Thailand major cities. The best and most popular resorts in Thailand are Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok…

13.10.2021

All cities and resorts in Thailand for travel. List of the most famous regions, regions, cities and resorts in Thailand: population, codes, distances, the best descriptions and reviews of tourists.

  • Hot tours to Thailand
  • Tours for May Worldwide

Popular

Cities, resorts and regions of Thailand on the map and alphabetically

Cities of Thailand

The cities of Thailand are a unique opportunity to see with your own eyes a country where the basis of all foundations is religion and monarchy. In modern society, there are practically no such states left. Most of them have gone into the distant past. Thailand is a rare chance to learn what it means to be a Buddhist and believe in your king. To date, it is the only country in Southeast Asia that has not officially been a colony of anyone, and perhaps the reasons for this success are partly embedded in the two founding pillars of Thai society.

Thailand is located on two peninsulas, Indochina and Malacca, and is washed by Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand of the South China Sea. Geographically, the country is divided into five regions, each of which has its own “face” that is different from the others and boasts cities and attractions popular among tourists.

central region

Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, concurrently a major port, which became such relatively recently, in 1782. “City of Angels” is the name of one of the most noisy and popular cities among foreigners in Thai. The most interesting can be found on the island of Rattanakosin, where the old part of Bangkok is located. The Grand Royal Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are the most important sights of the island, and of the whole country as a whole. Other important places to visit are the National Museum, with the richest collection Thai art, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of Dawn. Those wishing to learn more about the history and culture of the capital will easily find something to do. There are hundreds of monasteries in Bangkok. The bustle of the metropolis, bright colors, original Thai cuisine and Asian flavor are guaranteed.

Guide to Bangkok

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is one of the ancient capitals of Thailand. The history of the city goes back to the 14th century. Once upon a time, kings lived here, who were replaced over a fairly long period of time at least thirty. The old part of the city, where the most interesting places to see are located, is protected by UNESCO. Among the monuments of architecture, the most interesting is Grand Palace(Vang Luang), the former royal chapel of Wat Sri Sanphet, the monasteries of Wat Rachaburana and Wat Na Phra Meru.

East Coast

Pattaya

Pattaya is perhaps the most famous resort town in Thailand, located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Here you can find entertainment for every taste and age. Unfortunately, the coastal zone cannot boast of cleanliness, and the presence of a well-developed sex industry will easily scare away supporters of a calm family vacation. Nevertheless, Pattaya is invariably in demand among Russians, and the nearby crocodile farm, elephant village, coral reefs and tiger zoo will delight lovers of diving and rare species of animals.

Rayong

Rayong is the exact opposite of Pattaya. This is a quiet picturesque resort town that can please the vacationer with a clear sea, beautiful beaches and cozy bays. Mineral springs, fishermen's village, fresh seafood, coral reefs and sightseeing tours available.

South Region

Krabi city

The city of Krabi is located exactly opposite the island of Phuket, another tourist "mecca" of Russians, in the mainland of the country. Krabi stands on the river and is located near the coast. However, it is hardly worth considering it as a resort. Rest in the former fishing village is rather recommended for those wishing to feel the local flavor and feel the life of the Thais.

Northern region

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi - small town close to the Burmese border. It is very hot here and there are a lot of insects, so when preparing for a trip, it is better to think over the time of the visit in advance. October and November are the optimal months for Kanchanaburi. Main attractions - National parks, among which it is worth highlighting the Erawan Park with a multi-tiered waterfall. Also of interest are the military museum and the bridge over the River Kwai, which became infamous during the Second World War.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a unique city from a historical point of view. 12 km from the modern settlement is another ancient capital of Thailand with many temples. The city was founded in 1238 by the Khmers and existed for more than a hundred years. Now the territory of this historical park protected by UNESCO and are one of the most interesting and important attractions of Thailand, along with Ayutthaya. When viewed, you should pay attention to Wat Mahathat, Wat San Da Pha Daeng and Wat Si Chum.

chiangmai

Chiang Mai was founded in the 13th century. This is a city of monasteries, there are more than a hundred of them, mountain landscapes, 90 km from Chiang Mai is the most high peak Thailand, and medieval temples. In addition to architectural monuments, in the city you can find the National Museum with a collection of Buddhas from different eras and nearby national parks that are worth visiting with a guided tour. When visiting the monasteries, it is worth paying attention to Chedi Luang, Ban Pao and Phra Singh.

