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Thailand tours, trips & holidays
A popular destination amongst backpackers, sun-worshippers and foodies, Thailand is a cultural haven full of beauty and rich heritage. Known globally as The Land of Smiles, Thailand is the country you visit once and yearn to return to. Bangkok’s capital is a city, blending old and new, with neon lights nestled amid centuries of tradition. On the other hand, Ancient Sukhothai offers travellers an authentic glimpse of Thai history, with its abundance of ancient ruins and temples.
From the elegant Grand Palace to inspiring festivals and chaotic local markets, the pristine beaches of Phuket to the lush jungle of Khao Sok National Park, Thailand is a world of contrasts yet comes together to create the perfect holiday destination. In addition, its fresh and mouth-watering cuisine means Thailand is a paradise for foodies. Travelling in Thailand is undoubtedly a memorable experience and one of the highlights of a Southeast Asian holiday.
Group Tours of Thailand
Tucan Travel is proud to have a wide range of group tours that visit Thailand. Whether you want to immerse yourself in Thailand or venture further and explore more of Southeast Asia, there are a range of options, dates and budgets to suit every adventure traveller. Tucan Travel tours include the highlights, with various internal flights along the way so you have more time to enjoy each destination. After something special? Our dedicated tailor-made department are waiting to put together your ultimate Thai honeymoon or private holiday! We understand that the allure of Southeast Asia is too hard to resist, and so we make it easy to travel through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore on one trip. You also have the option to combine Thailand with the lesser discovered Myanmar. Below are some of our best-selling holidays to Thailand and beyond:
Top Places to Visit in Thailand
1. Bangkok
The chaotic capital is a must-see destination in Thailand. Overflowing with cultural and historic sights, Bangkok will awaken your senses and overwhelm you with its unique way of life. Bustling local markets give way to modern skyscrapers, tiny street food stalls stand below elegant rooftop bars, and tuk-tuks command the road. While many see Bangkok as a stopover on flights into and out of Thailand, we highly recommend spending a few days exploring the vibrant city. Highlights include the opulent Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho with the famous reclining Buddha and the popular floating markets.
2. Chiang Mai
Nestled in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a foodie’s paradise. Travellers are drawn to Chiang Mai for the authentic cooking classes and Thai massages. The city is the largest in northern Thailand and the capital of Chiang Mai Province, and is thought to have been founded back in 1294. Chiang Mai has an incredible 300 Buddhist temples, with the most famous being Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, dating back to 1383. The oldest temple, Wat Chiang Man, dates back to the 13th century. Chiang Mai is a favourite among those who want to relax and recharge.
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and translates to “mountain jewel” due to the landscape that surrounds it – around 70% of Phuket is covered in mountains. The biggest draw, however, is the many smaller islands surrounding Phuket, with their golden beaches and ideal swimming spots. While Phuket is undeniably one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, it is still possible to find quiet spots; you just need to spend the time and effort exploring the island for secret beaches. Patong, Kata and Karon are the most visited beaches, so don’t be afraid to look further.
3. Phuket
There is usually one image that comes to mind when thinking of Phuket: crystal-clear waters, towering limestone formations, and pristine white beaches. Phuket has long been a favourite holiday destination for beach lovers and island hoppers, and its allure doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. While the beaches are the most attractive part, the old town is also well worth exploring. The giant Buddha, 45 metres tall, sits atop the Nakkerd Hills and is quite a sight.
4. The Grand palace
The Grand Palace is a must-see heritage site in Bangkok. Located in the heart of the old town overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the complex has housed various Thai Kings over the years. In fact, the King, his court and the royal government were based in the palace until 1925, and in May 2019, the current King Vajiralongkorn was crowned here. The complex is considered the spiritual heart of Thailand and houses various temples, pagodas and statues. While a popular and often chaotic attraction, nothing compares to witnessing the true opulence of Thai culture as you wander past the dazzling colours, mosaics and golden tipped temples.
5. Khao Sok National Park
Did you know that almost one-third of Thailand is covered in jungle? While travellers flock to Thailand for its white-sand beaches and warm waters, there are also numerous national parks that should not be missed. Khao Sok National Park is widely considered the world’s oldest national park and is home to hundreds of bird and animal species. With its dense jungle and towering limestone formations, this destination is a must-see for anyone who wants to see a unique side of Thailand. Popular activities in the park include hiking and kayaking, as well as various walking trails.
6. Ancient Sukhothai
One of Thailand’s top historic destinations, Ancient Sukhothai served as the capital from 1238 to 1376. Translating to ‘dawn of happiness’, the city is thought to have had a triple wall and four gates in its heyday, complete with temples and a monastery. In recent years, more than 140 temples have been excavated, offering a valuable glimpse of what the city once looked like. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological park is best explored by bike, cycling through elegant ruins, statues, pillars and stupas.
7. Ayutthaya
Founded in the 13th century, Ayutthaya became the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom after Ancient Sukhothai. It existed from around 1350 to 1767, when the Burmese destroyed it after years of struggle and war. The historical park is one of the best places to see traditional ancient temples. One of the most popular attractions is the Wat Mahathat. During the Burmese attacks, it is said that the head of Buddha was cut down and fell to the ground. Over the years, tree roots have grown around the ruins entwining the Buddha
8. Kanchanaburi and The River Kwai
This famous bridge of the River Kwai connects Thailand to Burma. The bridge was built through the enforced labour of prisoners of war, many of whom died under appalling conditions. The train line became known as the “Death Railway” and inspired the film “The Bridge on the River Kwai.” The railway is accessible from Bangkok and is both fascinating and sobering. In the area, you will find several museums dedicated to the history and people who lost their lives.
9. Pai
Located in northern Thailand, Pai is said to be reached from Chiang Mai via more than 700 twists and turns. The sleepy village is popular among travellers for its laid-back way of life and stunning walking trails. You can hike to waterfalls, swim in the warm waters and kick back with a beer. Bike rides through the countryside, passing rice fields and farms, are also popular. Whilst the area has changed and developed due to the rise of tourism, the region remains breathtakingly beautiful.
10. Chiang Rai and the Golden triangle
Further north than its neighbour, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai was founded in 1262. Less visited and more peaceful than Chiang Mai, the city has a host of temples and cultural sites. Once the capital of the Mengrai Dynasty, it was conquered by the Burmese in 1557. The region remained under Burmese rule for thousands of years before becoming part of the Kingdom of Siam.
The spectacular Wat Rong Khun, known by some as the “White Temple,” was completed in 1997. Glass and mirror tiles cover the outside of this ornate temple, making it a dazzling sight to behold.
Why Tucan Travel
Travelling Southeast Asia is at the top of many bucket lists – and with good reason! Tucan Travel has operated in the region for many years and has extensive knowledge of the country. As adventure travel specialists, we are proud to recommend operators who partner with local suppliers, accommodation providers, and transport companies. Find out more about our commitment to Responsible Travel.
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