Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. And why not?

With its enchanting beaches, awe-inspiring temples, unique cuisine, captivating culture and friendly people, it’s not hard to see why tourists keep coming back to the “Land of Smiles.”

There are innumerable things to see and do in Thailand. But for a start, we present you the top five things that you should do (and you would like to do) in the country, whether you’re traveling there for the first time or have been there several times.

Make sure you have all the essential (as well as non-essential) items ready before flying out to another country. If you may want to add something else to your baggage, check out suggestions in this link: Gift Ideas for Travelers.

1) Visit the Grand Palace

Bangkok is the commonly the first stop for foreign tourists. And while you’re there before going to the countryside or hitting the beaches, it’s essential that you should do some touring around this bustling Thai capital.

Bangkok is a charming mix of the old and the new. There are historical landmarks that will simply take your breath away. One of those is visiting the Grand Palace, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Situated in the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is probably the most famous landmark and tourist attraction there. This palace is situated on the banks of Chao Phraya River, and has been the official residence of the King, his court, and his royal government since the late 18th century.

The palace itself is nothing short of breathtaking; the sprawling grounds (with an area measuring 218,400 square meters), are adorned by beautiful gardens and surrounded by enormous walls. Please note though, that there is a strict dress code so you will have to visit there in appropriate clothing or else you’ll be denied entry.

2) Go for a day trip at Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is an ancient capital and modern city located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. This historic city is something that you should seriously consider when listing down the things to do in Thailand. Ayutthaya was listed as a UNESCO heritage site in 1991. It will enchant you with its impressively preserved ruins that speak of its grandiose past, including the magnificent temples such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Phra Mahathat.

3) Visit the floating markets

One of the enduring images of Thailand is its floating markets. Nearly every tourist has a visit to the floating market in mind when going to Thailand. There are about five floating markets in Bangkok alone that earned itself the nickname the “Venice of the East,” while the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province is probably the most notable (and the most authentic and traditional).

While obviously not as scenic or romantic as Venice, these floating markets are full of life, color and activity. Shopping like the locals do is definitely a unique experience. It’s certainly a worthy addition to your bucket list of “must-do” things in Thailand.

4) Eat Thai street food

Thai cuisine is popular all over the world, but nothing could be more authentic than trying Thai food in nowhere else than in Thailand itself, right? But the best and the most fun way to try Thai cuisine is to go out the streets! The country is not called the “Street Food Capital of the World” for nothing. Thai street food brings together different kinds of offerings such as pad thai, fish cakes, curries, roti, and a wide variety of snacks. To Western standards, they are super-cheap too. Eating Thai street food will certainly become one of your favorite things to do there.

5) Explore amazing beaches

Thailand is famous for its amazing beaches – clear blue waters, white powdery sands, diverse marine life, amazing rock formations and awesome nightlife. Some of these gorgeous beaches are featured in popular Hollywood films such as Ko Phi Phi (in the move The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio) and Kao Phing Kan aka James Bond Island (in the film The Man with the Golden Gun). Other popular beaches include Railay Beach and Phra Nang Beach in Krabi and Phuket’s Karon Beach and Kata Beach. One could only hope though that while Thailand’s beaches are commercially the most popular compared to their Southeast Asian neighbors’, their natural pristine beauty and cleanliness should be maintained and preserved.