Where to Stay in Thailand – Ultimate Guide

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Thailand Where Stay

Thailand is a popular country to visit in South East Asia. The country is known for its bustling nightlife, delicious food scenes, beautiful golden temples, tropical beaches, and lush forests. 

I’ve always had a big love for Thailand and have traveled all over the country, checking out both the popular places and some off-the-beaten-path spots.

I enjoy the energy and convenience of big cities like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. I also had amazing times exploring quiet places like Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lanta, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, or Hua Hin.

Whatever you are looking for a holiday, Thailand has it all! From beaches to the jungle, from wild parties to wellness retreats, from luxury shopping and fine dining to cheap souvenirs and tasty street food, you can find everything in this beautiful country.

Where to Stay in Thailand ?  

If it’s your first time in Thailand, I’d say start with the big cities to get a feel for the country before heading out to the quieter, more remote spots.mSome of the best places in Thailand for first-time visitors are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Ao Nang/ Krabi.

Where to Stay in Thailand on map
Where to Stay in Thailand on map

Bangkok, in Central Thailand, gives you a crash course in Thai life, including modern city life, ancient traditions, street food, temples, and chaotic charm. Chiang Mai, in North Thailand, is a place to go for its mountainous atmosphere, slower pace of life, ancient temples, lush scenery, and traditional crafts. 

Phuket, in South Thailand, is a place to go for beaches. This is Thailand’s largest island, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and island-hopping opportunities.

Bangkok is the main gate way to Thailand with most international flights landing in either Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang airport, making it the natural starting point. The city is also Thailand’s main transport hub, offering easy access to domestic flights, buses, and trains to destinations across the country.

It is recommended to stay 2–4 days before moving on to explore beaches, mountains, or islands. You can go North to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai; go South to Phuket, Krabi, islands; go East to Pattaya, Koh Samet, or  Koh Chang.

25 Best Places to Stay in Thailand

1. Bangkok

Bangkok is the best place to stay in Bangkok for the first time. It’s the capital city and the transport hub of Thailand. Most international flights arrive here, so it’s easy and practical to start your trip in the capital.

Bangkok
Bangkok

Bangkok is a microcosm of Thailand. The city gives you a little bit of everything Thailand has to offer, flavorful food, ornate temples, bustling markets, and a deep cultural vibe, all in one place. It may be busy and chaotic, but it’s also exciting, affordable, and full of variety.  

Bangkok is packed with Thailand’s most famous cultural landmarks. You can explore the iconic Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha). These are great starting points for understanding Thai history and culture.

The city also offers a wide range of world-famous Thai food such as pad Thai, mango sticky rice, satay, and boat noodles. You can try everything from cheap street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Additionally, Bangkok has a vibrant shopping and nightlife scene. It is home to many modern malls, lively nightmarkets, famous red lights districts, as well as lots of bars and clubs. 

You can go shopping at massive malls like Central World, MBK, Siam Paragon, Terminal 21, and Emporium. There are a range of markets both day, night, floating, and train markets offering outdoor shopping experiences such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market or Chinatown Night Market.

If you are into wild nightlife with adult entertainments, you can check out several locations in Downtown Bangkok like Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy, and Patpong. If you want trendy bars and nightclubs, you can head to Thonglor, Ekkamani, and Phrom Phong.

The city has a very sufficient public transport system, so you can easily get around by Skytrain (BTS), MRT, taxis, and river boats. 

It has good domestic flights and long distance buses and trains, so you can travel from Bangkok to other popular spots like Chiang Mai, Phuket, or the islands. You can also use Bangkok as a base for day trips to Ayutthaya, Lopburi, and Kanchanaburi.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Bangkok:

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2. Phuket

Phuket is a major island in South Thailand, and is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for beaches, island hopping, culture, and convenience. Phuket is an ideal for first-timers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, beach, culture, and fun.

Phuket
Phuket

The island is home to Phuket International Airport, which offers direct flights from many countries and Bangkok. It is also a good base for day trips to other islands in South Thailand like Phi Phi Islands, James Bond island, Koh Yao island, or Khao Sok National Park. 

Phuket has a great selection of white sandy beaches, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sport activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and boating. 

