Published · 4 min read
Why Hat Yai is a favourite with Malaysians
Hat Yai, in Thailand's Songkhla province, is the largest city in southern Thailand and one of the easiest international trips you can make by road from Malaysia. Travellers come for the markets, bargain shopping, street food and the relaxed coastal town of Songkhla just a short drive away.
Getting there by road
Most travellers from Malaysia cross at the Bukit Kayu Hitam–Sadao border in Kedah, then continue north to Hat Yai. Driving yourself means dealing with vehicle paperwork, Thai insurance and unfamiliar roads. A private van charter takes all of that off your plate: your group travels together, the driver handles the crossing, and you can stop wherever you like along the way.
What to see and do
- Browse Hat Yai's busy markets and street-food stalls in the evening.
- Visit a floating market for snacks and local crafts.
- Shop for clothes, snacks and souvenirs at bargain prices.
- Head to Songkhla for Samila Beach and its famous Golden Mermaid statue.
- Explore temples and the old town streets of Songkhla.
Don't miss the dim sum breakfast
A Hat Yai morning isn't complete without dim sum. Many visitors make it a ritual on their last day before heading back to Malaysia — our Hat Yai itinerary includes exactly that.
Before you go
- Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
- Check Thailand's latest entry requirements, including any digital arrival card, on official government websites.
- Carry some Thai baht for markets and small vendors.
