Discover Thailand in 2025: Top Places You Can’t Miss

Thinking about the best places to visit in Thailand for first timers in 2025? No worries, when I’m here, don’t fear. 😄 I heard that in 2024, Thailand made a huge comeback in tourism, welcoming over 35 million international visitors. And guess what? The Middle East became one of its fastest-growing tourist markets, with a record-breaking 1+ million travelers making their way to the Land of Smiles. To break the numbers in 2025  I’ve put  together a list of 7 must-visit places in 2025 and most beautiful places in Thailand, so you can experience the best this beautiful country has to offer.

Bangkok

Did you know that Bangkok's full name is actually the longest city name in the world? Locals call it Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, which roughly translates to 'City of Angles, Great City of Immortals, Magnificent City of Nine Gems' and honestly, the city lives up to that grandeur. Bangkok is not just Thailand's capital, it is a beating heart. It's a city where strangers smile, food is shared, and old and new traditions live side by side. Here you can spend wonderful time with your family or friends. And don’t forget the Grand Palace, it is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok.

Don’t miss: Boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.

Phuket

Phuket is the rare place that can give you anything you want. It is a romantic escape with perfect beaches, luxury resorts, local street markets and plenty of other things to do in Phuket. Situated in the southern part of Thailand, Phuket is the country's largest island and a must-visit in Phuket. It is connected to the mainland by a couple of bridges, so it gives you the feel of an island haven while being totally accessible.

Don’t miss: Railay Beach and a sunset at the Tiger Cave Temple.

Koh Samui

Looking to visit with family members then Koh Samui is the best place to visit in Thailand with family. It is the island where everything feels just right, with lazy beach days, adventurous excursions, yummy food and cozy nights under the stars. It is the best place to visit. It spans around 228.7 square kilometers and it is the second largest island after Phuket. In 2018, 2.7 million tourists visited. And now the number of tourists has been increasing year after year. If you have time, then don’t miss out on their Na Muang Waterfalls and Ang Thong Park in Koh Samui.

Don’t miss: Big Buddha, Secret Buddha Garden, and Lamai Beach.

Chiang Rai

Tucked away in the far north of Thailand. While many people go to Chiang Rai for its Temples, it is also famous for its contemporary art. It is not just about seeing art in galleries here, the entire city feels like a living canvas, with architecture, sculpture and murals that mix deep cultural roots with wild imagination. In fact it is often called Thailand's art capital in the north. Places where we can see the beauty of the art are Bann Dam, Khum Phaya Thai Art Gallery and Cafe de Museum.

Don’t miss: The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Koh Phi Phi

What makes it so special? Koh Phi Phi is a dream spot where we can see all in one place and we can also feel the party vibe. Set in the heart of Andaman Sea, 45 minutes away from Phuket by ferry. It is one of the most populated islands in Thailand. Approximately 1.5 to 2 million tourists visit Koh Phi Phi each year. The peak tourist seasons are November to April and during this time, the island can see up to 30,000 visitors per day.  

Don’t miss: Hike to the Phi Phi viewpoint.

Pai

Pai is a tiny town that is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, nature, and hippie culture. Situated amidst the hills of Mae Hong Son Province. It is here where we can experience village culture. A place that forces us to slow down and enjoy nature's beauty. Ringed by rolling green hills, rice paddies, and rivers, it's an ideal retreat from urban living. It gives a welcoming, family-friendly vibe, making it one of the best places to visit in Thailand with family and friends.

Don’t miss: Pai Canyon and the Land Split for a quirky visit.

Khao Sok National Park 

If you are starved for raw nature, off-the-grid beauty and real peace, Khao Sok delivers in abundance. It is one of those hidden gems which feels untouched and properly awe-inspiring, where we can unplug from the world and plug back into nature. It is one of the globe's oldest rainforests. That equates to it being wonderfully diverse in terms of biodiversity and filled with uncommon plant and animal species. If you are an adventure seeker or nature lover this place is worth visiting in 2025.

Don’t miss: An overnight stay in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake it’s pure jungle magic.

So what are you waiting for? Here are the top 7 places in Thailand. Pack your bags, take your camera, book your flight, Thailand is ready to welcome you with open arms and beautiful adventures.