All famous beaches on the island are located on the west coast. Patong Beach is the center of the action of Phuket, offering a vibrant nightlife scene. Kata, Karon, and Kamala Beaches offer more relaxed, family-friendly options, and close proximity to Patong.

There are many quieter and more scenic beaches on the islands like Freedom, Surin, Nai Harn, Nai Thon, Mai Khao, and Bang Tao Beach. 

This island also has a lively nightlife and shopping scene. Patong and  Bangla Road is the heart of the party in Phuket. The food in other beach towns and Phuket Old Town are more relaxing and mostly about dining, and browsing the night markets.

In terms of shopping, Phuket is home to two major modern shopping malls and many local markets. Central Phuket near Phuket Old Town and Jungceylon Mall in Patong are places to go for mid-range and luxury international brands.

The night markets can be found in all popular towns. Patong itself is home to several night markets, including Banzaan, OTOP Market, or Malin Plaza.

Phuket Old Town is also home to numerous markets where you can try authentic foods with reasonable prices. I particularly like the Chillva Market, you must check it out. 

In addition to beaches, shopping, and nightlife, Phuket is home to numerous temples and cultural attractions to explore. I recommend you visit the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Old Phuket Town.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Phuket:

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3. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the major city in North Thailand, and is one of the best places to stay in Thailand for more relaxed atmosphere, culturally rich, and mountain activities. 

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has an international airport, long distance buses, and a train station, making it easily reachable from other parts of Thailand. It is also a perfect base for exploring beautiful places in North Thailand like Pai, Chiang Rai, and The Golden Triangle area.

Chiang Mai is the former capital city of the Lanna Kingdom, offering deep cultural experiences. It is home to many ancient temples, traditional markets, and festivals, without the chaos of Bangkok.

The city has hundreds of temples to explore. I recommend visiting the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (consider taking the Mon’s trail if you like hiking), and many temples in the old town like Wat Phra Singh and Watchediluang Varaviharn.

When it comes to the cost of living,  Chiang Mai is cheaper than other places like Bangkok and Phuket. You can stay longer or enjoy more with the same budget. It is indeed home to a huge expat and digital nomad community due to its reasonable cost of living.

You can enjoy many activities in Chiang Mai without the hectic pace of Bangkok. I enjoyed my Thai cooking classes, and you can also consider taking Muay Thai lessons, meditation retreats, as well as art or craft workshops.

Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains and national parks, which is ideal for nature lovers and hikers. The city is a hub for trekking, waterfalls, ethical elephant sanctuaries, ziplining, and hot springs.

The city has a fantastic food scene with many traditional northern Thai food, international dishes, with tons of options for vegans, vegetarians, and coffee lovers.

Night markets like Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street offer amazing local eats and handmade crafts. I recommend trying Khao Soi, which is Thai’s most famous northern curry noodle soup.

Chiang Mai is a perfect place to visit for those who want a relaxing holiday with lots of cultural attractions. It’s cheaper, easier to navigate, and packed with experiences without the intensity of the bigger cities or party islands. 

Where to Stay in Thailand in Chiang Mai:

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4. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a popular island in South Thailand and a good choice for visitors who want beaches, convenience, and a bit of culture. This island is one of only two in Thailand with an international airport, providing convenient access by both air and sea.

Koh Samui
Koh Samui

Koh Samui It boasts stunning palm-fringed beaches, lush mountains, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of Western conveniences.  

Chaweng Beach is the main tourist beach town of Samui. It is busy, party-friendly, and full of bars and shops. Lamai Beach is the second most popular tourist town, offering more chilled, but still lively. Bophut is also a popular town but has a more upscale atmosphere.

There are plenty of other beaches scattered around the island, offering a more quiet atmosphere. You can check out Taling Ngann, Lipa Noi, Bang Tao, or Maenam Beach for more remote feels.

The island has a good shopping and nightlife scene. Lots of night markets, shops, bars, and restaurants in popular beach towns. Central Samui is modern malls with lots of international brand and upscale restaurant can be found in the main town, Chaweng,

If you want to take a break from the beaches and nightlife, you can explore several famous temples and cultural attractions like Wat Plai Laem, Big Buddha, Wat Khunaram, and Tarnim Magic Garden.

