Andaman coast
Phuket
Thailand's largest island, on the Andaman Sea: long sandy beaches, lively Patong, quieter bays in the south and a colourful Old Town. A base for boat trips to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay.
⭐ Highlights
- 1Patong, Kata and Karon beaches
- 2Phuket Old Town's Sino-Portuguese shophouses
- 3The Big Buddha viewpoint
- 4Day trips to the Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay
- 5Sunset at Promthep Cape
More destinations
All destinations →- Bangkok
Central
Bangkok
Thailand's capital: royal temples and palaces, a busy river, street food on every corner, rooftop bars and huge malls. Most visitors start and end their trip here.
- Chiang Mai
North
Chiang Mai
The north's cultural capital: hundreds of temples inside and around the old walled city, mountain views, night markets and a relaxed café scene.
- Pattaya
Eastern Gulf coast
Pattaya
A beach city on the Gulf of Thailand, close to Bangkok: busy nightlife, family attractions, water sports and quieter Jomtien Beach to the south.
🧳 Before you go
- Check the visa rules for your passport on the official Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before you book; they change from time to time.
- Emergency numbers: Tourist Police 1155 (English spoken), Police 191, Medical emergency 1669.
- Thailand uses the Thai baht (THB). Cards work in malls and hotels; carry some cash for markets, street food and taxis.
- Dress modestly at temples and the Grand Palace: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off where asked.
- Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps; agree the fare first for tuk-tuks and boats.
- Drink bottled or filtered water, and use sun protection: the midday sun is strong all year.
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