Thailand always lands in the top three of every traveller’s bucket list. Just ask anyone who’s ever dreamed of turquoise seas, golden temples, and spicy street food. But is it really as magical as everyone says? Does it live up to the hype, or is it just another over-photographed holiday spot?

Spoiler alert: it’s every bit as incredible as you’ve heard. From island-hopping in the Andaman Sea to midnight feasts in Bangkok’s bustling markets, Thailand is a sensory overload in the best possible way. And with a little insider knowledge, you will find that the Land of Smiles is not only unforgettable but also surprisingly easy to explore. Let us dive into the best places to visit in Thailand during summer and discover how to spend smartly with Grey.

The places to visit in Thailand

Bangkok: The heart of Thailand

No trip to Thailand is complete without experiencing the energy of Bangkok. Explore the Grand Palace, marvel at Wat Arun, and wander through the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market. Don’t miss the city’s legendary street food. Try pad thai or mango sticky rice from a roadside vendor for a true local experience.

Tip: Beat the crowds and heat by arriving early at the Grand Palace, and take a scenic riverboat from Saphan Taksin BTS station to Tha Chang Pier for a refreshing start to your day.

Chiang Mai: Culture and cool mountain air

Head north to Chiang Mai for a blend of history, culture, and nature. Visit the Wat Mahawan or the sacred Doi Suthep Temple for panoramic views, stroll the Old City’s ancient walls, or join a traditional cooking class. If you’re visiting in November, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival is pure magic.

Curiosity: Chiang Mai’s Old City is surrounded by a moat and remnants of ancient walls, giving it a charming, fortress-like atmosphere that’s perfect for exploring by bicycle.

Phuket: Tropical paradise for beach lovers

Phuket is Thailand’s most famous island, loved for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Relax on Patong Beach, explore the colourful Old Phuket Town, or take a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay and the iconic James Bond Island. Water sports, nightlife, and luxury resorts await.

Tip: For a break from the crowds, visit the Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.

Krabi: Adventure and natural beauty

Krabi’s dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters make it a haven for adventurers. Try rock climbing at Railay Beach, kayak through mangroves, or snorkel in Ao Nang. The scenery here is next-level, and the pace is laid-back.

Curiosity: Railay Beach is only accessible by boat due to the surrounding cliffs, giving it a secluded feel despite its popularity.

Koh Samui and the islands: Ultimate relaxation

For pure relaxation, head to Koh Samui’s Chaweng Beach or the untouched beauty of Koh Lipe’s Sunrise Beach. These islands offer everything from luxury resorts and beach yoga to incredible snorkelling and sunset cruises.

Tip: Don’t miss the Big Buddha Temple on Koh Samui, a 12-metre golden statue that’s a peaceful spot with panoramic views.

Ayutthaya: Step back in time

History buffs will love Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient temples and palace ruins. It’s a great day trip from Bangkok and gives a fascinating glimpse into Thailand’s royal past.

Curiosity: Many of Ayutthaya’s temple ruins are surrounded by water, as the city was once an island at the confluence of three rivers, earning it the nickname “Venice of the East.”

Hidden gems for travellers with more time

If you have extra days to explore beyond the usual hotspots, Thailand has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Visit Pai, a laid-back town in the mountains of northern Thailand, known for its chilled vibe, waterfalls, and hot springs. The island of Koh Yao Noi offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, with stunning beaches and authentic village life.

For nature lovers, Khao Sok National Park boasts one of the oldest rainforests in the world, with opportunities for jungle trekking, canoeing, and staying in floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake. The ancient city of Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital, is another treasure trove of history with beautifully preserved ruins and fewer tourists than Ayutthaya.

Also read: How to apply for the Destination Thailand Visa (Thai digital nomad visa)

Some curiosities about Thailand

Thailand is a country full of fascinating traditions, unique cultural practices, and surprising facts that add to its charm.

• The traditional Thai greeting, the “wai,” involves pressing your palms together and bowing slightly. It’s a sign of respect and is used in many social situations.
• It is the only Southeast Asian country never colonised by a European power, which has helped preserve its unique culture and traditions.
• The country is home to more than 40,000 Buddhist temples, each with its own history and architectural style.
• Pad Thai, the world-famous national noodle dish, was invented in the 1930s to promote Thai identity and reduce rice consumption during World War II.
• Thailand celebrates the Songkran Festival every April, marking the traditional Thai New Year with nationwide water fights and cultural ceremonies.

How to pay for things like a local in Thailand

Thailand is rapidly embracing cashless payments, but knowing your options will help you avoid hassle and sometimes even get better deals.

Cash

Cash remains king for small purchases, street food, and local markets. ATMs are widely available, but be mindful of foreign card fees and always withdraw in Thai Baht.

Debit and credit cards

Major cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, malls, and many restaurants. However, small shops and rural areas may not take cards, and you might face foreign transaction fees.

Thai QR payments and e-wallets

Locals love using QR codes through PromptPay and e-wallets like TrueMoney Wallet and Line Pay for everything from taxis to bubble tea. Many vendors display QR codes for quick, secure payments.

Grey: The smart way for travellers to pay

If you want to avoid currency exchange hassles and pay smoothly while travelling, Grey is an excellent travel companion. With Grey, you can:

• Open a multi-currency account with balances in USD, GBP, or EUR before you travel.
• Get a virtual USD debit card that works anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted worldwide, including Thailand.
• Top up your Grey account in your home currency and fund your USD balance at competitive rates with no hidden fees.
• Use your virtual USD card to pay for flights, accommodation, online shopping, subscriptions, and many services while in Thailand.

Related article: How to get an instant USD debit card in Thailand

Grey is ideal for cashless transactions on international platforms and merchants accepting USD payments. This makes it perfect for digital nomads, frequent travellers, and anyone who wants to avoid fluctuating exchange rates and foreign transaction fees.

Open a free account today to manage your spending easily and stay in control of your travel budget without carrying large amounts of cash.

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