With mountainous terrains, the island has lots of stunning viewpoints and waterfalls. Popular ones are the Na Muang Waterfall and Overlap Stone 1,2,3.

Everything in Koh Samui is still tourist-friendly, with English widely spoken and menus in multiple languages. Lots of restaurants and bars are owned by foreigners.

From Koh Samui, you can easily take island hopping tours and boat trips to nearby Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Samui:

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5. Ao Nang/ Krabi

Krabi is a famous region in South Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscape with breathtaking limestone karst formations. It is also a great destination for outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Krabi
Krabi

This province has an international airport, making it easily accessible by air. There are many domestic flights from Bangkok, and even direct international flights from Southeast Asia.

Krabi is home to many popular towns and islands such as Ao Nang, Railay, Tonsai, Koh Hong, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. Ao Nang is the most popular place to stay in Krabi for a balance of nature, beaches, adventure, and accessibility.

From Ao Nang, you can easily take a boat trip to Railay Beach, Tonsai Beach, Phi Phi Islands, Hong Islands, Four Islands Tour (Chicken, Tup, Poda, Phra Nang). You can snorkel, dive, kayak, or just cruise through beautiful scenery.

Railay Beach and Tonsai Beach are famous rock climbing destinations. It also has beautiful beaches and caves to explore.

Ao Nang is an ideal base for first-timers to Thailand because it is tourist-friendly but not overwhelmingly commercialized. You’ll find plenty of restaurants (Thai + international), tour agencies, motorbike rentals, massage parlors, convenience stores, as well as ATMs and pharmacies. 

It’s walkable and easy to get around with tuk-tuks or scooter rentals. Riding share services like Grab, Bolt, and InDrive are available on Ao Nang, making it easy to get around.

In addition to the beaches, you can visit Krabi Town for authentic food, night markets, and famous temples like the Tiger Cave Temple.

Just be aware that some beaches in the mainland near Ao Nang aren’t the best for swimming. You can go to nearby islands or Railay for the beautiful crystal clear water beaches.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Ao Nang/ Krabi:

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6. Pattaya 

Pattaya is a popular beach town located in central Bangkok, just around 1-2 hours drive from Bangkok. It is a good destination for experiencing nightlife and urban fun.

Pattaya
Pattaya

Pattaya is easily reached from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. There are many buses and minivan services each day from the airport to Pattaya, making it easily accessible.

Pattaya is best known for its wild nightlife and adult entertainments. The Walking Street is lined with bars, clubs, live music, go-go bars.

Beaches in Pattaya like Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach, and Wong Amat Beach might not be one of the best beaches in Thailand, but a good spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. 

You can take a boat trip to the nearby island called Koh Larn (Coral Island) for cleaner beaches and turquoise water. The ride is only around 45 minutes, perfect for a day trip.

The city has a Cosmopolitan Feel with a mix of Thai culture and international convenience. English is widely spoken. Other attractions and activities in Pattaya include the Sanctuary of Truth, temples, and a floating market, and cabaret shows.

Pattaya is also a great destination for shopping. There are several large shopping malls located in the area around Pattaya Beach. The most famous ones are Terminal 21, and Central Pattaya. 

Where to Stay in Thailand in Pattaya:

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7. Hua Hin

Hua Hin is a popular beach city located 3 hours by train from Bangkok. It is quieter and less commercial compared to Pattaya, which is similar distance from Bangkok.

Hua Hin
Hua Hin

Hua Hin is popular with families, couples, retirees, and first-timers who are looking for a charming beach town with Thai authenticity near Bangkok.

There are plenty of things to do and see in and around Hua Hin. The city has a good nightlife and shopping scene with lots of bars, shopping malls, and night markets. 

You can shop at modern shopping malls like Market Village and Bluport as well as Hua Hin Night Market, Cicada Market and Tamarind Night Market. These are great places for food, art, and souvenirs.

In terms of nightlife, you can check out many bars and night clubs at the areas like Soi 94 (expat area), Soi Bintabaht, and Soi 80 opposite the train station.

Hua Hin has an amazing food scene. It is known for fresh seafood, especially around the fishing piers and local markets. Street food is delicious but generally less chaotic and cleaner than in Bangkok.

The beaches in Hua Hin are generally clean, swimmable, and family-friendly. Taking the horse ride along the beach is a popular activity in Hua Hin Beach. 

