12 Must-Visit Cities in Thailand

Thailand’s must-visit cities have everything you need for an epic experience, from streets lined with food stalls and temples glowing under the sun to bustling markets. From Bangkok’s award-winning restaurants to Chiang Mai’s temples, these urban spaces will inspire you.

With close to 30 million tourists visiting each year, Thailand is one of Asia’s premier destinations. By visiting its must-see cities, you’ll experience its culture, cuisine, architecture, and natural beauty in style.

Having spent over a year living in Thailand, I’ve explored its urban destinations and handpicked my favorite ones for you to check out. To make sure you have the ultimate travel experience, I combined personal insights with traveler reviews, local recommendations, and expert guides. These 12 cities reflect the best that Thailand has to offer.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

Which Thai city should be crowned as the ultimate must-visit? (No pressure, but your answer says a lot about you.)

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

Most Beautiful Cities in the World Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Rai 1/5

Must-Visit Cities in Thailand Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai 2/5

Must-Visit Cities in Thailand Ayutthaya Bang Pa In Royal Palace

Ayutthaya 3/5

12 Least Walkable Cities in the World Where Walking Is More Challenging Than You Think

Bangkok 4/5

Must-Visit Cities in Thailand Krabi Wat Kaew Korawaram temple

Krabi 5/5

Results

Chiang Rai

10 5

Chiang Mai

11 4

Ayutthaya

8 7

Bangkok

3 12

Krabi

5 10

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Table of Contents

Bangkok

Bangkok is Thailand’s bustling capital and the top must-see city on the list. It’s the heart of the country’s food scene. You can find some of the best restaurants in the world, such as Le Du, and endless street food.

Visit the Grand Palace for landmarks like The Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Then, take a riverboat down the Chao Phraya River to see ancient temples.

At night, the city transforms into an epicenter of nightlife. From high-end clubs to laid-back bars, Bangkok’s late-night scene rivals any other international destination. To cap it all off, the city’s locals are friendly and welcoming, making this giant city the ultimate destination.

Travel Tips

Use the BTS Skytrain: The quickest way to get around. It avoids traffic and takes you to most tourist spots. Buy a day pass for 150 THB (4.38 USD) if you’re hopping on and off all day.
Explore Chinatown by foot: For authentic street food, walk through Chinatown. It’s packed with small vendors and hidden gems. Go in the evening for a lively atmosphere.
Take a guided boat tour: The Bangkok Canal Tour offers a boat ride through the city’s historic waterways, with traditional homes and lush scenery.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost city and a must-visit destination if you love history and nature. Begin by touring its awe-inspiring landmarks, such as its famous clock tower. Then, walk around the city to visit ancient temples and artifacts from the city’s storied past.

Stop into the Hilltribe Museum to learn about the region’s indigenous cultures. Then, take a tour of the surrounding countryside to see ancient temples and charming villages.

If you love wildlife, don’t miss the Singha National Park. This sprawling green space is home to endless plant and animal species. Visit Chiang Rai’s famous hot springs and waterfalls to cap it all off.

Travel Tips

Visit the White Temple early: The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is stunning but gets crowded quickly. Get there by 8 AM to avoid the crowds and take in the details of this unique landmark.
Stop by the Golden Triangle: Just a short drive from Chiang Rai, the Golden Triangle is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. A museum and boat rides along the Mekong River give a great view of the area. The museum costs about 50 THB (1.50 USD).
Take a trek to Khun Korn Waterfall: If you love nature, don’t miss the 1.3-mile (2-kilometer) trek to Khun Korn Waterfall, one of the tallest in the area. The hike takes about an hour each way.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is Thailand’s ancient capital city and one of the world’s most impressive historical destinations. Take a train from Bangkok and cross into the ancient city center. You’ll find preserved temples and palaces from the Ayutthaya Kingdom that ruled Thailand from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Marvel at landmarks such as the stone Buddha head at Wat Mahathat. Then, learn more about the city’s history at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

After touring the landmarks, head into the new city to explore its food scene. You’ll find endless restaurants and vendors serving intensely flavorful dishes. Go to River bar Ayutthaya for Thai food by the river. Sample as much as you can before continuing your marathon of temple visits!

Travel Tips

Rent a bicycle: Renting a bike for 50 THB (1.50 USD) makes it easy to visit multiple temples in one day. The city is bike-friendly, and this way, you won’t tire out from walking.
Take a boat tour along the river: Take a private longtail boat on the Chao Phraya River, choosing a 50-minute scenic ride, a 2-hour trip with stops at three temples, or a 4-hour tour visiting nine temples, including hidden gems.
Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet in the late afternoon: The light at sunset makes this temple even more beautiful. It’s less crowded in the evening, so you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a city in Thailand’s South that’s worth visiting for food, nature, and history. The city is off the typical tourist trail but is full of must-see landmarks and unique experiences.