Also, the cities of Maehongson, Chiangsen and Chiang Rai, delighting history lovers with architectural monuments and wonderful museums, should be attributed to the pearls of the Northern region.

Northeast region

Udon Thani

Udon Thani is located on one of the tributaries of the Mekong, 50 km from the border with Laos. Before becoming the capital of the Thai province of the same name in the 19th century, this city belonged to the Burmese, Khmer and Laotians. The surroundings of Udon Thani have been inhabited since the prehistoric period, as evidenced by the oldest settlement in the country - Ban Chiang. Buddhist temples and a zoo are local attractions.

According to National Geographic, Thailand is one of the best beach resorts in the World (read more about), but the heir country of the Kingdom of Siam is attractive not only for them. We bring to your attention List of the most beautiful ancient cities in Thailand, a tour of the streets of which will be the best memory of a trip to this country. The article below will help you decide which city in Thailand is better to go in order to get to know the country in its original form, even before it became a tourist mecca among the countries of Southeast Asia.

Ayutthaya is the oldest city in Thailand, 400 years (1352-1767) was the capital of the kingdom of Siam. The place where trade routes from China and India converged. By the time it was destroyed by the army, Burma was the largest city on the planet, with more than a million people living in it. Majestic ruins that excite the imagination of tourists. Listed by UNESCO world heritage. Usually, a full-day excursion from is organized to visit it.

2

Chiang Rai is pretty beautiful city in Thailand, attracting those who appreciate non-standard manifestations of talent. The place where a surrealistic building was built, the decoration of which combines traditional Thai motifs and modernism - the panels of the main hall depict scenes from the Star Wars saga. Northern city, surrounded by rocks, you can stay there for more than one day to admire the architecture and nature away from the crowds of fans beach holiday(read about others besides beaches).

3

Chiang Rai is the second largest city in Thailand, so it can become a place independent travel where to spend your entire vacation. bewitching beautiful surroundings, interesting also because almost legendary giraffe people live there - women from the Karen mountain tribe, lengthening their necks with long bronze rings.

5

If you have seen the movie "Bridge over the River Kwai", then it will be doubly interesting for you to visit the city of Kanchanaburi in the west of the country, near the border of Burma. It was there that the tragic events of World War II unfolded. One of the most picturesque provinces of the country, where you can see the virgin nature, caves, waterfalls, visit the farm and the reservation of the Mon tribe - a people that differs from the surrounding Burmese and Thais.

6

Sukhothai is an authentic city of Thailand and the capital (1238-1382) of the ancient Sukhothai kingdom of the same name. He will be interesting because he wants to make a kind of jump into the past. The historical picturesque ruins are located 12 kilometers from the modern city of the same name. Especially memorable is the morning bike ride through the ancient streets and the view of the Buddha statue in the rays of the rising sun.

7

A small town in the north, adjacent to Chiang Mai. Party place for hippies, bohemians and other non-formals. A lot of so-called backpackers who have been living for years on the principle of "what God will give." Picturesque surroundings - mountains covered with jungle. If not for the classic Asian chaos in the streets and the tropical climate, this village could be called alpine.

8

Nong Khai is located on the banks of the Mekong, a river considered sacred by all the inhabitants of the Indochinese peninsula. One of the best cities in Thailand for those who seek to know the sacred essence of the country. open to them natural Park Phu Phra Bat - The hill with the footprint of the Buddha. In the vicinity of the city there is the only highway connecting Thailand with Laos.