The city is home to several cultural attractions such as Wat Huay Mongkol, Big Budha, royal palaces, and an Artists Village. 

You can use Hua Hin to explore natural attractions in the nearby region. I rented a scooter and explored many places on day trips from Hua Hin. I recommend visiting Phraya Nakhon Cave in Sam Roi Yot National Park, Pa La-U Waterfall, PranBuri and Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Parks.

You can do many outdoor activities in this region including golf, kite surfing, hiking, or visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Hua Hin:

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8. Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is a popular beach destination in South Thailand, near Koh Samui and Koh Tao. The island is known for its Full Moon Party, beaches, nature, and wellness. It is especially popular with backpackers, wellness seekers, digital nomads and long-stay travelers.

Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is only accessible by boat from nearby islands like Koh Tao and Koh Samui as well as mainland Chumphon and Surat Thani. 

Haad Rin Beach hosts the iconic Full Moon Party, attracting a large number of younger travelers or party goers. Even outside of the full moon, there are half moon and jungle parties. 

If you want a quieter atmosphere, you can head to the beaches on the north east coast of the island. Places like Zen Beach and Sri Thanu Beach have lots of yoga, wellness, detox retreats, vegan cafes, and conscious living communities.

For a bit of luxury and away from it all, you can consider staying on the north east coast of the island at Thong Nai Pan Noi and Yai Beach. For a remote atmosphere, Bottle Beach is a good choice.

In addition to the beaches and its activities, Koh Phangan offers lots of jungle activities such as exploring the waterfalls and hiking to the viewpoints and hidden beaches. 

I love hiking and explored lots of hiking trails around the island. If you are looking for good hiking trails on the island, I recommend the Bottle Beach Viewpoint, Bottle Beach, Khao Ra Viewpoint, Haad Yuan Beach and Viewpoint, and Dom Sila Viewpoint.

From Koh Phangan, you can easily take boat tours to nearby islands like Koh Tao and Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park for snorkeling and diving. 

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Phangan (near the party and away the party):

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9. Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island located in the Western Gulf of Thailand, close to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Tee island is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, hiking, and enjoying the crystal turquoise beautiful beaches.

Koh Tao
Koh Tao

Koh Tao is one of the best and cheapest places in the world to get scuba certified. You will have a chance to see turtles, reef sharks, colorful fish, and even whale sharks (in season). Excellent spots like Shark Bay, Ao Leuk, and Hin Wong Bay are accessible from the shore.

Sairee Beach and Mae Haad beach are the main beaches of the island. Other beautiful places are Shark Bay, Tanote Bay, Sai Nuan, and Freedom Beach.

The island has mountainous terrain and is an ideal place for hiking. There are many trails around the island along the coast and up to the viewpoints for enthusiastic hikers. You can check out John-Suwan, Mango Bay, The Light House, and Grape Viewpoint.

Koh Tao is only accessible by the sea. There are boat connections between Koh Tao with mainland Chumphon, Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Tao:

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10. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful island in the Andaman Sea of Thailand, known for its towering limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches. It is a popular day trip from nearby major destinations such as Phuket and Ao Nang/ Krabi.

Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi

If you take a day trip, you can explore the most famous attractions on the Phi Phi Islands such as Maya Bay (the filming location of The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio), Pi Leh Bay, Viking Cave, Tonsai Beach, and Monkey Beach.

If you have time, it is worth spending at least a night or two on the island to explore its vibrant nightlife, other quiet beaches, and viewpoints. If you like hiking, the island has lots of hiking trails for you to explore.

I walked around the island along the coast and into the jungle to explore most beaches and attractions. I recommend checking out Ton Sai, Loh Dalum, Nui Bay, Loh Dalum, Laem Tong, Loh Ba Kao Bay, and Long Beach.

The island has 4 beautiful viewpoints: Phi Phi Viewpoint 1,2,3,4, offering stunning views of the sea and Tosai Village. There are plenty of steep steps to climb, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to experience these viewpoints.

KOh Phi Phi is only accessible by boat from nearby islands and mainland such as Phuket and Ao Nang/ Railay in Krabi. From Phi Phi, you can take long tail boats to places like Bamboo or Mosquito Island.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Phi Phi:

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11. Ko Lanta

Koh Lanta is a big island in the Krabi region of South Thailand. The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere and a good range of beautiful beaches.

