Phuket
The perfect place to begin your Thai island adventure
Thailand's largest island combines vibrant beach towns, luxury resorts, rich culture, and easy access to some of the country's most spectacular islands. Whether you're exploring Old Phuket Town, relaxing on a secluded beach, or setting off on a speedboat adventure, Phuket offers something for every traveller.
Rent a scooter⌄
Patong is loud by design⌄
Book island day trips early⌄
Koh Phi Phi
As iconic in person as it is in the photos
Surrounded by turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand's most iconic island destinations. Spend your days exploring hidden coves, snorkelling among colourful marine life, and hiking to breathtaking viewpoints before experiencing the island's lively nightlife.
Stay on Phi Phi Don⌄
Maya Bay is now restricted entry⌄
The viewpoint closes at dark⌄
Railay
A breathtaking peninsula you can only reach by boat
Iconic island. Accessible only by boat. Railay feels like an island despite being connected to the mainland. Towering limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches create a destination that is equal parts adventure and relaxation.
Longtail from Ao Nang⌄
Phra Nang is tidal⌄
No ATMs on Railay⌄
Koh Samui
Island life, elevated
Blending luxury resorts, palm-fringed beaches, lively beach clubs, and cultural landmarks, Koh Samui offers one of Thailand's most complete island experiences. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a touch of indulgence, this island delivers it effortlessly.
Samui has its own airport⌄
The east coast catches monsoon⌄
Rent a car, not a scooter⌄
Koh Tao
Where your first dive could become a lifelong passion
Known as one of the world's best places to learn scuba diving, Koh Tao is a small island surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and secluded bays. Even if diving isn't on your itinerary, stunning viewpoints, relaxed cafés, and crystal-clear beaches make it well worth the journey.
Night diving is otherworldly⌄
Getting here takes effort⌄
Avoid peak season for diving⌄
Koh Phangan
Full moon, quiet mornings, and everything in between
While famous for its legendary Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan offers far more than nightlife. Discover hidden beaches, jungle waterfalls, yoga retreats, and peaceful bays where life moves at a completely different pace.
Check the full moon calendar⌄
The Half Moon and Black Moon parties⌄
Haad Rin is the party beach⌄
Koh Lipe
Thailand's most remote tropical paradise
Often called the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe is a small tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and powder-soft beaches. Everything is within walking distance, making it the ideal destination for travellers wanting to completely switch off.
No ATMs on the island⌄
Only reachable by speedboat⌄
High season November–May only⌄
Krabi
Limestone cliffs, jungle rivers, and Andaman sunsets
With towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and some of Thailand's most iconic beaches, Krabi is the definition of tropical paradise. Spend your days island hopping, climbing dramatic rock faces, or relaxing on white-sand beaches before watching the sun disappear into the Andaman Sea.
Stay in Krabi Town, not Ao Nang⌄
Rent a scooter⌄
Boats to Railay leave from Ao Nang Beach⌄
Northern Mainland
Bangkok
Ancient temples, rooftop bars, and street food that changes everything
Thailand's vibrant capital is a city where ancient temples, rooftop bars, bustling markets, and world-class dining exist side by side. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, hunting down incredible street food, or experiencing its famous nightlife, Bangkok offers something for every type of traveller.
Use the BTS Skytrain⌄
Visit temples early⌄
Stay in Sukhumvit or Silom⌄
Chiang Mai
Mountain temples, slow coffee, and the best base in the north
Surrounded by mountains in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its relaxed atmosphere, centuries-old temples, thriving cafe culture, and access to incredible nature. It's one of Thailand's best destinations for slow travel, adventure, and authentic local experiences.
Rent a scooter⌄
Sunday Walking Street on Wualai Road⌄
Book Elephant Nature Park early⌄
Pai
Mountain mist, bohemian cafes, and a pace of life that actually slows you down
Hidden in the mountains of northern Thailand, Pai is a laid-back town famous for its scenic landscapes, bohemian cafes, and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect escape for travellers looking to slow down, explore nature, and enjoy one of Thailand's most charming small towns.
The minivan from Chiang Mai takes 3–4 hours⌄
Pai Canyon at sunset⌄
Chiang Rai
Temples that look like they were dreamed, not built
Home to some of Thailand's most unique temples, Chiang Rai blends contemporary art, rich history, and mountain scenery. It's quieter than Chiang Mai and makes an excellent destination for culture lovers exploring northern Thailand.
Visit the White Temple early⌄
Combine all three temples in a single day⌄
Ayutthaya
A former kingdom's ruins that still command respect
Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's most fascinating historical destinations. Just over an hour from Bangkok, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to centuries-old temple ruins, towering Buddha statues, and ancient palaces that offer a glimpse into Thailand's rich past.