9

Another historical city in Thailand, it is located on the road from Bangkok to Chumphon. A real treasure trove for those who are attracted by the exquisite architectural forms of Southeast Asia. The city is full of temples and palaces - former royal residences.

10

Lampang is an authentic Thai town, which is the third largest among the northern "brethren", and is also the capital of the province of the same name. At one time, Lampang was developed medieval city. However, this did not last long, the ten-year war turned the economic component of this region into a decline for long years. From here there was a large outflow of the population, and after the loss of independence, Lampang began to be controlled by Burma until the beginning of the 20th century. A variety of temples that survived after the war, national parks and other attractions - that's what tourists should get acquainted with!

Geographic location and population

The Kingdom of Thailand is a state in the central part of Southeast Asia, which is spread over two peninsulas: Indochina and Malacca. This country is washed by the Andaman Sea from the west and the South China Sea from the east (Gulf of Thailand).

The area of ​​Thailand is 514,000 km2. The country borders Laos and Cambodia to the east, Malaysia to the south and Myanmar to the west. The kingdom is divided into regions: Northern, Northeastern, Central, Eastern and Southeastern. The map of the country resembles the outlines of an elephant, whose trunk is the south of the kingdom.

The population of the "Land of Smiles" is 65 million people. Most of them are ethnic Thais (80%), in addition, the main population includes Chinese, Laotians, Khmers, Hindus and Malays. The official language in the kingdom is Thai, in addition to it, English, Japanese and Chinese are common in large cities. The calendar is Buddhist, ahead of the Gregorian by 543 years (2012 = 2555).

Cities of Thailand

Thailand is a state with a long history and developed culture. Cities of Thailand open to the guests of the country a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the beautiful examples of historical architecture, see stunning natural wonders, as well as plunge into the colorful world of the traditions of one of the most amazing countries South-East Asia.

Capital of Thailand - Bangkok city, located in the central part of the country, is one of the largest metropolitan areas Asia. is a kind of gateway to the "Land of Smiles", although it is deprived of access to the sea, it is through it that most tourists enter Thailand. Here is the largest collection of palaces, temples, parks, museums and other important attractions in Thailand.

Popular resort town Pattaya- the closest beach from Bangkok to Thailand. Although the coastal areas are lined with comfortable family hotels, the city's center of activity, which attracts the bulk of tourists, is the famous Volkin Street, full of bars, discos and affordable women.

The capital of Northern Thailand is the city Chiang Mai surrounded by a chain of picturesque mountains and the glory of one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers of the country. The ancient Buddhist temples located here are revered as the greatest shrines far beyond the borders of the “Land of the Free”. The city has a developed infrastructure that will allow you to combine sightseeing of natural and cultural attractions with a variety of entertainment and rich nightlife.

City Ayutthaya, located 100 km from, was the predecessor of the current capital of Thailand. Destroyed during the invasion of Burmese troops more than 250 years ago, today it remains the most important monument of the history and culture of Thailand.

Other large cities: Samut Prakan (390 thousand inhabitants), Surat Thani (130 thousand inhabitants) and Khon Kaen (121 thousand inhabitants). The cities where the main resorts of the country are located are easily accessible and can impress the visitor with an unusually high level of service.

Resorts of Thailand

The main thing that attracts most people to rest in Thailand is the sea, sand and tropical nature. Numerous resorts in Thailand, located on the islands and in the mainland, provide excellent conditions for a beach holiday and a diverse range of related entertainment.

Phuket Island

The main and most prestigious beach resort in Thailand is located in the Andaman Sea, off the southwestern coast of the country. Holidays in Phuket will allow you to combine the enjoyment of untouched tropical nature with an extremely rich program of excursions and evening leisure.

The center of tourist activity on the island is main beach- . Focused on Patong Beach the largest number hotels, entertainment venues, and the infamous street is also located here.

