Perfect Solo Trip to Thailand: Top Places to See & Travel Tips

Bangkok Airways Writer
June 4, 2025
Attractions, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Koh Samui, Krabi, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Pattaya, Phuket, Thailand, Trat, Travel by inspiration

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A solo trip in Thailand offers a wide variety of unforgettable experiences no matter which city you choose to visit. From bustling cities, ancient temples, delectable cuisines, beautiful natural landscapes, friendly locals, and budget-friendly accommodations, it is a land full of charms and wonders worth exploring.
Thailand is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique charms. Enjoy cool breezes and a sea of fog in northern cities like Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son during winter. Head south to Phuket and Koh Samui in summer for sun and sea. For adventure seekers, the rainy season is perfect for conquering misty mountain peaks in Sukhothai and Chiang Mai.

If you’re a solo traveler seeking a culturally rich and naturally stunning destination, Thailand is the answer. From bustling cities and ancient temples to floating markets, delicious cuisine, serene beaches, and lush mountains—Thailand offers it all. This complete guide will help you explore Thailand’s top landmarks, must-do activities, and how to prepare for the best vacation that will last in your memory forever.

Top 10 Destinations for Solo Travelers in Thailand

Bangkok Airways has gathered the top 10 destinations you should visit and activities you should try as a first-time solo traveler to help you plan your trip with ease. Let’s dive into the beauty of Thailand and discover the charms of the country.

1. Bangkok

Needless to say, the first destination a first-timer should visit is Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, also known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, literally translated as “the great city of angels.” This charming city is home to endless cultural heritage preserved in the form of iconic Buddhist temples.

Immerse yourself in the culture by paying respect to the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, appreciating the intricate carvings and colorful murals of Wat Phra Kaew, and climbing up the staircase of Wat Arun for a million-dollar panoramic view of sunset over the Chao Phraya River.

To embrace the modern lifestyle of the city, enjoy a shopping spree at high-end shopping malls, such as ICONSIAM, centralwOrld, and Siam Paragon, stroll along the walking street in Siam Square where young artists showcase their talents through musical performances, or simply enjoy the vibes of the city that never sleeps. End your day by filling up your stomach with tasty food from local restaurants on Yaowarat Road, also known as Bangkok Chinatown, one of the most famous streets in Bangkok.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Bangkok

2. Pattaya

Pattaya is one of the most popular spots among solo travelers. Located in Chonburi province, this city is a hub of countless attractions and nightlife entertainment. Visit Pattaya Beach, where you can try exhilarating water sports, such as jet skiing, banana boat riding, and parasailing.

Keep strolling along the beach and you will reach Pattaya Walking Street, a lively area that comes alive at night with numerous fancy neon signs and live music. Enjoy the party vibes of the bustling street, lined up with a bunch of lively bars, nightclubs, and restaurants offering delicious seafood and drinks.

Do not miss Nong Nooch Garden, a famous theme park featuring multiple museums and huge themed gardens, such as The Dinosaur Valley, The European Garden, and Stonehenge Garden. The park also offers amazing Thai performances including traditional dances and martial arts demonstrations for you to feel closer to the deep-rooted culture of Thai people.

Some solo travelers also opt for Koh Larn, a small island that takes only 20 minutes by speedboat or 40 minutes by ferry. The island is home to a variety of beautiful beaches, where powdery sand meets crystal clear water, such as Tawaen Beach and Samae Beach. Apart from swimming and sunbathing, try the sea walking activity where you will wear an oxygen helmet before descending to the seafloor to walk alongside the fish and corals.

3. Trat

Trat is a province located in eastern Thailand, known for its stunning beaches and archipelago, with Koh Chang being the most popular among other islands. Koh Chang, directly translated as “an elephant island,” is Thailand’s third largest island, with most areas covered in lush rainforest and sandy beaches. The island’s most famous beaches are Klong Prao Beach and Kai Bae Beach, which are often visited by travelers who are looking for a perfect place to swim, snorkel, and dive.

If you are an island hopper, there are several neighboring islands near Koh Chang you should explore, namely Koh Wai, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. These small islands are famed for the crystal clear water and the serenity of their picturesque beaches, making them an ideal destination to unwind and enjoy your solo travel in Thailand.

