Cities of Thailand Map: Main Cities of Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia for tourists worldwide and has been named the top tourist destination for European tourists.

Learning about the main cities of Thailand can help you better arrange your trip to this country. Find out more interesting cities for your next Thailand tour here!

Main Cities of Thailand & the Location Map

See the main cities of Thailand and their specific location. There are three parts divided. From the capital city of Thailand to the second largest city, you can see such diversities not only by city construction but also by its multi-cultures.

Main cities of Thailand

The capital city: Bangkok
As one of the most popular cities to visit in Thailand, the national capital of Bangkok is also one of the most remarkable cities in the world.

Skyscrapers dominate the skyline and stunning local markets can be found throughout the city, while sparkling gilded Buddhist temples can be found on every street corner and the ancient buildings lie side by side with modern architecture.

On top of the beauty of the city, Bangkok has the most buzzing nightlife in the world, and the unique Thai cuisine in Bangkok is available in thousands of restaurants.

Bangkok night with shining lights

The second largest city: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and it's in the north. It has a population of approximately 1.76 million people which ranked number five in the country. It used to be the capital of the Lanna Kingdom.

Containing more than 300 temples, Chiang Mai, the “northern capital”, is also one of the coolest places about where to visit in Thailand. A charming and laid-back city, Chiang Mai is the perfect contrast to Bangkok and is ideal for relaxing and taking in the local northern culture. 

A chill day at Sunday market in Chiang Mai

The primitive Thai northern style: Chiang Rai
ocated in the far north of Thailand, Chiang Rai is most famous for the breathtakingly beautiful sight of the famous White Temple. The city is often used as a base for exploring the north of the country, especially the area of the Golden Triangle.

Chiang Rai has a strange past, and the Opium Museum in the city explains the role of the plant that was grown in massive quantities in the past to export around the world as one of history’s most prolific narcotics.

The gorgeous White Temple in Chiang Rai

The awe-inspiring ancient city: Sukhothai
Once the capital of ancient Siam, Sukhothai sits with a wealth of historical sites. It is also a laid-back and relaxing place to visit.

Most of the ruins of the ancient capital lie in the Sukhothai Historical Park, where archaeological sites show ruins that date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. This time has often been referred to as the golden age of Thai civilization.

Sukhothai historical park

The Lost World Cultural Heritage: Ayutthaya
Lying just outside the capital of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is one of the most historic cities in Thailand and was once the largest city in the world, back in the 17th century.

While much of the ancient city was destroyed, enough remains to gaze in awe and wonder at the structures that hint at Ayutthaya’s rich past. Once you have had your fill of ancient Buddhist temples, head off to the floating markets and do your shopping by boat.

Visit Thailand Ayutthaya ancient Buddhist temples

The Most Cozy Destination: Kanchanaburi
Made famous around the world by the Film “Bridge over the River Kwai”, which showed the horrors of the POWs and locals who died constructing Japan’s Death Railway, Kanchanaburi is a beautiful city set in lush green surroundings.

The breathtaking scenery of the area is popular with trekkers that come to hike in the hills, and the nearby Erawan Park is a stunning place to visit, with the Erawan and Sai Yok Noi waterfalls are spectacular sights to behold.

Visit Thailand Kanchanaburi Sai Yok Noi waterfalls

The Most Romantic Seaside City: Pattaya
Once the most popular beach resort with American soldiers stationed in Bangkok during the Vietnam War, Pattaya is not for everyone, with go-go bars, massage parlors with added extras, and the inimitable sex trade being the main draw for most travelers.

However, with some of the sex trade in the city now being cleaned up, it is once again one of the delightful Thailand beaches that lie close to the city, with a wide range of watersports and shopping centers for more normal tourists.

6 Days Splendid Pattaya Tour Package

Bangkok - Pattaya - Bangkok

A Secret Realm of Mountains and Rivers: Surat Thani
Located on the southern coast, on the Gulf of Thailand, Surat Thani is the gateway to many of the beautiful islands that lie in the shining azure waters of the Gulf.

From here, most tourists travel to the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, which are the more popular of the local islands. The town itself has plenty of bustling markets, while out of the town, there is a place called Ratchaprapha Dam, where you can enjoy the tranquility of natural landscape.

Visit Thailand Surat Thani

The Most Peaceful Place: Krabi Town
Possibly the smallest city in Thailand, Krabi Town is one of the most authentic destinations in the country for traditional Thai culture and artifacts.

