Why choose Thailand for your next trip?
A trip to Thailand is an experience that leaves a mark on your soul. You’ll be surrounded by lush nature, glittering temples, dreamy beaches, and a culture that makes you feel welcome and at peace.
Thailand is arguably the most beloved destination in Southeast Asia, because it caters to every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for adventure, a relaxing beach holiday, cultural immersion, or a truly authentic experience off the beaten path.
And to top it off, Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles,” thanks to the unmatched warmth and hospitality of its people.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
Thailand’s climate is tropical and slightly different from north to south. In general, the best time to visit Thailand is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and rainfall is minimal.
March to May can get extremely hot, while the rainy season runs from June to October, with short but intense afternoon downpours that can impact your travel plans.
Gulf islands like Koh Samui are great even in the summer months, while islands in the Andaman Sea, like the famous Phuket, are best between November and April.
10 unmissable destinations for your Thailand itinerary
Every corner of Thailand has its charm, but to help you plan your route, we’ve selected the 10 must-see destinations. And if you can’t fit them all into one trip, you’ll just have to come back again 😎
Bangkok – Golden temples & floating markets
Thailand’s buzzing capital is the perfect starting point. It’s a hypnotic mix of tradition and modern chaos.
Explore the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, take a boat tour along the canals, and visit Wat Arun at sunset, beware, Thailand’s sunsets will steal your heart!
Don’t miss the floating and night markets for local street food and great souvenirs.
Top it off with a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the sparkling city skyline.
Chiang Mai – Culture & nature
Nestled among the mountains, Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of northern Thailand.
It’s home to hundreds of temples, including the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and a great base for jungle treks, traditional cooking classes, and visits to ethical elephant sanctuaries.
Ayutthaya – The ancient capital of Siam
This lush archaeological site is filled with Buddha statues and ancient temples, so impressive, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the ruins by bike and soak up the spiritual atmosphere.
Ayutthaya is easily accessible from Bangkok by train.
Sukhothai – The cradle of Thai civilization
Less famous, but equally important, Sukhothai is considered the birthplace of Thai culture.
Its historical park is an open-air museum dotted with ponds and massive Buddha statues.
You can explore by bike or tuk tuk for an immersive experience.
Phuket – Nightlife & beaches
One of Thailand’s most iconic destinations, Phuket is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
Take a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay to see the famous “James Bond Island” or go snorkeling at Coral Island.
Don’t miss the Big Buddha for a dose of peace and panoramic views.
Koh Phi Phi – A tropical paradise
These breathtaking islands are a short boat ride from Phuket.
Expect dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and postcard-worthy beaches.
Maya Bay—made famous by the movie “The Beach”—is the star of the show.
Snorkeling, diving, and boat tours here are simply unforgettable.
Koh Samui – Wellness & nature
Looking for wellness, yoga, romantic sunsets, and upscale resorts?
Koh Samui is your dream destination.
Relax to the sound of the waves, visit waterfalls and temples like Wat Plai Laem, and explore the stunning Ang Thong Marine Park, a pristine island archipelago.
Krabi – Breathtaking landscapes
With sea cliffs, quiet beaches, and wild nature, Krabi is a must for rock climbers and nature lovers alike.
Railay Beach, only accessible by boat, is a hidden gem surrounded by lush scenery.
Krabi also makes a great base for exploring nearby islands.
Pai – The hidden gem of the north
This small mountain village is surrounded by rice fields, waterfalls, and hot springs.
It has a laid-back hippy vibe with night markets, yoga classes, and dreamy scooter rides through the countryside.
A peaceful, authentic stop you won’t want to skip!
Kanchanaburi – History & nature
Here you’ll find the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, a powerful World War II landmark, as well as natural wonders like Erawan National Park, home to multi-tiered waterfalls perfect for a swim.
Kanchanaburi offers a unique mix of historical significance and natural beauty.
How to stay connected in Thailand
To find your way, book activities, check the weather, or share your adventures online—having internet in Thailand is a MUST.
Here are your options for staying connected while traveling:
- International roaming: the easiest option, but often the most expensive. Check with your home provider before traveling.
- Free Wi-Fi: available in hotels, cafés, and bars—but often slow and unsecured.
- Local SIM cards: cheap, but limited to one carrier (which may have poor coverage in some areas). You’ll also need to spend time on paperwork and find a local shop.
- eSIM: a digital SIM that you can buy online before your trip. It lets you connect to multiple Thai carriers and always get the best signal.
Get your Thailand eSIM from eSIM.sm
On www.esim.sm, you’ll find the best Thailand eSIM for your trip. Why?
We offer flexible plans ranging from 1GB to 100GB—or go unlimited with our “Unlimited Data” plan.
But that’s not all. eSIM.sm eSIMs are:
- Easy: purchase and activate in under 2 minutes
- Smart: install instantly by scanning a QR code
- Rechargeable: top up any time from your account
- Reliable: 24/7 customer support, always ready to help
- Instant: get online in Thailand the moment you land!
Before purchasing, make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible using our list of supported devices.
Tips & things to know before your trip to Thailand
- Dress code: Be respectful—shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting temples.
- Safety: Generally safe, but watch out in crowded places and always agree on a price before hopping into tuk tuks or taxis.
- Scams: Some “guides” might tell you a temple is closed or too crowded to take you elsewhere—don’t fall for it.
- Street food: Delicious and usually safe if the place is busy and clean. Fun fact: scorpions are mostly a tourist gimmick—locals rarely eat them and they can be unsafe.
- Wild animals: Avoid supporting businesses that exploit elephants and monkeys for entertainment. Sadly, many are still chained or caged.
