Thailand Bucket List: Top 12 Things to Do in Thailand
Perhaps the most popular South East Asian country, there are plenty of things to do in Thailand.
From clambering up the limestone cliffs of Krabi to wandering around rural temples, Thailand caters to most tastes.
Even if all you want to do is relax on a beautiful beach with a cocktail in hand, Thailand offers plenty of opportunities to do so.
1) Elephant encounters in Chiang Rai
For a magical and ultra traditional experience of Thailand, you can head up to the rural north and visit the elephants around Chiang Rai at the Anantara, with Asia’s finest Elephant camp on-site.
2) Discover lesser-known islands in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is the diving centre of Thailand and – quite possibly – the world. But for an even more exclusive experience, our travel designers can help you charter a private speedboat from here to discover lesser-known islands, and get a true taste of castaway Thai island paradise.
4) Trekking in Chiang Mai
The hills around Chiang Mai in the north are fabulous for trekking. You can hike through the jungle and visit hill tribes, and adventurous types can include white-water rafting or mountain biking.
5) Rock climbing in Krabi
Krabi, in the south of Thailand, is a rock-climber’s haven. The steep limestone cliffs jut out of the Andaman Sea, providing a beautiful outlook, and the conditions are suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced climbers.
6) Night out in Bangkok
You’ll find a night out in Bangkok difficult to beat. This buzzing city has some excellent bars and restaurants, with plenty of hedonistic clubs keeping the party going all night. Watch the sunset with a cocktail from the rooftop bar of the Banyan Tree, dine at Nahm, and dance the night away at Ku Da Ta.
8) Explore the temples around Chiang Mai
Thailand is a spiritual country and as such there are plenty of temples to admire, particularly in the north around Chiang Mai.
9) Beach break at Soneva Kiri
No trip to Thailand would be complete without a beach break. Soneva Kiri on the chilled island of Koh Kood is perfect for just that, with its treehouse dining and wake-boarding or water-skiing for when you’re maxed out on pool-time.
10) Get shipwrecked in style at The Sarojin
For the romantic dinner to end all romantic dinners, get a taste of The Sarojin‘s private dining experience. Their romantic candlelit dinners by jungle waterfalls and gourmet picnics on secluded white sand beaches will seem banal next to the ultimate experience of being whisked away on the Lady Sarojin private yacht and “shipwrecked” on a secluded sand isle for a magical evening dining beneath the stars.
11) Street art tour of Bangkok
Feast all your senses as you tour Bangkok taking in the city’s burgeoning street art scene, on a fascinating tour which takes you through the winding streets and alleys of the old quarter, through the old market district and down secret streets to discover hidden gems with your expert local guide, travelling both on foot and by tuk tuk, and sampling sumptuous street snacks, dim sum and Thai iced tea or coffee as you go.
12) Cooking class at Pantawan Cooking School
This in-depth foodie experience in Chiang Mai begins with a visit to a local market where you’ll learn how to choose the best ingredients for freshness and taste. Once you’ve stocked up, your class will take place amidst the beautiful garden and organic farm of Pantawan Cooking School, learning about Thailand’s culinary history as you cook up delectable traditional dishes at luxury wooden cooking stations.
Our top Thai example trips
Talk to one of our expert travel designers and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Thailand.