Check out the city’s floating markets to see a unique side of Thailand. Sample the rich Southern Thai cuisine and try rare fruits found nowhere else on earth. At night, the central market transforms into a massive party for foodies.

After eating yourself into a coma, start the next day at the impressive Khao Sok National Park. This sprawling rainforest is one of Asia’s most impressive natural habitats and a must-see destination near Surat Thani.

Travel Tips

Visit the floating market early: The floating markets are best visited in the morning when they’re not as crowded. Arrive by 7 AM to see the most vendors and get the freshest fruit and snacks.
Explore Khao Sok with a local guide: Spend a day exploring Khao Sok National Park with swimming, cave exploration, a boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake, and a relaxing lunch at a raft house.
Check out the Surat Thani Night Market: If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Night Market. It’s the place to try Southern Thai dishes like massaman curry. The food stalls open around 5 PM and stay busy till late. It is also relatively cheaper than other markets.

Krabi

Krabi is a small resort city in Thailand’s South. You’ll find a laid-back vibe with friendly locals and plenty of incredible restaurants.

Check out monuments such as the Mud Crabs Sculpture. Then, visit the Andaman Cultural Study Center to learn about local art and culture.

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Walk around the Krabi night market and sample mouth-watering street food at night. You’ll see rare fruit and traditional dishes that will change your life. When you’re done exploring the city, grab a water taxi to one of Krabi’s stunning offshore islands.

Travel Tips

Book a 4-Island Day Trip: Visit four of Krabi’s iconic islands by longtail boat, snorkel at Chicken Island, walk the sandbar at Koh Tup, enjoy lunch on Koh Poda, and explore Phra Nang Cave Beach.
Try the Krabi Night Market’s local dishes: Head to the Krabi Night Market for some amazing food. The local favorites like seafood skewers and roti are must-tries. It opens at 5 PM and goes until around 10 PM.
Take a kayak tour at Ao Thalane: The kayaking tour at Ao Thalane lets you paddle through mangrove forests, caves, and lagoons while spotting wildlife like monkeys and birds in their natural habitat.

Pattaya City

Pattaya City is Thailand’s beach party capital, with plenty to see for history and culture-loving travelers. Stay on the beach in one of the city’s luxury resorts. Relax with a relaxing spa experience before enjoying the beautiful sand.

Visit the old city and see historical landmarks such as Wat Phra Yai. Then, climb the Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint for an incredible view of the city.

For some of the best swimming and snorkeling of your life, take a boat to Ko Lan Island. You can hike through coastal villages and sip on coconuts next to the shores. Explore its caves and hidden beaches, or dive into its colorful coral reefs.

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Travel Tips

Visit the Pattaya Floating Market: It’s open from 9 AM to 8 PM, and you can try local snacks like grilled seafood and coconut ice cream while shopping for souvenirs.
Take the Pattaya Viewpoint walk: For a great city view without hiking too far, head to the Pattaya Viewpoint on Pratumnak Hill. It’s free to visit, and the view is best at sunset.

Phuket City

Phuket City is the largest city in Thailand’s southern island of Phuket. This tropical beach destination is home to rainforests, coral reefs, and endless hiking. It also has impressive temples, such as Wat Koh Siray.

Visit the city’s historical center and see colorful architecture. Stop into a charming cafe for Thai tea and see museums such as the Chinpracha House.

After exploring the city, head to the nearby beaches for an all-inclusive experience. On hidden beaches such as Kata Noi Beach, you’ll experience postcard-worthy turquoise waters and white sand. Stay at a resort and indulge in a luxurious spa treatment before enjoying even more time at the beach.

Travel Tips

Go to Sunday Walking Street Market: The market on Thalang Road is packed with street food, crafts, and live performances. Get there by 5 PM to beat the crowds and grab local snacks like khanom jeen.
Hike Monkey Hill early in the morning: Start before 8 AM to avoid the heat and see wild monkeys along the trail. Bring water and avoid carrying food, as the monkeys can get curious.
Take a local food tour: Take a guided walking tour through Phuket Old Town to try 15+ tastings of Southern Thai and Burmese dishes at local spots.

Lampang

Lampang is one of Northern Thailand’s most renowned destinations. This ancient city is home to beautiful mountain temples and historical palaces.

Start by visiting the city’s museums, including the Lampang and Dhanabadee Ceramic Museums. Then, see the impressive spires and golden architecture of Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao Suchadaram.

