitors in Europe and America, it’s a long way to go to spend anything less than a week.

An ideal number of days for most is 10 days to two weeks. This will allow you to explore iconic visit cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, relax on a couple of island islands, and maybe even explore northern jungles.

You could easily spend just one week just to chill on an island such as Koh Samui or Phuket. You could also spend weeks slowly travelling or even volunteering throughout the country.


any reasons NOT to visit Thailand?

Many travellers (me included) absolutely love Thailand. However, some may find themselves a little out of their comfort zone if this is their first time in this part of the world.

The cities can be a little chaotic and there is an air pollution problem in places like Bangkok due to heavy traffic, and litter can be an issue in some areas which is typical of many developing countries. However, the country is making efforts to address these concerns.

Image of busy market in Thailand at night
Some may not enjoy the crowds like this one at a night market.

Seasoned travellers may find Thailand a little touristy now compared to the good old days! With overtourism comes the inevitable scam artists but it’s not a serious issue.

Backpackers are everywhere and although you may or may not like them, you can’t blame them for choosing Thailand to travel through! With the number of islands and resorts on offer, it’s quite easy to avoid those on their gap year or career break.

Certain areas are known for sex tourism so if research the locations this is something you want to avoid. The most well-known areas are the red-light districts in Bangkok and Pattaya.


Wrapping up: Is Thailand Worth Visiting?

Whether you’re planning your first big backpacking adventure or a ‘short’ two-week vacation, Thailand is worth visiting for many reasons. It’s probably the easiest country to travel around in Southeast Asia due to its excellent transport network and helpful locals.

From modern comforts to adventures off the beaten track, it’s no wonder that people often refer to Thailand as the ultimate travel destination. Even though I’ve now travelled through Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam, there’s something special about returning to Thailand and I can’t wait for each return.

With so much variety on offer, it’s likely your first time in the Land of Smiles will definitely not be your last!

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