I recommend visiting Koh Lanta if you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday away from the bustle and hustle of the popular Phuket, Railay, or Phi Phi.

Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta

The island has a large population of Muslim communities and it has managed to preserve an authentic local feel. You can find the beaches on the west coast, the main town and the pier on the north, and the old town on the east coast of the island.

The beaches on Koh Lanta are generally family-friendly, good for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. From north to south on the west coast, you can explore Klong Dao, Long Beach, Klong Nin, Kantiang Bay, Nui Bay, and Bamboo Beach. 

To the southern tip of the island, you can take a one hour hike around the natural trail inside Mu Ko Lanta National Park to explore its sandy beach and the lighthouse. 

Not far from the national park’s headquarters and Klong Chak Beach, you can explore the Klong Chak Waterfall. It has a good trail and is a peaceful place to visit.

For a bit of history and cultural attractions, you can head to the middle east coast to visit the historic old town. It is a quaint town with wooden Chinese‑Thai houses, seafood cafes, and unique cultural charm.

If you have time, you can rent a scooter exploring Koh Lanta Noi, which is a smaller less tourist island of Koh Lanta archipelago. Just drive around and explore its hidden beaches, local fishing piers, mangrove forests, and local villages.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Ko Lanta:

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12. Koh Yao Yai/ Noi

These two neighboring islands are off the beaten path in the Andaman Sea, right next to Phuket. They are undeveloped islands with unspoiled beaches, lush mangroves, and scenic views of Phang Nga Bay.

Koh Yao
Koh Yao

If you’re seeking a more authentic and remote island experience, Koh Yao islands are a good choice. Koh Yao Noi is a smaller island with more tourist amenities while Koh Yao Yai has a more rural feel.

The two islands are relatively flat with quiet roads, and minimal traffic, so you can rent a scooter to get around. They are located just 10 minutes from the boat ride, so you can easily bring a scooter (with the permission of the shop owner) to another island to explore.

In Koh Yao Yai, you can explore Laem Had, Son Bay, Loh Pared, Loh Jak, Ao Muong, Ao Sai, and Hin Kong Beach. Loh Pared is the tourist center of Koh Yao Yai.

In Koh Yao Noi, you can explore Pasai, Klong Jark, Tha Khao, Long Beach, Little Long Beach. Additionally, you can visit Tha Khao Viewpoint, Tha Khao Waterfall, and the Tha Tonda fishing Village for seafood.

Both islands are surrounded by mangrove forest, so you can consider taking kayaking or long tail boat tours along the forests. 

These two sister islands are perfectly located between Phuket and Krabi. You can use them as a base for day trips to James Bond Island and Koh Hong Islands. These places have beautiful beaches, limestone cliffs, great for kayaking and snorkeling.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Yao Yai/ Noi:

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13. Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Thailand. It is known for its massive man made lake, stunning limestone landscapes, and diverse wildlife, and lots of hiking opportunities. Many people come to this national park to experience a night stay on the floating bungalows.

Khao Sok
Khao Sok

The area offers lots of outdoor activities such as Jungle trekking, tubing, canoeing, caving, and night safari. It is located in southern Thailand, and is easily accessible from famous areas like Surat Thani, Krabi, or Phuket.

Khao Sok Village is a small village located at the entrance of Khao Sok National Park’s headquarters. The village has everything for a comfortable stay such as ATMs, local minimarts, restaurants, bars, cafes, massage shops, and motorbike rentals.

Cheow Lan Lake is located around 70km away from the area’s main village. YOu can rent a scooter or take a guided day tour to the lake or stay overnight on the lake. 

Popular activities on the lake are taking the boat tour, visiting one the caves (Diamond Cave, Nam Talu Cave, Coral Cave), jungle trek, and swimming and kayaking around the floating bungalows.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Khao Sok:

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14. Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a good destination in South Thailand for romantic getaways, honeymoons, or peaceful family vacations. It has long quiet beaches, lush rainforest, laid-back atmosphere, and lots of tourist amenities.  

