The 6 Most Romantic Places in Thailand

Romantic getaways in Thailand are plentiful. Hence, it’s hardly surprising that the kingdom is popular with couples from across the world. While honeymooners head for the powder-puff beaches in the south, lovebirds looking for something different find that lesser-known gems are also worth visiting. From heavenly beaches and rugged jungles to cities that abound with culture – here’s TAGTHAi’s pick of the six most romantic places in Thailand.

1. Phuket

Offering romance by the bucketful, Thailand’s largest and most loved island has dream beaches galore. Patong isn’t popular without fair reason, but Banana Beach and Mai Khao Beach further up north are more relaxed alternatives. The latter features kilometers of sand and almost no people, ideal for couples wanting to enjoy long beach walks at twilight.

The warm sands of Kata, Karon, and Kamala invite travellers into lazy afternoons, and Phuket Old Town beckons with historic, Sino-Portuguese architecture. Other Phuket attractions for couples include the Trickeye Museum, Baan Tee Lanka Upside Down House, and the Big Buddha towering on top of Nakkerd Hill between Kata and Chalong. Sitting cross-legged on a pedestal that spans 25 meters, the 45m-high Buddha statue is draped in white Burmese jade marble, making for a great backdrop to a couple of photographs.

There’s also no shortage of romantic accommodations, colorful markets, and spas on the island. At The Raintree Spa, which is included in TAGTHAi’s Phuket Day Pass, couples can get a two-hour Thai aromatic massage. No question, Phuket is one of the romantic destinations you’ll want to add to your Thailand itinerary.

2. Nakhon Ratchasima

Whether you prefer to stay on the beaten path or venture away from the tried-and-trodden trail, Thailand for couples is particularly interesting in Nakhon Ratchasima, the biggest province in the Thai Kingdom. Moss-covered trails in rainforests await, as do rustic farms and verdant vineyards in Wang Nam Khiao. Said to be the Switzerland of Thailand, the district is known for its lush gardens and rich green mountain ranges. Jungle trails, waterfalls, and rolling hills make Wang Nam Khiao one of the most romantic places in Thailand.

Well-liked by couples, the mosaic-covered temple of Wat Ban Rai that’s shaped like an elephant hides in the Dan Khun Thot District. A must-do on your Thailand itinerary is also the Phimai Historical Park, reminiscent of the Khmer era. But no visit to the province of Nakhon Ratchasima would be complete without trekking the Khao Yai National Park. You can expect to hear the soothing calls of exotic birds, and might even spot wild elephants. Aside from a diverse flora and fauna, gushing waterfalls add to the fascinating atmosphere.

A highlight for couples is to sleep in tents and marvel at the star-lit sky. Depending on your budget, you can also stay in a rustic chalet or luxurious resort near the national park.

3. Bangkok

While Bangkok doesn’t spring to mind first when thinking of romantic spots in Thailand, the sweltering metropolis does have some gems for couples. As well as a myriad of rooftop bars, there’s Asiatique’s Ferris wheel that overlooks the riverside framed by glittering hotel towers. And then there are the romantic restaurants in Bangkok on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, plus river cruises with live entertainment and an extensive buffet of Thai and international dishes.

A romantic place in Bangkok is the Siam Niramit show and a boat ride through the winding Thonburi canals has a lot of appeal. Pockets of green await at Lumphini and other parks, where couples amble arm in arm. Finally, spas and massage parlors in Bangkok are a dime a dozen. TAGTHAi’s Bangkok Premium Pass includes a traditional, 90-minute Thai massage at 8 Elements Spa in the lively Sukhumvit area. 

4. Ayutthaya

Step back in time and explore the crumbling ruins of Ayutthaya with your partner. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient Ayutthaya used to be the Siamese capital. Highlights include Wat Phra Mahathat, which enshrined Buddha relics. Arguably one of the most photographed objects is a Buddha head made of stone entwined in a tree’s roots. 

Wat Mahathat is one of the most romantic places in Thailand. Its layout follows the concepts of ancient Khmer temples in the mountains of Angkor, Cambodia. Marvel at the cross-legged Buddha sculpture backdropped by numerous laterite chedis, and don’t be surprised if you spot elephants walking among these centuries-old ruins. Other highlights are the Royal Palace Bang Pa In, a mix of colonial-style and Thai temple-like buildings, verdant lawns, and a pond that add to the peaceful atmosphere. 

In the ancient city near Bangkok, you can also find massage parlors, traditional wooden homes on stilts, and night markets and floating markets. Whatever you prefer, don’t miss strolling through the Japanese Village near Wat Phanan Choeng, which is included in the Ayutthaya Day Pass. As well as Japanese mini-architecture, there’s a garden sprawling with lush vegetation, and views of the Chao Phraya River invite you to linger.

5. Lampang

A little-known province in the north of Thailand, Lampang is for couples keen to see something special. Horses and carts still clop through the streets of Lampang, making it an enchanting getaway for couples. The only province in Thailand where that is still a typical means of transport, Lampang is a beautiful riverside town with architecture that almost begs you to take pictures. Likewise, the white Ratchadapisek Bridge straddling the Wang River is a popular spot to shoot photographs. You can also explore local life at Bhumi Lakhon Museum and Baan Sao Nak, a historic teak structure, and nature’s waterfalls are all around.

6. Chiang Mai

A list of the six most romantic places in Thailand wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Chiang Mai, the northern Thai city with its fabled mountains, jungle treks, and scenic sights. Offering rambling vistas, the highest peak in Thailand is Doi Inthanon, which you can climb. Other must-do outdoor activities for couples include climbing gushing waterfalls or ziplining through the rainforest, strapped into a harness hanging from a pulley.

Culture awaits at impressive temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which sits on the top of a mountain, and the charming Old Town with its river views and historical sights appeals to couples strolling hand in hand. After dark, there are plenty of laid-back bars to end the day with an ice-cold beer or cocktail.

As an aside, you can explore this city with TAGTHAi’s Chiang Mai Premium Pass, which includes countless attractions like the Maeping River Cruise – all for an affordable flat fee. Enjoy!