Koh Samui

The second most popular (after Phuket) island resort in Thailand. Lovers of scenic beauty come to have a rest on Samui tropical nature, privacy and comfort.

Koh Phangan

A small island located next to Koh Samui has long been chosen by fans of modern music and reckless nightly fun. It is in this resort of Thailand that the famous beach raves regularly take place, in which people from all over the world come to participate.

Koh Chang island

(“Elephant Island”), located on the southeastern tip of the Gulf of Thailand, has long been a favorite vacation spot for representatives of the royal dynasty and the Thai aristocracy. Today, this reserved tropical resort, lost in the azure waters of the sea, is one of the best places for secluded relaxation and acquaintance with the nature of Thailand.

Krabi Province

Krabi Province is located on the mainland, 170 km east of Phuket. In Krabi, there are such popular resorts in Thailand as those that became the filming location of the Hollywood blockbuster The Beach. It is also famous for its unique karst caves and numerous nature reserves.

Hua Hin

A small town, located 200 km from Bangkok, is considered one of the most prestigious beach resorts in Thailand. Noisy nightlife is practically absent here, so the beach Hua Hin but it is considered perfect place for holidays with children and for tourists of advanced age.

Which resort in Thailand to choose?

beach and sightseeing vacation: Pattaya, Phuket, Samui, Krabi province.

Excursions only: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya.

Vacation with children: Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Chang.

Night life: Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Phangan.

  • Holidays in Thailand during the rainy season (May-October) will allow you to save some on the cost of staying at a hotel, but there is a high probability of spending the lion's share of the time hiding under the roof from the raging elements.
  • Many popular attractions in thailand(temples, islands, parks) is cheaper and more interesting to see for yourself, after knowing the route to them.
  • Noisy Pattaya has fun day and night. If you are not inclined to outdoor activities and nightlife, you should pay attention to a more relaxed thailand resort.

Photo: 500px.com by Justin Nowell

Thailand is recognized as one of the best beach resorts according to National Geographic. But the beaches are not the Kingdom's only beautiful side. The sophisticated architecture of temples, the romance of the old streets of Nong Khai and the morning flair of Chiang Mai - all this in our selection of the 10 most charming cities in the Kingdom

Ayutthaya

Ancient city, which at one time was at the crossroads of trade routes from China, India and the Malay Archipelago, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Like all former great cities, and now well-kept ruins, it attracts people with imagination. Yes, you need to imagine what Ayutthaya was like in 1350, although the city is very well preserved! By the way, it can be visited as part of a one-day trip from Bangkok.


Ayutthaya city, Thailand. Photo: 500px.com by Alexander Kozlov

Chiang Rai

It is located in the north of the country, which distances it from the crowds of sea tourists. Here is located the finest work of the White Temple, whose vaults are decorated with stucco in the form of bones and skulls, and the interior is futuristic. In Chiang Rai, you can stay longer than a day to try rock climbing, cycle through the streets and buy unusual souvenirs at local fairs.


Wat Rong Khun Chiang Rai. Photo: 500px.com by Noppera Bosri

chiangmai

Another representative of the North, where you can relax slowly. The second largest city in Thailand after Bangkok, Chiang Mai often serves as a transit point for excursions to the villages of hill tribes (you probably remember the Karens, in whom the long neck is considered the ideal of female beauty) or hiking in the jungle. But the city itself can be explored for weeks! The most vivid memories leave the surroundings.


Photo: jjttravel.com

Krabi

"Classic beauty of Thailand" - best description for this place. You can easily get to Krabi, in just 15 minutes, from Phuket, since the island is located very close to the province of the same name. Temples and authentic markets await you in the city, and crystal clear water, white sands, waterfalls, wild beaches, sheer cliffs. In addition, here are the most stunning sea sunsets in the country!


Kanchanaburi

The city is located in the west of Thailand. Kanchanaburi is a historical place: during the Second World War there was a famous prisoner of war camp, a base for building railway Thailand - Burma, known as the "Road of Death". The most popular attraction is the River Kwai Bridge, about which Hollywood director David Lean made a film that won seven Oscars.


