The best activities for Thailand in 2026
Here’s a list of the best things to do in Thailand, with details and the easiest ways to get to each location.
1. Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Chiang Mai
Every November, thousands of lanterns light up the sky during Yi Peng and Loy Krathong. It’s held mainly in Chiang Mai and nearby Mae Jo.
How to get there: Fly to Chiang Mai International Airport from Bangkok (1 hour). From the airport, take a Grab or taxi into the Old City. For the mass lantern release, book a shuttle or tour to Mae Jo ahead of time.
Tip: Bring a lighter and your own biodegradable lantern if you want to join local releases. They should have some available for purchase in the area.
2. Island Hopping in Krabi and Phi Phi
Visit Koh Phi Phi, Bamboo Island, and Hong Islands by long-tail boat or speedboat.
How to get there: Fly to Krabi International Airport, then take a taxi to Ao Nang Pier. Boats run daily to the islands.
Tip: Go before 9 a.m. to beat the tour groups and catch calm water.
3. Bangkok’s Floating Markets
Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa are the most famous, filled with fruit boats and local snacks.
How to get there: From Bangkok, take a 1.5-hour taxi or a private car. Damnoen Saduak opens early, so leave before 7 a.m.
Tip: Bring small cash and try grilled river prawns, they’re the best thing there.
4. The Temples of Ayutthaya
Ancient capital ruins are scattered across the old city, about an hour north of Bangkok.
How to get there: Take a train from Hua Lamphong Station (about 90 minutes) or book a day tour with a van transfer.
Tip: Rent a bicycle near the station to explore all the temple sites.
5. Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan
A famous beach party with fire shows, DJs, and neon paint. Featured on White Lotus
How to get there: Fly to Koh Samui, then take a ferry from Bangrak Pier or Maenam Pier to Koh Phangan (30 minutes). From there, taxis go to Haad Rin Beach.
Tip: Stay at least one night before and after the party boats can get full or delayed.
6. White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Chiang Rai
A modern art temple that looks like a sculpture in glass and white plaster.
How to get there: From Chiang Mai, take a 3-hour bus to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, then a 20-minute taxi or tuk-tuk to the temple.
Tip: It’s bright and reflective, bring sunglasses.
7. Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai
Rescue sanctuary for elephants and other animals.
How to get there: The park provides round-trip transport from your Chiang Mai hotel (about an hour north).
Tip: Book only through their official website. Many copycat tours are not ethical.
8. Street Food in Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
A maze of food stalls serving roast duck, pad thai, and mango sticky rice.
How to get there: Take the MRT to Wat Mangkon Station; walk five minutes to Yaowarat Road.
Tip: Go after 6 p.m. when everything opens. Avoid Sundays—some vendors close.
9. Doi Inthanon National Park, Northern Thailand
Thailand’s highest mountain with twin royal pagodas, waterfalls, and views above the clouds.
How to get there: Rent a car or hire a driver from Chiang Mai—it’s a two-hour drive southwest. Public transport is limited.
Tip: Bring warm clothes can drop below 50°F at the summit.
10. Railay Beach Rock Climbing, Krabi
Limestone cliffs with routes for all skill levels and amazing sea views.
How to get there: From Ao Nang or Krabi Town, take a long-tail boat to Railay Beach (15 minutes). Boats leave when enough passengers board.
Tip: Bring cash, there are no ATMs. The best season is November to March for dry rock.