1. The Grand Palace
This beautiful gold-tipped series of buildings is over 200 years old, and perhaps Bangkok's most famous destination. Yes, it can feel like a tourist trap, but the complex's history and grandeur is palpable: since 1782, it has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand).
Emerald Buddha (Shutterstock)
While you're there, don't miss the Emerald Buddha and nearby Wat Pho, which is home to the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. Another must see is Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which is stunning from a distance and intriguing close up, with its mosaic detailing, as you climb to the top. Make sure you follow our 7 etiquette tips for travelling in Thailand, to ensure you don't offend local customs.
At night, the Grand Palace is illuminated, and although you'll likely still encounter the crowds, it's a very romantic experience.
2. The Golden Triangle
The point where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River is known locally as Sop Ruak, but to the rest of the world it's the Golden Triangle: the point at which Burma/Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet.
View of The Golden Triangle (Shutterstock)
Stand on the Thailand river bank, and you can look across to Burma/Myanmar and Laos, or hire a boat for a closer look. You'll find market stalls, Buddha and elephant statues, and plenty of signage to confirm that, yes, this is the Golden Triangle.
This used to be a prolific opium-growing area; the exhibitions at the Hall of Opium, in Golden Triangle Park, offer a good introduction to the local history and effects of the industry, as well as the potency of the drug.
If you fancy venturing further from the beaten track, see our guide to alternative itineraries in Thailand – and discover a side to the country that few other travellers get to see.
3. Elephant trekking
The elephant is Thailand’s national symbol and a revered animal, and there are plenty of ways to encounter or work with the animals all over the country.
Thai Elephant Conservation Center (Shutterstock)
Whether you want to train to become a mahout, or simply learn more about these magnificent animals, check out the likes of Chiang Dao Elephant Camp and Thai Elephant Conservation Center. Travel responsibly – animal cruelty is a real problem in some elephant 'sanctuaries'. For more information, read our elephant trekking debate.
To combine your elephant experience with luxury accommodation, try Anantara Golden Triangle and Elephant Hills; both establishments offer comfortable tented camps, and opportunities to trek with the animals.
4. Island hopping
Thailand has over 5,000 miles of coastline just waiting to be explored. Travel by long-tail boat and discover as many beaches and islands as possible. See Phang Nga Bay and the limestone rocks that are so famously photographed off Thailand's west coast, or island hop in the Andaman Sea off of Phuket and Krabi. Here's you'll discover white-sand beaches and abundant snorkelling on Ko Phi Phi Lee and Ko Phi Phi Don. Want to capture some fantastic shots while you're snorkelling? See our expert guide to underwater photography.
Phang Nga Bay, Thailand (Shutterstock)
The calm sea and clear conditions are perfect for kayaking, too. It's a great way to explore the islands without the masses on tourist boats or passenger ferries, and take the experience at your own pace. The coastlines of Koh Phan Ngan, Koh Tao and Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand are particularly picturesque.
5. Hill tribe villages
Akha, Lisu, Hmong and Karen tribes are found across the north of Thailand. Take a break from the tourist trail, and spend a day or a few nights with a local family to learn and experience their way of life. Choose your tour guide wisely – ensure that they operate in an ethical and sustainable manner.
Akha tribe elderly woman (Shutterstock)
Take a look at our guide to hill trekking in Thailand to find out how to meet the locals on the most colourful tribal treks the country has to offer.
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