After seeing the historical sites in the city, take a tour of the surrounding mountains and temples. You can visit small villages and learn about local farming techniques. On the way, stop at hidden waterfalls, temples, and some of Thailand’s most inspiring viewpoints.

Travel Tips

Visit Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao early: This temple is beautiful, but it can get crowded. Arrive around 8 AM to enjoy the golden spires in the morning light.
Explore the Lampang Ceramic Museum: If you’re into crafts, don’t miss the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. It’s small but offers a fascinating look into the city’s pottery history. Entrance is typically around 100 THB (2.93 USD).

Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a small city in northeastern Thailand with a mixture of historical places and unique cultural attractions. You’ll find a unique mixture of Thai and Chinese cultures and sample a fusion cuisine unlike anything else.

Check out the Wat Phothisomphon temple complex and walk around the beautiful Nong Prajak Park. Stop into the Udon Thani City Museum to learn about the city’s history.

Don’t miss visiting the Phu Foi Lom National Park to experience incredible ecological adventures. You’ll see ancient temples built in thick jungles and even have the chance to see elephants in the wild.

Travel Tips

Visit Nong Prajak Park in the morning: This park is a peaceful spot for a walk or bike ride, and it’s less crowded in the morning. You can rent a bike for around 30-50 THB (0.88-1.46 USD) per hour.
Go on a Phu Foi Lom National Park trek: If you’re into nature, spend a day hiking in the park. You’ll see beautiful jungles, temples, and maybe even wild elephants. Consider a local guide for around 1,000 THB (29.25 USD) to explore the hidden spots safely.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is one of Thailand’s southernmost cities and a unique and exciting destination. This urban space feels like another country. You’ll see beautiful mosques and temples as well as gorgeous parks.

Check out the historical Wat Hat Yai Nai temple. Grab a bite of spicy street food near the Hat Yai Clock Tower. Then, tour the historical landmarks downtown before hiding from the sun in a local cafe.

Take a trip to Hat Yai Park to see inspiring views and wildlife. Then, head down the hill to visit the Hatyai City Art Gallery Center to learn about local art. At night, visit the night markets for souvenirs and endless street food.

Travel Tips

Try local street food near Hat Yai Clock Tower: The area around the Hat Yai Clock Tower is full of street food vendors. Don’t miss the spicy fried chicken or khao mok gai (yellow rice with chicken) – both are delicious and cost about 40-50 THB (1.20-1.50 USD) per dish.
Visit Hat Yai Park early: If you want to avoid the heat and crowds, get to Hat Yai Park early in the morning. The views from the top of the hill are great.
Check out the Hatyai City Art Gallery: This small gallery has local art, and admission is usually free or just a small donation.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Thailand’s mountainous north. It has a laid-back vibe, friendly people, and endless sights, including temples and ruins.

In the city center, you can enter ancient gates and see 13th-century temples such as Wat Chiang Man. Stop to sample the city’s famous cuisine after visiting the ancient landmarks. Don’t miss trying its famous kao soi curry noodles or braving the pungent durian fruit.

Outside the city, check out impressive monuments such as Wat Phra That Doi Kham. For more adventure, take a hiking tour through the jungle and see rare plants and animals. End your day by watching traditional Thai dancers and experiencing Chiang Mai’s fine dining scene.

Travel Tips

Visit the Night Bazaar: Head to the Night Bazaar for unique souvenirs and local crafts. It’s open from 6 PM, and you’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to local art. Bargaining is a must.
Try the Sunday Walking Street Market: If you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Walking Street Market in the Old City. It runs from 4 PM to 10 PM and has great food, local products, and street performances.
Book a cooking class: This cooking workshop in Chiang Mai lets you learn to make traditional Thai dishes with a local family, including making curry paste from scratch and enjoying the meal in an organic garden.

Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is a neighboring city of Bangkok that most tourists miss. However, you’ll find a lesser-traveled destination full of must-see sights.

This bustling city has some of Thailand’s best markets, from the popular Owl Market to the lesser-visited Tonsak Market. You’ll find endless street food and rare ingredients.

Take your time visiting the city’s temples and see the striking Wat Chomphuwek temple complex. Then, grab a riverboat and travel to the popular Ko Kret island. You can rent bikes and spend the day exploring temples, parks, and riverside restaurants.

Travel Tips

Visit the Owl Market for unique finds: If you want a less touristy market, head to the Owl Market. It’s full of local produce, spices, and street food. Make sure to try the grilled meat skewers.
Take the riverboat to Ko Kret Island: For a relaxing day, catch a riverboat to Ko Kret Island. Once there, rent a bike to explore the temples and local parks at your own pace.
Explore Wat Chomphuwek early: Wat Chomphuwek is a temple complex with stunning architecture. Go in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.