Best Things to Do in Thailand

Thailand doesn't skimp on its epic coastal views. You will find expansive panoramas all over the country. But for one of the best introductions to the landscape of Thailand – and southern Thailand in particular – a visit to the Koh Phi Phi viewpoint is a must.

One of the best reasons to visit Thailand? The food, of course. Thai food is a beloved part of its culture, and for many travelers, it's one of the prime reasons they book a trip to Thailand. As such, Thai cooking classes are available all over the country and are some of the best things to do in Thailand.

Renting a scooter or a motorbike is one of the most beloved pastimes in the entire country of Thailand. In most tourist destinations, you can rent a scooter for roughly 250 Thai Baht per day. But one of the easiest places to use a scooter is on Koh Samui, and if you plan to see many different sections of the island, a scooter provides the best way to get around

For centuries, life in Bangkok has revolved around the Chao Phraya river. This main artery was the lifeblood from which sprung the enormous, constantly-expanding city we know and love today.

Before the novel, the film, and the line in Billy Joel's We Didn't Start the Fire, there was the actual, real-life Bridge on the River Kwai. The stories are all fictional, but the bridge is very much real. It's known as Bridge 277, and it's part of the Burma Railway that runs between Ban Pong, Thailand and Thanbyuzayat, Myanmar.

Another bucket list item for your visit to Bangkok is certainly the Grand Palace. Located near Wat Pho, the Grand Palace is one of the most elaborate and sprawling historic structures in the city, jam-packed with architectural and cultural jewels waiting to be discovered.

Thailand has some truly impressive temple structures all over the country. But perhaps one of the most beautiful, intricate, and interesting is the iconic White Temple located in Chiang Rai. Its official name is Wat Rong Khun, and it is one of the newest temples to be constructed in Thailand.

Thailand is a paradise for hikers and trekkers of all levels. In fact, roughly 30 percent of the entire country is blanketed in forest and jungle. While visitors have many natural areas to choose from, some of the best hiking can be found in Khao Sok National Park.

Before there were roads in Bangkok, there have always been waterways. The canals of Bangkok have always been an integral part of transportation, communication, economics, and general ways of life. As such, over the centuries, markets would spring up along the canals and waterways. These floating markets are still a vitally important part of modern day Thai culture, and also happen to be some of the best things to do while visiting Thailand.

Southern Thailand, specifically coastal Thailand that faces the Andaman Sea, is known for its thousands of towering limestone cliffs. These jungle-carpeted, bone-colored peaks soar out of the turquoise water, creating quite the wild-and-rugged skyline. The cliffs have become an integral part of the landscape in southern Thailand, and for adventure seekers, they provide infinite entertainment.

Fine dining is, well, fine. But when you come to Thailand you cannot leave without trying its legendary street food. Street food is a way of life in Thailand.

Thailand's event calendar is a non-stop rotation of fabulous events and festivals. No matter the time of year, Thailand will find a reason to celebrate, so always be sure to check your travel dates to see if you align with any of its colorful festivals. But if you can time your trip around some of the bigger ones, it will prove to be an experience you will never forget.