Best areas to stay in Thailand

Bangkok is absolutely brilliant if you love a city that never sits still. It’s packed with incredible street food, grand temples, lively markets and plenty of places to kick back with a drink after a long day. Riverside offers peaceful hotels with lovely views of the Chao Phraya River, while Sukhumvit is perfect for first-timers looking for modern energy, restaurants and nightlife. This area is considered the city centre, known for its modern energy, shopping malls like Central World, and vibrant nightlife. Old Town (Rattanakosin) is where you’ll find the history, temples and proper cultural gems. This area is home to many of Bangkok's famous temples and top tourist attractions, all within walking distance.

Bangkok offers everything from backpacker hostels near Khao San Road to luxury hotels and five-star hotels in areas like Silom and Sathorn, catering to both budget travellers and business travellers. For riverside luxury, Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok is a firm favourite, while Lancaster Bangkok offers a modern base close to the city buzz. SO/ Bangkok is all about stylish flair and top city views, and Asia Hotel Bangkok is a great-value, central spot that puts you right in the action. You’ll also find boutique hotels in Chinatown and riverside areas, and modern hotels with amenities like rooftop pools.

Chiang Mai's neighbourhoods each offer a unique experience for visitors. Chiang Mai's Old City, surrounded by historic city walls, is a calm and charming area filled with temples and lively night markets. Tha Pae Gate stands as a central landmark, making it easy to access local attractions and dining options. In contrast, Chiang Mai's Nimmanhaemin is known for its vibrant city life, with a creative edge, boutique hotels, trendy cafes, and energetic nightlife. The Riverside area provides peaceful stays with scenic views, perfect for those seeking relaxation.

If you want to be in the heart of the trendy scene, U Nimman Chiang Mai is a brilliant choice. Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is perfect for a peaceful riverside escape, while El Barrio Lanna offers charming accommodation close to the temples. For traditional Thai style, Pingdoi Hualin Boutique Hotel is a real gem with gorgeous gardens.

Phuket is perfect for a classic beach holiday. Patong Beach is buzzing with nightlife and beach bars, Kata Beach is a family-friendly haven with calm waters, and Nai Harn Beach is a peaceful escape if you’re after something a little quieter.

For a mid-range stay close to Patong, The Charm Resort Phuket is ideal. Burasari Phuket Resort & Spa offers a peaceful spot with nightlife just a stroll away, M Social Resort Phuket serves up chic beachfront vibes, and Kata Sea Breeze Resort is brilliant for families. Phuket is also home to luxurious resorts featuring private pools and exclusive access to private beaches, perfect for travellers seeking privacy and a premium experience.

Koh Samui is all about palm trees, golden beaches and a slower pace of life. Chaweng Beach is lively with a proper beach party buzz, Lamai Beach is a little more relaxed and great for couples, and Bophut is ideal for families, with Fisherman’s Village offering lovely shops and restaurants. Koh Samui is also known for its variety of water sports, including stand-up paddle boarding, which is a fun way to explore the island's beautiful coastline.

Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach is a lively beachfront stay, perfect for social vibes. The Hive Hotel Samui is a cosy beachfront spot in Lamai, while Coco Palm Beach Resort is a family-friendly gem in Maenam. For something ultra-stylish, The Library is hard to beat. Many resorts on the island feature private infinity pools and outdoor swimming pools, offering guests a luxurious and relaxing experience.

Krabi is more than just a place to stay, it's an adventure destination for thrill-seekers and beach lovers. Ao Nang is the main hub, with loads of restaurants and island-hopping options, Railay Beach is a beautiful boat-only escape, and Tonsai Beach is a climber’s favourite with a super relaxed vibe that especially appeals to budget travellers seeking affordable stays and a laid-back atmosphere.

Sea Seeker Krabi Resort is a fab poolside stay right in Ao Nang. Railay Bay Resort & Spa delivers beachfront comfort with stunning views. Tonsai Bay Resort is perfect if you want a quiet, budget-friendly stay close to the cliffs, making it ideal for budget travellers.

Koh Lanta is all about quiet beaches, easy-going days and a lovely laid-back vibe. Long Beach is perfect for families, Kantiang Bay is a touch more upmarket and fab for couples, and Old Town gives you a slice of local life. Kantiang Bay is also home to some of Koh Lanta's five-star hotels and luxurious resorts, perfect for travellers seeking comfort and premium amenities.

