Sights and activities in Chanthaburi: The absolute must-see in Chanthaburi is the cathedral. It's the largest of its kind in Thailand, where Catholicism is a relatively minor religion. The waterfront promenade (Chanthaburi Waterfront) in front of the bridge leading to the cathedral is also very beautiful, with its typical colonial houses. Here you'll also find another of Chanthaburi's main attractions: the gemstone market. While not a typical tourist attraction, curious tourists enjoy strolling through it. Besides the cathedral, the city boasts other temples and monuments, including a city pillar shrine. Just a few kilometers from the center, you'll find beautiful beaches that aren't crowded on weekdays, natural landscapes with waterfalls, and other temples such as Wat Khao Sukim, which is 20 km from Chanthaburi.

Must-see places in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Chanthaburi. My rating: 5/5. The largest Catholic church in Thailand and probably the most beautiful. It was built in the early 20th century in the Gothic style and has become a landmark of Chanthaburi. Chanthaboon Waterfront. My rating: 5/5 stars. The old town of Chanthaboon, the former name of Chanthaburi, with its wooden houses and the street that runs along the river below Wat Bot and leads to the bridge that goes to the cathedral, is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of the city. Khanom Kai Pa Tai Shop My rating: 5/5 stars. The slightly airier, madeleine-like cookies from this little shop are famous throughout the region. An absolute must for foodies who will love the oven-fresh treats. Royal Development Study Centre of Kung Krabaen More My opinion: 5/5 This centre is located 30 km from Chanthaburi and consists of a large mangrove forest, which is very good to explore on foot and by kayak (although there are only a few channels with sufficient water). It borders the bay, which also allows for paddling in the open sea. It's truly a beautiful place, created as part of a royal project to research and conserve the mangroves and their ecosystem. Wat Pak Nam Khaem Nu Blue Temple (วัดปากน้ำแขมหนู) My opinion: 5/5 stars. This temple, made entirely of bright blue and white ceramic, has become the most famous and popular temple in Chanthaburi in just a few years, overshadowing much older temples. It's unique and extremely photogenic. And it makes for beautiful pictures for social media! Nong Bua Thai Dessert Market ชุมชนขนมแปลก ริมคลองหนองบัว My opinion: 5/5 This ancient dessert market, held once a week, is worth a trip to discover flavors and unique know-how passed down through generations. It is also very popular with Thais, some of whom come all the way from Bangkok.

Other places worth seeing in Chanthaburi: Wat Phai Lom (5 stars), a temple particularly interesting because of its large, golden, reclining Buddha from the Ayutthaya period. This statue probably makes it the most interesting temple in Chanthaburi. Namtok Phliu National Park (5 stars), near Chanthaburi, is charming with its waterfall, turquoise pools, and countless fish. You'll also see a small, moss-covered chedi and can, of course, walk through the forest. A refreshing and pleasant natural oasis in this province of sea, mountains, and rivers. While not an absolute must-see, the view of the streets on one side and the sea on the other is one of the most famous and representative images of Chanthaburi. It's beautiful, but perhaps not the first choice for a short visit to the province. Chanthaburi has been known as a gemstone region for centuries, although this isn't entirely true today. A market takes place on weekends, but you can also try your hand at searching for gemstones in the Bo Ploy Lek Petch Mine. It's a great experience if you're not claustrophobic and don't mind getting dirty. Wat Bot Muang sits atop a hill and, unfortunately, doesn't offer a spectacular view, but it's still a charming temple, even if its architectural interest is rather limited. Chedi Klang Nam: This small chedi, built in the middle of the sea, is sometimes accessible on foot at low tide. While it's not an absolute must-see, it's worth spending a few minutes there, along with the most famous viewpoint in Chanthaburi. The place is beautiful, especially in good weather. Sea Farming Demonstration Unit: This marine rescue and research station has several deep-sea bass nets containing shellfish, fish (including baby sharks), and some sea turtles. It's interesting to take a tour there directly after visiting the Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center. The two places are only 1 km apart. Muang Phaniat is the oldest Khmer ruin discovered in Thailand to date. Once, an entire city thrived here. Today, essentially only a pond, some sections of wall, and artifacts remain, displayed in a small museum. Not a must-see in Chanthaburi, but certainly interesting for history buffs. Khuk Khi Kai is a surprising and repulsive prison system, which, I must say, is a French invention from their brief occupation of the region. I won't tell you more; just click on the image to read the details. Those who understand Thai have probably already guessed the name of the place. The gem market in Chanthaburi is famous throughout Thailand, even though it's reserved for professionals and not tourists. Traders and gem hunters gather here every weekend. Also interesting to see is Wat Khao Sukim. This temple, about 30 kilometers from Chanthaburi's city center, is frequently visited by Thais for prayer, but in my opinion, it's not particularly interesting for tourists. If you only have a short time in Chanthaburi, in my opinion there are other places you should visit first.

Other excursion tips in Chanthaburi: Wat Khao Sukim temple on Khao Sukhim mountain is located between Chanthaburi and Khao Khichakhut, about 20 kilometers from the city. A long staircase leads up to it. The complex is quite large and, to our knowledge, not accessible by public transport. You can also visit the Suan Sadetyat fruit orchard from April to June.

Other sights in Thailand: Emerald Cave: This cave is located on the island of Koh Mook, directly opposite Koh Kradan, and offers breathtaking views of a beautiful beach. The easiest way to reach the cave from Koh Kradan is by longtail boat, which can be hired directly on the beach. [arrow_circle_right] View details for Emerald Cave. Koh Pak Bia: This small island with its famous sandbar is usually included in boat tours from Krabi or Ao Nang to Koh Hong. It has its own unique charm but is quite touristy. [arrow_circle_right] View details for Koh Pak Bia. The Great Palace: The former royal residence, now used only for ceremonies. It is located right next to Wat Phra Keo. View details for Great Palace Patio. Old Town Night Market (formerly Chatsila Night Market): This small night market, located opposite the Hua Hin Night Market, offers a more intimate and artistic atmosphere with live music, art galleries, and a pretty ambiance in a courtyard with white wooden elements.