Thailand Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Thailand? Main activities and attractions

Thailand’s cultural and historical riches make it a top destination for heritage lovers. The capital Bangkok hosts landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun. In the north, Chiang Mai’s ancient walls and hundreds of temples reflect the legacy of the Lanna Kingdom. A visit to Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals 13th-century ruins nestled in serene landscapes. Ayutthaya, once the capital of a vast Siamese kingdom, offers more majestic remnants surrounded by rivers. From golden Buddhas to Khmer-influenced shrines, cultural exploration in Thailand spans centuries of influences.

Thailand’s natural experiences are just as compelling. In the south, islands like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lipe offer world-class beaches and snorkeling. In the north, trekking through hill tribe villages near Mae Hong Son or nature adventures in Doi Inthanon National Park draw in hikers. Cuisine is another highlight—Thai street food ranks among the most flavorful in Asia, with must-try dishes like pad thai, tom yum, and green curry. Floating markets, cooking classes, and night bazaars provide immersive culinary experiences. Whether inland or on the coast, Thailand satisfies both nature seekers and food lovers.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Thailand

While Thailand is often associated with its beaches and temples, many experiences lie beyond the typical tourist paths. Delving into these lesser-known gems reveals a more intimate and authentic view of the country.

In Lampang, ditch the tuk-tuk for a traditional horse-drawn carriage through quiet streets lined with Burmese-style temples. In the Issan region, explore Phanom Rung Historical Park, a stunning Khmer sanctuary set atop an extinct volcano rarely visited by foreigners. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a local jungle survival course in Khao Sok National Park, combining wildlife treks, bamboo rafting, and camping amid limestone cliffs and lakes.

On the Andaman coast, near Trang, take a kayak through the luminous Emerald Cave (Morakot Cave), accessible only at low tide and ending in a hidden lagoon. Or attend the surreal Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, noted for its walking-on-fire rituals and piercing ceremonies—both shocking and deeply spiritual.

These offbeat activities offer a unique lens on Thai culture and nature away from the crowds. For travelers seeking authenticity and discovery, venturing off-the-beaten-path in Thailand is richly rewarding.

When to visit Thailand? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Thailand

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, US, and UK citizens don’t need a visa for stays under 30 days when entering by air (15 days if entering by land). A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity is required. Longer stays or multiple entries require obtaining a visa in advance at a Thai embassy.

🚗 Driving rules

Thailand drives on the left-hand side of the road. Tourists must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their native license. Road conditions vary greatly by region, and local driving habits can be unpredictable, especially in cities.

🔌 Electricity

The electrical system uses types A, B, and C plugs with 220V and a frequency of 50Hz. European travelers may need a universal adapter, though many modern devices are compatible without one.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Coverage is excellent in cities and tourist destinations, with major carriers including AIS, DTAC, and True Move. Prepaid SIM cards are cheap and widely available in airports and 7-Eleven stores. 4G networks are fast, making it easy to stay connected.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Thailand is generally safe for travelers, but caution should be exercised in southern provinces near the Malaysian border due to rare political unrest. Always watch for scams in tourist hotspots and keep valuables secured.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Vaping is illegal and heavily fined. Drug possession carries severe penalties including prison. Respect for the monarchy is strictly enforced, with harsh laws against defamation. Removing religious artifacts is also forbidden.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Politeness and non-confrontation are key in Thai culture. Remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Dress modestly, especially in sacred places, and avoid touching people’s heads.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Theravāda Buddhism is practiced by the majority. Temples require respectful silence and conservative attire. During major religious periods, alcohol sales may be restricted. Never point your feet toward sacred images.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Thailand, Thailand National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025