Waterfall in Kanchanaburi. Photo: 500px.com by Prasit Rodphan

Sukhothai

The former capital of Thailand is open to anyone who loves "time travel". In Sukhothai, you can rent a bike and ride around the ancient city early in the morning. They say nothing compares to the sight of a Buddha statue against the backdrop of the rising sun!


Sukhothai historical park. Photo: 500px.com by Anek S

Share

The small town in the north of the Kingdom is easily accessible from Chiang Mai, especially since the scenery is beautiful along the way. Pai is surrounded by hot springs, jungles, and waterfalls. It can be compared to one of the Alpine towns, only much warmer and with streets filled with Asian exoticism.


Yellow house in Pai. Photo: 500px.com by Josan Jo

Samed

The island is famous the cleanest beaches and turquoise waters. Despite the preservation of nature, Samed lives a vibrant nightlife and is ready to offer you a meal in one of the dozens of restaurants. Its small town can hardly be called a city, but if you are looking for an exotic place to live with the benefits of civilization near Bangkok, Samed is the best option!


Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park. Photo: 500px.com by Taweesak Boonwirut

Nong Khai

The original city on the banks of the Mekong allows you to see the sacred essence of Thailand. There is a historical park Phu Phra Bat, and in the vicinity - several temples. Relatively recently, a road and rail bridge was built here, connecting Thailand with Laos.


Thai-Lao Friendship bridge. Photo: 500px.com by Karel Fransen

Phetchaburi

The ancient city, located southwest of Bangkok, is a treasure trove for lovers of history and architecture. The former royal palace and temples are maintained in full tourist readiness. One of the most visited places is the Khao Luang cave with a sanctuary inside.


natural spotlight. Photo: 500px.com by Puniest Rojanapo

Which Thai city do you think is the most beautiful? Share your opinions in the comments!

The Kingdom of Thailand is located in the southwest of the Indochina peninsula. It is washed by 2 seas: Andaman and South China. The country is quite small: it occupies only 513,120 sq. km, which brings it to the 50th place on the planet. It ranks 20th in terms of population. 70,500,000 people live here. The territory of the state is strongly stretched from north to south. Most of the country is occupied by fertile plains. Mountainous terrain is present in the north, northwest of the country. The main part of the population are Thais and Laotians. There is also a small proportion of South Asian peoples. Although Thailand is a popular tourist destination, it is still an agro-industrial country. Most of the population is engaged in agriculture. Vast areas have been given over to rice fields. Thailand is the main supplier of rice and seafood, as well as rubber. There are very few large settlements here, which are fairly evenly distributed throughout the kingdom. A somewhat higher concentration is observed on the northern coast of the Gulf of Thailand.

Top 5 cities in Thailand with a large area

  1. Bangkok: 1,568 sq. km.
  2. Nonthaburi: 77 sq. km.
  3. Pattaya: 138 sq. km.
  4. Suratthani: 68 sq. km.
  5. Lampang: 12 square meters km.

Bangkok is the largest Thai metropolis

Bangkok is the capital of the kingdom, the largest metropolis in terms of population and area. 5,600,000 people live here. The territory of Bangkok occupies more than 1.5 thousand square meters. km. Together with the suburbs, it makes up the Greater Bangkok agglomeration. This is an economically very strong region of Thailand, which is the center of culture, finance, and tourism. The metropolis is located on the Chao Phraya River. It is also a major trading port. It was originally a small village surrounded by olive groves. Then it grew due to its favorable location (at the crossroads of trade routes). Interesting fact: official name city ​​consists of 20 words in Thai. It entered the Guinness Book of Records as the longest name of the settlement.