Khao Lak is only 1.5 hours drive from Close to Phuket International Airport , making it accessible yet still tucked away from the chaos. From Khao Lak, you can explore nearby Khao Sok National Park, Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, and the world-class diving & snorkeling Similan and Surin Islands.

Khao Lak
Khao Lak

Within Khao Lak itself, you can explore a range of peaceful beaches. They are Nang Thong, Bang Niang, Khuk Khak, Coconut Beach, White sand Beach, Pak Weep, and Bang Sak Beach.

You can visit the night market and The Little Amazon at the nearby historic mining town of Takuapa. You can go for a little hike at the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park at its natural trail to the sandy beach or at the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.

The city center area of Khao Lak is packed with tourist amenities like restaurants, bars, tailor shops, massage, motorbike rentals, and super markets. Bang Niang Market is a must-see attraction in Khao Lak. You can browse for local street food and buy some souvenirs here.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Khao Lak:

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15. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a good place to visit in far north Thailand for those wanting a more local and peaceful experience. The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lush forests. It is great for trekking, enjoying Northern Thailand, and exploring cultural and historical attractions.

Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is home to some unique temples with beautiful architecture. You visit the Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple, and Wat Huay Pla Kang.

Another popular historical attraction is the Black House museum where you can see traditional houses of local people from the Lana Kingdom period. 

The city center of Chiang Rai has a good range of tourist amenities. You can find everything for your comfortable visit but with a slower pace and fewer crowds. I recommend checking out the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and the Clock tower.

You can use Chiang Rai as a base to visit the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. There are many hill tribes in the region to explore like the Akha, Karen Long Neck Village, and Lahu. The city has many trails for hiking, as well as tea plantations and waterfalls to explore.

Chiang Rai is located just 3-4 hours drive from Chiang Mai by bus. It also has an airport with flights from Bangkok. It still retains a hidden gem vibe, especially for repeat Thailand visitors.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Chiang Rai:

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16. Pai

Pai is a small mountainous town located in the northern area of Thailand, around a 3 hour bus ride from Chiang Mai. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural landscapes. It is a popular destination for backpackers and digital nomads.

Pai Walking Street
Pai Walking Street

This small town is surrounded by lush mountains and valleys, which is perfect for hiking, trekking, or just enjoying the views. I enjoyed my hike inside the jungle to the remote Mae Yen Waterfall.

Other popular natural attractions in Pai include Pai Canyon, Nam Lod Cave, Kho Ku So Bamboo Bridge, and Pam Bok Waterfall. You can enjoy water activities along Pai River such as tubing. Major cultural attractions like Big Buddha or Chinese Village.

The town also has a good range of trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. Many of those have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and great places to watch the sunset.

Pai has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially around the Walking Street and Night Market. It is lined with bars, and tourist amenities like souvenir shops, massage parlors, and travel agencies. 

Pai has earned a reputation as a hippie town, attracting travelers looking for peace and a slower pace of life. It’s a good choice to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities like Chiang Mai or Bangkok. Many visitors come to Pai for yoga retreats and holistic wellness experiences.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Pai:

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17. Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a large island in the eastern gulf of Thailand. It is a good beach holiday destination close to Bangkok, perfect for those looking for laid-back vibes, and without the massive crowds.

Koh Chang
Koh Chang

Koh Chang has a range of beautiful sandy beaches and clean waters, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or watching the sunset. Some popular beaches on the island are White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, Kai Bae, Lonely Beach, and Bang Tao Beach.

Most beaches are located on the west coast of the island, while the east coast has farms and mangrove forests.  You can see some attractions on the east coast like Khlong Nonsi Waterfall, Than Mayom Waterfall, Salak Phet Mangrove Forest, Salak Phet temple, and the light house.

In addition to the beaches and waterfalls, Koh Chang is a good place to do hiking. There are lots of hiking trails around the island. 

The most challenging one is hiking to the highest peak of Koh Chang at Khao Laem Mountain. I enjoyed this tour very much, it was tough with steep terrain but well worth it with stunning views on the top. Other popular outdoor activities are kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and diving. 

The island has a good nightlife scene but is not overcrowded. It has a good range of beach bars, nightclubs, fireshows, and restaurants to enjoy.

