Best things to do in Thailand

Where is it: Sathorn, Bangkok

What is it: Thailand's tallest skyscraper stands at 314 metres and features a central highlight: a glass tray floor at 310 metres and an outdoor deck offering 360° panoramic views. This design gives a true bird’s-eye perspective of the city.

Why go: Walk on air, 78 stories above Bangkok’s heart, in the central Sathorn-Silom area. At King Power Mahanakhon's glass-bottom skywalk only crystal-clear glass separates you from the glittering metropolis below. Feel your pulse quicken as you step out and look down on Thailand's cityscape. Once you've conquered the Glass Tray, toast your bravery with a chilled drink at Bangkok's highest rooftop bar – because touching the clouds deserves a celebration.

Time Out Tip: A sunset ticket is highly recommended –  it’s a bit of a splurge compared to daytime, but the view is pure magic and worth every extra baht.

Where is it: Bang Krachao, Samut Prakan

What is it: A floating market in Bang Nam Pheung, Samut Prakan, where friendly local chefs serve authentic Thai dishes from their rowing boats, alongside traditional sweets and a bounty of Southeast Asian fruits.

Why go: For a truly authentic floating market experience, Bang Nam Pheung is a top choice. Unlike Bangkok’s more commercialised spots, this market retains its traditional charm, offering genuine Thai home-cooked dishes, fresh local produce, and handcrafted goods. Set amidst mangrove forests and peaceful canals, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxed weekend morning away from the city’s fast pace.

Time Out Tip: Arrive early – ideally before 9 a.m. – to beat the heat and crowds. Rent a bike to explore the surrounding Bang Krachao area, known as Bangkok’s "Green Lung". Many vendors start wrapping up around 2 p.m., so plan accordingly. Bring small bills, as most vendors are cash-only, and be sure to try the grilled coconut pancakes (kanom krok) – a local specialty!

Where is it: Pathum Wan, Bangkok

What is it: Bangkok's first multi-functional public park, covering 142 acres, offers an urban oasis for both fitness enthusiasts and tranquillity seekers.

Why go: Where else can you catch sunrise aerobics to upbeat Thai pop, join a dawn tai chi session, power-walk alongside cyclists, and spot prehistoric-looking lizards sunbathing by a serene lake with duck-shaped paddle boats? You can even spend weekends picnicking with loved ones. It’s the perfect antidote to Bangkok’s concrete jungle –  and that morning endorphin boost easily beats any fancy coffee order. Whether you’re aiming for 10,000 steps or simply people-watching from a shady bench, Lumpini has it all.

Time Out Tip: Head to the park before 7 a.m. to enjoy a refreshing breeze and watch locals in their morning routines. Bring a water bottle and wear breathable clothes (trust us on this one). Keep a respectful distance from the monitor lizards – they may not share your enthusiasm for fitness!

Where is it: Rattanakosin Island, Bangkok

What is it: A riverside lifestyle mall offering contemporary dining with spectacular views of the Chao Phraya River, making it a great spot between temple-hopping adventures.

Why go: This waterfront hub is ideal for unwinding after a day of temple touring in the midday heat. While a Starbucks branch offers some of the best temple views in town, local cafés provide budget-friendly options. Refuel here while watching long-tail boats drift along the river, all just steps from Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. Unlike typical malls, you can hop on a riverboat after enjoying your treats. And the sunset views from the terrace? Simply divine.

Time Out Tip: To catch the golden hour over the river, visit in the late afternoon. Terrace restaurants can get busy, but the views are well worth it. For a more local and budget-friendly river experience, take the orange-flagged Chao Phraya Express Boat from the pier.

Where is it: The Old Town, Ayutthaya

What is it: A UNESCO-listed historical park that was once Siam's glittering capital, where crumbling temples and Buddhas tell stories of Thailand's past grandeur.

Why go: This archaeological site spans an island formed by three rivers, showcasing the brick-and-mortar remnants of what was once one of the world’s largest cities. Where else can you time-travel to the 14th century while enjoying authentic boat noodles? The temple ruins are architectural masterpieces that attract admirers and historians alike. Many visitors choose to cycle for a faster and more complete sightseeing experience. As you pedal through the area, you might even spot elephants in traditional silk accessories. In Ayutthaya, history comes alive with fun activities blending culture and adventure.

Time Out Tip: Renting a bike from a guesthouse is the best way to explore the old city. Pack an umbrella for shade during temple-hopping. Don’t miss the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat, and aim for late afternoon for the best photos. For an unforgettable experience, hire a longtail boat at sunset to see the temples glowing in the setting sun.