Bangkok's economy is based on the production of electronics, mechanical engineering, shipbuilding, and oil refining. A large share of exports is occupied by rice and seafood. Tourism is of great importance (although not the main one). It accounts for about 10% of income. Bangkok is very urbanized, with some of the tallest and most modern buildings. Despite this, there are many park areas. The largest of them:

  • lumpini park;
  • Suan Luang Rama;
  • Chatuchak, including Queen Sirikit Park, Wachirabenchathat Park.

Lumpini Park covers 57 hectares. It is located in the middle of business districts. The park has 2 lakes surrounded by green groves. On its territory there are tennis courts, treadmills, gyms, a large library. There is also a garden with a collection of palm trees. The historical center of the city includes the island of Rattanakosin, lying in the middle of the Chao Phraya River. It is surrounded by fortress walls with towers that were erected to protect the inhabitants. The main attraction of the island is the Grand Palace - a huge complex consisting of the main building, various pavilions, temples, pagodas.


It has been the residence of the King of Thailand since the 18th century. The territory of the complex covers 218,400 sq. m. The architecture of the palace and the exterior decoration are striking in their splendor. Now the royal family uses the complex for various ceremonies and receptions. It is also open to tourists. Other interesting temples nearby are Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Dawn), Wat Ratchanadda. From modern cultural institutions it will be interesting to visit:

  • the Bank of Thailand Museum;
  • planetarium;
  • art center of Bangkok.

An interesting feature of the city is the presence of a large number of channels. Because of this, it is often called the Venice of the East. Boats are a common mode of transport, as are river trams. There are routes with speed boats.

Pattaya is a popular resort

Pattaya is the most popular destination for Russian tourists. This is a resort town located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand. It is not very large - 115,000 citizens are registered here. However, the number of tourists far exceeds the number local residents. Between 2,000,000 and 5,000,000 people visit Pattaya annually. Its area is 138 sq. km. Locality is not industrial, the main income comes from tourism. In the vicinity of the city there are many interesting things for tourists. These are crocodiles, elephants, snake farms, where entertaining shows are arranged. You can also visit zoos, water parks, aquariums.

A popular attraction is Nong Nooch Tropical Park. This is a unique complex containing many different themed gardens and playgrounds. Its infrastructure is focused on tourist groups. There are many bars, bungalows, swimming pools. The entire area is divided into areas with a specific theme. The most interesting of them:

  • cactus garden;
  • butterfly hill;
  • garden of aquatic plants;
  • blue garden;
  • Stonehenge;
  • car park with collectible cars.

In Pattaya itself, at every step, tourists will find nightclubs, discos, restaurants. It boils here night life, all created for relaxation and entertainment. Dirty beaches are considered a big disadvantage for vacationers. The water is quite muddy, you can often see debris, spots on the surface of the sea. Therefore, it is better to swim in other places, on the islands or nearby beaches. The closest of the islands is called Koh Lan. There is good infrastructure, clean water. Here you can go diving, swimming, and other types of beach activities. Pattaya has few historical sights. This is the temple of the Big Buddha, the temple of Destiny, the Ban Sukhawadi park complex. There are also rock bas-reliefs carved into a rock near the city.

Nonthaburi - city on the water

Nonthaburi is a fairly large Thai city with a population of 257,000. It covers an area of ​​77 sq. km. It is located not far from Bangkok and is part of the Greater Bangkok agglomeration. Nonthaburi lies on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It, like Bangkok, is heavily flooded and swampy. A lot of canals and streams pass through its area, among which there are houses and other buildings. The settlement is surrounded by beautiful orchards, parks with exotic plants.


Nonthaburi has a well-developed tourist service. There are many entertainment venues, bars, clubs, hotels. Shoppers can visit shopping centers, city markets, brand stores. Various festivals and fruit fairs are often held. Popular vehicle are boats on which tourists are taken to look at cultural sites. Nonthaburi is replete with various historical sites of interest to travelers. Popular tourist routes pass through a small island in the middle of Chao Phrayai. There is a village where you can see the life of local residents, watch the artisans involved in the manufacture of pottery. You can also visit Buddhist temples built in different time periods.