Thailand Holiday Destinations

As Thailand’s largest island, it would be nothing short of a shame to miss visiting Phuket on a trip to Thailand. Based in the south, it’s easily accessible and a great island to head to for first-time Thailand visitors. This is wholeheartedly one to tick off your bucket list.

On a visit to Phuket, be sure to explore the streets of Old Phuket Town. Expect brightly coloured Sino-Portuguese townhouses that have spanned centuries. The charming markets offer a look into authentic Phuket life, serving street food delicacies like fried banana, as well as beautiful souvenirs.

Kata Beach is known as the surfing capital of Phuket and hosts the island’s biggest annual surfing competition. Alongside offering unmatched waves and surfing conditions, Kata Beach also provides guests with a fruitful Thai food scene like fresh seafood. Plus, a vibrant yet sophisticated nightlife ideal for younger travellers and couples.

If you’re on the hunt for an all-inclusive family resort in Phuket, acquaint yourself with our Club Med Phuket resort. Covering 25 hectares of tropical forest, bask in an authentic Thai experience whilst dabbling in relaxation and adventurous activities.

Our Thai cooking classes allow you and your family to play chef for the day, teaching you the invaluable skills you need to recreate popular Thai dishes from home. Dishes range from green curry to tom yum soup, led by our talented chefs. If you want to get to know Thai culture even more, we recommend taking part in our Thai boxing classes. Led by our talented instructors, lessons occur daily and allow guests to inject a little fitness into their Phuket trip. Our Club Med Phuket resort also offers climbing, scuba diving and archery classes. Plus, a selection of restaurants like The Mamuang which has been newly redesigned, and The Chu-da.

Discover more about our Club Med Phuket resort.

Found in northern Thailand, the modern city of Chiang Mai is known for its beautiful sights and landmarks, like ancient temples and exquisite mountains.

A trip to Chiang Mai wouldn’t be complete without heading to Wat Phra Doi Suthep, one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. Nestled at the top of a 306- step staircase surrounded by naga - mythical sea serpents - the journey itself is one to behold. Once at the top, visitors can expect breadfruit trees, rock gardens, and breathtaking views of the city. Similarly, the Wat Phra Singh temple is also worth visiting, made up of stunning buildings and elegant gardens. Known as the Temple of the Lion Buddha, it’s also home to two buddha statues which attracts many pilgrims.

For those seeking postcard-perfect views, Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the highest mountain in all of Thailand and offers nothing short of “wow” moments. Covering a staggering 48,240 hectares, the park is home to more birds than anywhere else in Thailand. And for those looking to experience authentic northern Thai food, Chiang Mai is the place to do so. Known for Khao Soi, the coconut and curry soup with yellow noodles and chicken, it’s a mesmerising amalgamation of textures, colours and flavours.

As the smallest island of the Samui-Pha-Nagan-Tao trio in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is making its way onto many more tourist’s maps for all the right reasons. Speckled in palm trees and white sands, the island takes its name from the sea turtles that frequent the shores, which visitors can expect to see.

Offering guests an endless list of beaches, coves and coasts to explore, Ao Tanot Bay is most definitely the most popular. Providing the perfect waters for snorkelling, rock-jumping and diving, become acquainted with the local wildlife like angelfish and coral, as well as a sunken catamaran. Or, simply sunbathe on the peaceful shores. For something more secluded, Hat Laem Thian is a sheltered white sandy beach north of Ao Tanot offering the same clear waters and activities.

For those seeking views from Koh Tao, John Suwan viewpoint is just the ticket. Allowing visitors to take in the trio of islands from new heights and revel in the blue and green hues from above, it offers a truly unforgettable view. However, we recommend hiking to the top in cooler temperatures or early in the morning, as the uphill trail is known for being challenging.

It’s truly tricky to narrow it down to three, as there are so many popular spots in Thailand worth visiting. But from a bustling capital city to a famous film spot, discover the top three popular Thailand holiday destinations we wholeheartedly recommend visiting.

As the capital city of Thailand, it’s no surprise that Bangkok is one of the most popular Thailand holiday destinations. Known for its array of elegant shrines and buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for visitors to throw themselves into and explore.

When visiting, the Grand Palace should most definitely be on your list. A complex of exquisite buildings right in the heart of Bangkok, it’s a famous architectural symbol of the Thai Royal Family and is used for ceremonial purposes. Expect to see magnificent building after magnificent building, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Queen Sirikit Museum.

When it comes to temples, Bangkok is a hubbub of stunning spots. If you’re merely passing through Bangkok whilst visiting other areas of Thailand, we recommend heading to Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (known as Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn.) Set amongst the Chao Phraya River’s banks and missile in shape, it’s one of Bangkok’s most popular structures and offers enchanting views of the river, accessible via stairs. Whilst there, explore the colourful spire, murals in the ordination hall, and beautiful grounds. If possible, visiting at sunset offers nothing short of mesmerising views and photo opportunities.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing spot in Thailand, or are in a couple, you might prefer Koh Samui to some of the other more bustling spots. Popular for its serenity-speckled beaches, wellness opportunities and beautiful Thai cuisine, Koh Samui only exceeds expectations.

Soak up the local culture in Bophut and explore the narrow Chinese shophouses in the Fisherman’s Village. Transformed into quaint and quirky hotels, restaurants and bars, many photo opportunities await. If you have enough time, we recommend heading to the weekly night market to experience the humble buzz and authentic street food and souvenirs.

When it comes to relaxation, the island’s beaches offer the perfect escape. To experience the calming sound of falling water, the two Na Muang waterfalls are only a stone's throw from one another and ooze tranquillity. And for those who like to connect with nature, the Samui Elephant Sanctuary offers half-day experiences with the island’s beautiful creatures. Expect to meet and feed them whilst learning about their welfare.

Another popular Thai island is Ko Khao Phing Kan, which is found northeast of Phuket. Known as James Bond Island, it was the famous backdrop in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun, putting it at the top of many tourist’s lists.

With its claim to fame, it’s no wonder that there are many wonderful tours available at Ko Khao Phing Kan. Take in the breathtaking scenery and limestone rock formations whilst navigating your own canoe or kayak. Plus, enjoy a paddle in the crystal waters and explore the nearby ocean caves. For those who prefer to sit back, boat tours are also available via luxurious speedboat or longtail boats.

Thailand, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the islands, the country offers an unforgettable experience. For those seeking a luxurious escape, Club Med Phuket provides an idyllic retreat with its all-inclusive amenities, stunning beachfront views, and world-class service. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, explore local culture, or indulge in gourmet dining, Club Med Phuket ensures a memorable stay in this tropical paradise.