Things to Do in Thailand: Best Tours and Routes
Explore the things to do in Thailand list for your Thailand trip; compare the best tour and route options for Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya.
Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's most visited countries, offering a wide range of sightseeing from historic temples to tropical islands. When planning a holiday, the key element that simplifies decision-making when searching for the top "things to do in Thailand" is comparing region-specific tours and activity types with one another. Daily tours usually range from 2-hour dinner cruises to 8-10 hour full-day island and ancient city trips. Depending on the city you wish to visit and your holiday style, you can book tours in advance through local agencies.
Bangkok & Temple Tours or Phuket & Island Excursions?
For those seeking a history and culture-focused holiday versus those preferring a sea and beach-focused itinerary, two main hubs stand out: Bangkok and Phuket.
For culture, architecture and history enthusiasts, ancient city tours departing from Bangkok are an ideal choice. For example, the full-day Ayutthaya tour coded BANGKOK: Join Tour: Full Day Ayutthaya-Ancient Capital Of Thailand (by Road) 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 12:00 pm 3 rounds a day lasts approximately 9 hours. On this trip with transport provided in air-conditioned vehicles, historical temple structures, Buddha busts and palace ruins in Thailand’s former capital are explored accompanied by a guide. For adults interested in history and photography enthusiasts, this style of tour comes top of the list.
On the other hand, for those seeking turquoise seas, white sandy beaches and snorkelling experiences, the islands of Phuket are the right address. The Phi Phi Islands tour by luxury boat coded PHUKET: Join Tour PHI PHI ISLAND BY LUXURY BOAT (VIP Gold Seat) with LUNCH lasts approximately 8 hours. On this journey made by floating luxury catamarans or speedboats, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave and snorkelling spots are visited, and lunch is served on board. For families and couples who enjoy swimming and observing marine life, this style of travel is more relaxing and dynamic compared to cultural tours.
Pattaya Water Sports or Bangkok Dinner Cruise?
For travellers torn between adrenaline-fuelled water activities and a calm, romantic evening event, a comparison between Pattaya and Bangkok offers guidance.
Water sports tours departing from Pattaya are suitable for groups and young adults seeking action on the water. The Coral Island (Koh Larn) speedboat tour coded PATTAYA-F2: Coral Island Speed boat+Snorkelling +banana boat+lunch lasts approximately 6 hours. The itinerary includes speedboat transfers, snorkelling, banana boat rides and lunch on the beach. It is a practical package for those who want to do multiple water sports in a short time and enjoy an energetic day.
For those who want to spend an evening in a peaceful atmosphere with live music and city lights, cruises on Bangkok's Chao Phraya River stand out. The Chao Phraya dinner cruise tour coded BANGKOK DINNER CRUISE TICKET: Chaophraya Cruise Dinner with Live Music (No Transfer) lasts approximately 2 hours. An open buffet dinner is served on board, while iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace are viewed under the night lights to the accompaniment of live music. It is a comfortable option to unwind from the day's fatigue, especially for couples and families with children.
How to Choose a Thailand Itinerary in November, December and January?
The best weather period in Thailand is November, December and January. During these months, humidity drops, rainfall decreases and temperatures fall below oppressive levels.
- November: This is when the rainy season comes to an end and tours can be enjoyed comfortably. Both sea trips and ancient city tours on land can be planned easily.
- December: This is one of the busiest and sunniest times of the year. Ideal conditions are created for boat tours in Phuket and Pattaya. As tours experience high demand, booking in advance is recommended.
- January: A favourable time for walking and temple tours when sea temperatures and weather are balanced.
When selecting tours according to the season, it is important to check rainfall conditions and temperatures prior to your visit.
Frequently asked questions
What to do with children in Bangkok?
For families with children, dinner cruises on the Chao Phraya River and ancient city tours conducted in covered, air-conditioned vehicles are comfortable options. Programmes with short walking distances that include meal service ensure families stay comfortable.
What is the most suitable Thailand activity for couples?
For couples, having dinner on Bangkok river cruises or snorkelling in the Phi Phi Islands on luxury boats departing from Phuket are among the most popular and enjoyable itineraries.
Are boat tours available in November and December?
Yes, since November, December and January are the dry season in Thailand, it is the most favourable time of year for boat tours, snorkelling and water sports activities.
Is advance booking necessary for tours?
Particularly during the peak season between November and January, capacities for boat and day tours fill up quickly; therefore, booking with local agencies prior to your visit is recommended.