The local night markets sell a huge variety of local crafts, and the small back streets are filled with massage parlors, which only give massages and spa treatments. Outside the town is the glittering Tiger Temple, which is set on a high hilltop with amazing views of the surrounding countryside. 

Two Weeks In-depth Thailand Historical Tour Package

Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Sukhothai – Doi Inthanon – Chiang Mai – Pai – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle - Hua Hin - Bangkok

Main Tourism Cities of Thailand & the Location Map

If we have to list one or two cities of Thailand that are most impressive, they would be Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. They are known for their unique tourist culture. But Thailand goes beyond that. Below, we will introduce suitable destinations and routes for travel from north to south.

Main tourism cities in Thailand

In northern Thailand
If you want to travel to northern Thailand, consider a trip to the Golden Triangle. You will spend about a week exploring Thai culture and scenery in the north.

Starting from Chiang Mai, you will attend local cooking classes and visit farms here. The most famous is still playing in Doi National Park. Then go to visit attractions such as the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black Temple in Chiang Rai.

Then go to visit the characteristic Longneck Village in the Golden Triangle. After returning to Chiang Mai, you will visit the Elephant Nature Park to learn about the animals that have been saved by people.

One Week Thailand Golden Triangle Exploration Tour Package

Chiang Mai – Doi Inthanon National Park - Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle - Chiang Mai

In central and southern Thailand
Combining central Bangkok with the southern beaches will be the best trip to Thailand. Of course, besides the capital Bangkok, which is a great travel city in the central region, you can also consider including Ayutthaya and Pattaya in your itinerary.

In addition to various attractions in the city center such as the Grand Palace, you have the opportunity to visit rural Bangkok and see the impressive water market. To better explore the beaches in the south, you usually fly to Surat Thani for a transfer. During this period, you can visit the nearby Khao Sok National Park.

Then take a car and a boat to the two islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Finally, let's go to Phuket, where there are ancient towns and beaches to enjoy. Among them, Phi Phi Island is very famous and suitable for relaxing. 

12 Days Highlights of Thailand Tour Package

Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Khao Sok National Park - Koh Phangan – Koh Samui – Phuket - Koh Phi Phi - Phuket

How to Travel in the Cities of Thailand

Plane: The fastest way to traverse long distances in Thailand, but often comes at the biggest cost. It is Ideal for those with limited time.
Train: Trains in Thailand offer good value for money and provide travelers with enchanting landscapes along the way. It's a scenic and budget-friendly choice for exploring the country.
Bus: Thailand offers a wide variety of bus routes that can be faster than taking a train, especially for shorter distances. Buses are a convenient option for flexible travel.
Tuk-tuk: A fun and iconic way to get around Thailand's cities. Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles that add a touch of adventure to your journey. Negotiate the fare with the driver for a unique experience.
Metro and Skytrain: In Bangkok, the metro and skytrain systems are the first choice for getting around the city efficiently. They provide easy access to many of the city's popular sites and are a great way to beat traffic.
Ferry and Boat: When you want to reach pristine beaches from the airport or explore islands, hopping on a ferry or boat is the way to go. It's a scenic and enjoyable way to start your beach vacation. 

Tips to Travel around the Cities in Thailand

1. Secure your belongings
To keep your valuables safe, there are many ways for you to refer to when you’re in Thailand. You can use a hotel safe, wear a money belt, stay very vigilant in crowded places, and even you can get travel insurance.
2. Emergency Numbers
191 for police
199 for fire
1669 tourist police
3. Don’t cram your schedule in Thailand
There is no such thing as a perfect journey. Allow any challenges and learn to anticipate your challenges as well. Thailand is a country full of interest and unknown. There are so many more niche places waiting for you to explore!
4. Savvy street food
Thailand food specializes in salty, spicy, sour, and sweet. You can try Kluay Tod (Deep-Fried Bananas), Gai Tod (Thai Fried Chicken), Poh Pia Tod (Spring Rolls), etc. Eat where there are crowds and don’t drink tap water to make your food travel secure.
5. Show the greatest respect for Thai culture and traditions
Known for its friendly people and tropical landscapes, Thailand is a land of beauty and unique culture. Remember to remove your shoes when entering a Thai residence, temple, or palace. And smiling will always get you a long way.

Conclusion

The cities of Thailand map are scattered around this beautiful and charming country in Southeast Asia. There must be one city that catches your heart immediately. Tell us your favorite and contact us for further consultation about a trip to Thailand!