Where is it: Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani 

What is it: A man-made lake, surrounded by ancient limestone karsts and dense rainforest, this stunning 185-square-kilometre expanse of emerald-green water is dotted with floating raft houses and is home to diverse wildlife, including gibbons, hornbills, and wild elephants.

Why go: Cheow Lan Lake is one of Thailand's most pristine ecosystems. You can stay in floating bungalows right on the water, immersed in nature. Kayak through hidden lagoons, trek some of the world's oldest rainforests, spot diverse wildlife, and wake up to misty morning views of limestone cliffs rising from the lake.

Time Out Tip: Embrace local wisdom by spending at least two nights by the lake. Wake up early to enjoy the mist rising over the glassy waters. Pack quick-dry gear and lightweight clothing, as you’ll likely be living in swimwear!. Most importantly, relish the simplicity of lake life, where your loudest neighbour might just be a gibbon serenading you in the morning.

Where is it: Khlong Toei, Bangkok

What is it: A Thai training facility that combines traditional fighting techniques with modern sports science, featuring expert instructors who have competed in some of Thailand's top stadiums. It also caters to all ages and experience levels in MMA, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, and judo.

Why go: Beyond the usual bags and rings, this Muay Thai school incorporates motion-tracking technology instructed by Thailand’s top fight rings like Lumpinee and Rajadamnern. With customised training programs for all levels, BFL makes the art of eight limbs accessible whether you're throwing your first jab or perfecting your push kicks. Their unique blend of traditional techniques and modern training methods ensures you learn authentic Muay Thai while understanding the science behind each strike. 

Time Out Tip: Book their welcoming packages to test the waters. Arrive early to have your hands wrapped properly (they’ll teach you how), and stick around after class – some of the best tips are shared during the post-training cool-down!

Where is it: San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 

What is it: This 3,000-square-metre modern art museum, housed in a converted warehouse with a shimmering mirrored façade, showcases one of Thailand's premier collections of contemporary art by Thai and Southeast Asian artists.

Why go: MAIIAM Museum invites you to experience contemporary art in a stunning architectural setting that explores Thailand's social and political landscape through thought-provoking works. The museum spotlights influential regional artists, providing a platform for diverse voices in the contemporary art scene. Curated by Jean Michel Beurdeley, his late wife Patsri Bunnag, and their son Eric Bunnag Booth, the permanent collection features seminal works by modern Thai masters such as Montien Boonma, known for his meditative explorations of Buddhist themes and nature, and Kamin Lertchaiprasert, celebrated for his impactful installations addressing social issues and community engagement.

Time Out Tip: Visit in the afternoon to appreciate the exterior, where the mirror façade and its small tiles, inspired by traditional Thai temple architecture, beautifully reflect sunlight!

Where is it:  Mueang Phuket District, Phuket

What is it: An elevated vantage point features a hidden lookout that blends dramatic black rock formations with the Andaman Sea, forming a natural terrace where volcanic rocks rise above the jungle.

Why go: For that rare blend of adventure and aesthetics, every step of this moderately challenging trek is worth the breathtaking view, with unobstructed sights of three pristine beaches – Nai Harn, Ao Sane, and Yanui. At sunset, the striking silhouette of Promthep Cape creates an arresting backdrop as fishing boats dot the horizon. It's a photographer's dream and a nature lover's sanctuary, all wrapped into one.

Time Out Tip: Wear proper hiking shoes, as the terrain can be tricky, and bring a light jacket for the evening breeze. Capture the best photos during the golden hour, when the black rocks contrast beautifully with the warm light. Arrive an hour before sunset and pack a gourmet picnic – there's no better spot for sundowners.

Where is it: Nong Kae, Hua Hin

What is it: Thailand's first water jungle, an aquatic playground enveloped in a vertical jungle, is home to the country's most record-breaking water attractions, including The Abyss, a megaphone-shaped monster that claims the title of the world's largest waterslide.

Why go: Seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Abyss, Thailand's first anti-gravity Aqualoop, and the longest slide, the Boomerango. Feel the rush of the heart-stopping vertical drop of the Aqualoop, compete with friends at the AquaCourse obstacle and water-gun arena, or challenge yourself at the Adventure Zone with climbing walls and a surf simulator. Each attraction is crafted by Canada’s leading water park innovator, guaranteeing exhilarating thrills while upholding the highest safety standards.

Time Out Tip: Plan your visit strategically, as this hotspot attracts crowds! Start with the Abyss early, as lines form quickly for this fan favourite. Save the AquaCourse for midday when you need a break from the slides, and cool off between rides at the wave pool.