Apart from aquatic activities, there are plenty of adventure experiences waiting to be explored in the dense forest, such as Koh Chang’s Tree Top Adventure Park, the activity where you can hop from tree to tree by climbing, swinging, and gliding down the zip line. To cool down in the hot weather, swim at the base of Khlong Phlu Waterfall and Than Mayom Waterfall located in the heart of the island.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Trat

4. Chiang Mai

A solo trip in Thailand would not be complete without visiting Chiang Mai, a famous city in the northern region known for its high mountain range and ancient Lanna culture. Stay overnight in Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s tallest mountain and an abundance of bird species as well as winter foliage plants.

Enjoy the beautiful golden sunrise over an endless sea of fog in the morning. Then, trek through Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail to admire the beauty of nature and watch the panoramic view above the clouds.

Immerse yourself in the culture by visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most important and sacred Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Before reaching the temple on the mountain, you must conquer the 306-step staircase decorated with two seven-headed Naga serpents on both sides. Up there, you will be rewarded with the tranquility of the temple, the gorgeous architecture, and the panoramic view of Chiang Mai city.

If you stay in the city during the weekend, make sure to look around the Tha Phae Walking Street, the most famous market among the locals and travelers held every Sunday evening. This one-kilometer long street offers all kinds of cuisines, local handicrafts, and lovely souvenirs as well as musical performances presented by the locals of all ages.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Chiang Mai

5. Lampang

Lampang is another city in northern Thailand worth visiting. Start your solo trip at Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, an ancient temple heavily influenced by Lanna-style architecture. The most distinctive feature is the solid walls surrounding the temple that have been built more than a century ago.

Inside the walls, you will find the temple complex, which is home to several sacred buildings such as The Viharn Luang, known as the main hall, and a few more halls and museums, each with its own unique design.

Get off at Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum, where you learn how ceramic bowls are made. Known as “The Town of Ceramics,” Lampang is home to the Dhanabadee Factory, said to be the first creator who produced the renowned rooster ceramic bowl, a brand that is nowadays used throughout Thailand.

At the museum, participate in a tour to learn about the history of pottery through ceramic works and attend the workshop to paint your own ceramic bowl. After that, wander around the Kad Kong Ta Walking Street, an old market that comes alive every Saturday and Sunday night.

Even though the market used to be an important trading area in the past, it has now turned into a lively shopping district offering various kinds of lovely handicrafts and local goods, while still preserving the traditional characteristics like antique wooden houses and Lanna architecture.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Lampang

6. Mae Hong Son

Discover the wonder of Mae Hong Son, a city in northern Thailand, known for its laid-back vibes and traditional lifestyle. Explore Tham Lot Cave, an important archaeological site that stretches over one kilometer, decorated with countless spectacular stalagmites and stalactites, with some pillars even higher than 20 meters.

Walk through three main huge rooms where ancient human tools made out of animal bones and unique wall paintings were discovered, indicating the existence of cavemen in the prehistoric era.

Continue your journey by visiting Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, situated on top of the mountain in the western part of the city. The main features of this temple are two Burmese-style chedis built over a hundred years ago.

From the top, sit back and enjoy the panoramic view of Mae Hong Son city with high mountains in the background. Another must-visit destination is Namtok Mae Surin National Park. Walk to Mae Surin Waterfall, a huge waterfall that cascades down over 100 meters.

Spend a day hiking Doi Pui Luang Peak, a flat-topped mountain 1.7 kilometers above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Mae Hong Son. Trek through lush evergreen forests and colorful orchid areas before reaching the top, where the unforgettable aerial view awaits.

7. Phuket

Now let’s head south, where beautiful tropical beaches and paradise-like islands reside. Start off with Phuket, the largest island and also one of the most popular destinations in Thailand.

Visit Phuket Old Town, where people of different races live together. The town’s main feature is the Sino-Portuguese style buildings that scatter across the area. There are all kinds of places to stop by, whether it be Buddhist temples, Chinese shrines, small souvenir shops, local restaurants, chic cafes, museums, and even vintage mansions. Enjoy street art paintings on the walls while strolling along the road, and grab some food at the walking street held every Sunday evening.

