A Trip to Thailand is a unique experience, a dream many hope to fulfill at least once in their lifetime. No wonder the Land of Smiles, as it is often called, is a country with deep spiritual roots, largely still untouched by heavy human presence, where you can find yourself among islands and paradisiacal beaches, lush forests, ancient temples, a millenary culture, and truly fairy-tale landscapes.
In this article, we want to provide you with a complete guide to the best experiences to live and destinations to reach on a tour of at least one week in Thailand, with everything you need to know. As for the best time to travel to Thailand, regarding price and climate, we refer you to our specific guide on the subject. Now, let's dive into the proposals for unforgettable holidays!
Islands in Southeast Thailand
One of the reasons why Thailand is the most sought-after destination in Southeast Asia is its islands and its dreamlike sea, uniquely breathtaking in beauty. These are divided into two large groups, and if you have several days available to dedicate to exploring the south of the country, we recommend visiting both areas: you won’t regret it!
Islands of the Andaman Sea
In the Andaman Sea, you will find the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. The island of Phuket offers all the entertainment you could wish for, from quiet, little-frequented beaches like Kata Noi and Mai Kaoto the hectic nightlife of Patong.
An essential stop is also the Phi Phi Islands, the most famous islands in the country, but also the most visited by tourists. The fame of the Phi Phi Islands is closely linked to the unforgettable film The Beach by Danny Boyle starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which showcased their immense beauty on the big screen. If you love the film, you absolutely cannot return home without first swimming at Maya Bay on the island of Koh Phi Phi Leh!
Finally, we recommend visiting the wonderful coastline of Khao Lak. Among hotels and resorts catering to every need, Khao Lak might seem like just another luxury destination, but the reality is different.
This area has indeed experienced significant tourist development, but it offers accommodations for all budgets, villages inhabited by local tribes, and still retains its wild side. The Khao Lak – Lam Ru National Park for example, includes a vast tropical jungle covering hills and cliffs overlooking the sea, absolutely worth visiting!
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Ko Samui and the Islands of the Gulf of Thailand
The Gulf of Thailand, in turn, features islands of an arcane beauty that rival those just seen. In particular, Koh Samui offers the warmest welcome. It is a very trendy location, dotted with luxury hotels and resortsoffering every imaginable service, including spas and sports centers.
If you don’t like overly crowded places, know that Koh Samui is absolutely worth it. Nature here offers unique sights like the Big Buddha Temple and the Na Muang Waterfalls.
Also, from Koh Samui you can take a boat trip of about an hour to reach Koh Tao, a paradise for animal species such as sea turtles, which you can admire year-round. Here you can also enjoy sports like snorkeling and diving to admire the stunning Thai coral reef .
Bangkok
A trip to Thailand is not complete without visiting Bangkok, its capital and the most populous city in the country.
Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where rich and poor, modern and ancient blend almost unnoticed. It is not uncommon to come across ancient Buddhist temple ruins in the shadow of towering skyscrapers. Perhaps for this reason, it is the best starting point to learn about Thailand’s history and culture.
The city’s most beautiful attraction is undoubtedly the Grand Palace, the current official residence of the Thai kings. A magnificent building that also houses the Wat Phra Kaew, the royal chapel that preserves the Emerald Buddha.
Other important temples you cannot miss during your visit to Bangkok are Wat Pho and Wat Arun. At Wat Pho, you can admire the majestic Reclining Buddha statue, 46 meters long and 15 meters high, covered in gold with mother-of-pearl and shell decorations.
The Wat Arun complex is also known as the Temple of Dawn for the special color plays visible at dawn on its walls, covered with porcelain and colorful statues.
Finally, your stop in Bangkok is also the perfect moment of the trip to taste some of the street food specialties and traditional Thai cuisine, such as Pad Thai. One of the most interesting experiences you can have is a visit to the Damnoen Saduak floating market, where you can taste and discover an extraordinary variety of foods while paddling peacefully on your small boat!
Northern Provinces
Northern Thailand is often left out of travel itineraries, which favor the south and the islands. But these areas also hide many secrets and places that will stay in your heart forever and that we therefore recommend including in your holiday.
The area stretching between Myanmar and Laos, often called the Golden Triangle, includes the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Let’s explore them together!
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is known as the ancient capital of the Lanna kingdom, and its historic center is rich in temples and palaces that testify to its glorious past. The Wat Phra Singh and the Wat Phan Tao are just two of the most beautiful buildings you can visit. The latter, in particular, is one of the last examples of a temple built entirely of wood. Also, depending on when you plan your trip, you might encounter one of the traditional Thai processions!
Chiang Mai is also an excellent base for a few days’ stay; it is a peaceful city, rich in history, with affordable hotels and prices. From here, you can also take part in numerous trekking excursions to discover the surrounding plains and mountains!and surrounding areas!
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is also a city with a very long history, having been the capital of the Lanna kingdomas well. Here you can also find very affordable accommodation and explore the beautiful surroundings with fascinating excursions.
The highlight of a visit to the city is the Wat Rong Khun or White Temple, a unique architectural masterpiece in all of Southeast Asia. The temple is entirely made of white plaster with numerous mirrors designed to catch the sunlight and radiate it, creating ever-changing color effects.
This sharply contrasts with the tradition of always very colorful temples. Also, like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, it is still under construction, and it is unknown when the work will be completed.
These were our tips for a trip to Thailand. If you liked them, discover the group trip with flight included that Meeters has planned in this fantastic land. Click this link to learn about all available options! And if you like the idea of discovering Italy and the world in the company of others, take a look at all the destinations and offers on our website!