Koh Chang is only accessible by boat, so you need to find the way to Aow Thammachat Pier in mainland Trat then take around 1 hour boat ride to get to the island. In the high season, there are direct boats from Koh Mak and Koh Kood to Koh Chang.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Chang:

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18. Koh Mak

Koh Mak is a small island located next to Koh Chang and Koh Kood. It is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for its unspoiled beaches, laid-back, traditional Thai vibe. If you want to explore a relatively undeveloped island, this is a place to go.

Koh Mak
Koh Mak

The island is small and flat, you can easily explore it on foot, bicycle, scooter, or electronic golf carts. I spent a couple of nights on the island, one day I explored on foot and one day on bicycle. You can see most things within 2 full days.

The island boasts pristine, uncrowded beaches with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Some of the most famous beaches, like Ao Suan Yai and Ao Kao, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. Places like Banana Sunset Bar are popular spots to watch the sunset.

Ao Kao is the main town of the island, packed with shops, restaurants, cages, travel agents, and massage places. It has some cultural attractions to explore like Wat Samakkhitham near Ao Nid Pier and Somchai Love Garden near Koh Mark resort.

The island is accessible by boat. You can take a boat ride from Laem Ngop Pier or Laem Sok Pier in mainland Trat to get to Koh Mak. The boat ride is around 30 mins to 1 hour.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Mak:

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19. Koh Kood

Koh Kood is a large and undeveloped island located on the eastern gulf of Thailand, close to Koh Chang and Koh Mak. The island has laid back vibe, stunning beaches, authentic life with several cultural attractions and traditional fishing villages.

Koh Kood
Koh Kood

Koh Kood is home to a selection of secluded beaches. The beaches really have white soft sand and calm water, and are lined with leaning palm trees. Some major beaches on the island are Klong Chao Beach, Bang Bao, Ao Tapao, Klong Hin, and Ao Phrao Beach. 

As it is a large and undeveloped island, it is best to rent a scooter to explore the island. There aren’t any riding share services like Grab, InDrive, or Bolt on the island. The local songthaews are not very popular and often expensive.

The waters around Koh Kood are fantastic for snorkeling and diving. The surrounding coral reefs are vibrant with marine life, and there are many spots (like Koh Rang) where you can dive.

In addition to the beaches, the island has lush jungle where you can explore waterfalls and ancient trees. I recommend checking out Khlong Yai Kee, Klong Chak, and Huang Nam Khiao Waterfall. The big Chai tree and Macca Tree are also well worth checking out. They are huge trees around 500 years olds.

Then there are several local fishing villages where you can explore local life and enjoy delicious fresh seafood meals with the views of the mangrove forests. Ao Yai Fisherman Village on the south of Koh Kood is the most popular one, but you can check out Klong Mad and Ao Salat Villages.

Koh Mak is only accessible by boat. The closest pier is Laem Sok in mainland Trat. The boat ride is around 1 hour. 

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Kood:

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20. Koh Samet

Koh Samet is a small island located on the eastern gulf of Thailand, just a 2- to 3-hour drive from Bangkok and a short ferry ride. It is a good beach destination close to the Thai capital and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Koh Samet
Koh Samet

The island has a range of beaches with laid back atmosphere, white fine sand, and crystal clear water. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. 

Popular beaches like Sai Kaew, Ao Phai, Ao Prao, Ao Vong Duan, Ao Wai, and Ao Pakarang Beach. The beaches are quieter further south. The main town and main pier are located at the north of the island. 

The island is relatively small, so you can easily get around on foot. There are also lots of local songthaew taxis if you don’t like walking under the heat. You can consider renting a scooter to get around if you know how to drive.

Koh Samet has a good nightlife scene with lots of bars and restaurants in the walking street and on the beachfront of Sai Kaew Beach. The highlight of the nightlife here is the amazing fire show on the beach. A famous show is at the Ploy Talay restaurant.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Koh Samet:

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21. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a unique place to visit in the central region of Thailand. This countryside area has a good combination of natural beauty, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere. At just 3 hours by train from Bangkok, it’s an easy escape from the chaos of the city.

Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is surrounded by lush mountains and beautiful rivers. It’s famous for the Erawan National Park, home to the seven tiers Erawan Waterfalls where you can hike, swim, and relax.

