Things to See in Thailand

If you want to see temples and palaces, start with Bangkok's attractions: the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. For a walk around the capital, you could choose another route: Chinatown for food and markets, the Jim Thompson House Museum, or the city's parks. Before visiting Bangkok's temples , check the dress code and plan how you'll travel between stops. Decide in advance how to spend the day: visiting temples or museums, or exploring a particular neighborhood.

On Phuket, you can alternate beach time with trips to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and viewpoints. Among the island's attractions — Promthep Cape for sunset and the lighthouse, and Karon Viewpoint overlooking the beaches. For a city walk, explore the streets of Old Phuket Town. Before setting out, decide on your stops and how you'll get to each one.

There are places to visit beyond the resort areas too: in the area around Pattaya — Koh Larn and waterfalls; and in the area around Chiang Mai — Doi Inthanon and Pai. In the north, you can add coffee farms to your temple visits; in Hua Hin, you can visit Mrigadayavan Palace and Khao Takiab Hill. For a trip with children, compare parks, water parks, and aquariums with visits to temples and museums.