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Your Ultimate Guide to Thailand

06/11/2025


If paradise had a postcode, it would probably be in Thailand. As the beating heart of Southeast Asia, where sacred temples gleam beside neon night markets, elephants roam misty forests, and street food vendors turn every meal into a masterpiece, it can be hard to decide which part of Thailand is the best for you... That’s where we come in!

Here’s your ultimate guide to holidays in Thailand, packed with expert tips, dazzling destinations, and insider inspiration from our very own Thailand travel pros.

Is Thailand the Holiday for you?

The Land of Smiles isn’t just a nickname... It’s a promise. From the cultural treasures of the north to the sun-drenched islands of the south, every corner hums with colour, flavour, and that laid-back Thai magic that makes you instantly feel at home.

Thailand is a place where everyone is welcome. Going solo? Looking for a heavenly honeymoon? Ready to hit the road on a touring holiday? Want a family beach break for the memory book? Whether you’re zipping through Bangkok on a tuk-tuk, paddling through Krabi’s emerald lagoons, or discovering which beach bar serves the best Mai Tai (a vital mission, we say), holidays to Thailand deliver pure serenity with a spicy kick and a sprinkle of something special for every traveller.

Top Destinations to Visit in Thailand

With city breaks, beach holidays, and tours that cover it all, Thailand is a treasure chest of adventure and beauty. So, where should you choose for your holiday in Thailand? Whether you’re after cities that sparkle after dark or islands that look straight off a postcard, here are the top places to visit in Thailand that will steal your heart (and fill your camera roll).

Best For Beaches and Islands

Want to know the top beaches and islands in Thailand? Escape to Thailand’s most stunning shores with Hays Travel! From the white sands of Krabi and the party vibes of Koh Phi Phi to Koh Samui’s luxury retreats and Koh Lipe’s crystal lagoons, your tropical Thailand adventure starts here.

Krabi

Krabi is where dreams grow wild. Limestone cliffs rise from jade seas, secret beaches appear with the tide, and sunsets set the horizon on fire. Paddle through mangroves, climb to Tiger Cave Temple, visit the legendary Railay Beach, or simply stroll as nature’s masterpiece takes your breath away, because no photo ever truly captures Krabi’s magic.

Koh Samui

On Koh Samui, mornings blush pink and gold. Palm trees sway over soft sands, coconut cocktails appear as if by magic, and nights light up with fire dances. Follow jungle paths to secret Na Muang Waterfalls and Elephant sanctuaries, explore nearby Koh Tao (a divers paradise) or sway in a hammock and let the world melt away. Here, time moves at island pace.

Phuket

Phuket sparkles with holiday spirit. One minute you’re wandering Phuket Old Town's colourful streets, the next you’re sipping something cold while watching the sky turn to molten gold at Patong Beach. Dive into clear waters, take a day trip to Phi Phi Islands, or stay out till sunrise on Bangla Road. This is Thailand's largest island and it's turned up to full holiday mode.

Best For City and Culture

Looking to dive into Thailand’s rich heritage? Whether it’s Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Rai’s mountain monastery charm, or Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins, we know the best cultural cities in Thailand to discover the soulful rhythm of Thai culture.

Chiang Rai

While Chiang Rai doesn’t have the luxurious hotels you’ll find in Bangkok, this northern city is a gem of art and serenity, which glimmers with cultural wonder. Marvel at the surreal White Temple, explore the Blue Temple’s sapphire glow, and sip tea in misty Mae Salong hills, where every view feels like a painting.

Bangkok

Bangkok thrums with life, after all, it is the capital city where most Thai adventures begin. Here, longtail boats glide across the Chao Phraya River like water dragons, neon lights bounce off racing tuk-tuks, and temples like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Phra Kaew mingle among night markets and epic malls. It’s wild, wonderful, and absolutely unforgettable.

Chiang Mai

High in the northern hills, Chiang Mai is a city touched by magic. Here, jungle mist clings to iconic Old City temples that whisper the chants of monks. Markets like Sunday Walking Street overflow with silk, silver and smiles. Elephants wander through the emerald forests surround Doi Suthep. And when night falls, lanterns float into the stars, like wishes drifting on the breeze.

Best For Nature and Adventure

Jungles, Mountains, Waterfalls Await... Unleash your inner explorer in Thailand’s wild heart as you journey through Kanchanaburi’s historic hills, kayak across Khao Sok’s emerald lake, and chase waterfalls in Pai. These are our top nature and adventure destinations in Thailand, so expect adventure, nature, and serenity at every turn. 

Khao Sok National Park Holidays, Thailand Adventure Holidays, Thailand Culture Holidays.

Khao Sok National Park

Ready for something truly special? Lose yourself in Khao Sok’s emerald wilderness where ancient rainforests, floating lake huts, and limestone cliffs pierce the horizon. Kayak through Cheow Lan Lake, spot wild elephants, and drift asleep to the symphony of nature in Thailand’s lushest sanctuary.

Kanchanaburi, Thailand Adventure Holidays, Thailand Culture and History Tours

Kanchanaburi

A place where history and nature entwine, Kanchanaburi enchants with its serene rivers, famous waterfalls, and poignant World War II stories. Walk the Bridge over the River Kwai, swim beneath Erawan Falls, and feel the past whisper through the forested hills on a touching yet unforgettable journey along the Thai-Burma Railway. 

Khao Lak

Quiet, calm, and endlessly beautiful, Khao Lak is Thailand’s best-kept secret. Here, soft sands stretch into forever, coral reefs shimmer offshore, and the evenings hum with cicadas and candlelight. A haven made for slow, sunlit days, it’s the kind of place where shoes feel optional and happiness is inevitable.

Hays Travel Team: Our Top Tips & Picks:

How do we know all about Thailand? Our expert travel agents have travelled the there themselves to gather all the top tips and insider know-how and we're sharing them with you! 

"Unwind like a pro, after all, this is the land of Thai massages, sunset yoga, and beachside cocktails. Get ready for a wellness holiday where relaxation is redefined." - Sarah, Virtual Call Centre.

"Eat everything! From pad thai to mango sticky rice, Thai food is a love language, so try it all. Who knows, you may find your favourite flavour on a Bangkok street corner or at a beach shack with your toes in the sand" - Lauren, Content Marketing Executive. 

"Get your adventure on. Zipline through jungles, trek with elephants, dive with whale sharks, or jump aboard a longtail boat and discover paradise: Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, James Bond Island are all cinematic perfection.” - Emma, Business Graduate. 

Check out our Hays Travel team members' Thailand holiday snaps! 📷🌴

Q1: What is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny — perfect for beach holidays and island hopping. However, northern regions like Chiang Mai are also beautiful during the cooler months of December to February.

Q2: Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?

Most visitors from the UK can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. For longer stays or multiple entries, you can apply for a tourist visa before you travel.

Q3: What are the top places to visit in Thailand?

Popular destinations include Bangkok for culture and nightlife, Phuket and Koh Samui for beaches and luxury resorts, and Chiang Mai for temples, elephants, and mountain scenery. Don’t miss Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands for picture-perfect views.

Q4: Is Thailand suitable for family holidays?

Absolutely! Thailand offers family-friendly resorts, safe beaches, and cultural experiences for all ages, from floating markets to elephant sanctuaries and cooking classes.

Q5: How can I find the best Thailand holiday deals?

Check trusted travel providers like Hays Travel for early-bird discounts, last-minute offers, and Thailand all-inclusive holiday packages that combine flights, hotels, and tours for the best value. Want some extra help? Our expert Travel Consultants around the UK are on hand to provide Thailand travel tips and find the best Thailand holiday deals to fit your budget!