The city has a lot of historical sites related to World War II, including the Death Railway and the Bridge over the River Kwai. You can learn its history at the Death Railway Museum or the Hellfire Pass.

Additionally, it has many beautiful temples to explore. These are Wat Ban Tham, Wat Tham Suea, or Wat Tham Khao Pun. This is not only a spiritual place but also a great hiking destination.

The city center of Kanchanaburi has a lively nightlife scene with lots of restaurants and bars on the River Kwai Road and several night markets. I recommend checking out the JJ Night Market near Kanchanburi Train Station, and the riverside Saturday Night Market near the Sky Walk.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Kanchanaburi:

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22. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is the ancient capital of Thailand, located just two hours by train from Bangkok. Many visitors take a day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok, but if time allows, it is well worth staying a night or two at this beautiful city.

Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya

The city is known for its ancient temples and ruins dating back to the 14th century. Iconic temples in the old town are the Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots.

You can take a sunset boat ride along the river to explore riverside temples like Wat Phutthaisawan, Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. 

One highlight of one of the temples in Ayutthaya is that many Buddha statues are headless or damaged, reminders of the 1767 Burmese invasion that sacked the city.

The city is bicycle-friendly, so you can easily get on a bicycle. If you want to avoid the heat, you can take easier options by hiring a local tuk tuk driver for a few hours to explore major temples in the city.

There is a night market in the old town called Ong Gaan Tolasap Night Market. You can try local specialties like boat noodles, roti sai mai (Thai cotton candy), and regional curries.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Ayutthaya:

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23. Khao Yai  

Khao Yai is a popular National Park in central Thailand, located 3 hours by train from Bangkok. The park is known for its lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife including elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and deer.

Khao Yai
Khao Yai

This mountainous area has cool, refreshing air and scenic mountain views all year round. It attracts lots of visitors from the Thai capital who want to escape the heat. 

I had a great time in Khao Yai. I stayed in Pak Chong and took two day trips. One half day trip to the natural spring and Bat Cave and one full day trips inside the national parks spotting wild animals.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Khao Yai:

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24. Sukhothai

Sukhuthai is the ancient capital city of Thailand, located in north Thailand, between Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai. If you travel between central and north Thailand by train, it is worth staying a night or two in this beautiful city.

Sukhothai
Sukhothai

You can rent a bicycle to explore dozens of temples (like Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum), ancient Buddha statues, and traditional architecture, all well-preserved and surrounded by nature.

The temples in Sukhothai are even older than the temples in Ayutthaya. In addition to the temples in Sukhothai Historical Park, you can check out the temples in Si Satchanalai Historical Park if you want more off-the-beaten-path beauty.

The area has a couple of night markets where you can enjoy authentic Sukhothai noodles (Kuay Tiew Sukhothai) and regional dishes at low prices. If you can wake up early, be sure to check out on the Morning Giving Alms at Wat Trapang Thong. It is a unique experience not to miss in Thailand.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Sukhothai:

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25. Ko Lipe

Ko Lipe is a tiny island located far south of Thailand, close to Malaysia. The island is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It is a great place for relaxing, enjoying the beaches, and snorkeling.

Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe

The island has three main beaches including Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, or Pattaya Beach. It is small, so you can walk around to most places. You can hire a long tail boat for an reasonable price to visit the nearby Koh Adang for more secluded beaches and hiking opportunities.

Where to Stay in Thailand in Ko Lipe:

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So there you have it, my list of the 25 best places to visit and stay in Thailand, including both popular cities and hidden gems. I’ve visited them all and had a great time exploring these places. 

Generally speaking, if this is your first visit, you can consider Bangkok for the urban Thai experience, Phuket for the beach, and Chiang Mai for Mountain charm and traditional Thai life. 

You can use Bangkok as the ase to explore the central region and all other parts of Thailand easily. Phuket is a great base to explore the islands, beaches, and national parks in South Thailand. Chiang Mai is a great base to explore North Thailand, which also includes Chiang Rai and Pai.

About Author: Huong Tran

My name is Huong and I have a big passion for Thailand. I have traveled to Thailand many times as a solo traveler, couples, and with friends. There was a time when I traveled across the whole country from north to south as a solo traveler, exploring each city on a motorbike, and I loved it. I hope you found helpful information about Thailand on my website.

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