Do not miss Patong Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of sand lined up with gorgeous palm trees and one of the most famous beaches in Phuket. If you are an extreme type, try water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and waterskiing.

Next, Jump to Banana Beach, a captivating natural wonderland on Koh Hae. This beach is ranked #2 in the world in TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best 2025 in Beaches Category, thanks to its beautiful white beach and emerald water. Explore the underwater world, where colorful reefs and vibrant fish reside, by snorkeling and kayaking.

Alternatively, you can just chill out by grabbing some snacks from a local food stall or a tourist-friendly restaurant on the beach. To explore one of Phuket’s historical landmarks, pay respect to Buddhist statues at Wat Chalong, Phuket’s largest and most visited temple, where you can learn about the life of Buddha through colorful paintings on the ceilings and walls.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Phuket

8. Koh Samui

Samui is Thailand’s second largest island which is located in the Gulf of Thailand. Two of the most popular beaches in Samui are Chaweng Beach, the main attraction of the island, and Lamai Beach, the quieter spot that gives off the authentic vibe.

At the southern end of Lamai Beach, take a look at Hin Ta Hin Yai, literally translated as “Grandpa and Grandma Rocks”, the highlight of the beach often visited by curious tourists thanks to its interesting rock formations.

Not only beaches, but Samui also has a historical landmark worth exploring the Fisherman’s Village (Bophut). Once used to be a bustling fish trading community, it is now a tourist attraction packed with seafood restaurants, budget-friendly hotels, and rustic-style buildings that give off the unique charm of the old community.

Inside the island, look for the Secret Buddha Garden. Walk around the garden, where plenty of human and deity statues are scattered all over the place, making it both fascinating and mysterious at the same time. Feel a sense of peace as you sit in the middle of a jungle while a stream from a small waterfall is flowing through.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Koh Samui

9. Krabi

If you are an island lover, book a flight with Bangkok Airways to Krabi and head straight to Phi Phi Islands, an archipelago located in the middle of the Andaman Sea. During the day, snorkel at the renowned Tonsai Beach to see magnificent sea creatures living among colorful corals. At night, visit Tonsai Village, a landmark packed with a great number of bars and restaurants that can brighten up the town once the sun has set.

From there, take a longtail boat to Railay Beach, a popular destination among Thai and foreign visitors that is famed for the beautiful beach and the serene nature. Ranked #9 in the Top 100 beaches on Earth 2023 by the World Beach Guide, it is a great place to go swimming and sunbathing. But if you are a hiking enthusiast, whether a beginner or an expert, Railay Beach is a perfect place for you, thanks to its unique geological landscape.

End your long day by soaking in a natural hot tub at Khlong Thom Hot Springs, which contains essential mineral salts, to relax your muscles and soothe your skin as the water temperature reaches 35-40°C. Listen to the ambient sound of flowing water while easing your mind in the pool surrounded by a lush jungle.

Discover Top Attractions and Activities in Krabi

10. Hat Yai

Another highly recommended city for solo travelers is Hat Yai, a bustling city in Songkhla Province. A visit to Ton Nga Chang Waterfall is a must if you are a nature lover, as it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the southern region.

Located in the Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, this waterfall consists of seven tiers, with the third tier being the most iconic, where water cascades down the rocky cliff into two directions. It is a perfect place to sit back and feel refreshed by the spray coming from the waterfall. Nearby, trek through a nature trail to breathe in the fresh air of the forest.

Move forward to Hatyai City Park, where Kho Hong Mountain is located. On top of the mountain, visit the giant golden standing Buddha statue, and take some pictures from the viewpoint where you can see the entire city of Hat Yai. This landmark can be easily reached by car, or you can opt for a cable car for a thrilling experience.

If you are fascinated by stargazing, take a tour at Hatyai Deep Sky Observation for Science and Astronomy, located just 300 meters away from the viewpoint.

Do not forget to have a feast at Khlong Hae Floating Market, the first floating market of the southern region. Expect a long row of colorful boats and vendors selling traditional food, drinks, and local products. This bustling floating market, set on the river and combined with old-style buildings, makes it an ideal spot for photography.