Lanta Casa Blanca is a great beachside family base. Layana Resort & Spa offers peaceful, adults-only luxury, Nirvana Beach Resort has that super relaxed beach vibe, and Blue Andaman Lanta Resort is ideal if you are seeking budget options.

Pai is a small town in northern Thailand known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty. Tucked away in the mountains, Pai is a little gem for nature lovers. The town is famous for its hot springs, which are a popular natural attraction for relaxation. Central Pai features a lively walking street, bustling with street food, markets, and nightlife, placing you in the heart of local activity. The riverside is peaceful with great views, and the outskirts offer brilliant eco-lodges surrounded by lush green countryside.

Pai is full of dreamy stays where you can wake up to birdsong and mountain views galore. The Quarter Hotel offers a refreshing mix of boutique comfort and warm hospitality, walking distance from the main street yet tucked away enough to feel peaceful. Payi Resort serves up bamboo-style villas among tropical gardens, perfect for unwinding with a good book by the pool. Baan Chokdee Pai Resort feels like a home-run retreat - picturesque riverside bungalows, lots of leafy space, and that sense of proper peace. For something a bit more modern-luxe, The Oia Resort Pai is a stylish pick with chic rooms, infinity pool views of the hills, and all the comforts you’ll love after a day exploring.

There’s so much more to Koh Phangan than the Full Moon Party. Haad Rin is the party hub, Srithanu is the peaceful, yoga-friendly corner of the island, and Thong Nai Pan is all about luxury and quiet.

Koh Phangan has plenty of lovely places where you can soak up the island’s laid-back energy and ocean views. Phangan Beach Resort is nestled right on Haad Rin Beach - perfect if you want to be close to the party but still have a peaceful haven to retreat to. The Cabin Beach Resort in Baan Tai offers charming wooden bungalows just steps from a quiet sandy stretch - ideal if you're after simplicity and sea breezes. The Scenery Beach Resort, also in Baan Tai, has classic thatched roofs and lush gardens, giving that proper island-resort vibe without being over the top. And for those who enjoy waking up to soft waves and stunning sunsets, Phangan Bayshore Resort sits right on the beachfront with relaxed bungalow comforts and a gorgeous pool to match.

If you’re after quiet beaches without the crowds, Khao Lak is lovely. The area is known for its stunning white sand beaches, perfect for relaxation and family fun. Bang Niang Beach is fab for families with lots of shops and restaurants, Nang Thong Beach is relaxed with beach bars right on the sand, and Pak Weep Beach is peaceful and feels just that bit more exclusive.

Khao Lak is made for easy-going beach holidays, and these hotels are perfect for unwinding by the sea. The Waters Khao Lak by Katathani offers sleek, modern rooms with serene beachfront vibes and a lovely pool just steps from the sand. Right next door, The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani has a more resort-style feel, with lush gardens, multiple pools, and easy access to beachside bars. Avani Khao Lak Resort keeps things stylish and relaxed, featuring comfy rooms, beachfront eateries, and a chilled pool area ideal for lazy afternoons.

Chiang Rai is a brilliant choice if you’re after quirky temples and somewhere a little less touristy. The city centre is super handy for the night markets and temples, the Riverside is peaceful with lovely views, and Mae Fah Luang is home to beautiful resorts and gardens.

Chiang Rai offers a delightful blend of calm surroundings and cultural intrigue, and these hotels capture that relaxed vibe beautifully. The Garage is a quirky boutique option in town with a cool, local feel-ideal if you're after something a bit different. Wiang Inn Hotel Chiang Rai delivers clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service just minutes from the night market and temples. For a touch of riverside elegance, The Riverie by Katathani sits right on the Mae Kok River, with leafy gardens, spacious rooms, and a lovely pool-perfect for unwinding after exploring the city. And Blue Lagoon Hotel offers colourful decor and a laid-back atmosphere just a short walk from the riverfront, making it a great mid-range choice for both couples and families.

Thailand is full of amazing places, and the best areas to stay in Thailand really depend on what you’re after: city buzz, beach life, cultural gems or somewhere to slow down. Whether you’re a first-timer or heading back for another adventure, there’s always something new to discover. Happy holidays!