Quick Travel Tips for Solo Travelers in Thailand

Before you start your solo trip to Thailand, there are a few essential tips you should know beforehand for the smoothest experience.

1. The Basic Information

Currency: In Thailand, Thai Baht is the official currency. There are five types of banknotes (1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20 baht) and three types of coins (10, 5, 1 baht).
Plug Adapter: Five types of plugs are used, including types A, B, C and F. The standard power supply is 220V at a frequency of 50Hz.
Language: The official language is Thai, with a few dialects spoken across different regions. Despite English not being the official language, most vendors and locals in tourist areas are well familiar with foreigners and can fluently communicate in English.

2. The Perfect Time to Travel to Thailand

November – February (Winter):
The most popular season is the winter season, when the temperature is fairly pleasant and the sky is clear most of the time. The cities in the northern region such as Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son are blessed with cold weather and a spectacular sea of fog. In some areas, the temperature can even drop to a single digits.
March – April (Summer):
The temperature in summer can reach 40°C, making it a perfect opportunity to splash water on each other during Songkran Festival, a fun water celebration that attracts people across the world. It is also a great season to cool down at the beach in the southern region such as Koh Samui and Koh Tao and as the water is particularly calm and clear—ideal conditions for beach activities.
May – October (Wet Season):
Conquering mountain peaks in Sukhothai and Chiang Mai during the wet season is highly recommended for nature enthusiasts who are looking for thrilling experiences. Besides the fact that the hotel price and transportation fees are cheaper, most attractions are also less crowded.

3. Safety Guide for Solo Travelers in Thailand

Food: Known for its spiciness and strong flavours, Thai food can be intense. If you cannot eat spicy food or have a sensitive stomach, make sure to inform the chef about your dietary requirement beforehand.
Scammers: Be aware of transportation scammers who may charge you an inflated price. It is recommended to use a transportation application for a fair price such as Grab and Lineman.
Sunshine: Prepare a lot of sun protection, as Thailand is hot year-round, you will need sunscreen, sunglasses, or a portable handheld fan. Do not forget to stay hydrated.

Why You’ll Love Solo Traveling in Thailand

1. Budget Friendly

The cost of living in Thailand is highly affordable, especially the food. You can try as many kinds of cuisines as you want all at once and still save money for the rest of your trip. Beyond the food scene, both accommodation and transportation are also budget-friendly. Whether you are staying in a resort, hotel, or hostel, or getting around by plane, boat, or local transit, you will find that Thailand offers excellent value for money across the board.

2. Rich Culture and Traditions

Traveling in Thailand is an all-in-one experience that offers different kinds of encounters at the same time, from striking skyscrapers and sacred Buddhist temples in Bangkok to captivating mountainous landscapes in the north, and majestic tropical archipelago in the south.

3. Friendly Locals

Being called “The Land of Smile”, Thailand is known for friendly locals who are always ready to lend a hand to those in need. With this nature, many travelers are impressed by the warm welcome, making them want to come back again in the future.

Solo Journey in Style: Discover Thailand with Bangkok Airways

Thailand is a perfect place for solo travelers. It offers everything ranging from world-renowned cuisines, beautiful beaches, lush greenery, amazing culture, to friendly locals. To elevate your journey to another level, choose Bangkok Airways for the best and smoothest experience. Let Bangkok Airways provide you with the most impressive services to make your solo trip unforgettable.

Bangkok Airways: Experience Unparalleled Comfort and Convenience

Embark on seamless travel adventures with Bangkok Airways’ extensive network of flights connecting you to Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, and Hong Kong. Additionally, enjoy flights with Bangkok Airways’ three private airports in Koh Samui, Sukhothai, and Trat.

Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat on your flight to ensure a comfortable journey.
Baggage Allowance Included: Enjoy up to 20 kg of checked baggage, allowing you to bring along your essentials without worry.
In-flight Meals: Savor delicious and satisfying meals on board, tailored to your taste preferences.
Airport Lounge Access: Relax and unwind in our exclusive airport lounges before your flight.

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